SIXTH FORM

We were delighted to welcome Victoria Dilly, Chief Executive Officer of the School Library Association, to our school. Her visit was an exciting opportunity to showcase the vibrant role our library plays in supporting learning and literacy across the curriculum. The day began at 11:00am with a warm welcome, followed by a chance for Victoria to meet our enthusiastic pupil librarians during the morning break. Their dedication and passion for reading set the tone for an inspiring day. As pupil librarians, it was an utmost pleasure to meet Victoria Dilly. In our brief meeting we discussed what our role involves, the library clubs we are involved in and enjoyed speaking about how our school library has a special place within the heart of our school. In return, we received useful tips on how to promote literacy within our school, such as organising 'readathons' for supporting charities, involving tutors, and speaking out at assemblies to “take the school library outside the building into other parts of the school.”  2026 has been declared by the Department of Education as the National Year of Reading, we will be working with these tips as a school library, and make the most of this year for all students. Ada M (13A2), School Poet Laureate Victoria then spent time with our Head of English, discussing how the library complements the English curriculum and fosters a love of literature. Later, she observed a Year 8 research lesson, gaining insight into how students use library resources to develop independent learning skills. Afterwards, Victoria explored strategic priorities for library development. Lunch provided a wonderful opportunity to see the library in action, buzzing with students engaged in reading and research. The afternoon included further discussions with the library staff, as well as informal conversations over lunch. Victoria also observed a Year 7 English class enjoying a reading session in the library, highlighting the space as a hub for creativity and collaboration. I  really like coming to the library as it gives me the opportunity to come and use the laptops, read and get on with some homework. I also love coming with my class as we can work as a team to do the activities we are given. It is a lovely place to come, as it has so many different books to choose from and I always find it hard when trying to pick one. Scarlett S. Student Quote Her visit reinforced the vital role of school libraries in promoting literacy, supporting academic achievement, and nurturing a lifelong love of reading. We are proud to share our commitment to these values and look forward to continuing our partnership with the School Library Association. “It is fantastic to see what a huge benefit the library at Great Baddow is to the whole school community and shows just what is possible when school libraries are supported and valued by senior leadership. The librarians work tirelessly to create a welcoming and supportive space full of high quality resources to support student’s reading, learning and wellbeing.  It was particularly enjoyable meeting the Pupil Librarians, who clearly value the role the library plays in their every day school life. Thank you for hosting my visit!”  Victoria Dilly, Chief Executive Officer of the School Library Association

Twenty-four Year 13 A Level Geography students embarked on an unforgettable four-day adventure to Iceland, starting with an early 3 a.m. departure. Within hours of landing, they were immersed in the country’s dramatic landscapes, visiting the Bridge Between Continents, Stamper Craters, the mystical Gunnuhver Hot Springs (named after a legendary ghost), Reykjanes Lighthouse, and the fascinating Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnels before settling into their hotel. Day Two began with a relaxing swim at the famous Secret Lagoon, a naturally occurring hot spring steeped in history as the place where Icelanders first learned to swim. Students also spotted tiny houses said to belong to Iceland’s mythical “Hidden People.” The day continued with visits to the breathtaking Gulfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and a stop at Efsti-dalur II, a seventh-generation family-run dairy farm where students sampled delicious ice cream made from the farm’s own cows. The day concluded with a scenic walk through Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On Day Three, the group explored the majestic Skogafoss Waterfall, trekked across the stunning Sólheimajökull Glacier, and paused in the charming village of Vik for coffee and souvenirs. They then visited the dramatic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its basalt columns and powerful “sneaker waves,” before heading to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where students braved a walk behind the cascading water—thankfully equipped with waterproofs! The final day featured a journey to Reykjavik, Iceland’s northernmost capital, with stops at an earthquake simulator and the bubbling Krysuvik Mud Pools. In Reykjavik, students climbed to the top of the iconic church for panoramic views and admired the striking architecture of the Harpa Concert Hall. Trip Highlights Students’ favourite moments included walking behind Seljalandsfoss, relaxing in the Secret Lagoon, swimming in a local geothermal pool on the last evening, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. A huge thank you to Mrs Dawson for organising and leading the trip, supported by Miss Oldfield, Miss Sudnik, our office staff, and the parents whose support made this incredible experience possible.

