Welcome to the weekly Newsletter for parents and carers of students attending
John Hanson Community School
Inspire - Care - Succeed
‘HEAD’ Lines
Executive Function
Dear Parents/Carers
I was lucky enough on Wednesday this week to listen to a presentation from Kit Messenger. Kit is the Co-founder of Changing Chances, a former Headteacher and a tutor at the University of Sussex. Kit has worked with children and young people for over 30 years with a focus on challenging behaviour within the education system and how best all adults within schools and in the home environment/community can support young people to become the very best versions of themselves possible, irrespective of and despite any challenges they may encounter.
The focus of Kit’s presentation was Executive Function. These are a set of skills that we all have. However, we don’t all have them in equal measure. For the adults in school, you at home and the adults that work with our young people in the community the key is knowing about these 6 executive functions and having them in mind when ‘things’ are not necessarily going well for a student, your child, a young person in the community – see a summary below:
What these skills are not, are a blueprint to justify poor behaviour from young people. They are based on scientific research related to the development of parts of our brain and how our experiences in life, whilst our brain is developing, can influence the degree to which we are able to develop the 6 Executive Function skills.
The key point of all of this for us as adults, is that there is always a reason why we act in the way we do.
At John Hanson we never excuse poor behaviour. We always try and work to figure out the cause and support the young people you trust us to educate, in finding a positive way forward.
Enjoy the weekend with your children.
Regards
Russell Stevens
Headteacher
John Hanson Community School PSHE Day 2: 15th November 2023
Our second PSHE day of the year was jam-packed full of informative presentations, learning activities and multiple opportunities for questions on our enlightening selection of topics. Our students had the opportunity to learn about themselves and others, the world and environment around them, difficult and topical issues, and how to prepare for their futures.
Year 7: A range of vital sessions for life both in and out of school
Road Safety
To start their day, year 7 discussed the important topic of road safety. Discussions centred around how their age group is most likely to be involved in a pedestrian road accident. We talked about right of way, giving way as a vehicle, how to be aware of your surroundings, and how to be seen as a cyclist. We also spoke about where we think dangerous traffic points could be if they walk home from school, and how to be the safest they can be on their travels. Fire Safety
In this session Year 7 learnt about the different causes of fires at home, and how they could be safely avoided by reducing the number of hazards. They also learnt about how to cope with fires if they find themselves in a dangerous situation, and need to decide what to do quickly, including calling 999, Stop/Drop/Roll, and how to prepare a Home Evacuation Plan. We spent time exploring the fire triangle, and by the end of the session they knew heat, fuel and oxygen are needed for a fire to happen and without one of these elements the risk of a fire starting is greatly reduced. Students were encouraged to apply this knowledge to some scenarios and problem solve how risks of fires can be decreased. We hope that students will now feel more confident if they ever have the misfortune of coming across a fire, and know how to keep themselves safe. Puberty
The boys and girls split for their session on puberty to support more detailed and specific discussion on key concerns or questions. The boys covered not only the physical changes involved, but the emotional changes associated with puberty as well as debunking some common myths and misconceptions. In a similar way the girls discussed physical changes involved with puberty, but also discussed menstruation and periods with helpful insight to products and the myths surrounding bodily changes. Vaping & Smoking
During this session, year 7 students discussed the laws, facts, dangers and health impacts of cigarette smoking; this was then linked to the more modern issue amongst teenagers of vaping. We discussed the facts about this form of smoking and the potential dangers; it was highlighted to the students that we are not yet aware of the long-term impacts of vaping. Students thought about potential reasons why vaping has become popular amongst teenagers and also role-played ways in which they feel comfortable declining an offer of a vape should one come their way. Successful Starts John Hanson pupils of a term and a little, year 7 pupils began thinking about how to make the best possible start in something new by exploring the idea of ‘mindsets’. They discussed how they could be useful when we make a new start and considering what advice we would offer to a future Year 7 student. Healthy Eating & Sleep
Students looked at the effect of what they are eating and their mental and physical health; how their often-poor eating habits led to tiredness and poor mental health. Lots of students skipped breakfast, had no lunch and then drank very little water. They all seemed keen to eat more fruit and veg, and drink more fluid to help support them. Who Am I?
Students took time to reflect on all of the things that make us who we are as unique and fabulous, individual human beings. We had great discussions, exploring what it means to be you, understanding that we're all different and we're all on a personal journey, and what it means to be LGBTQ+ in age appropriate way. We explored how some of these things we are born with, others we choose or learn and these things can have a substantial impact on our happiness and well-being. Students learnt that diversity is part of human nature, whereas our attitudes towards others’ differences are learned and can evolve over time and with experience and education.
