A sunny start to the summer term – Head’s Blog

Friday 23 May 2025 | By Erin McKeown

As the penultimate half term comes to an end, it is safe to say the last four weeks have kept us all very busy indeed.

Examinations

Firstly, I would like to say a huge well done to all students completing examinations at the moment.  It has been amazing to see the resilience and hard work that each individual has put into these examinations and I am sure it will pay off in respect of results.  Although it may seem like a long way off, it will be no time at all until you are enjoying a long summer break – keep going! 

Hellos and Goodbyes

To mark Year 11 and Year 13 students beginning their study leave periods, farewell parties were enjoyed by all.  With an array of snacks and drinks, the students enjoyed shirt signing and we all experienced some teary goodbyes.  Both year groups have been a delight throughout the years.  Good luck with your examinations!

Although we have said goodbye to some students, we have had the opportunity to welcome lots of new faces to THS.  A warm welcome to the families who joined us after the Easter break.  I hope this short but action-packed half term has provided a wonderful opportunity for your sons and daughters to get a taste for life at THS. 

Community Outreach

I want to send my thanks to the many staff organising outreach and community work this term.  The Latin and Classics department hosted a special visit from Year 5 and 6 pupils at The Links Primary School last week, Miss Hopkins led a special outdoor session with children at Oxbridge Lane Primary School and Hartburn Primary and The Links both joined us for our Colour Run in aid of Mind, Teesside. I hope you enjoyed your time visiting our school.

Trips and Visits

Whilst the Senior School is extremely busy with external and internal examinations, Prep School pupils have been enjoying various outings and excursions.  From our little ones in Pre-Prep exploring their current IPC unit at the wonderful Washington Wetlands to Lower Prep experiencing a jam-packed few days of activities and fun at Robinwood, and finally, Upper Prep pupils enjoying educational workshops at Danby Lodge.  I hope you enjoy reading about their adventures.

ISI Inspection

Finally, as many of you will know, Teesside High School was recently inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.  I am delighted to tell you that the feedback was incredibly positive and we will share the full report as soon as it is available.  Thank you to everyone who contributed – it really is a team effort and I am sure this will be reflected in the feedback we receive.

I hope you have a lovely half term break. 

Read our latest newsletter here. 

Kirsty Mackenzie, Head