This week marked the return of our much-loved annual Bake-Off, with a vibrant new theme celebrating the Day of the Dead festival.The colourful and creative cake and biscuit designs truly showcased our students’ imagination and enthusiasm. We were thrilled to see a record number of entries this year, with 33 students participating from Year 7 through to Sixth Form. Thanks to their efforts—and the generosity of our school community—we raised an impressive £215.30 for our chosen charity. Congratulations to our winning bakers: 1st - Rose B (7E2) Joint 2nd - Emily J & Hannah D (9A2) & Holly F (8A1) 3rd - Amelia B (7E1), Esmae G (7E3), Olivia B (7E1), Amaya-Jae D (7E1) As always, the Bake Off continues to be a highlight for both staff and students. A special thank you must go to our incredible library team, whose support and dedication make this event possible. Their willingness to share their space and time with the House team is deeply appreciated, and their contribution to the planning and success of the Great Baddow Bake-Off deserves full recognition.

This week we welcomed Year 11 students from GBHS, and across Chelmsford, to our annual Sixth Form Open Evening. We were keen to show visitors what life is like in Sixth Form, what facilities we have to offer, and the wide range of courses available - both A Level and Vocational courses. If you have a child in Year 11 and were unable to make the Open Evening, have a look at the information on our website. It will explain our admission criteria and the different pathways available, and you can have a look through our course guide to see what subjects are on offer. Alternatively book onto a school tour here. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT APPLYING FOR GBHS SIXTH FORM HERE. If you did come along, we hope that we managed to answer all your questions, and you found Great Baddow Sixth Form is one that you are looking forward to joining next year. If you have any further questions or would like to speak to a member of staff in our Sixth Form about your options before you complete the form, please email sixthformenquiries@gbhs.co.uk and we will be happy to assist. The application deadline for Sixth Form is 12th December 2025. APPLY FOR GBHS SIXTH FORM HERE.  

This week our Cambridge Technical Level 3 Business students attended Pontlands Park Hotel. The Bartella family threw open their doors to their luxury hotel for our students gain a valuable insight into rooms, facilities, event spaces and even included a look at "Drakes" the new Pop Up Al-Fresco dining experience in the grounds of the Victorian Estate in Great Baddow.  They took the students on a one-hour extensive tour into every part of the hotel, to give a real-life enriching experience to the students and also took time to sit with our students for over an hour, answering their specific questions to help them build on what they had learnt in their unit 4 coursework based on this luxury hotel and event space.  This is now the third year that Pontlands have allowed us to visit, for this truly unique and enriching experience. Last year over 80% of our students gained a Distinction in this unit, with this year’s results expected to be even higher. This is not only testament to the value of enrichment and the real-life learning brought into the classroom but also shows local businesses what they can do for young people in education in their own communities.   We were delighted to note that one of our former students is now part of their kitchen team and a current student is employed front of house. Thank you so much to Pontlands, and the Bartella family, for allowing us this opportunity and playing a vital part in our local community.  

The much loved Great Baddow Bake Off is taking place on Wednesday 5th November, so once again we are asking students and staff to don their aprons and 'get baking' ready to bring their entry in. This year’s theme is ‘Day of the Dead’, so entries should represent an aspect of the 'Day of the Dead Festival' and we are allowing both cakes and biscuits as entries. Entries to be baked at home and brought into the school library on Wednesday 5th November (before school). An ingredients sheet must be complete and handed in alongside any entry. These can be collected from the library. At break-time, students will be able to pay 50p for entry to the library, and taste the entries (while ‘stock’ remains). No change will be given out, so if they have a £1 coin, they can either have two slices or bring in a friend. There will be a credit for each entry and prizes, credits and certificates for the winning cake.  

