Withernsea High School

Visit our brand-new online Art & Photography Gallery to explore a selection of our students' creative work.

The gallery will be updated throughout the coming academic year and beyond, showcasing artwork and photography from students across all year groups.

You can find it under the Students menu.

Direct link: https://www.withernseahigh.org.uk/students/art-gallery

Almost 100 students were recognised for excellent attendance at the end of the academic year as the school's Door to Draw reward scheme concluded with its annual prize draw.

Launched in October 2024, the initiative rewards students with a raffle ticket for every week they achieve 100% attendance. Each ticket provides an entry into the end-of-year draw, with students increasing their chances of winning by maintaining full attendance throughout the year.

The scheme forms part of the school's wider attendance strategy, alongside rewards for tutor groups and individual students, to encourage both short-term and long-term attendance goals.

Prizes included rugby balls, dart boards, toys and games, a family ticket to The Deep, cycle services, dining hall fast passes, Amazon vouchers, Game King vouchers, Amazon Alexa Echo Dots, Smyths Toys vouchers and a £100 One4all shopping voucher. Other prizes included a free fish and chip lunch with the headteacher, free school pudding passes for a term and vouchers for local eateries including Bengal Lancer, Dope Burger and Willows Holiday Park.

Businesses supporting the scheme through prize donations included Southgates Chartered Certified Accountants, Howdens Withernsea and Game King.

Lucy Hopper, Family Support Advisor, said: “We are incredibly grateful to our local businesses and community partners for their generous support of our Door to Draw attendance rewards programme. Their donations, alongside funding from the school's governing body, have enabled us to offer a fantastic range of prizes that recognise and celebrate students who demonstrate excellent commitment to attending school.

“Our attendance data shows a clear improvement since the scheme was introduced, with students responding positively to the incentives while also developing a greater understanding of the importance of attending school every day. These rewards are about far more than prizes - they help reinforce positive habits, encourage consistency and recognise the effort students make throughout the year.

“The continued support of local businesses makes a genuine difference. Every donated prize helps us motivate and reward more students, and we hope even more organisations will join us in supporting this important initiative in the future.”

Sixty Year 10 students visited Yorkshire Wildlife Park as part of an educational trip to support their studies in Art, Photography and Geography.

The visit gave Geography students the opportunity to learn about conservation, habitats and endangered species, while Art and Photography students took photographs and completed sketches to support their Non-Examined Assessment (NEA). The photographs and sketches collected during the visit will form the basis of students' Year 11 coursework, providing first-hand reference material for their final pieces.

Students explored the park in smaller groups, giving them the opportunity to prioritise the animals and exhibits they most wanted to see. Among the highlights were close encounters with giraffes and polar bears.

Amy Norris, Head of Design Technology, who organised the trip, said: “It was an absolutely boiling hot day, but we had lots of fun. We split into groups and let the students guide where they wanted to go because we knew we wouldn't have time to see everything. It worked really well. We were really lucky because when we were near the giraffes they came within a couple of metres of us while they were feeding, so we managed to get some really good selfies. We also saw the polar bears swimming in and out of the pools.”

Art and Photography students spent the day gathering reference photographs that will now be used as the basis for their Year 11 coursework. This year's extended project, which accounts for 60 per cent of the GCSE grade, focuses on natural forms, with students moving from floral studies to animals. During the project, students will create research pages before developing final pieces inspired by the images they captured at the park.

Amy added: “The photographs they've taken will be used for reference in their artwork. They'll create research pages based on what they saw at the wildlife park and then produce artworks inspired by those photographs. Some of them were already talking about ideas on the way home. Elizabeth got some amazing photographs of the leopard right up against the glass while it was yawning and she's already said she wants to make the leopard the main focus with floral backgrounds.”

Geography students also visited a range of habitats and biomes that feature in the GCSE curriculum, enabling them to see classroom learning in a real-world setting.

Sarah Harris, Head of Humanities, said: “We visited various biomes that we study as part of the national curriculum and the GCSE specification. We visited Amazonia and looked at rainforest species and the environments there. We looked at Arctic regions and we looked at hot deserts. It was really great for students to see the adaptations that we study in a real-life context.”

