Welcome to this week’s Wildern Weekly. 

 

I’m Mr Hilton, and I’m really excited to introduce myself as part of the Business Studies team here at Wildern. I joined Wildern in January 2024 and have been teaching for twenty years. I love teaching Business Studies because it’s a subject that truly prepares students for whatever path they choose in life - whether that’s becoming a manager, an employee who understands their rights, or even starting their own business one day.

 

My aim is to help students see how the business world connects to their everyday lives and to inspire them with an entrepreneurial spirit - encouraging them to be creative, confident, and ready to take on new challenges.

 

I’m looking forward to seeing our students develop their ideas, make connections to the real world, and perhaps even spot the beginnings of the next big business success story right here at Wildern!

 

Please fill out our Autumn term survey

 

This focuses on Pride in Behaviour. There are 11 short questions which can be answered in as little as 2 minutes, but also offer you the opportunity to expand on your answers if you would like us to know more.

 

Deadline is Friday 7 November. The results of this will be shared with you next term.

Whole School

Monday 3 November - School Open - Week A

Monday 10 November - Week B

Tuesday 11 November - Bike Doctor Visit

Monday 17 November - Week A

Wednesday 19 November - Preloved Sale 3pm -3.45pm

Monday 24 November - Week B

Friday 28 November - CPD Day - School closed for Students

Monday 1 December - Week A

 

Year 7 and 8

            No Key Dates

Year 9 

            Tuesday 11 November - Soloman's Theatre Workshops

Year 10 

            No Key Dates

Year 11

Monday 3 - 14 November - Practice Exams

Student Hub and Parent Access

 

If you are visiting the school, please report to the main reception desk upon arrival. 

 

The Student Hub is a crucial student space designed to be a safe, supportive environment for all. It is essential that this space reflects the positive and respectful community values we teach our students. We have had instances where staff in this area have been subjected to rude and inappropriate behaviour by parents.

 

This is unacceptable, and, more importantly, it causes distress to the students who witness it. We expect all visitors to treat our dedicated staff with the courtesy and respect they deserve. Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and positive atmosphere for our students.

Christmas Celebration of Dance Monday 8 December 2025.

The performance will take place at 7.00pm - 9pm (approx) in The Berry Theatre. Dancers must arrive back at school with their costume(s) at 6.00pm. Tickets for the show will be available on Monday 10 November from 9am and can be purchased from the following website 

Class changes in Mathematics

Changes in Mathematics classes will take place at the start of
the next half term. All Year 7 students start with us in mixed ability classes in maths whilst we get to know students and assess their mathematics skills through various forms of assessment. From November, Year 7 students will be taught in banded classes.

Christmas Shop

We are excited to propose a special event for our year 7 students this holiday season: a dedicated Year 7 Christmas Shop. This initiative is designed to give students a taste of festive independence and the joy of selecting gifts for their loved ones.

No letters or Reminders

Solomans Theatre 

Solomons Theatre is coming into school on Tuesday 11 November for all Year 9 students as part of their Education for Life curriculum. During this day, all students will watch the play ‘Last Orders’ which is an educational show that explores the serious issues of underage binge drinking, sexual health, consent and the  laws that surround young people in society today. 

Battlefields Trip to Belgium 2026

The History Department will be offering the opportunity for Year 10 (current Year 9) History students to enrich their experience of the History curriculum through a residential trip to France and Belgium

No letters or Reminders

Practice Exams - Uniform and Phones

Please click here to view the letter with regards to uniform and phones during the Practice Exams period. Students will only expected to be in for their exams for this two week period althought there will be places in school for them to study throughout the day if they don't have an exam and want to stay in school.

Year 11 - Prom Letter

We are pleased to announce details of the Year 11 Prom 2026

Year 11 Practice Exams - English

A reminder that following half term, Year 11 students will sit their practice exams. In English, students will be completing:

-English Language Paper 2 - Non Fiction reading and writing (80 marks)

-A ‘Macbeth’ essay (34 marks) and a ‘Power and Conflict’ poetry essay (30 marks)

During this week students will be learning valuable money management skills, including:

• Evaluating their current money habits
• Exploring ways to earn money
• Learning how to save money effectively
• Budgeting & Planning
• Distinguishing between essential purchases and non-essential desires

By discussing these topics, we hope to empower your child to make informed financial decisions. 

Hampshire are offering free courses and events designed to support adults living in Hampshire with practical skills to help manage the cost of living.

