SHS News 26/01/2026

Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been an incredible week for our students, filled with inspiration, hands-on learning, and a glimpse into the exciting futures that await them. As a school, we are committed to ensuring that the lessons learned in our classrooms translate directly into the high-reaching aspirations our students hold for their careers. This week, our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) initiatives took centre stage through two fantastic external events.

Future Medics: West Manchester Medical Careers Day.

Twelve of our Year 10 aspiring doctors visited St John Rigby Sixth Form College for an immersive look into the world of healthcare. This wasn’t just a series of talks; it was a rigorous “day in the life” of a medical professional.

Our Year 10 students gained invaluable practical experience by conducting hands-on diagnostics to identify conditions such as diabetes through clinical urine testing, bridging the gap between their GCSE Biology studies on the endocrine system and real-world pathology. They also demonstrated deep critical thinking while debating the complex medical ethics surrounding the treatment of lifestyle-related illnesses, which challenged them to apply the moral and social frameworks discussed in Religious Education and PSHE. Finally, the group mastered vital emergency response skills, including CPR and the management of severe trauma, providing a high-stakes application for their understanding of human anatomy and the circulatory system.

By stepping out of the lab and into these professional environments, our students can see exactly how the formulas and theories they study in school form the backbone of a life-saving career.

Interview a neurosurgeon

Our students had the rare opportunity to interview a neurosurgeon, a GP, and an A&E doctor. They were outstanding ambassadors for our school, showing the empathy and sharp intellect required for a career in medicine.

Racing Toward Success:

The Williams F1 Enrichment

Meanwhile, our Year 9 students were introduced to the high-octane world of motor racing through the Williams F1 enrichment program. This event was designed to bridge the gap between school-level Physics and Engineering and the cutting-edge technology used on the Formula 1 track.

Linking Ambition to Action

Whether our students are debating medical ethics or analysing the aerodynamics of a race car, the goal remains the same: to show them that their potential is limitless. These experiences prove that the hard work they put into their studies today is the foundation for the pioneering careers of tomorrow.

We are so proud of how our students conducted themselves this week. They didn’t just represent our school; they represented the future of medicine and engineering.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students reach for the stars.

Thank you, as ever, for your support.

Mrs N Doward

Please enjoy reading the newsletter below!

PDF version HERE / Video version HERE

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