Year 10 students rounded off the school year by taking part in a range of specialist Design Technology (DT) workshops, giving them the opportunity to develop new skills, complete extended projects and showcase their creativity.

Activities taking place included the fourth annual Great Withernsea Bake Off, an engineering workshop where students designed and built coffee tables, and three art workshops focusing on mixed media, lino printing and 3D Mod Roc sculpture.

The workshops were designed to give students opportunities that are not possible within the time constraints of a normal lesson, while also supporting GCSE coursework for those studying Art and Photography.

Explaining the purpose behind the day, Head of Design Technology Amy Norris said: “The art workshops were designed to help boost students' Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) grades by allowing them to complete extended pieces of work that simply could not be achieved in a normal lesson. The sessions gave students the opportunity to experiment with different media, develop their ideas and produce finished pieces that will strengthen their portfolios for next year.”

Students working with 3D Mod Roc created sculptures of flowers and animals, with many choosing to take inspiration from the ocean, while the mixed media workshop encouraged experimentation by combining photographs with a variety of artistic techniques.
Meanwhile, students in the engineering workshop experienced the complete design-and-make process by producing their own coffee tables from start to finish before taking them home at the end of the day. 

Amy added: “The workshop gave students the chance to work more independently and experience the full design cycle in a single day. Being able to walk away with a finished product, rather than waiting several weeks to complete it through timetabled lessons, made the experience especially rewarding.

“The quality of the finished coffee tables really impressed everyone, and I was also delighted by the enthusiasm shown in the art workshops. Even students who were a little reluctant to spend the whole day in art ended up absolutely loving it by the end.”

A highlight of the day was the now annual Great Withernsea Bake Off, which saw eleven Year 10 students, alongside two members of staff, compete in both a technical challenge and a showstopper round.

The technical challenge tasked competitors with producing iced party ring biscuits, with Elizabeth R taking first place. Faye J finished second, while Lewis G claimed third.

For the showstopper challenge, participants created cakes inspired by books, with themes including Harry Potter, The Gruffalo, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Alice in Wonderland and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Faye J was awarded the coveted Star Baker title after winning the showstopper challenge with her The Tale of Peter Rabbit themed cake and finishing a close second in the technical round.
Special recognition was also given to Lewis G for his The Gruffalo-inspired cake, while Daisy P was acknowledged for being helpful and supportive to all participants throughout the day.

Headteacher Mark Crofts and Head of Year Mel Marshall judged the competition, with the standard and variety of entries making their decision a difficult one.

The judges' decisions also prompted some good-natured reactions from participants, with Noah joking: “I believe the Bake Off was rigged against me, Riley and Lewis!” Riley added: “Mr Crofts eating Macca's cake took a lot of bravery - fair play to him!”

Reflecting on the success of the day, Amy Norris said: “The Bake Off continues to be one of the most popular events of the year and we had a huge audience for the final presentations, with students from the other workshops eager to come and watch. 

“The students were impeccably behaved throughout the day and fully embraced every challenge, demonstrating excellent teamwork and consideration for one another. It was lovely to see everyone supporting each other, and we had a steady stream of well-wishers popping in to offer encouragement while also trying to sneak off with a few biscuits!

“Congratulations to Faye and everyone who took part in another hugely successful Bake Off, and a special thank you to Miss Bircumshaw and Mrs Appleby for all of their hard work organising the event and preparing everything for the day.”

Year 10 students were recognised for their academic achievement, dedication and exemplary conduct during a Celebration Assembly, held this week in the school hall.

The whole year group attended the event alongside subject representatives and senior leaders to celebrate the outstanding effort, commitment and positive contribution demonstrated by students throughout the year.

Each subject department nominated students whose achievement, perseverance and attitude towards learning had stood out over the course of the academic year, with an overall Subject Award winner selected in every curriculum area.

Alongside these academic honours, School Values Awards were presented to students who consistently exemplify the school's core values of being Ambitious, Respectful, Responsible and Kind, recognising the positive impact they have through their character, actions and contribution to the wider school community.