Visit Learning in Libraries – Hampshire County Council Shop to book a free place

Managing Your Household Budget

Learn how to:

• Create a practical budget plan
• Calculate income and outgoings
• Explore benefits and incentives to reduce household bills
• Access local and national support

Digital Skills Workshop

Gain confidence in:

• Using apps and websites
• Saving money through online shopping and selling
• Navigating the digital world safely and effectively

Healthy Cooking on a Budget

Discover how to:

• Use a slow cooker to save on energy bills
• Store and reheat batch-cooked meals safely
• Enjoy a home-cooked meal and take home a free slow cooker and food voucher

Warm and Welcome Events

Drop-in sessions at libraries across Hampshire offering:

• Advice and support on energy bills and the cost of living

No booking required 

More info: Warm and Welcome events

We are delighted to share the exciting news that our school has been awarded the Quality in Careers Standard; the national benchmark for excellence in careers education, information, advice and guidance. 

 

This prestigious award recognises our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every student receives high quality support to explore future pathways, develop essential employability skills, and make confident, informed decisions about their next steps. 

In addition, we are proud to announce that Ixion, part of the Shaw Trust Group, has accredited us with a Gold Award in recognition of the strength and impact of our careers programme. This is a fantastic achievement and reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students and the strong partnerships we have built with employers, colleges and training providers. 

 

Last week, some of our Year 10 students had the exciting opportunity to participate in i-Construct at CEMAST/CETC, a hands-on event designed to introduce young people to the world of construction, engineering, and design.

 

During the day, students worked in teams to engage in activities that mimic the skills and tasks used in the construction and built environment industries. They also had the chance to meet local employers, and learn more about potential careers in these dynamic sectors.

 

i-Construct is not only about learning practical skills, it’s about fostering teamwork, creativity, and confidence, while inspiring students to think about the many opportunities that exist beyond the classroom. It’s a fantastic way for students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting and gain a glimpse of the future possibilities in STEM and construction careers.

 

We are incredibly proud of all our students for their enthusiasm, teamwork, and creativity during the event. Experiences like this play a vital role in helping young people discover their passions, develop essential skills, and prepare for their future careers.

Summer Reading Challenge

 

A huge congratulations to Charlie in Year 10 who won our Summer Reading challenge in partnership with The Day online newspaper.

 

Charlie’s excellent efforts in reading 30 different articles over the summer and completing his ‘passport’ have earned him a £50 Amazon voucher.

We are not far away from the spookiest night of the year! It is always great to see so many of our young people out and about and celebrating halloween, however, it is also a time when sadly, we get reports of poor or antisocial behaviour, or students putting themselves at risk.

Here are some tips and thoughts when venturing out:

 

Safety First: Be Visible and Fire Aware

• Be Seen: Wear bright or reflective elements on your costume (like reflective tape or glow sticks) and carry a torch (flashlight). It gets dark early, and this helps drivers and other pedestrians spot you, especially near roads.
• Costume Check: Check the label of any costume you buy for a CE or UKCA mark and the words 'flame-resistant'. Avoid loose, flowing fabrics, and keep well away from naked flames like real candles in pumpkins or bonfires, as many costumes can ignite and burn very quickly. Use LED or battery-operated lights for decorations instead of real candles.

Kindness: Respect 'No Thank You' Houses

• Look for the Pumpkin: Only approach houses that are decorated for Halloween or have a lit pumpkin or sign out. These signs usually  indicate they are happy to receive trick-or-treaters.
• Move On: If a house is completely dark, doesn't have decorations, or they don't answer the door, accept that they don't want to participate and move on quietly. Don't knock repeatedly, look in windows, or linger.

Kindness: Be Polite and Considerate

• Mind Your Manners: Always say "Trick or Treat" and a clear "Thank you" when you receive a treat.
• Be Reasonable: When offered a treat, only take one or two, unless the person says you can take a handful. Remember, there are often other children following you.
• Keep Noise Down: Be mindful of the time and the noise you are making, especially around houses, as there may be younger children or older people trying to sleep.

Safety: Stick with Your Group and Plan Your Route

• Group Up: Go out in a small group of friends. There is safety in numbers, and you can look out for each other.
• Stay in Touch: Tell a trusted adult (parent/carer) your planned route and expected time back. Keep your mobile phone charged so you can stay in contact if you need to.
• Know Your Area: Stick to streets and areas you are familiar with and that are well-lit.

Safety: Road Sense and Treat Inspection

• Road Safety: Be extra careful when crossing roads - remove any masks that restrict your vision first. Excitement can make you forget basic road safety.
• Inspect Your Haul: Don't eat any of your sweets until you get home and you or a trusted adult can check the treats to make sure all wrappers are sealed and look safe to eat.

‘Bike it’ John from the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust will be at Wildern offering FREE bike safety checks, repairs and security coding on Tuesday 11 November. This will take place at the bike sheds by block 1 & 2.

