I would like to thank you for your co-operation and understanding this week, along with the staff as we know it has been a challenging week. And even in amongst this, wonderful things have still taken place in school. The uptake of table tennis at break and lunch from all year groups is phenomenal and demonstrates the very best of Hope Valley College; young people of all year groups playing together. Once again, I would like to thank our amazing sports leaders who helped run the Primary Cross-country event. Developing leadership is an important part of our curriculum and it is fantastic to see them. Several Year 10s visited The University of Sheffield as part of their outreach programme and had a fantastic day of activities. Representative from UTC spoke to Year 11s about the construction and engineering industries and possible career routes and Year 11 met with teachers to ensure that their preparation for their mock exams is as effective as it can be.

And then finally the whole school took part in the National 2 minutes Silence for remembrance on Tuesday and this was impeccably observed. Thank you to Charlie in Y11 who played the Last Post. It is these moments that show the very best of Hope Valley College.

As we move into November there is already talk of snow. As part of our preparations for winter we would ask that you ensure that all contact details are up to date on Arbor. Thank you.

 

What’s going on in school:

• The Maths Department were delighted to return from half term to find a supply of maths manipulatives kindly funded by the PTFA. This now allows for algebra and counter sets in every classroom. A new department set of bricks and polydroms will help with nets, surface area and volume alongside other problem-solving topics. Thank you to all who support the PTFA.

 

• Well done to Rupert in Y7 who regularly attends our mountain bike club at school and competed in the downhill races in the Forest of Dean, coming 2^nd!!

• Below are details of some of the upcoming festive music events:

 

 

 

Aquinas Application Deadline

For any students applying to Aquinas College, in Stockport, the application deadline is approaching (30 November). Application support is available from the school Careers Adviser, appointments can be requested via tutors 

Derbyshire Schools Athletics Association Training and Development Day

We are inviting our most experienced athletes to a Derbyshire Schools Athletics Association Training and Development Day at Lea Green on Sunday 11 January 2026. The course is open to Yr7-11 and is aimed at athletes who are keen to develop their competitive cross country running. We can allocate 5 places per school, so please come and see us if you think you are interested. We will also be inviting specific students who we feel will benefit from this high-level coaching. Students who have been invited/interested will need to complete a consent form and pay the £30 registration fee by Friday 28 November. Please come and see Miss Wain-Hobson for more details.

Sheffield Shoebox Appeal

Students at Hope Valley Pathways are supporting the Sheffield Shoebox Appeal this year and would love to receive some donations so that they can make up some gift boxes.  Ideally, we would like loose items rather than fully made-up boxes so that the students can make up the boxes themselves, but if you do have any shoeboxes, Christmas paper/gift bags or Christmas cards to donate, they would also be gratefully received.

 

Information from the Sheffield Teacher Training Alliance

Are you passionate about education and making a difference in young people’s lives? Have you ever considered a career in teaching? The Sheffield Teacher Training Alliance (STTA) is now accepting applications for teacher training, and we’d love to hear from individuals within our school communities who are ready to take the next step.

Whether you're a recent graduate, considering a career change, or returning to work after a break, STTA offers high-quality, school-based training that prepares you to become an outstanding teacher. You’ll be supported by experienced mentors and benefit from strong partnerships across South Yorkshire schools.

Why train with STTA?

• Learn in real classrooms with expert guidance
• Be part of a supportive and collaborative network
• Make a lasting impact on children’s lives
• Gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a PGCE

If you or someone you know is interested, please visit http://www.sheffieldtta.org to find out more and apply. Let’s grow the next generation of inspiring educators—starting right here in our community.

 

Dates for Your Diary

Thursday 20 November – GCSE Presentation Evening (for students who left in Summer 2025)

Thursday 4 December – flu vaccinations

Friday 5 December – INSET day – school closed to students

Tuesday 9 December – Y8 theatre trip

Wednesday 10^tDecember – Festive Showcase

Thursday 11 December – Carol Concert at St Peter’s Church, Hope

Friday 19 December – Break for Christmas

Monday 5 January – Back to school

 

Thank you for reading our communication. Here are some helpful email addresses, should you need to contact us:

• attendance@hopevalley.chorustrust.org to report a child’s absence
• enquiries@hopevalley.chorustrust.org for general enquiries
• pastoral@hopevalley.chorustrust.org for any issue with a child’s wellbeing
• headteacher@hopevalley.chorustrust.org to contact the Headteacher
• safeguarding@hopevalley.chorustrust.org to report safeguarding concerns. If a child or any young person is in imminent danger, then please report this to the police.
• ptfahv@hopevalley.chorustrust.org to contact the PTFA

Kind regards

Debbie Petts

Headteacher