‘Nos sumus simpliciter optimum’
Welcome from Miss Eggison– Head of Year 11
A very warm welcome to year 11. My name is Miss Eggison, and I have the privilege of leading Year 11 through this pivotal stage of their journey at Cardinal Newman Catholic School. Year 11 is a year of focus, ambition, and opportunity, where students consolidate their learning, grow in independence, and prepare for the exciting next chapter of their lives.
At the heart of our year group is a dedicated and exceptional team of tutors. They provide the first layer of pastoral care each morning and play a vital role in supporting students both academically and personally. Our tutor team ensures that every child feels seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. Their guidance, alongside the wider pastoral support available at Cardinal Newman, helps students navigate the challenges of Year 11 with confidence.
The Year 11 Tutor Team
|
11KRK |
Mr K Rojek |
|
11JGD |
Mrs J Good |
|
11LMR |
Mr L Miller |
|
11JCG |
Mrs C Ward |
|
11MSR |
Miss M Satter |
|
11NOE |
Mr N Osborne |
|
11SPR |
Mr S Panesar |
|
11JPR |
Mr J Panesar |
|
11OCO |
Mrs O Cordero Nieto |
Beyond the classroom, Year 11 students continue to engage with a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and music to faith-based groups and student leadership roles. Leadership opportunities are available through our prefect system, student council, and as role models to younger students in the school. These experiences not only develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication, and resilience, but also give Year 11 students the chance to shape and contribute to the wider school community.
Last year, as Year 10 students, this cohort experienced the challenge of completing their first ever GCSE in English Language. They approached this milestone with maturity and determination, and their hard work was reflected in some truly exceptional results. This achievement has not only given them a real sense of what to expect in their final examinations but also provided a strong foundation of confidence as they move into Year 11. Their success has set a clear standard and expectation for the year ahead, showing that with focus and resilience, even greater achievements are within their reach.
The pastoral programme at Cardinal Newman Catholic School enables all students to develop Personally, Socially, Emotionally and Spiritually. During our tutor time each morning, all students will access their PSHE curriculum, participate in discussion-based activities through our ‘Talking Points’, engage in continual reflection regarding their attendance and behaviour and have access to high quality careers information, advice and guidance.
At Cardinal Newman Catholic School, we are passionate about developing the whole child and ensuring that they are aware of the wider world around them. Our pastoral programme is designed in a manner that deepens our students’ understanding of how to keep themselves safe not only emotionally and physically but also virtually. Our students complete work in their pastoral books, which allows them to keep a record of all the important topics they cover and also refer back to it when they complete their PSHE assessments.
In Year 11, tutor time is also used to provide targeted intervention, including revision support, exam preparation workshops, and mentoring sessions. Alongside this, Period 6 attendance is a vital part of our intervention strategy, ensuring students receive additional subject-specific guidance and support in preparation for their GCSEs. These interventions ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed in their final exams.
Year 11 is defined by its determination, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Our motto, “Ex Nihilo Nihil Fit” – “Nothing comes from nothing” – underpins everything we do. It serves as a daily reminder that effort, perseverance, and hard work are the foundations of success. What makes our year group unique is the way students uphold this principle, supporting each other while striving for their own personal bests.
The year ahead is one of great importance. Students will be completing their GCSEs and making key decisions about their next steps, whether that be Sixth Form, college, or apprenticeships. Alongside academic preparation, this year will also be about developing confidence, independence, and a readiness for life beyond Cardinal Newman.
As Head of Year 11, my ambition for all students within my year group is that they leave Cardinal Newman with a sense of pride in who they are and what they have achieved. I want every student to know that through resilience, hard work, and the support of those around them, they are capable of success in whichever path they choose to follow.