Parent/Carer Notices for all Year Groups
8th May 2026
Principal's Message
Dear Parents/Carers
Aspiration and Student Leadership
I am delighted to announce the appointment of our new Sixth Form Student Leadership Team! All students involved went through a competitive process, which included submitting a formal letter of application followed by a professional interview. Those selected for the positions of Assistant Head Student, Deputy Head Student and Head Student progressed even further, delivering a presentation to younger students on what they wished they had known when they were in Year 7, before completing a final individual interview. Every student who applied was extremely impressive, demonstrating maturity, confidence and a wealth of thoughtful ideas. We are excited to see these ideas put into action over the coming year.Â
Student Leaders are a vital part of our College community, and the events they organise, supported by their teams made up of students from Years 7 to 12, play an important role in strengthening our culture.
Particular congratulations to Ava DW and Hugo U pictured below on becoming Uckfield College Head Students for 2026/7, and to Annabelle G, Jack L and Phoebe E on becoming Deputy Head Students 2026/7!Â
And finally…
We wish all students the absolute best of luck as we enter the full throes of the external exam period next week. We bid a fond farewell to our remarkable Year 13 students today at their Leavers’ Lunch and wish them all the very best for their future endeavours. They are a fantastic group of young people, and we could not be any prouder of them.
Best wishes
Sara Marshallsay
Athletics Success at North Wealden Finals!
We are incredibly proud of our Sportshall Athletics teams. All four teams (Year 7 Boys, Year 7 Girls, Year 8 Boys and Year 8 Girls) represented North Wealden at last week’s Sussex finals!
We were one of only two schools that had all 4 teams representing their sports partnership.
This is a huge achievement for our students – congratulations to them all!
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Update on Fidget Tools in College - reminder
Fidget tools can be a valuable aid for some students, offering a range of sensory support that can help with focus and regulation. However, to ensure a productive learning environment for everyone, it is essential that any tools used are discreet and safe. Specifically, noisy fidget tools can become distracting to others and gel or silicone filled ones can split and be dangerous, which is why we must maintain clear boundaries on what is permitted.
Here is a guide to the approved and unapproved fidget tools:
Suitable Fidget Tools:Â
We support tools that are silent, unobtrusive, and pocket-sized.
- Worry Stones are our best recommendation as they are silent, unobtrusive, pocket-sized, and offer a range of sensory support.
- Textured Plastic Fidgets are acceptable, as it is better to stick to textured plastic.
Unsuitable Fidget Tools:Â
Items containing gel or silicon or that make a noise will not be allowed in College from 4th May.
We have recently had incidents where these tools have split causing issues. Furthermore, recent safety research regarding their internal contents has highlighted several risks that make them unsuitable for the College environment.
Thank you for your support with this matter.
Uckfield College is a nut-free school
Uckfield College is a nut-free school for the safety of all our students and staff, especially those with severe allergies.
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While our catering service diligently ensures that all produced and purchased food items are nut-free, it’s crucial that we have your partnership in maintaining this safe environment.
We kindly ask that you ensure your child does not bring any food items containing nuts to school, including snacks and packed lunches.
Service 500 replacing the 261 and 54 public bus service
Information on changes to the 261 bus service:
As you may be aware, bus service 261 is being withdrawn, its last day of operation being Friday 8th May. It will be replaced the following day by a new service, route 500, operated by Metrobus. This will operate 24 hours per day and extend beyond Uckfield to Hailsham and Eastbourne, in the main following the route of the existing service 54 which is also withdrawn.
In terms of school journeys, you will wish to note that the service 500 morning journey from the north will operate somewhat earlier than the existing service 261 journey. Key timing points are: 08:12 at Wych Cross, 08:18 at Nutley (‘School Lane’ stop), 08:26 at Maresfield.
On the northern side of Uckfield, service 500 journeys will operate direct via London Road and High Street and will not serve Manor Park estate. Thus, young people who currently travel on the 261 to Downsview Crescent will need to alight at a stop on London Road/High Street.
