Parent/Carer Notices for all Year Groups
24th April 2026
Principal's Message
Dear Parents/Carers
Parent Forum
Thank you once again to our wonderful parent forum who met in College this week to discuss the College’s use of AI and gain some feedback on Arbor.
I am pleased to let you know that Arbor has now solved an initial issue we had that students could not easily see the narrative attached to their achievement and behaviour points. We know that some parents are missing the email notifications of achievement points and we will continue to work with Arbor to see if this option can be developed.
Inspiring students
We are proud of the fantastic engagement shown by our students since Easter, from Year 10, whose response to their trial exams was very encouraging, to our Year 7 students, who have broken an existing year group record, already achieving 72,749 Achievement Points this year! Our Year 11 GCSE PE students represented themselves exceptionally well during their moderation this week. On an individual level, many congratulations to Anouk B and Dory B in Year 7 on being offered places at the prestigious Future Foundations Maths Camp at Christ’s Hospital! Finally, well done to all the students involved in the stellar National Theatre Connexions production this week at Trinity Theatre, and the Year 12s who have put themselves forward for key leadership positions on our Student Leadership team.
It would be impossible to capture all our students’ many and varied achievements in any one week, but the above gives you a flavour of the range and depth of achievement across the College.
Best wishes
Sara Marshallsay
Getting the most out of Arbor - reminder
The Arbor Parent Portal and Parent App are designed to help you stay connected with your child’s school life.
Understanding the difference: Portal vs App
It’s important to know the difference between the two ways you can access Arbor:
- Arbor Parent Portal: This is the website version you access using a web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) on a computer, laptop, or even your phone’s browser.
- Arbor Parent App: This is the mobile application you download to your smartphone or tablet from your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
This article provides an introduction to the Arbor Parent Portal detailing how to log in, navigate the homepage dashboard, and access various features such as attendance statistics, and communication tools. It also explains how to switch between multiple children’s profiles and view detailed information about each child’s academic progress and school activities.
This additional article provides more in depth information about the Arbor Parent Portal and the Parent App including where to download the app.
Accessing Parent Portal or Parent App
An Arbor account has been set up for you.
To finish creating your account, you just need to set a password.
You can do this by going to https://uckfield-college.uk.arbor.education/?/home-ui/index, clicking on ‘First time logging in’ and following the instructions on the screen.
Your username is the email address that the school uses to communicate with you
What can you find out in the App/Portal
By clicking the green ‘View Student Profile’ button on the left of the screen you can access information about :
- Your child’s details and information
- Attendance – including a day by day breakdown. You can also log absence.
- Achievement and Behaviour Points – including teacher comments – by clicking on ‘points breakdown’
- Timetable – including any detentions
- Clubs attended
- Progress Reports (only those issued since January)
- Public Examination Entries (GCSEs, BTECs and A levels)
Notifications
You will receive email notifications about any upcoming after school detentions.
Notes
Assignments and Homeworks are set through Google Classrooms – so we are not using this feature in Arbor.
Trips payments are made through Parent Pay – so we are not using this feature in Arbor.
New resources for gaming and online bullying on the 'Kids online safety' website
The Department for Education (DfE), together with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), have published new resources on the ‘Kids Online sSafety’ website to help parents and carers understand and get support for online bullying and gaming.
These new sections are designed to help families and give them more confidence in talking to their children about what they’re doing and experiencing online.
The updated content includes:
- how to spot the signs of online bullying
- guidance and support if a child is being bullied
- practical tips to help make online gaming safer
- information on age ratings and parental controls for games
There are also links to trusted charities and expert organisations where families can find specialist support, including helplines and further advice.
Please find the updated Kids online safety website here.
Inspirational Global Success in Cheerleading!
We are delighted to announce a truly world-class achievement in cheerleading!
The team ‘Girls of the Galaxy,’ which includes four Uckfield College students, secured an incredible 3rd place globally in the Youth X-Small Level 1 division at their competition in Florida.
After topping their sub-division on Day 1, the team went on to finish 3rd out of 46 teams in the merged Day 2 competition. This outstanding result was achieved through immense hard work, including four days of training before competing twice, and by achieving a “hit zero” on both days (meaning they received no deductions) with an incredible score.