The celebration reflected the school's commitment to recognising not only academic success, but also the qualities and behaviours that underpin future achievement. As Year 10 students move beyond the halfway point of their GCSE studies, the assembly provided an opportunity to acknowledge the qualities that will support them through the year ahead.

Andrea Monaghan, Head of Personal Development, said: “The assembly was a positive and uplifting way to conclude the school year for Year 10. Reaching this stage of their GCSE journey is a significant milestone, and it was important to recognise the commitment, conduct and learning habits that will help our students succeed.

“What made the event especially memorable was the genuine support students showed for one another. Seeing the hall filled with applause and encouragement, and watching students beam with pride as their achievements were recognised, created a wonderful atmosphere and demonstrated the strength of our school community.”

Mark Crofts, Headteacher, added: “This assembly gave us the opportunity to reflect not only on individual success, but also on everything this year group has achieved collectively. There is a great deal to be proud of.

“When our students entered Year 10 last September, they were taking an important step into their GCSE journey. Over the past year they have grown in confidence, maturity and determination, and have put themselves in a strong position for the challenges and opportunities that Year 11 will bring.

“While this celebration marks the successful completion of Year 10, it also gives us every reason to look ahead with confidence. I see a year group with enormous potential, and I believe they can become one of the most ambitious Year 11 cohorts we have seen for some time. Throughout the year they have demonstrated our school values of ambition, respect, responsibility and kindness, not only in their learning but in the way they support one another and act as positive role models for younger students.”

Reflecting on the response of the students during the celebration assembly, Mr Crofts said: “One of the most rewarding moments of the assembly was seeing students' reactions as they were recognised. Many were genuinely surprised to be acknowledged, but what stood out most was the warmth and enthusiasm with which they celebrated each other's success. By the end of the assembly there was a real sense of shared pride in everything this year group has achieved together.

“While our award winners have truly exemplified our school values and demonstrated exceptional commitment, I was equally struck by the sheer number of students who received nominations. That reflects the strength of the year group as a whole. My message to every student was that everyone has something to be proud of. By recognising the qualities celebrated in others, they should also recognise those same strengths in themselves and carry that confidence forward into Year 11."

The winners of this year's Door to Draw attendance reward incentive will be announced tomorrow, Friday 17th July. 

The live draw will take place at 9.00am and will be broadcast to every tutor group during tutor time, giving students across the school the opportunity to watch the winners being revealed.

Door to Draw rewards students for maintaining outstanding attendance throughout the academic year. Every week that a student achieves 100 per cent attendance, they receive a raffle ticket, earning one entry into the end-of-year draw.

A wide range of prizes will be awarded, including a £100 shopping voucher, a £50 shopping voucher, three £25 Amazon vouchers, a signed Hull FC rugby ball, two Amazon Alexas, and a selection of sporting equipment, including dart boards and rugby balls.

Students are reminded that they must be in school tomorrow to qualify for the final draw.

Good luck to all students who earned entries into this year's Door to Draw prize draw!

Withernsea High School's Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA) has officially become a registered charity, marking a significant milestone less than a year after the organisation was launched to strengthen links between the school and its community.

The association has been entered onto the Charity Commission register (Charity Number: 1218725), enabling it to apply for grants and funding while expanding its fundraising opportunities to further enhance the experiences of students across the school.

The achievement follows months of work behind the scenes to establish the PTFA, appoint trustees, develop its governing document, open a dedicated charity bank account and successfully complete the Charity Commission registration process.

Since its launch in October, the PTFA has quickly become an active part of school life, supporting a range of events while raising valuable funds for the school community. Volunteers have sold refreshments at parents' evenings, school production performances and Year 6 transition events, organised a tuck shop for students on Sports Day and launched a staff summer raffle featuring prizes including a luxury hamper.

Kim Wallis, PTFA Vice Chair, said: “Becoming a registered charity is a huge achievement for our PTFA and gives us an exciting platform to build on everything we've achieved during our first year. It means we can apply for grants and funding that simply weren't available to us before, allowing us to support even more projects that will benefit our students.

“We'd like to thank everyone who has supported us so far, from our parents and carers to staff and members of the wider community. Their enthusiasm has helped us get off to a fantastic start, and we're looking forward to returning in the new school year with even bigger ideas, exciting events and more opportunities for people to get involved.”