In the afternoon, young people currently travelling on the 261 will need to continue to board at stops on London Road/High Street. The service 500 journey closest to the end of the school day is scheduled to depart slightly earlier than the current 261, leaving at 15:48 from Uckfield Bus Station. You will no doubt wish to share this information with your children, including the new route number and the fact that the buses heading southwards (morning) will be showing an ultimate destination of Eastbourne in the destination screen and those travelling northwards (afternoon) will be showing an ultimate destination of Gatwick Airport as the route runs beyond East Grinstead to terminate there.
Certain journeys will be operated by double-deck vehicles. More information about the new service, including the full timetable, may be accessed at www.metrobus.co.uk/route500. You may particularly wish to note that on Mondays to Saturday daytimes, the service operates broadly hourly so there will be additional journeys available to your children which may be of interest, particularly in relation to after-school activities or making journeys home earlier when permitted to do so after exams.
Information on changes to the 54 bus service:
As you may be aware, bus service 54 is being withdrawn, its last day of operation being Friday 8th May. It will be replaced the following day by a new service, route 500, operated by Metrobus. This will operate 24 hours per day and extend beyond Uckfield to East Grinstead and Gatwick Airport.
In terms of school journeys, you will wish to note that the service 500 morning journey from the south will operate slightly earlier than the existing service 54 journey. Key timing points are: 07:54 at Golden Cross, 08:01 at East Hoathly (Rectory Close) and 08:05 at Halland.
On the northern side of Uckfield, service 500 journeys will operate direct via High Street and London Road and will not serve Manor Park estate. Thus, young people who currently travel on the 54 around the estate will need to alight at a stop on High Street/London Road. You may wish to note that there is a traffic-light controlled pedestrian crossing almost adjacent to the ‘Hooke Hall’ stop in the High Street.
In the afternoon, young people currently travelling on the 54 to the south, will again need to get to stops on London Road/High Street (or Uckfield Bus Station should they wish). The service 500 journey closest to the end of the school day is scheduled at 15:33 at Maresfield and has an arrival time at Uckfield Bus Station at 15:40. The service then departs from the Bus Station at 15:45. You will no doubt wish to share this information with your children, including the new route number and the fact that the buses heading northwards will be showing an ultimate destination of Gatwick Airport in the destination screen. Certain journeys will be operated by single-deck vehicles as was the case when Stagecoach ran the 54.
More information about the new service, including the full timetable, may be accessed at www.metrobus.co.uk/route500
Data protection updates for Schools and Online Privacy Campaign
Updates have been made to the data protection in schools manual about the use of photographs and CCTV in schools.
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The Information Commissioner’s Office has launched the Switched on to Privacy campaign. This is designed to help parents and carers have conversations with their children about online privacy.
Uckfield College Presents 'Little Shop of Horrors'!
Tickets for the Uckfield College production of Little Shop of Horrors are OFFICIALLY ON SALE!
Don’t miss out on three nights of exceptional talent, laughs galore, and one very hungry plant.Â
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 24th, 25th & 26th June
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 Tickets available here: http
Sussex Cricket T20 Special Offer for Uckfield College Families
As a Sussex Cricket Breaking Boundaries School, please find details of a 20% off ticket offer on all Sussex T20 Blast fixtures this summer for staff/parents at Uckfield College. Please use the code SECONDARYSCL at checkout to secure this discount.
The Sussex Cricket website can be found here
Lost Property
We have a large amount of unnamed lost property that has accumulated.
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If your child has lost an item, they should come to Reception to search through lost property.
Items remaining with us after Friday 22nd May will be donated to charity or disposed of. Please ensure that all items of uniform and equipment are clearly named to prevent this volume of lost property.
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Owners of named lost property will be emailed, so should check their inbox for any messages.
Essential Online Safety
Easy Fundraising for Uckfield College
Photo of the Week
This week’s Photo of the Week is taken by Amelia in year 12, as part of her development towards a personal response.