If you are in Year 11 and considering applying for Great Baddow High School, the Sixth Form Open Evening is an essential part of the application process. This event is a fantastic opportunity to explore what our Sixth Form has to offer and to speak with staff and current students. Upon arrival, please register in the Diner where you will receive information about the courses on offer.  We encourage you to take the opportunity to speak with subject teachers and our current sixth form students, who will be available to share their experiences and insights into the courses they are studying. The Sixth Form team, along with our Careers Advisor, Deborah Anderson, will also be available to answer any questions you may have at our Open Evening. Students new to Great Baddow High School At our Open Evening, there will be a presentation for new students to GBHS at 5.30pm followed by a tour of the school and the opportunity to visit subject areas. Students are required to attend with parents or legal guardians. This presentation will will allow potential students to understand the ethos and expectations of our school as well as provide information about the application process. Sixth Form Tours Following Sixth Form Open Evening we will be offering daytime tours of the Sixth Form for Year 11 students and their parents who are considering Great Baddow High School Sixth Form and were unable to visit on Open Evening. CLICK HERE TO BOOK A SIXTH FORM TOUR Current Great Baddow High school Students For current GBHS students, the presentations on Open Evening have been scheduled according to Tutor Group, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to find out about the application process and to manage the volume of visitor numbers to the different subjects areas. Time tutor groups Open Evening Schedule 6.15 p.m. A1, A2, A3, E1, E2 Talk for Year 11 students and parents on our Sixth  Form and the application process, followed by the  opportunity to visit subject areas. 6.15 p.m. E3, H1, H2, H3 Students and parents visit subject areas. 7.30 p.m. E3, H1, H2, H3 Talk for Year 11 students and parents on our Sixth  Form and the application process. 8.00 p.m. ALL Evening concludes. Current GBHS Year 11 students will receive an assembly outlining this process and will continue exploring their options during tutor time and Lessons for Life. They will also have access to our careers platform, Unifrog, to consider potential KS5 courses aligned with their career aspirations. Applying for Great Baddow High School Sixth Form The Sixth Form brochure below provides information about studying at Great Baddow High School Sixth Form. Great Baddow High School Sixth Form Brochure Great Baddow High School Sixth Form Course Guide

Great Baddow High School Celebrates Another Year of Outstanding GCSE Results. Great Baddow High School is proud to announce another excellent year of GCSE results, reflecting the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our students and staff. These achievements mark a significant milestone in our students’ academic journeys and provide a strong foundation for future success. Among our highest performing students this year are: Beau Q – 8 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s, and a Distinction* James F – 7 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s, 1 Grade 7s, and a Distinction Will R – 6 Grade 9s, 3 Grade 8s, 1 Grade 7, and a Distinction Bertie – 5 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s, 2 Grade 7s, and a Distinction Francesca D – 4 Grade 9s, 5 Grade 8s, and a Distinction Harriet M – 3 Grade 9s, 5 Grade 8s, 1 Grade 7, and a Distinction We are excited to welcome many of our students back into our Sixth Form and look forward to supporting them as they continue to thrive. For those moving on to new opportunities, we wish them every success in the future. Find more photos from our GCSE Results Day on our School Gallery. “I would like to congratulate all of our students and staff on an exceptional set of results. We are delighted that these outcomes provide our students with a strong platform for future success.” Mr P Farmer

Great Baddow Sixth Form Celebrates Record-Breaking A Level and Vocational Results. Great Baddow Sixth Form is proud to announce its best-ever set of A Level and vocational results, with a record 59% of grades at A*-B and 100% A-E*. These results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of both students and staff, and they open the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities for our young people. We are immensely proud of all our students, and several deserve special recognition for their exceptional achievements: · Melissa W achieved four A Levels at A*, A*, A*, A and will be studying Zoology at the University of Leeds. · Thomas H secured A*, A*, A and will pursue Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield. · Dylan W gained a place at the prestigious and highly competitive University College London to study Economics, with results of A*, A, A. · James R achieved A*, A*, A, A and will study Chemistry at Loughborough University. · Callum S, Joaben K and Callum H all achieved A grades at A levels and will be attending their first-choice universities. Our vocational students have also excelled, with many achieving top grades. A special mention goes to Lisa L, who studied the equivalent of four A Levels, achieving Triple Distinction Stars in BTEC Extended Diploma for Sport and a B grade A Level. She will be studying Health and Exercise Science at Bath University. Special mention must also go to our Head Boy and Girl for their outstanding grades: · Daniel H achieved A*, A, A, B and will study Physics with Astrophysics at York University. · Ellen S achieved A, A, A, B and will study History and Politics at the University of East Anglia. Our GB Medic Programme continues to support students aiming for careers in medicine and dentistry, and we are delighted that several students have secured places on these highly competitive courses. Reflecting the different further education pathways available to students, a number of our students have successfully gained places on competitive apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships such as BP and Bellway Homes. Notably, Zac E will begin training with Skybourne Academy as a commercial pilot, alongside a degree in air transport management this September. “I would like to congratulate all of our students and staff on an exceptional set of results. We are delighted that these outcomes provide our students with a strong platform for future success.” Mr P Farmer More photos from GBHS A Level results day can be found on our School Gallery.