The PTFA was established to bring together parents, carers, staff, friends of the school, and the wider community to support Withernsea High School through fundraising, volunteering, and collaboration. It recognises the vital role that parents and carers play in enriching students' educational experiences, strengthening partnerships between home and school, and fostering a supportive community that benefits all students.

Sarah Crook, School Business Manager, said: “Achieving charity status is a fantastic accomplishment and a reflection of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in establishing the association. It will provide access to new funding opportunities and help the PTFA continue making a meaningful difference to the experiences of our young people. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported the PTFA during its first year and look forward to seeing it continue to grow.”

Plans are already underway for a programme of fundraising events and initiatives in the new academic year as the newly registered charity looks to build on its early success and continue making a lasting difference for students at Withernsea High School. 

The school continues to welcome anyone interested in contributing ideas, time or support to join the PTFA. Please send expressions of interest to Mrs K Wallis at wallisk@wscampus.net 

The next PTFA meeting will take place at the school on Tuesday, 15th September at 4:30pm. 

Students delivered an outstanding series of performances at the East Riding Athletics Finals, held at Costello Stadium yesterday, competing against peers from secondary schools across the East Riding.

Representing the school across a range of track and field events, every competitor demonstrated exceptional commitment, determination and sportsmanship, reflecting the school's values throughout the competition.

A particularly impressive achievement came from the following students, who secured top-five finishes in their respective events:

• Ellis Z (Year 7) - 1st in the Javelin
• Daisy P (Year 10) - 1st in the 200m
• Ben H (Year 10) - 2nd in the Discus
• Chloe G (Year 7) - 2nd in the Discus
• Faye L (Year 7) - 2nd in the Shot Put
• Blake J (Year 9) - 3rd in the Discus
• Alfie F (Year 10) - 3rd in the 1500m
• Faye D (Year 10) - 4th in the Shot Put
• Jack D (Year 8) - 5th in the 800m
• Archie (Year 10) - 5th in the Long Jump
• Jack D (Year 9) - 5th in the 1500m
• Tom S (Year 7) - 5th in the Shot Put

Achieving a top-five placing at the East Riding Athletics Finals is a significant accomplishment, recognising these students among the region's leading secondary school athletes.

Nick Richmond, Teacher of PE, SSCO and Enrichment Coordinator, praised the students’ efforts, saying: "I am incredibly proud of every student who represented the school. Their attitude, behaviour, determination and commitment to performing at their very best were outstanding. They supported one another throughout the day and represented the school with real pride and professionalism. To see so many students achieve top-five finishes against such strong competition is a fantastic accomplishment, and they should all be immensely proud of what they have achieved."

Year 10 students have completed a series of college taster visits alongside a dedicated post-16 application support session delivered by Log On Move On.

Over the past fortnight, students have visited Bishop Burton College, Wyke College and Wilberforce College, where they experienced college life, explored potential subject choices and learned more about post-16 opportunities.

As part of the visits, students took part in a wide variety of taster lessons, experiencing both traditional academic subjects and hands-on vocational courses, including construction and public services. One session saw students working with Humberside Police, providing a valuable insight into careers in policing and the wider public services sector.

During an engineering taster session at Wilberforce College, students Olivia F and Lewis G were recognised as Engineering Students of the Day in recognition of their enthusiasm, engagement and effort throughout the session.

The visits were complemented by an application preparation session delivered in school by Log On Move On, an independent and impartial careers platform. The workshop introduced students to the application process ahead of applications opening in October.
The events form part of the school's careers programme, which includes one-to-one guidance interviews for every Year 10 student.

Viki Foster, Careers Leader, said: “Preparing for post-16 early gives students the time to research their options and make informed decisions about their future. Every Year 10 student has been offered a one-to-one careers guidance interview, with any missed appointments and follow-up support continuing into Year 11.

“Over the past two weeks, students have visited local colleges, as well as taking part in an application preparation session with Log On Move On. College taster events give students the opportunity to experience lessons and explore courses they may wish to study after their GCSEs.