Year 8: A day of topical and sometimes hard-hitting subjects, exploring our planet and how to take care of it for the future
Food Banks
Every day people in the UK go hungry for reasons ranging from redundancy to receiving an unexpected bill on a low income. With the cost of living crisis raging, a simple box of food makes a big difference with foodbanks helping prevent crime, housing loss, family breakdown and mental health problems. Focusing on the fantastic Andover Food Bank, students learnt about the process of donation to collection, how they can help if they’re able, and what they should do if they believe it’s something their family might need to utilise. Most importantly, this session aimed to remove stigma and shame around food banks and donations. After all, we’re all in this together! Being Me
In this session, year 8 learnt about some key LGBT+ terminology, considered how we are all different, and that our language and behaviour should not discriminate against others on the basis of what makes us who we are. Students gained understanding of their own and others’ identities, and had the opportunity to ask questions about LGBT+ matters and homophobia. Health & Safety
Student began the session by asking themselves how important is the NHS to them. They spent time questioning how safe they are when walking, cycling, and simply living their lives – how might this impact the NHS? Throughout the session, year 8 considered aspects a multitude of Health and Safety choices in their daily lives. Peer Pressure
The students took part in a practical approach to thinking about peer pressure and how to spot it. Through drama exploration the students were able to think about peer pressure in their life, what to do if they don't agree with it and how best to handle situations that arise. Cyber Safety - Sexting
This session reinforced what students need to be aware of as they explore relationships with others when communicating over electronic devices. They learnt about its dangers, and had the opportunity to explore and consider the possible consequences- from unwanted attention, to criminal records. Discussions were planned to highlight what is illegal, in addition to providing statistics of showing them real-life examples of sexting, talking about who and how many people play at part in sexting and what repercussions may result, potentially impacting their future career prospects. Understanding Drugs
In today’s session on ‘Understanding Drugs’ Year 8 learnt about substance use and the risks. Students were asked to think and pair share about their current understanding of drugs and the risks associated. They were then introduced to the classification of different drugs, linking to legal and illegal substance use and the risk and effects as well as social norms. Alcoholism
We used this session to focus on learning about laws and medical advice concerning alcohol consumption, its dangers and how to handle the peer pressure surrounding drinking as a teenager.
Year 9: A collection of sessions to get students thinking about their futures and what paths they might take
Abortion Law
Although a challenging topic, students thrived in speaking about what abortion is, why it is considered essential healthcare, and the reasons it could be needed. The laws of multiple different countries were discussed, along with the arguments of pro-life and pro-choice; students were able to understand and discuss the reasons behind these things, and why these differing opinions have arisen. The students were also reminded that we hold our own monthly clinic with free, confidential sexual health advice. Career Pilot
Students in Year 9 were introduced and given access to a service called Career Pilot. It is an online platform which includes interactive quizzes, video resources, useful links and labour market information (LMI) all geared towards providing career advice and impartial information about progression routes for 13-19-year olds as they start to consider their future beyond school and college. Employability Skills
Year 9 spent this session reflecting on employability skills and career options. This was especially poignant as year 9 will soon be choosing their GCSE options. Discussion on the world of work and industry gave students a clear insight into what their future may hold and the opportunities that John Hanson offers students to allow them the best chances possible for their future. Gender Equality
Pupils looked at the breakdown of Gender Inequality with regards to pay and Gender Stereotypes. We had great discussions learning about the Gender Pay gap, what it is and why it exists. The students left the session with a better understanding around Gender Inequalities within the workplace, and what we can do to try and reduce it. Strengths & Attributes
Thinking about their future career aspirations, students looked directly into what specific assets and qualities that would make them a stand-out candidate in an interview. From team work and listening skills, to presentation confidence and problem-solving skills, students were able to understand how certain types of people benefit particular teams, including a diverse and range of strengths. NHS Careers
NHS Careers was delivered by a very dynamic speaker who gave year 9 lots of fun facts and interactive tasks on the multiple careers you can have within the NHS (350 different jobs). It was very inclusive as jobs ranged from builders to librarian, and brain surgeon. Students were kept engaged by seeing how their current studies/preferences could fit into a future with the NHS. Many students opted for PE being their favourite subject and she helpfully made a point of saying this is relevant in many fields within the NHS and their physiotherapy pathways. It closed by giving students information about apprenticeships and possible career pathways. Most students were amazed to hear how it is the 8th biggest institution in Europe and were genuinely intrigued by all of the various roles it incorporates, including teaching, and the amount of cost involved in some treatments funded by the tax payer. I’m sure this won’t last when they start paying taxes. Discover your options with SUN:
Year 9 attended a session with SUN (Southern Universities Network) which looked at their career/education options post GCSE. The session covered the benefits of Apprenticeships, A-levels, T-levels and University. Students spent time researching what they want to do once they leave John Hanson. This research linked to their options and what subjects they may need to choose in order to access courses after school