It has been really exciting to see the year 12s beginning to find their own voices as photographers, and Amelia’s thoughtful use of text is a great example of this.Â
Art of the Week
Taking inspiration from the legendary Jean-Michel Basquiat, this piece perfectly captures that raw, “street art” energy we have been studying. Between the bold oil pastel strokes, the anatomical forms, and that vibrant use of primary colours, it’s a masterclass in expressive chaos!
Well done to Freya M in Year 9!
Did You Know?
Year 7 Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th and Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Year 7 and 8 Assessment Fortnight - Monday 11th May – Friday 22nd May - Mr Bradley
At the end of Term 5 we will hold formal assessments in most subjects for students in Year 7 and in Year 8.
The aims of the assessment fortnight are:
• To find out what your child knows and what they have remembered
• To identify to teachers where your child needs support
• To inform you of how your child is getting on
• To provide an opportunity for your child to practise revising
• To ensure that your child feels comfortable doing assessments
Information about assessment week will be shared with students in an assembly and through Google Classrooms and will then be discussed in PDT with Form Mentors.Â
Most subjects will have a formal assessment: English, maths, science, geography, history, French or Spanish, technology subjects and computing. Other subjects will use other assessment methods to review progress. Some RE classes will have their assessment in the week of Monday 4th May: their teachers will confirm the dates with the students.
Some assessments will be written tests, some will be practically based assessments.
All assessments will take place in the classroom during lessons with support from learning assistants
Assessments will be spread out over 2 weeks – the timetable linked here shows when the assessments will take place. This is a suggested timetable and may be changed by some teachers to fit in with their teaching. They will let the class know if this is the case.
Students who are absent for an assessment will take the assessment when they return.
The Year 7 assessments will cover knowledge learnt in Year 7 and from terms 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
The Year 8 assessments will cover knowledge learnt in Year 7 and from Year 8 in terms 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Questions in the assessments will develop in difficulty
All students will be able to answer some questions
In some written subjects the final question is likely to be some form of extended writing
Teachers will:
provide students with revision lists or a revision sheet (via Google classroom) in the weeks running up to the assessment fortnight
explain in lessons everything students need to know
Arrange some revision in class or for homework before the assessment
help students to revise and get organised – there is no need to worry!
If, after receiving this information from the teachers, you have any questions please email your child’s class teacher. Your child’s form mentor, Pastoral Leader or Director of Year will be able to help with general enquiries
The next report informing you of your child’s performance will be sent home in late June.
Year 8 Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th & Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Year 7 and 8 Assessment Fortnight - Monday 11th May – Friday 22nd May - Mr Bradley
At the end of Term 5 we will hold formal assessments in most subjects for students in Year 7 and in Year 8.
The aims of the assessment fortnight are:
• To find out what your child knows and what they have remembered
• To identify to teachers where your child needs support
• To inform you of how your child is getting on
• To provide an opportunity for your child to practise revising
• To ensure that your child feels comfortable doing assessments
Information about assessment week will be shared with students in an assembly and through Google Classrooms and will then be discussed in PDT with Form Mentors.Â
Most subjects will have a formal assessment: English, maths, science, geography, history, French or Spanish, technology subjects and computing. Other subjects will use other assessment methods to review progress. Some RE classes will have their assessment in the week of Monday 4th May: their teachers will confirm the dates with the students.
Some assessments will be written tests, some will be practically based assessments.
All assessments will take place in the classroom during lessons with support from learning assistants
Assessments will be spread out over 2 weeks – the timetable linked here shows when the assessments will take place. This is a suggested timetable and may be changed by some teachers to fit in with their teaching. They will let the class know if this is the case.
Students who are absent for an assessment will take the assessment when they return.
The Year 7 assessments will cover knowledge learnt in Year 7 and from terms 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
The Year 8 assessments will cover knowledge learnt in Year 7 and from Year 8 in terms 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Questions in the assessments will develop in difficulty
All students will be able to answer some questions
In some written subjects the final question is likely to be some form of extended writing
Teachers will:Â
provide students with revision lists or a revision sheet (via Google classroom) in the weeks running up to the assessment fortnight
explain in lessons everything students need to know
Arrange some revision in class or for homework before the assessment
help students to revise and get organised – there is no need to worry!