“We also moved work experience earlier in the year so students have more time to reflect on what they learned, research future opportunities and take advantage of the taster events, which had previously clashed with placements. Most post-16 applications open in October and we encourage students to submit them by Christmas.”

The recent activities build on careers education already delivered this academic year, including visits to Willerby Ltd and Siemens Mobility for National Manufacturing Day, a Channel 4 Creative Industries workshop, the school's Careers Evening and Futures Fair, work experience placements and evaluation sessions, and ongoing one-to-one careers interviews.

During the summer holidays, students are encouraged to complete their personal statements, update their Log On Move On profiles and use the platform's CV Builder in preparation for applications.

Support will continue into Year 11 with follow-up careers interviews, the East Riding Apprenticeship Expo, college open evenings, interview skills workshops, mock interviews and support throughout the post-16 application process.

A visit from Withernsea High School's Reading Leaders and Reading Ambassadors brought stories to life for nursery children during a recent session at the town's Children's Centre.

The visit not only gave the nursery children the chance to enjoy books with older students, but also supported the school's wider commitment to promoting literacy within the local community.

School librarian Julie Thompson, who accompanied the group, said: “Our Reading Leaders and Ambassadors did a fantastic job sharing stories with the children and they all really enjoyed them. The nursery children were so engaged and loved having the older students read to them. It was a lovely opportunity for both groups to share their enjoyment of books together.”

Laura Aldridge, Lead for Whole-school Reading and Literacy, said: “Getting children interested in books and enjoying stories from an early age is crucial to developing young people who go on to become independent readers. With the nursery being on site, it was a lovely opportunity to bring the two groups together and have our students share their love of books.

“We know poor literacy can be a lifelong hindrance and, as a school, I think it is our duty and responsibility to be a catalyst for change. That will only go so far if we keep it within our four walls. By getting out into the community and raising the profile of books beyond our walls, we can help make reading something the whole community can be part of."

The school’s Reading Ambassadors initiative was launched as part of this year's National Year of Reading. Students nominated their peers to champion books and literacy alongside existing ambassadors for sport, mental health and active travel as part of the student-led Board for Change. More than 70 students put themselves forward before two ambassadors were elected to represent Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.

A Reading Leaders group was also created to support the ambassadors and give more students the opportunity to help promote books and literacy across the school.

Julie Thompson added: “A number of students were really disappointed not to be selected as ambassadors, so we created the Reading Leaders group to support the ambassadors and give more students the chance to get involved. They are really excited to be part of it.”

Withernsea High School's Sport and Performance Faculty celebrated the success of its fourth annual Performing Arts Summer Showcase on Wednesday evening.

Having been staged at Hull University's Middleton Hall for the previous three years, this year's showcase was held in the school's Main Hall for the first time, giving students the opportunity to perform in their own community before an audience of family, friends and school staff.

The showcase featured a varied programme of music, dance and drama performances.

Jamie Hughes, Head of Sport and Performance, said: “Mr Fryer has led another fantastic summer showcase this year. As a performing arts team, we are so privileged to see the immense talent at Withernsea High School, so we love every opportunity to showcase our young people - they did a fantastic job. Thank you also to everyone who came and supported, cheering and clapping along.”

Music Teacher and event organiser Lewis Fryer said: “A huge congratulations to everyone involved in the WHS Summer Showcase. The event was a great success, with outstanding performances from start to finish. It was so impressive to see how students conducted themselves both on and off stage, ensuring the professional running of the show. I am immensely proud of everybody involved, and it is a pleasure to organise such an evening of entertainment.”

Award-winning author, educator and broadcaster Jeffrey Boakye returned to the school on Tuesday, 7th July, giving students an engaging and thought-provoking presentation inspired by the themes of his book Musical Truth, which forms part of the Year 9 tutor-time reading programme.

Jeffrey, who previously visited the school in October 2024 and has also delivered an online session for students, explored how music can provide a powerful lens through which to understand history, identity and social change. Drawing on examples from across different musical genres and eras, he encouraged students to consider the ideas behind songs, examining themes including racism, sexism, misogyny, homophobia, bullying and equality.