Year 10: A range of challenging issues and themes to promote safety, maturity and awareness
Discrimination in the Workplace
Connected to the 9 protected characteristics under the Equality Act of 2010, students learnt about what constitutes as discrimination as unlawful treatment in the workplace. Students learnt about what is and is not fair treatment which will assist in preparing them for future endeavours beyond John Hanson. Students discussed the importance of knowing your rights – even at secondary school age – and how everyone deserves and has the right to be treated with fairness, compassion and equality. BCOT
The students were learning about courses and qualifications at BCOT. The students had to find various courses for specific jobs, for example what course would you take if you wanted to be cabin crew. The students then had to decided what route famous people took to get to their career choices – did you know Ozzy Osbourne did an apprenticeship in plumbing and tool making?! The aim of the session was to get students to start thinking about pathways after John Hanson, and gain some idea of what is available to them. Career Choices
Year 10 students were shown labour market information and the value of applying this, viewing a wealth of impartial information about routes to higher-level study. This session helped students to identify their GCSE, post-16 and post-18 options, with sections dedicated to a variety of qualifications, how to find providers, researching future courses and potential job sectors. This will continue to be a useful tool as they move on to the next phase of their education journey. Emotion Coaching
Year 10 spent this session looking into their emotions, particularly concentrating on what make them both happy and angry. This involved looking at their own situations and looking for the emotional triggers that may affect them. Following on from this they discussed and classified various emotional wellbeing strategies that could be used in their own lives. Finance
The Year 10 finance session allowed students to learn about many topics in the finance bracket such as; types of saving accounts, investments, interest rates and how to budget! Students learnt about different ways to save their money and ways they could make money in the future. Body Image
Year 10 were learning about how social media can influence and effect perceptions of body image and cause stress. Discussions included identifying places to look for guidance on body image and online stress and how to access support to develop techniques to minimise its effects. Work Experience (WEX) During today’s session, students signed up to Unifrog with is the online careers platform they will use to help organise their work experience placement. They looked at the benefits of work experience, areas they would like to work in and what they need to do in order to secure a work placement. Students spent time emailing perspective employers looking for work placements and also spent time navigating the Unifrog website.
Year 11: A range of challenging issues and themes to promote safety, maturity and awareness for life in and after John Hanson
Employment Contracts
With the end of their John Hanson journey fast approaching, students were informed about working rights specific to employees, employers and businesses themselves. Preparing themselves for work, students discussed that even a job with part-time hours has very specific rights in order to protect all parties involved. The students learnt about the different options of fixed contracts, short-term contracts, casual work, and zero-hour contracts. Most importantly, all students were told to read the small print! Learning to Learn (L2L) – Putting theory into practice
Year 11 reviewed the revision study skills they have been using in their normal lessons and the excellent revision skills session they completed on the first day of the academic year. The focus was on creating and using mind maps and cue cards. They made a mind map and revision cue cards on Infection and Control which they will be tested on in their Biology PPE later in the week. Ask them to show you the mind map and have a quiz night using the cue cards to help them revise for their exam! LGBT
Today, we were exploring LGBT history and role models. Helping to understand that LGBTQ+ history is an important part of British history, and the many role models in society today. Voyeurism
Year 11 worked on developing an understanding of the legality and emotional impact of voyeurism, upskirting and revenge porn. We directly focused our discussion and questioning on behaviour that these terms relate to, and used real life case studies to exemplify the issues. Men & Women’s Health
Students spent time going through and learning about different health issues for men and women – a very common topic that is often left undiscussed. By the end of the session, students were able to understand the common illnesses and their symptoms and how to seek support for this. Health and Fitness with FEVO Gym’s Ryan King:
Year 11 were put through their paces with the energising Ryan King HIIT workout session; a 45-minute high intensity training session that saw them work individually and within teams to push themselves to the limits of their physical resilience. Students began the session learning the importance of stretching and preparing their muscles prior to the first round of squats, sit ups and push up before competing in a series of running based activities which saw lively competition. Then the main event; split into 4 teams our gladiators had to make their way through 200 press-ups, squats, sit ups, jumping jacks and high leg raises in an attempt to be crowned as winners. The trials completed, a warm down session brought the session to a calm and reflective close with students better informed in maintaining their physical well-being through structured HIIT. Next Year:
In this session all students were given the time and support to complete college applications, explore apprenticeships and complete their CVs. We will follow this one up with some tutor time application workshops to ensure all students have applied for their next steps.
Below is the latest haul from the lost property box.
If your child has lost a blazer, jumper, trousers, coat, pe kits, trainers or shoes please encourage them to come and have a look through the lost property box.
Please remember to name all the school clothes so we can return the items back to your child.
Any property not claimed with be recycled either to the 2nd hand shop or into the clothe bin at the end of this term.
