Chestnut House

Our motto “Determination today leads to success tomorrow” is the foundation on which we build our values in Chestnut House. Determination to succeed in every aspect of school life and beyond. Whether it is pushing yourself that little bit more on the sports field, or working that bit harder in lessons, every step counts to the success of a pupil in Chestnut House.

How do we celebrate our success?

Determination leads to success. Success is rewarded through achievement points given to all members of our pupils in Chestnut House. Once a term, we, as Chestnuts, meet in a special house assembly.  All Chestnuts from year 7 up to year 13 are warmly welcomed into a special awards assembly exclusively for our house. Here we listen to music played by our creative pupils, read work that must be recognised as outstanding and celebrate all achievements of our Chestnut pupils through the academic term. There is a real sense of community and belonging in these assemblies, and the pride that pours from the pupils is always a termly highpoint.

How else do we create a sense of community?

Our house charity is ‘Help for Heroes’, voted for by Chestnut pupils last year. Throughout the year, fundraising events take place for our chosen charity. Cake sales are always extremely popular and a great way to raise money as well as getting fellow Chestnut’s creative in the kitchen. Last year we raised over £40 in a cake sale. An impressive amount for a good cause.

To add to the community spirit, and to create a real sense of competition, there are house events, which run every second Friday in the Library. The four houses are encouraged to take part, and the competition is high! Quizzes, debates, sporting challenges and creative activities take place at these events, so there is something for everyone throughout the term. Pupils who attend these events really enjoy them, and the competitive streak in human nature rises to the surface when members from other houses all take part. A great skill for life, extra-curricular activities help to build on the growth and development of all pupils.

Student Showcase

At the end of the academic year, we celebrate student’s successes through a ‘Student Showcase’. This event allows all pupils to display their work, of which they are particularly proud. All pupils and staff get an opportunity to view student’s work at break time and lunch. The work put on display, is judges by pupils and staff for an overall achievement prize. I am proud to mention a fellow Chestnut won the overall prize for Art last year!

Chestnut Student Council

Meetings held throughout the year with pupils who belong to the Chestnut Council. Through these representatives, all student’s voices are heard. If there are any ideas for charity events, if they want their voice heard, this is the way to do it. There are at least two representatives for each school year, and their presence in council meetings is a great way for us as a house to get messages across.