If, after receiving this information from the teachers, you have any questions please email your child’s class teacher. Your child’s form mentor, Pastoral Leader or Director of Year will be able to help with general enquiries
The next report informing you of your child’s performance will be sent home in late June.
Year 8 Take Your Child To Work Day (June 23rd) - Deadline extension
Message from The Sussex Immunisation Service
Clinic information for missed HPV vaccination
Dear Parents and Carers
The Immunisation Service has recently attended Uckfield College for the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination clinic.
If you have already completed a form and your child wasn’t vaccinated in school you will have received a separate email with clinic booking instructions and do not need to complete another form.  Please refer to the ‘How do I book an appointment for my child to be vaccinated’ section in this email.
If you did not return a consent form, but would like your child to receive the HPV vaccination, it’s not too late.  Please see guidance below on how to complete an online consent form to book an appointment.Â
How do I consent/refuse to my child having these vaccinations?
- Visit the following web address: https://www.susseximmunisations.co.uk/Forms/HPV
- Enter and confirm your preferred email address – you will receive a confirmation email following submission of the consent form.
- Enter the school code:Â SX114590
- Complete and submit the consent form, indicating your choice of consent – Please ensure you provide the child’s registered address and GP.
- Book an appointment by following the steps below.
How do I book an appointment for my child to be vaccinated?
- Follow this link: https://www.susseximmunisations.co.uk/clinic booking/booking to book an appointment at one of our Community Catch up Clinics for your child to receive the vaccinations – You will require your booking reference number which can be found within the email you receive from Cinnamon once your consent form has been submitted.
- Arrange for an adult to accompany your child to their clinic appointment.
If you are unable to complete the online form, wish to change your consent or have any trouble booking an appointment, please contact your local Immunisation Team on the appropriate telephone number below:
Speak to a member of the Immunisation Service by calling your local team on 01273 696011: | |||||
Brighton Ext. 3789 | Chichester Ext. 8100 | Crawley Ext. 2043 | Heathfield Ext. 2080 | Uckfield Ext. 4931 | Worthing Ext. 8533 |
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Year 9 Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th & Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Year 10 Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th & Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Year 10 Term 5 attendance message from Mr Webster, Deputy Principal
As we move into the final stages of the academic year, I am writing to you regarding the vital importance of maintaining high levels of attendance for all our Year 10 students. While the finish line for this year is in sight, the momentum we build now is the single most important factor in ensuring a confident and successful transition into Year 11.
We were delighted to see the focus displayed during the recent Year 10 Trial Exams. However, the real progress happens now. Our teaching staff are currently tailoring every lesson to respond directly to the data from these exams. Being in the classroom with a subject specialist is irreplaceable during this phase, as lessons are specifically designed to:
- Address misconceptions: Identifying and correcting the specific “stumbling blocks” discovered during the recent trials.
- Reinforce Key Learning: Solidifying core knowledge now so that students aren’t playing “catch-up” in September.
- Build resilience: Practising exam techniques under expert guidance to ensure students feel calm and capable heading into their final year.
Our recent data reinforces a clear link between attendance and academic progress. Students who maintain attendance above 95% are significantly more likely to see an improvement in their predicted grades, compared to those with attendance below 90%.
A highlight of next term is the Work Experience week in July. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to build professional skills and gain a positive platform for their future careers. We want our students to head into these placements with a strong sense of discipline and purpose, which starts with a consistent daily routine in school.
Beyond the academic benefits, being in College provides a crucial emotional support network. Navigating the increasing pressure of Key Stage 4 is much easier when surrounded by friends and staff who care deeply about student well-being.
We want every student to return in September ready to hit the ground running. Thank you for your continued support in ensuring your child attends school every day during this critical period. Together, we can ensure they finish Year 10 with the confidence and results they deserve.
