As we move into the New Year, we are looking forward to another successful year at Frome College.
“We would like to thank all the community who attended our Christmas Carol concert at St John’s Church on Monday 18th December, and congratulate our staff and students who contributed to the Christmas Concert at Wells Cathedral on Monday 11th December. Both celebrations were a wonderful chance to welcome in Christmas and listen to our excellent College choir.
“Thank you to all parents and carers who have already offered their time as part of the Frome Association of Parents, and are getting involved in many ways to help support our students and families.
“Working together as a community is always a stronger way to develop and improve educational provision for our young people. These links were highlighted at our annual Participation Fair in Fusion Lifestyle Leisure Centre on 11th October. The Frome College Next Steps & Employability Team arranged for students in all year groups to spend time looking at what was on offer, talking to the club organisers and registering their interest. There were opportunities to try many different things; it is so important for students’ CVs and university applications to experience extra-curricular activities.
“A year at Frome College would not be complete without the immense support from our local Rotary Clubs. We are extremely grateful for all the events they organise, and the time and dedication they give to our school and the young people who attend. Annually, their committed team arrange the Rotary Young Citizen of the Year, Rotary Young Photographer, Young Writer, and Public Speaker to name a few, on top of hosting mock interviews for all Year 10 students.
“Frome College is also very well supported by visiting musicians, authors and artists, who give up their time to host workshops for our students. Earlier this term, we were delighted to welcome Ken Burton, whose musical activities cover a wide range of genres and roles internationally, and he regularly directs choirs which have featured in the BBC Songs of Praise. His inspirational gospel workshops in our music department, helped home grow our own college choir.
“Year 10 students enjoyed an enthralling presentation by the award-winning author, Alex Wheatle, on 5th October, as part of his participation in the Bath Festival. Alex hosted an inspirational talk about his life, travels, and what inspired his books. His presentation had the audience gripped, and Alex spoke to students afterwards about his experiences as a writer.
“We were also very fortunate to have author, Joffre White, visit on 16th November, who talked to Year 9 students about his life, work and his journey to becoming an author. He is very passionate about young people pursuing their dreams, and gave very inspiring talks, encouraging students to think about their futures, what they would like to become, and how they are going to achieve it.
“Practicing artist and illustrator, Lloyd Owen, visited our Year 11 art students on 22nd November, and was kind enough to show them his portfolio of work, and to look through their own art work. Lloyd offered help and support to students by giving workshops based on his painting and drawing techniques. He also offered great advice which will stand them in good stead ahead of their exams.
“David Warburton MP came to Frome College in November to welcome our principal, Emma Reynolds, and hear about her plans for the school in her new role. Ms Reynolds escorted the MP for Somerton & Frome around the campus to show him the impressive teaching and learning which goes on at the school. He also met members of a local community group who regularly use the college’s art facilities as part of the Somerset Schools & Learning Programme. David commented on the excellent improvements over the past few years, which are a great foundation for the future of Frome College. Ms Reynolds highlighted the importance of maintaining a broad, creative and inclusive curriculum to serve our community.
“Looking at the college diary for 2018, we are confident that the wide variety of opportunities on offer, will enhance the education of every student. Our thanks go everyone who continues to support our Frome College community.”