We congratulate Pip H (Year 9), JJ H (Year 8), Grace K (Year 7), and Alyssa W (Year 7) on this remarkable success, and we look forward to welcoming another member of the team to Uckfield College in September.
Golden Tickets - Total Participation and Uniform - Mr Webster
During Term 5, members of SLT will be issuing students in Years 7-11 ‘Golden Tickets’. The tickets will be issued to those students who, during their lessons, display a superb commitment to their learning. Each Golden Ticket will result in 5 Achievement Points being awarded.
Students will then have the option of handing their Golden Ticket in at Reception, or at their Year Team office. A Prize Draw will take place, alongside our weekly Attendance Rewards Wheel, on Friday 22nd May. The Golden Ticket winner will be given the option of choosing from a range of prizes, including:
Adidas World Cup Football
Cinema tickets
Realms VR Crowborough tickets
Pizza Express vouchers
Leisure Centre pass
PE Supercurricular Summer Clubs timetable - Years 7 to 10
Lost Property
We have a large amount of unnamed lost property that has accumulated.
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.
Owners of named lost property will be emailed, so should check their inbox for any messages.
Change to 261 and 54 Bus Service
College Musical - Programme Advertising Space
The Performing Arts team is thrilled to be staging our upcoming full-scale production of Little Shop of Horrors, running from 24th–26th June. This ambitious project features over 70 talented students and is set to reach an audience of more than 450 community members.
To celebrate the occasion, we are producing high-quality, professional programmes (A4, full-colour, glossy) and are inviting local businesses to sponsor the production through advertising.
Advertising Spaces:
Full-page advert: £75
Half-page advert: £50
Space is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing you to select your preferred position within the booklet.
All proceeds will directly support future productions, helping us continue to build a thriving performing arts culture for our students.
Interested? Please contact James Alexander at j.alexander@uckfield.college to secure your spot and for further details.
Summer Reading Challenge Volunteers - Aged 13+
A great opportunity for children to gain customer service skills as they experience working in an interesting, lively environment, interacting with the general public – both children and adults.
We received very positive feedback from students that volunteered previously – including an increase in confidence and a renewed love of books and reading!
The minimum age for the role is 13 years.
Ariel Drama Academies - Free Workshop and two week free trial
Ariel Drama Academies are offering a free 90-minute workshop at Uckfield College on Monday 27th April from 3.15-4.45pm in the Drama Studio, open to all year groups. To sign up please contact Mrs Harriyott or students can look out for the sign-up sheet on Google Classroom.
Ariel Drama Academies have been providing excellent, affordable theatrical training for young people since 2004. A family business that has grown steadily from one small drama class into seven highly respected drama academies throughout Sussex.
They teach across all 3 disciplines (Drama, Singing & Dance) and stage an annual showcase for each academy.
They are also offering a two week free trial for Uckfield College students at their Saturday morning Academy here at Uckfield College from 9.45am – 12.45pm every Saturday.
To sign up for the free two week trial please complete the registration form: Ariel Drama Academies Enquiry Form
Springle Arts Festival
Essential Online Safety
Easy Fundraising for Uckfield College
Photo of the Week
Congratulations to Lucas in Year 11 for his excellent experimental edit that explores movement and colour.
He has created a dynamic and surreal image that really shows off his technical skills as a photographer, as well as his creativity.
Well done Lucas!
Art of the Week
Survival of the grittiest—capturing the man behind the theory, one pencil stroke at a time.
Well done Ayla W in year 9.
Did You Know?
Year 7 Notices
Key Dates
Monday 4th May – Bank Holiday
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Year 8 Notices
Key Dates
Monday 4th May – Bank Holiday
Tuesday 5th May – HPV Vaccinations
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Year 8 HPV Vaccination Programme - Important Information for Parents and Carers
https://www.sussexcommunity.
– To complete a consent form:
Year 9 Notices
Key Dates
Tuesday 28th April – The Big Futures Show
Monday 4th May – Bank Holiday
Tuesday 5th May – HPV Vaccinations
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Important information: Outstanding HPV vaccination
catch up session on Tuesday 5th May 2026 to offer this vaccine to students in years 9, 10 and 11 who have not yet received the HPV vaccination which is routinely offered in year 8.