This is a great opportunity to get creative, with the chance to be published in a real book, win £50 and a trophy and possibly win book prizes for the school. Entries should be handed to or emailed to Mrs Bailey by the deadline of Wednesday 13th December. The best of the John Hanson entries will receive a book prize from the LRC. All students are welcome to come and see Mrs Bailey to get more information, guidance and inspiration, and they may like to write their entries at Creative Writing Club – every Wednesday after school with Miss Cook in M15.
In other news: the deadline to donate items for the Andover Foodbank Christmas Hamper Appeal has been extended to next Friday 24th. Please see revised poster for details of the items we are most looking for and where to take them. All donations, however big or small, will be gratefully received.
The Andover Charities is an organisation which has been in existence in Andover in one form or another since the 1400s, and are able to assist families who live in Andover (north of the A303), including Picket Piece, Picket Twenty, and Augusta Park.
They offer up to £100 Asda or Tesco vouchers per household per year for people in need whether they are on benefits or not. Due to the high rise in the cost of living the charity has found that more and more families are on need of their services.
There are no restrictions on the form as anyone can apply who live in Andover.
Forms will be collated by Mrs Bush and then forwarded onto the Charity. The Charity will decide who will receive the voucher and will deliver the vouchers to the school to be distributed to the families via the student.
Please bear in mind that if you have already received one of these vouchers from another source such as TVBC, Family Support Worker, Citizen Advice then you will not be able to apply this year.
On Thursday December 14th we will be holding our Christmas Showcase – Sing Up for Christmas. I would like to invite your son/daughter to take part in this event – Christmas songs will be learnt in music lessons and will then feature in the showcase. These will be well known Christmas songs and we hope to make a really big sound as we celebrate the season.
The showcase takes place in the school hall at 6pm and we hope you will come along and join in with this fun Christmas show. We would love to have many students taking part, and a huge audience so that we can really raise the roof and have a fun evening. Funds raised from collection will go towards our school show. We will arrange some after school rehearsals before the event for those who can come along. These will be after school on a Thursday in November.
The tickets for the event will be free and will be available to be booked via ParentMail. So that we know how many children will be taking part please will you please email to confirm - child's name and tutor group - email to mike.adams@jhanson.hants.sch.uk
The showcase will also feature solos, dances, and extracts from our school show Grease which goes on stage in January ’24.
I look forward to receiving your response. We hope we see as many of you as possible on 14th December.
Mike Adams - Head of Performing Arts
Rehearsal for SINGUP for Christmas -
Thursday 30th November PA1 3-4pm
Performing Arts - Grease
Show Dates in 2024
Tuesday Jan 30th 2024 Wednesday 31st January 2024 Thursday 1st February 2024
Music Groups after School
Due to show rehearsals this term this has changed slightly from our previous plan:
Currently we are meeting as follows:
Monday - Year 10 GCSE Music class Tuesday - Grease rehearsals with cast and chorus Wednesday - Grease rehearsals with cast and Chorus
Thursdays - SCHOOL BAND and SINGUP singers (16th and 30th November)
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At John Hanson Community School we are committed to providing equality of opportunity for all students and staff, and to providing a working environment free from discrimination, prejudice and harassment.
We encourage respect and consideration for others, and recognise and value the school as a safe place for learning. The staff at John Hanson recognise that inequalities exist in all levels of society and believe, that as educators, we have a crucial role to play in eliminating all forms of discrimination, in particular against anyone with any of the protected characteristic. We promote equality by dealing with bullying and incidents of discrimination immediately and by educating the young people in our care through assemblies, tutor time, PSHE day sessions and group work where appropriate.
This is part of our responsibility in preparing our students for life after school.
Important EDI events over the next week:
21st Trans Day of Remembrance
Words you might not know:
• Transgender – where someone’s gender identity doesn’t align with their biological sex.
• Gender Identity – the gender that someone aligns with, regardless of sex.
• Sex – the biological gender that someone is assigned at birth.
• Non-binary – an umbrella term to describe any gender identity that isn’t man or woman.
• Pronouns – words that replace a name; some people prefer certain pronouns to describe themselves. E.g. she, he, they
Diversity, Equality and Inclusion at John Hanson.
Please find attached the latest DEI newsletter on Men’s Mental Health. The DEI team will be producing one of these every term for you and your parents to read through – if you have any ideas for content please see Mrs Curtis, Mrs Ferris or Mrs Grinstead. Click here to download the newsletter
College Open Events.
Please do check the individual websites for any changes to the schedule before setting off to visit them
Please encourage your son/daughter to use their SCHOOL EMAIL for work rather than their own private email. This is important for safeguarding and also some of our messages for students are being sent to school email addresses.
Think you know – Activity Packs relating to online safety Who’s watching yours? – 17% increase in children livestreaming since lockdown (Advice to help parents/carers minimise risk to children online) Mental health – How to look after your family’s mental health when stuck indoors Houseparty – Everything you need to know.
John Hanson Computing Department
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