A former English teacher, Jeffrey Boakye is an award-winning writer and broadcaster whose work focuses on race, education, culture and identity. In Musical Truth, he charts the story of modern Britain through music, showing how songs and artists can help us better understand the society in which they were created and the issues that continue to shape our lives.

During his presentation, Jeffrey connected the themes of the book with contemporary issues, including discussion around the 2026 FIFA World Cup and representation in professional football. By relating current events to the wider themes explored in Musical Truth, he encouraged students to think critically about the world around them and the role they can play within it.

Reflecting on his return visit to the school, Jeffrey said: "It was an absolute pleasure to spend time with Year 9 students and the Year 8 Reading Ambassadors. Whenever you visit schools as an author, you never quite know what to expect from the audience. It was great to see everyone so engaged and enthusiastic, taking part and even rapping along!

"It’s a real honour to know that students are reading my books. Thank you so much. And I know that the key messages of joy, equality, curiosity and social justice really shone through. Thanks again to everyone who was there. Keep reading, keep creating, and hope to visit again in the future."

Laura Aldridge, Lead for Whole School Reading and Literacy, said: “Jeffrey has an extraordinary ability to make every subject feel relevant. He weaves together humour, literature, popular culture and big social issues so naturally that students stop seeing them as separate topics - they realise they’re all connected.

“Musical Truth uses music as the thread that connects everything. Jeffrey uses that theme to help students see that something they already enjoy can also deepen their understanding of society and encourage them to think more critically about the world around them.”

School Librarian Julie Thompson, who organised the visit, added: “Jeffrey's presentation was an outstanding success. The students were fully engaged throughout, listening intently to his powerful messages about bullying, racism, slavery, homophobia, standing up for what you believe in and, most importantly, the importance of creating something of your own. These important themes were delivered in an energetic, refreshing and highly engaging way, which really resonated with the students.”

Second in Humanities Clare Atkin, who was among the staff accompanying students during the presentation, said Jeffrey had clearly tailored his talk to the audience.
“He referred to football, the World Cup and even Withernsea, so it never felt like a generic presentation. He communicated important messages about bullying, racism, homophobia and standing up for what you believe in without ever sounding patronising or preachy.”

Teacher of History Anne-Marie Spencer added: “Jeffrey's presentation was informative, engaging and thought-provoking. He used music as the theme to connect a range of important ideas, making them easy for students to follow while encouraging them to think more deeply about the issues he was discussing."

On Monday 6th July, Withernsea High School held its annual Sports Day, with students from Years 7 to 10 taking part in a programme of sporting activities across the school site.

This year’s event followed England’s World Cup match against Mexico in the early hours, with the tournament providing inspiration for the day’s theme. Tutor groups represented different countries, with students wearing colours, bringing flags and creating decorations to represent their teams.

The event focused on participation, teamwork and competition, with students taking part in a range of activities designed to encourage collaboration, resilience and communication. Events included athletics challenges, football, Capture the Flag, Retro Races and the traditional whole-school Tug of War competition.

Students began the day in tutor groups before moving through a series of events organised by year group. Years 7 and 8 took part in the Super Six athletics challenge, while Years 9 and 10 competed in football and Retro Races alongside Capture the Flag activities. The event concluded with the Tutor Challenge and closing ceremony, where the results were announced.

Jamie Hughes, Head of Sport and Performance, said: “Sports Day was a fantastic opportunity for students to come together, represent their tutor groups and take part in a wide range of activities. It was brilliant to see so many students embracing the event, trying new challenges, supporting each other and celebrating the achievements of their peers.

“The atmosphere throughout the event was a real reflection of the teamwork, enthusiasm and determination shown by students across all year groups. The World Cup theme added an extra element of excitement, with tutor groups proudly representing their chosen countries and bringing plenty of energy to the competition.

“The closing ceremony was a great way to finish the event, recognising the efforts and achievements of students and celebrating everything that made Sports Day a memorable occasion.”

Headteacher Mark Crofts added: “It was probably the best Sports Day I have seen at this school. The level of engagement from students, and the way tutor groups worked together, was fantastic. The morning was focused and well organised, with students taking part in a range of activities with really high levels of participation, enjoyment and enthusiasm.