– You have already completed and returned a consent form; the Immunisation Service will offer
this vaccination at the upcoming catch-up session in school. Where a consent form was
submitted in a previous school year, your local Immunisation Team will contact you prior to
offering this vaccination.
or
– You consented for your child to receive this vaccination at a different school, and it is still
outstanding, please contact your local Immunisation team on 01273 696011 ext. 4931 so that
they can update your child’s consent form.
or
– You have not yet consented and would like to do so please read the information on the parent letter linked here.
For information about the HPV vaccine and frequently asked questions visit:
Year 10 Notices
Key Dates
Monday 4th May – Bank Holiday
Tuesday 5th May – HPV Vaccinations
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Important information: Outstanding HPV vaccination - reminder
catch up session on Tuesday 5th May 2026 to offer this vaccine to students in years 9, 10 and 11 who have not yet received the HPV vaccination which is routinely offered in year 8.
– You have already completed and returned a consent form; the Immunisation Service will offer
this vaccination at the upcoming catch-up session in school. Where a consent form was
submitted in a previous school year, your local Immunisation Team will contact you prior to
offering this vaccination.
or
– You consented for your child to receive this vaccination at a different school, and it is still
outstanding, please contact your local Immunisation team on 01273 696011 ext. 4931 so that
they can update your child’s consent form.
or
– You have not yet consented and would like to do so please read the information on the parent letter linked here.
Year 11 Notices
Key Dates
Monday 4th May – Bank Holiday
Tuesday 5th May – HPV Vaccinations
Friday 22nd May – Last day of term for all students
Monday 1st June – First day of term for all students
Year 11 Attendance - Simon Webster
As we approach the final few weeks before the GCSE examination season begins, I am writing to you regarding the vital importance of maintaining high levels of attendance for all our Year 11 students.
This period is often the most significant in a student’s secondary education. While the temptation to begin ‘independent study’ at home can be strong and some students believe that this is in their best interests, our experience shows time and again that there is no substitute for being in the classroom with a subject specialist.
Our teaching staff are currently tailoring each and every lesson to respond directly to the data from the second set of trial exams. These sessions are specifically designed to:
- Address Misconceptions: Identifying and correcting the specific ‘stumbling blocks’ discovered during the mocks.
- Reinforce Key Learning: Solidifying the core knowledge required to access the higher marks.
- Build Resilience: Practising exam techniques under expert guidance to ensure students feel calm and capable.
We were absolutely delighted to see the significant progress made between the first and second sets of trial exams. It is a testament to the hard work of the students and the dedication of our staff. We now have a wonderful opportunity to progress further. Our mantra this year has been ‘One More Grade’ and we truly believe that the students can indeed improve by at least a grade, in their final summer exams. By maintaining momentum now, we can ensure our students achieve the exceptional results they deserve, opening doors to their chosen futures.
Attendance is clearly linked to progress and outcomes. The predicted Average Point Score (APS) for the year group as a whole rose significantly between the first and second set of Trial Exams, with nearly 70% of students making an improvement. This is fantastic and stands them in good stead for the final few weeks. However, it is noticeable that for students with attendance below 90%, only 48% of students made an improvement.
Beyond the academic benefits, being in school provides a crucial emotional support network. Navigating exam stress is much easier when surrounded by friends and staff who care deeply about their well-being. This sense of community is at the heart of our school, and it continues right through into our Sixth Form.
We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form provision, which consistently delivers outstanding results and prepares students for the country’s top universities and apprenticeships. We look forward to welcoming many of our Year 11’s back next year. Please do keep a close eye on communications regarding our Sixth Form Enrolment.
Thank you for your continued support in ensuring your child attends school every day during this final, critical push. Together, we can ensure they cross the finish line with confidence.