Many thanks for your ongoing support.
Year 11 Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th and Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Thursday 25th June – Year 11 Prom
Year 11 English Revision Sessions
Ensuring an Optimum Examination Environment for Year 11 - Mr Webster
As we approach the summer GCSE examination series, our primary focus is ensuring that every student at Uckfield College has the best possible environment in which to succeed. We want to ensure that their years of hard work are reflected in their results, free from unnecessary distractions.
Following feedback from students after the recent Trial Exams, many noted that frequent movement in and out of the exam hall was, on occasion, disruptive to their concentration. To address this and to align with the practices of many other high-performing schools, we are implementing a revised policy regarding toilet breaks during examinations.
To protect the integrity of the exam hall and maximise student focus, we are introducing a ‘no-break zone’ during the first 60 minutes and last 15 minutes of any examination. To support this change, we will issue a formal ‘final call’ for the toilets before students enter the hall, ensuring that all candidates are reminded that entering the exam room signifies they are fully prepared for the duration of the session. This does not apply to those students who may need to leave the exam hall due to a diagnosed medical condition.
While we are committed to reducing disruptions, we understand that genuine emergencies occur. Invigilators will always retain the discretion to assist any student who becomes physically unwell or faces an immediate emergency.
Managing the exam rooms carefully and efficiently is essential for maintaining the strict security and integrity required by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). By reducing unnecessary movement, our invigilation team can remain focused on supporting the students and overseeing the regulations effectively.
We kindly ask for your support in discussing this with your child. Encouraging them to manage their hydration and use the facilities immediately before their ‘final call’ will help them settle into their exams more comfortably.
We are incredibly proud of the dedication Year 11 has shown thus far. By working together to create a calm, focused, and professional atmosphere, we give every student the fairest chance to achieve their potential.
May Half Term 2026: Independent and Targeted Masterclass Sessions
Independent Study Sessions
Following the success of our Easter School provision, we are pleased to again offer our Year 11 students a dedicated, quiet space to focus on their revision. We recognise that revising at home can be challenging due to distractions, and not every student has access to a quiet workspace.
Our Independent Study Sessions will be held in the SFSA (Sixth Form Study Area) during the May Half Term (Tuesday- Friday) and be overseen by members of the Leadership Team. These sessions provide a familiar, academic environment to help students maximise their productivity in preparation for their remaining exams.
Sessions will run daily from Tuesday 26th May to Friday 29th May:
- Session 1: 9:30 am – 11:00 am
- Break: 11:00 am – 11:30 am
- Session 2: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Students are welcome to attend as many sessions as they like and may book both slots each day to complete a full morning of study.
To ensure a high-quality study environment for everyone, the following will apply:
- Independent Work: These are supervised quiet study sessions. Students must arrive on time with their own revision materials and the necessary equipment. (Staff across all subjects have already provided students with comprehensive revision guides and resources to use).
- Focus: To ensure full concentration, mobile phones and/or headphones are not permitted during study sessions.
- Dress Code: School uniform is not required; however, students must be dressed appropriately for a school environment.
- Booking: Places must be reserved in advance via our Google Form
We strongly encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to maintain momentum, positivity and focus.
Masterclass Sessions
Alongside the Independent Study Sessions, subject specific Masterclass sessions will be running, delivered by subjects teachers. These sessions will be by invitation and will be tailored to the specific areas of development that those invited need to focus on. The sessions will run at the same time as Independent Study sessions. If your child is invited to a targeted, subject specific Masterclass session, this should take priority over attending Independent Study. Teachers will invite students to these sessions and inform them of any equipment that they will need, in advance.
If you know in advance that your child will be unable to attend any of their targeted sessions, it is important that you let staff know as soon as possible. This will allow us to offer the space to another student who could benefit.
Many thanks for your ongoing support.
