Matthew Arnold Newsletter

Warm welcome to our students and families. I speak on behalf of all staff to say how wonderful it is to have the students back and also have our new Year 7 students start.

We have an exciting term ahead and I hope it is made even more positive by having a close working relationship between home and school.

Our priorities are below as we are on this journey together:

1. All staff to play an active role in promoting high academic standards and success

2. To uphold the highest expectations in all that we do and ensure a consistent implementation of school practices from all stake holders

3. To take ownership of the Leadership of Learning at all levels and to hold each other to account

Last week’s INSET days were a resounding success, bringing together staff from across the school for a day of collaboration, reflection, and professional growth. Sessions focused on curriculum development, adaptive teaching strategies, and student wellbeing, sparking valuable discussions and fresh ideas. The energy and engagement throughout the two days highlighted our shared commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education. Thank you to all staff for your contributions!

May I also take this opportunity to thank staff for their hard work. Our GCSE results this year are testament to this as they were the best results the school has had.

Assal Ruse

The Matthew Arnold School is celebrating its strongest academic performance with nearly 70% of students achieving a Level 4 or above in both English and Maths. Over 20% of all exam entries were awarded a Grade 7 or higher, showcasing exceptional achievement across the board. Among the standout performers this year are Zach B, Jennifer T, Noa S, Odelyah S, and Ella C, whose hard work and commitment have set a shining example for their peers.

This year’s summer school was a brilliant celebration of curiosity, creativity, and teamwork. Students explored their culinary talents in Food Technology, conducted exciting hands-on science experiments, and showed great energy and sportsmanship on the football pitch. From practical skills to scientific discovery and physical activity, every session was designed to inspire and engage. A fantastic effort from all involved and the students truly embraced the values of kindness, aspiration and respect —well done to our brilliant students and dedicated staff!

A huge thank you to all the staff who made this possible.

We are absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the newly renovated school library! It is now a warm, welcoming hub of discovery, creativity, and learning. Our focus is to foster a love of reading by providing a safe and calm space for students and staff to explore books, check out curriculum resources, and study.

Here is a little peek at what is new:

• Updated Collection: We have expanded our collection of fiction and non-fiction and are excited to share our brand-new collection of graphic novels. Whether students are looking for best-sellers, classic novels, or detailed study resources, they will find it here!
• Dedicated Study Spaces: Need a quiet spot to work, or a space for group projects? We have got it covered. The new layout offers a variety of spaces for different needs—including computers for studying and bean-bag chairs for quiet reading.
• Digital Access: We have also revamped the library’s digital presence! The new library website is underway and we are excited to share more details about the user-friendly search system, book recommendations, and further access to online resources.

The library will be open during lunch for students to browse the collection, study or read a good book! Each tutor group will complete an orientation session introducing students to the space, the new library website, and the library’s rules (which are simple – respect the space, each other, and the books!).

We cannot wait to get students into the library to explore everything we have to offer. More details will follow about our exciting new features and our updated hours.

Ms. Sorensen - Librarian

We are incredibly proud of how our Year 7 students have started their journey at The Matthew Arnold School. They have embraced school life with enthusiasm, maturity, and a positive attitude. It’s been wonderful to see them settling into lessons such as English, Science, History, and Maths, and already showing great potential across the curriculum.

Their behaviour, engagement, and willingness to get involved have made a fantastic first impression, and we look forward to seeing them continue to grow and thrive as part of our school community.

Unfortunately, Miss Austin is currently unavailable and not in school. For any concerns or queries regarding Year 7, please contact Mr Trendall at trendelld@matthew-arnold.surrey.sch.uk.

At The Matthew Arnold School, wearing the correct uniform is a key part of our school identity. It reflects our high standards, promotes a sense of belonging, and prepares students for the expectations of the wider world. We expect all students to take pride in their appearance by wearing their uniform smartly and consistently. This includes correct footwear, tidy presentation, and adherence to our uniform policy at all times. When students wear their uniform with pride, they show respect for themselves, their peers, and the school community. Please do support with this

The uniform:

• Skirts unrolled and an appropriate length
• Top buttons to be done up
• Shirts to be tucked in
• Trousers to be tailored
• Blazers to be worn
• Jumpers (optional) only under a blazer

If you require support with uniform please do not hesitate to contact us.

Taking part in clubs and extracurricular activities is a vital part of school life. It helps students build confidence, develop new skills, and form positive relationships beyond the classroom. Whether it is sports, Music, Drama, or academic clubs, participation creates a sense of belonging and encourages teamwork, resilience, and leadership. We strongly encourage all students to get involved, try something new, and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

At The Matthew Arnold School, students have the unique opportunity to visit our school farm every day during break and lunch. This special space allows them to spend time with our friendly chickens, get to know our two resident pigs, and enjoy the company of Matty and Arnold, our much-loved goats. Whether it is a quiet moment of reflection or a chance to learn about animal care, the farm offers a calming and enriching experience that supports wellbeing, responsibility, and curiosity.

At The Matthew Arnold School, we are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students and young people. We expect every member of staff and all volunteers to share in this commitment.

We have robust and consistent safeguarding procedures in place to support our students, their families, and our staff. If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child, it is essential that you report them immediately.

Please contact the school on 01784 457275 or email one of our Safeguarding leads
For urgent concerns outside of school hours, please call the Single Point of Access on 01483 51789

We would like to make all parents and carers aware that we have a student in our school with a severe dairy allergy. To help us maintain a safe environment for all children, we kindly ask that you are mindful when preparing snacks or packed lunches, avoiding items that contain dairy where possible.

Your support and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we work together to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every student.