Our Year 12 Spanish A level students enjoyed a cultural Spanish inspired day out in London.  First stop was the Imperial War Museum where they looked at photography and propaganda from the Spanish Civil War.  Students investigated how different styles of propaganda were used by both sides of the conflict between 1936 and 1939. Next, after a walk past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, they briefly visited the Spanish art section of the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, before heading to an exhibition, displaying the work of Mexican painter José María Velasco.  The students took an audio tour in Spanish to learn about how the artist used landscape to portray his cultural heritage and the influence of Mexico's ancient civilisations.  "To round off our day, "fuimos de tapas". We had a great selection of authentic tapas washed down with Sangría Virgen. A great day was had by all!"     Mrs Barkway and Mrs Alvarez   

In today's rapidly evolving job market, the importance of a robust careers programme within schools cannot be overstated. Such programmes are pivotal in equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to navigate their future careers successfully. At the heart of this initiative is the commitment to ensuring that every student leaves school with a clear, actionable plan that aligns with their interests, strengths, and aspirations. The Importance of a Strong Careers Programme A well-structured careers programme offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it provides students with exposure to a wide range of career options, helping them make informed decisions about their future paths. This exposure is crucial in a world where the job market is constantly changing, and new opportunities are continually emerging. Moreover, careers programmes often include practical experiences such as internships, job shadowing, and work placements. These experiences allow students to gain first-hand insight into various professions, develop essential workplace skills, and build valuable networks. Such real-world experiences are instrumental in bridging the gap between academic learning and the demands of the workforce. Additionally, careers programmes play a significant role in developing students' soft skills. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are just a few of the competencies that are nurtured through these programmes. These skills are highly valued by employers and are critical for success in any career. A Recent Success: The Careers Fair A shining example of the impact of a strong careers programme is the recent careers fair held at our school. This event brought together a diverse array of employers, industry professionals, and educational institutions, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore various career paths and engage directly with potential employers. The careers fair was a bustling hub of activity, with students eagerly visiting booths, talking with employers, and attending talks. Employers from sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and the arts were on hand to offer insights into their industries and discuss the skills and qualifications needed for success. This direct interaction with professionals helped demystify the job market and provided students with a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them. The Broader Impact The success of the careers fair is just one example of how a strong careers programme can positively impact students' futures. By providing ongoing support, guidance, and opportunities, schools can help students build a solid foundation for their careers. This holistic approach ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the practical skills and experiences needed to thrive in the workforce. A strong careers programme is essential for preparing students for future success. It empowers them with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern job market. Events like the careers fair are a testament to the value of these programmes, showcasing the tangible benefits they offer to students as they embark on their career journeys. Mr J Faulkner Head of PSHE/Computer Science/Careers: Associate SLT

We are thrilled to announce that our recent careers fair was a resounding success, marking our biggest event yet with over 50 exhibitors in attendance. This year's fair was designed to provide students with a comprehensive look at the diverse career paths available to them, and it certainly delivered. The fair was organized into five distinct zones, each representing a different sector of the job market. These zones included everything from the Army to games design, ensuring that there was something for everyone. Students had the unique opportunity to engage with professionals from a wide range of fields, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into their future career options. One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity on spirts and finance and trading talks. These talks allowed students and parents  to get firsthand accounts of these areas and a real feel for what each career entails. Feedback from both students and exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive. Many students expressed their excitement about the new paths they discovered and the clarity they gained about their future aspirations. Exhibitors were equally enthusiastic, praising the students' curiosity and eagerness to learn. Overall, the careers fair was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their future options and all the wonderful paths that are open to them. We look forward to making next year's event even bigger and better!