Important information from Mr Prichard
As our Year 11 students approach the final stages of their GCSE examinations, I wanted to take a moment to share how incredibly proud I am of every single one of them. Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to their studies have been truly commendable, and I know they are all striving to do their very best. We wish them every success in their exams and look forward to celebrating all they have achieved.Â
Students are expected in school full time up until 5th June and we kindly ask that students continue to wear College uniform correctly for all exams. Maintaining uniform standards supports a focused and respectful exam environment. From the 5th June students will have finished a number of subjects, so will need more flexibility. Students will not need to be in school for the lessons of subjects that they have finished, however they must still attend lessons in subjects they haven’t finished. Â
Year 11 students will be provided with a card that allows them to electronically register in and out of school when they don’t have scheduled lessons to attend. It is absolutely essential that all students register so that we know where they are at all times during the school day. This is so that we can keep all our students safe e.g in the event of a fire. Students will need to wait patiently to use the electronic registration. If a student does not register we may remove the option of study leave from that student. The card will not have a photo or lanyard so please speak to your child about how they can keep it safe so they are able to use this system successfully. Â
Students who wish to study off site from the 5th of June will need parental permission. It is therefore crucial that you complete this Google Form to provide permission for your child to be on flexible study leave. Students without this consent will not be allowed off site. Students who wish to study in school lessons may do so in the sixth form study area but should still use the electronic system to register.
I am also excited to confirm the details of this year’s Prom, which will be a wonderful celebration of their 5 years at school:
Date: Thursday 25th June 2026
Venue: AMEX Stadium, Brighton
Arrival time: from 17:45pm
Collection time: 23:00pm
The evening will include a formal two-course meal, a DJ-led disco, and a photobooth for capturing memories of this special event. If your child is planning to arrive in an unusual vehicle (e.g., limousine, vintage car, tractor, etc.), please let us know in advance so we can inform the AMEX and ensure smooth arrangements for arrivals. The final deadline date for payment is:Â Monday 1st June 2026. All payments are made through parentpay.
In addition to prom, please make note of the following upcoming dates:
- Year 11 Celebration Evening (by invitation only): Thursday 18th June 2026 18:00 – 19:00
- Year 11 Graduation Assembly (students only): Friday 19th June 14:00. Students will arrive from 13:45. School uniform is not required but we do insist that the students are appropriately dressed to be on college site.
Finally, we always mark the end of the Year 11 journey with a Yearbook. This can be purchased directly with our supplier through the following link allyearbooks.co.uk/buy/25213 with a deadline also set for Monday 1st June 2026.
Thank you for your continued support throughout this important year. We look forward to sharing these final moments with your children and celebrating their many accomplishments.
Sixth Form Notices
Key Dates
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Friday 22nd May – Year 13 Leaver Prom
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th & Friday 26th June –Â College Musical, 6pm – 7.30pm
Thorpe Park and Enrichment Week Activities - Monday 6th to Friday 10th July - now open and available on ParentPay
During Enrichment Week, Year 12 will be taking part in a range of activities that will help them get ahead before they start their final year in September. The first day will be focused around preparing for MUNGA, our Model United Nations General Assembly day that takes place on the Tuesday of that week. There will be two days of careers and UCAS preparation where students will be given guidance to write their first draft personal statements or work on their careers research and CVs. There will also be a Year 12 Celebration Evening on Thursday 9th July.
After what we are sure will be a highly productive and hard-working week, we would like to reward students by taking them on a group trip to Thorpe Park on Friday 10th July. We hope this will be a fun day and a celebration of what they have achieved this year.
For further information please see the attached letter
Free Online Subject Taster Sessions - University of Brighton
The University of Brighton is running free online subject taster sessions for students considering university. The sessions are going to be held on MS Teams and are a great way to help students decide which subjects they might want to study at university. All of the sessions are between 5pm and 6pm.Â
Further details can be found at:Â https://www.brighton.ac.
Applying for Student Finance
For those students going to university in 2026, applications for Student Finance (tuition fee loans and maintenance loans) open on Monday 23rd March.Â
A guide to Student Finance can be found here.