FBA Update
28th April 2025
Last week, Ofcom announced news rules and guidelines under the Online Safety Act for social media and other internet platforms which will see them being required to block children's access to harmful content from July or face large fines.
Some of the key measures for big social media platforms are:
- the introduction of highly effective age checks to identify under-18 users;
- algorithms must filter out harmful material;
- all sites and apps must have procedures for taking down dangerous content quickly;
- children must have a straightforward way to report content.
If you want to read more, you can visit:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer
Health & Fitness Tip
The importance of a sleep routine
A good night’s sleep does not just start when your head hits the pillow — it begins with the routine you build before bed. Here are a few ways to help your mind and body wind down, so you wake up calm, focused, and ready for the day:
1. Prepare ahead of time
Pack your school bag and lay out your clothes the night before. It saves time in the morning and helps your brain relax, knowing you’re ready for the next day.
2. Set an alarm — and stick to it
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. A regular sleep schedule helps your body know when it’s time to rest.
3. Put away screens early
Switch off phones, laptops and tablets at least 30 minutes before sleep. It helps your mind slow down and reduces distractions. Dim lights also signal to the body that it’s time to wind down.
4. Try journaling before bed
Writing a few thoughts down — what went well, what you're proud of, or what you're looking forward to — can help clear your mind and give you space to reflect before sleep. You can also do a gratitude journal!
A calm evening routine makes it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and feel more prepared for the next day ahead.
Challenge of the Week
“Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep every night.” – Cherry, Year 9 Sports Captain.
To help reach your 8-hour sleep goal, try following the routine above — or create a simple one that works for you and supports a calm, consistent bedtime.
Inspirational Woman of the Week
Our inspirational woman of the week is Gloria Estefan as nominated by Emily K in 7O. Gloria is a Cuban-American singer, songwriter, and businesswoman who rose to fame with the Miami Sound Machine in the 1980s, becoming one of the most successful Latin crossover artists in history.
She broke cultural and language barriers in the music industry, paving the way for future Latin artists. She also spoke out on political issues regarding human rights in Cuba.
A survivor of a severe tour bus accident in 1990, she made a remarkable comeback through determination and resilience. Her achievements and strength inspire young women to pursue their dreams, embrace their heritage, and overcome adversity.
May Career of the Month – Maritime Careers
As an island nation there are lots of different maritime jobs which students can explore related to transportation, engineering, marine wildlife, travel or fishing to name just a few. There are also ‘green careers’ for those who are conscious about the environment, and careers with the Royal Navy or the Coastguard if students are interested in a more physically active role.
Students can find out more about maritime careers here: https://maritimecareers.uk/
Year 10 Prefect Applications – Now Open!
The Key Stage 4 prefect application process is now open. If your daughter is in Year 10 and would like to apply, here is what she needs to do.
Step 1: Read the KS4 Prefect job description (available below and on SMHW).
Step 2: Write a one-page personal statement (font size 11) explaining why they are suited for the role. Make sure to include their full name and form class.
Step 3: Submit their personal statement via SMHW by the deadline: Tuesday 6th May 2025 (end of the day).
Step 4: Shortlisted applicants will be announced via SMHW notices and invited to take part in a group interview stage. Students will be asked to prepare a short speech on “Something I am passionate about”. More details on this will follow soon.
If students have any questions, they need to speak to one of the current Year 11 prefects or Ms Siddique.
Best of luck to all applicants!
The animals have enjoyed a busy first week of term at the farm, with lots of students coming to visit our animals and birds. Students who regularly attend the farm assist with animal husbandry. Our animals need lots of love and care; from feeding and mucking out stables and hutches, to grooming and handling.
The purpose of our farm is that students have the opportunity to spend time with animals, build knowledge and skills, or simply spend some time outdoors. There are also work-experience slots available for this term, both for sixth formers who are interested in pursuing veterinary medicine/ nursing, bio-science or any role in the animal science/agricultural industry, or for any students undertaking a Duke of Edinburgh Award and wish to sign up for work experience for either the volunteering or skill (animal husbandry) element of the award – please speak to Mrs Bailey at the farm.
And finally,
We were very privileged to attend a special event hosted by the Confederation of School Trusts with the academic and author Jonathan Haidt. He has recently published his book The Anxious Generation which is a call to action to look at how cultural and behavioural changes associated with play, screen time, social media and mobile phones is having a profound impact on young peoples' brains.
In the first part of his book, he explores how independent outdoor play has reduced dramatically having a devastating impact on children's physical and mental health. Free and unstructured play promotes problem-solving, communication, self-regulation, negotiation and resilience along with improving mental wellbeing, enhancing memories and self-discipline and encouraging children to form supportive social groups.
In the second part of the book, he talks of the Great Rewiring where the increase in phone use, screen time and other forms of technology is having four main harms on young people: social isolation, sleep deprivation, attention issues and addiction. He shows a wide range of research evidence to show how this is happening in the UK, USA and across the world.
In the last part of the book, he shows what can be done by parents, schools, communities and governments to safeguard young people from this without the need for radical changes.
As a school, we are acutely aware of this which is why we do not allow mobile phone use in school. We would also encourage parents to read about this and explore ways in which you can speak to your daughters about their relationship with social media and the online world.