After 4 months and an estimated 60 hours of group rehearsal, the curtain has come down on our production of Shrek the Musical. We would like to say a massive congratulations to the 63 students that made-up our cast and crew for the show this year. Over the five performances, the students entertained a combined audience of 1,092 with many rave reviews already coming in.  From primary pupils who"loved watching Lord Farquaad waddle in"  to comments about the level of professionalism that our students have shown, we have been blown away by the collective opinion on the production. We have loved hearing the audience laughter at the many funny moments in the show (flying cows, growing noses, nods to Defying Gravity and Star Wars) and enjoyed hearing the audible gasps of 'wow' at the end of dances, songs and terrifying Ogre roars. Shrek the Musical had many fun elements to it and some great challenges too that have pushed us forward in our ability to put on such shows. This is the first show we have used prosthetics (Shrek and the Elves), puppets (Gingy, an exploding bird and the Dragon), made a mechanical growing nose (Pinocchio), used swamp haze, choreographed a 5-minute tap-dance routine, and featured a 45-second quick-change turning Princess Fiona green just out of sight of the audience!   We would like to say a massive thank you to every one that has supported the production and helped make it possible. Our biggest thanks though goes to our Creative Arts students!  "Without your enthusiasm, your commitment, your talent, your costume-making, face-painting, line-learning, singing and acting none of this is possible! You are all stars in our eyes and we look forward to working with you on our next production (September 2025 - February 2026). Thank you for making a 'Big Bright Beautiful World' and keep letting your 'Freak Flag Fly'" The Music and Drama Department  

We are excited to announce that Great Baddow High School will be hosting our annual Careers Fair on Thursday 27th February for Years 9 - 13. To avoid large queues please try and attend in the time slot allocated to year groups: Year 10 - 13– 6:00pm – 7:30pm Year 9 – 7:00pm – 8:30pm The Careers Fair aims to provide our students with valuable insights into various career paths and inspire them to explore their future possibilities. Year 9 students should all attend the fair to help them gather vital information to support their GCSE options. Year 10 and 11 students should attend the fair to help them gather vital information to support their choices after GCSE. Including A Level choices and apprenticeships. Year 12 and 13 students should attend the fair to help them gather vital information to explore careers, university and apprenticeship options.

Following an incredibly successful Sixth Form Open Evening, the application form is now open for Year 11 students to submit their subject options. Please note applications must be received by the closing date on Friday 13th December 2024. All current GBHS Year 11 students will have received a welcome email, with log in details, which will enable them to view the list of courses available and to complete their applications. If you are new to Great Baddow High School, please use the link below to enable you to register and complete your application.  APPLICATION FORM FOR EXTERNAL STUDENTS If you were unable to attend our Open Evening and would like further information, you will find more information in our Sixth Form Brochure and Course Guide here, as well as information about the application process and the different pathways available. For any additional enquiries please email: sixthformapplications.co.uk we will be pleased to answer any of your questions.  We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the Sixth Form students who supported us on the night. The evening would not have been the success it was without the unwavering commitment from our current Sixth Form cohort who acted as tour guides, subject helpers and spoke to students and their parents about life in Great Baddow High School Sixth Form and were fantastic ambassadors for our school.   

Year 12 and 13 physicists attended a great presentation from a former Baddow student, Archie.  Archie now works in an NHS radiotherapy physics department as a Trainee Clinical Scientist in the second year of the Scientist Training Program (STP). Students gained a valuable insight into different career pathways and the opportunities for scientists within the NHS. They learnt how a linear accelerator (LINAC) works and how it is used to deliver radiotherapy treatments to cancer patients. Many components were available to handle including a thyratron, multi-leaf collimator leaves and motors, tungsten targets, beam flatteners, beam bending assembly, radiation exposure monitoring badge and an ionisation detector. Our thanks are extended to Archie for delivering such a detailed and fascinating talk and for bringing along so many interesting pieces of equipment.

Year 13 students from Great Baddow High School were delighted with their results this morning and we would like to congratulate all of our students on their fantastic achievements. In line with the National average, we have again seen an increase in the number A*- A grades awarded this year. Their qualifications will open up pathways for further success and we are delighted for the students that have gained their destinations of choice as they embark on new adventures. Many of our students will now be studying degree courses at some of the most prestigious universities in the country, with a number of students selecting apprenticeships or prominent roles in employment. We are also proud of an increasing number of students who have gained highly sought after degree apprenticeships with esteemed employers. A Level and vocational results were extremely pleasing, but notable mention must be given to Matthew J (2 A* and 2 A grades), Lois B (1A* and 3 A grades), Marnie H (1A* and 3 A grades) and Beth C who achieved (D*D*D*) in her Level 3 BTEC Sports Extended Diploma. Matthew has secured his place at Southampton University to study Mechanical Engineering, Lois has secured a place to study Politics and International Relations at Bath University, Marnie will be studying a Diploma in Art at Colchester Institute and Beth will be going on to a teaching degree at Anglia University. "We are extremely proud of our wonderful students and their achievements, and we wish them every success for the future." Mr P Farmer, Headteacher   More photos from A Level results day at GBHS can be found in our School Gallery here.