End of Term Letter (16 December 2024)

Daniel HopaLetters to Parents, News

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the end of another enriching year at Stanborough, we are filled with gratitude for the remarkable journey we have shared together. Reflecting on the blessings of the past term, we are grateful for the growth and development of our students, the commitment of our dedicated staff, and the continued support of families like yours. Each day, we are blessed to see our students not only excel academically but also grow in their faith and character, embodying the values that are central to our Christian mission.

This term, we have also faced several challenges, both academic and financial. The ongoing effort to provide high-quality Christian education while balancing rising costs has been a top priority. We are deeply committed to keeping the cost of tuition as affordable as possible, knowing that many families rely on us for support and guidance. However, we regret to inform you that, due to recent government legislation and our current finances, we will add 20% VAT (Value Added Tax) to the school fees starting in [January 2025]. This decision was not made lightly, as we have worked hard to avoid this additional financial burden. Unfortunately, the government has left us with no choice in this matter, and we want to be transparent about the situation. Do contact Mrs Jackson if you need further support as we know this will be difficult for some families.

Please know that, should the situation improve, or if additional funds become available through grants or donations, we will reassess our fees and make adjustments as needed. Our goal remains to provide the best possible education while minimizing the impact on our families. Ultimately, we are educating for eternity.

We are excited for the opportunities and challenges that the new year will bring, and we are grateful for your ongoing partnership. Please follow our LinkedIn page to keep up with our journey: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stanborough-secondary-school/posts/?feedView=all

Thank you to all who attended the Carol Service, it was a fantastic evening dedicated to the birth of Jesus. It was live streamed and we will send out the link shortly and it will be on our YouTube channel. Last week a group of 20 students visited a local rehabilitation centre to put on another Carol Service. We thank Ryhanne for organising this so well and once again displaying her love for God and leadership skills. Well done to Caitlin and Stella for winning the One Vision art competition. Mrs Morrison has written a song and asked students to help her compose one of the verses. The students started to learn the song last week and we look forward to this collaboration. Hazel G and Kiara were recognised in assembly this week, for their care and regard and care for others. We love to see our values demonstrated in school. Please remember that our next Talent Show is coming up next term, for parents, staff and students. This will take place after school. We have been invited to Austria at the end of the spring term to showcase our music. More information to follow soon.

We were delighted to reward students who met our high standards this term, a trip will follow in the new year. All students have a new opportunity to ensure that they meet the criteria next term:

  • No more than 3 lates
  • No more than 5 demerits
  • No more than two lates to lessons
  • No exclusions
  • At least 95% attendance

Hopefully, more students will have a chance to take part in the end of year trip, based on the criteria above.

As we enter this holiday season, let us remember the true reason we celebrate: the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. May this season bring you peace, joy, and many blessings as we look forward to another year of growth, learning, and service.

This term we say goodbye to Pastor Patrick. He will be missed by staff and students alike. We wish him God’s richest blessings on his new journey. I am sure he will be used mightily just as he was at Stanborough.

Thank you for being a part of our school family. We wish you a blessed holiday season and look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year.

In Christ’s service,
Mrs Liburd

Headteacher