“As the event moved into the afternoon, the competitive element increased, building towards the traditional whole-school Tug of War, which was a brilliant way to bring everyone together and finish the competitions.

“Across the whole event, the organisation was impeccable and the students were incredibly responsible and respectful. What stood out most was the sense of belonging – seeing students supporting each other, celebrating achievements and being part of something together.

“The World Cup theme and England’s victory in the early hours of the morning added to the occasion, and it was great to see students embracing that with such positivity. It was a day filled with enjoyment, teamwork and a real demonstration of our school values in action.”

RESULTS

Year 7

First: 7NRI

Second: 7EF

Third: 7ACU

Year 8

Joint First: 8AE and 8MEL

Third: 8AKI

Year 9

First: 9HAN

Second: 9KHO

Third: 9CZU

Year 10

First: 10EJ

Second: 10CAT

Third: 9CWO

Staff members from Withernsea High School have walked the Ullswater Way to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

On Saturday, 4th July, a team of ten walked the 20-mile circular route around Ullswater in the Lake District alongside a colleague who continues to benefit from the care and support of Macmillan Cancer Support.

The Ullswater Way is the latest in a series of annual fundraising events organised by the school. In 2024, staff and students took part in sponsored 10K events, raising £2,856 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Last year, staff completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, raising a further £1,390 for the charity.

This year's group included a mix of returning participants and first-time walkers, with several staff members having now completed all three fundraising challenges.

Teacher of Sport Emma Jesney said: “It was really special to be part of such a supportive group of colleagues who have become great friends. When the walk got tough, you just reminded yourself why you were doing it, and that made every step worthwhile. 

“Three or four of us have now taken part in all three challenges, the Hull 10K, the Yorkshire Three Peaks and the Ullswater Way, alongside some first-time participants who wanted to challenge themselves. They all said they can't wait until next year and the next challenge.”

So far, this year's Ullswater Way fundraiser has raised £807, taking the total amount raised by Withernsea High School staff and students for Macmillan Cancer Support over the past three years to £5,053.

The charity provides emotional, practical, physical and financial support to people living with cancer and their families. The charity is almost entirely funded by voluntary donations, with 98% of its income coming from fundraising and public support. 

In its latest annual reporting, Macmillan estimated it reached 2.4 million people affected by cancer, including approximately 700,000 people through its nurses, support workers and palliative care teams, while a further 484,000 people accessed support through its helpline, online community and information services.

Anyone wishing to support this year's fundraising efforts can make a donation by visiting: https://www.justgiving.com/page/emma-jesney-2

A group of Year 10 students recently represented the school at a regional dance showcase, performing as part of a national programme celebrating young talent.

The students took part in Schools' Gotta Dance 2026, a three-night showcase held at the University of Hull's Middleton Hall. Performing on Wednesday, 1st July, they joined pupils from The Marvell College, St Mary's College, several primary schools and local dance academies in celebrating dance talent from across the region.

Jamie Hughes, Head of Sport and Performance, said: “This was the first time this group of students had taken part in Hull Schools' Gotta Dance, and it was fantastic to see them sharing the stage with such a wide range of young performers. 

“The whole Year 10 dance class was invited to perform and, although two students were unfortunately unable to take part on the day, the nine who performed represented the school brilliantly. They were extremely well organised, rehearsed thoroughly and delivered a confident performance.

“They performed the same piece they showcased during our school dance show in January, which was inspired by the theme of Hull Fair. It was great to hear the audience clapping and cheering along to the music, creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout their performance.”

The routine, based on the sights, sounds and energy of Hull Fair, was first performed during the school's annual dance showcase in January.

Schools’ Gotta Dance is a non-competitive performance programme that runs throughout the academic year, giving dancers of all ages and abilities the opportunity to perform in professional theatre venues across the UK. Organised by Staffordshire-based SSPA Events, the programme, together with its sister event Gotta Sing, aims to encourage young people to develop their confidence and performance skills through live performance.

The latest series of events concluded in Hull last week. The tour will resume in Redditch in November before returning to Hull in June 2027, with events scheduled nationwide through to 2028.