Keeping Calm and carrying on through exams - Action Your Potential
With the exam season almost upon us we wanted to draw your attention to Action Your Potential’s resources. You all have access to their video resources via the #NeuroNinja Learning Hub – if you haven’t signed up yet you can do so here.How to Support Your Child During Exam Season - Free Webinar from INVESTIN, 6pm, 29th April
Yearbook and Prom information - reminder - Mr Prichard
Students can opt to buy a copy of the Year 11 Yearbook which will hold some wonderful memories of their 5 years at Uckfield College. The cost of this is approximately £18 and can be purchased directly through All YearBooks (not through parent pay) using the link that I will share in Term 5 when the yearbook is ready to print. Both the hoodie and yearbook are optional items but are lovely keepsakes and normally very much desired by students.
The Year 11 Prom takes place on Thursday 25th June 2026 at the AMEX stadium and I anticipate that the whole year group will attend. Please note that the event is by invitation only, and students with poor behaviour may not be invited. This will include outstanding detentions and any antisocial behaviour in social times. In such circumstances we reserve the right to cancel a student’s invitation to the prom up to the date of the event. The cost of the Prom this year is now confirmed at £62. This will be available on ParentPay from Monday 16th March and the deadline for this payment is Monday 1st June 2026. In cases of financial difficulty please contact the finance office to see what support we may be able to offer (finance.info@uckfield.college). This is a one off payment of £62, however if it is not possible for you to pay this in one go then payment options can be discussed by contacting the finance team as above.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Year Team.
Important information: Outstanding HPV vaccination - reminder
catch up session on Tuesday 5th May 2026 to offer this vaccine to students in years 9, 10 and 11 who have not yet received the HPV vaccination which is routinely offered in year 8.
– You have already completed and returned a consent form; the Immunisation Service will offer
this vaccination at the upcoming catch-up session in school. Where a consent form was
submitted in a previous school year, your local Immunisation Team will contact you prior to
offering this vaccination.
or
– You consented for your child to receive this vaccination at a different school, and it is still
outstanding, please contact your local Immunisation team on 01273 696011 ext. 4931 so that
they can update your child’s consent form.
or
– You have not yet consented and would like to do so please read the information on the parent letter linked here.
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
Year 13 Class of 2026 Leavers’ Prom - Friday 22nd May - Gemma Fassam
I write with details of this year’s (The Class of 2026) Leavers’ Prom which will take place on Friday 22nd May at the East Sussex National Hotel, Uckfield. The arrangements are set out below:
19.00 Reception drink at venue and photo opportunities
19.30 3 course meal (see googleform for options)
21.00 Award Ceremonies: Subject Oscars and Class of 2026 Prom Awards
21.15 Dancing the night away
23.00 Depart
The cost of the evening is £58.00 which includes venue hire, DJ, photo booth, table decoration, arrival drink and a 3 course meal.
As this is very much a special occasion we request formal wear for the evening. I believe we shall have a splendid time and very much hope all Year 13 students will attend.
I will speak in assembly against the consumption of alcohol before leaving for the venue: we really do not want anything to mar the enjoyment of such a memorable event, and on the evening of the prom students of 18 years of age will be allocated with a wrist band which will allow them to purchase drinks from the bar. If students are under the influence of alcohol before the start of the evening, they will not be permitted to attend the prom, with no refund being given. College staff will be in attendance all evening, but parents will remain responsible for students and may be called to collect their child if necessary.
Confirmation of attendance and payment for this event should be made through ParentPay by Monday 27th April. By submitting payment you are confirming your consent for your child to attend this event which should be visible on ParentPay when you click on the “items for payment” button. If you require a copy of your log-in details, please contact the finance office.
Once payment has been made students will be able to make their choice of starter, main course and dessert and indicate any dietary requirements via the Google Form that will be shared with them on the Year 13 Google classroom and is hyperlinked in the schedule for the evening above.
Here’s to a lovely evening!
How to Support Your Child During Exam Season - Free Webinar from INVESTIN, 6pm, 29th April
Meet the Russell Group Webinar Series: April 28th - 30th
This is a great opportunity for students (and their parents) considering applying for Russell Group universities such as Cambridge, Leeds, Manchester, Durham and Kings. The series of webinars will cover topics such as Personal Statements & Applying, Researching University Options and Considering Health/Clinical Professions.
Students, teachers and parents can sign up for each webinar via the registration link: https://www.
They can also sign up to be sent recordings as some of these are during the school day.
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.
Further details can be found at: 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.
A guide to Student Finance can be found here.