We know that for many the school holidays are an exciting time of the year however for some of you we know it can be a difficult time. If you need support over the holiday period or if you are concerned about a friend below are some points of contact for you.

• The Wellbeing Hub on our website is a great place to access support.
• ChatHealth 07505 332160
• Childline
• Samaritans 116123
• Police 101 or in an emergency 999
• CAMHS
• If you are upset and having thoughts and urges about hurting yourself, then stop, take a deep breath and read this page
• If you are witnessing or a victim of Stop Domestic Abuse can provide support
• If you are coping with grief Winstons Wish has some great tips to help you

Work Experience Deadline - 30 November 2025

 

A reminder to all students that the deadline to upload your work experience placement details to Unifrog is 30 November.

 

It is important that all placements are submitted by this date, as the school must complete Health and Safety, safeguarding checks for every placement before approval is given. 

 

Please note that any placement not uploaded to Unifrog cannot go through the required checking process and therefore will not be authorised or approved as a placement. 

 

For those still looking for a placement there is still time. The Careers Team can provide advice, suggest employers and help you complete your Unifrog form. We are here to support you every step of the way, do not leave it to the last minute. 

 

For any questions or help please contact the careers team careers@wildern.org or students can visit us in the Careers Hub office opposite the library during any tutor time. 

Free parent guide: Green Careers Week (3–8 Nov)

Help your teen explore meaningful, future-focused careers. This quick parent guide covers routes after GCSEs/sixth form, examples of green jobs across sectors and tips for work experience. 

 

What’s inside:

• Why green careers matter (and why teens care)
• Practical routes after GCSEs and sixth form
• Examples of roles across sectors (not just “green” industries)
• The Green Buzz quiz
• Tips for finding work experience while at school

See the huge variety of clubs that are on offer this half term! Sign up for these using the Clubs tab on Edulink.

Half-Term Soccer Schools are back at Deer Park

 

Southampton FC welcome boys and girls aged 5 - 13 to come along to learn, train and play.

 

At Soccer Schools, they will:

• Receive FA accredited coaching
• Be added to our Saints Player Progression Pathway
• Take part in matches and mini tournaments
• Get the chance to win signed merch
• Have an experience geared towards fun and excitement.

Wednesday 5 November - Yr 11 Boys Vs Ringwood School

Wednesday 5 November - Yr 9/10 Girls Vs Hamble School

Tuesday 11 November - U16 Netball Tournament

Tuesday 11 November - Yr7 Vs Deer Park School

Yr 8/9 Basketball v Sholing School Lost 37-18

Yr 7 Boys Football vs Redbridge School P - P

Yr 7 Boys Football vs St Georges College - Lost 3-2

Yr 11 National Cup V Kings School - Lost 2-1

Yr 11 Boys Football vs Upper Shirtley High P-P

U14 Netball Tournament - Finished in 2nd Position

We are excited to share that the Kitchen refurbishments are almost complete and we are looking forward to offering a greater range of hot food options after Half Term.

 

Please see the menu for our hot food options for the week back after Half Term. These will be available from the main servery.

 

The main school meal deals are £3.20 which is in line with all Hampshire schools. In a meal deal, students can get one of the meal choices below with a bottle of plain water and a cookie or piece of fruit.

• Either of the hot meal options,
• A jacket potato,
• A pasta pot,
• A chicken or beef burger,
• A salad pot (from the salad bar)

We encourage all families to use the free school meals eligibility checker, which can be found here, to determine if they qualify for this entitlement. 

 

Please remember, we can adapt the majority of meals to any dietary needs if we know in advance (your child can speak to kitchen staff by visiting the kitchen before 8:30am that day). Main A/B vegetarian options are always available - just ask Dan and his team.

 

* correct at time of sending, but may be subject to change

What Parents & Educators Need to Know about AI Virtual Friends

 

Artificial intelligence is probably the hot topic in technology circles right now, with questions being raised worldwide about how AI might conceivably affect the very future of the human race. In the short term, however – definitely as far as its impact on young people is concerned – the clearest risk is almost certainly the AI-powered ‘virtual friends’ which are springing up all over the internet.

 

There’s Replika and Kuki, for instance, while Snapchat has recently got in on the act with My AI – and search engines like Bing and Google have developed their own versions. Are these machine intelligences suitable online companions for young people? What are their limitations and weak spots? Our #WakeUpWednesday guide profiles the emergence of AI ‘virtual friends’.

Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts

 

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Wildern School

Wildern Lane

Hedge End

Southampton

Hampshire

SO30 4EJ

 

01489 783473

 

#WeAreWildern