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Headteacher's Foreword
At the end of another busy term, I want to extend my thanks to students, staff, families, and our wider community for the dedication, creativity, and spirit that you bring to our school. This term has been filled with moments that remind us of the talent, compassion, and ambition that define our school. One such moment was the Rotary Children of Courage Award, where James Ball was recognised for his remarkable perseverance and positivity. James embodies the very best of our values, and we are immensely proud of him.
Student hard work has been rewarded with the popular Swap Shops, which have once again been embraced by students. Thank you to the Old Carrensian Association whose generous donations make this initiative a success. Year 7 enjoyed an exciting STEM event, sparking curiosity and hands-on exploration. Our Year 13 History Reading Group produced a thoughtful and insightful article this term—an impressive piece of scholarly writing that showcases the maturity and depth of our sixth form learners. Students have broadened their horizons beyond the classroom, too. The Berlin trip provided powerful historical and cultural learning opportunities, and our students represented the school with maturity and curiosity throughout. Meanwhile, those who attended GCSE Science Live returned buzzing with inspiration after hearing from some of the country’s leading scientific thinkers. In the realm of competition and challenge, we congratulate all who took part in the Biology Olympiad, demonstrating exceptional knowledge and commitment in a highly demanding national contest. Our English department continues to enrich literacy across the school through the ever popular Word of the Week, helping students broaden their vocabulary and confidence in communication.
Student leadership has also continued to flourish. The School Council has been instrumental in shaping ideas and improvements within the school, ensuring that the student voice remains central to our decision-making, and they have represented the school in the North Kesteven Student Council, extending their influence. We were also delighted by the determination and team spirit shown in Wheelchair Athletics, where students displayed impressive resilience and sportsmanship.
Finally, I must mention the wonderful Spring Concert, delivered this year in partnership with KSHS. The evening was a celebration of musical talent and collaboration. Performances by students from both schools created a memorable atmosphere and showcased the incredible passion and dedication of our young musicians.
As we head into the Easter break, I hope all our students take the opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. For our older students, it will be a time of revision as they prepare for their external exams; remember to balance this with rest.
Thank you once again for your ongoing support, and I look forward to an exciting and successful Summer Term ahead.
Mr Law
Headteacher
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Further Dates For Your Diary
Term 5 - Monday 20 April - Friday 22 May 2026
Term 6 - Monday 1 June - Wednesday 22 July 2026
Year 9 Internal Examinations - week commencing 4 May 2026
Years 7 and 8 Internal Examinations - week commencing 8 June 2026
Sixth Form Induction Days – Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June
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Sleaford Rotary Children of Courage Award 2026
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James, Year 10, was recently nominated and won a Rotary Children of Courage Award and last night he received his award.
James was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in December 2024 whilst he was in Year 9. He spent many weeks in hospital leaving him unable to participate in the things he loves, sports (especially football!), attending school, seeing his friends and all the joys a teenager should be able to experience. Despite this challenge in his life, James has remained incredibly positive and fought bravely, always with a smile on his face.
He is so determined and committed, all whilst maintaining his positive outlook on life. He really is a true inspiration and deserves to be recognised for the sheer grit and fortitude he has shown in the face of such adversity.
James is pictured receiving his award with Mrs Wilson, Assistant Headteacher, who attended the ceremony on behalf of the school.
A huge well done to James – you are an inspiration to us all.
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The much anticipated Swap Shops have taken place. They are funded by the Old Carrensians' Association.
The top 75% of each year group for their total points could swap a bronze, silver or gold voucher for a mini gift as a reward for their effort and hard work. Prizes were suggested by the students and the School Council, including a range of items such as tennis balls, footballs, cards, mini chess sets, Uno, Rubik's Cube and stationery.
 
Students enjoyed exchanging their vouchers and are looking forward to the next Swap Shop!
Well done to all those who qualified.
Mrs Goymer, Assistant Headteacher
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On the morning of Wednesday 25 February, the entire Year 7 cohort took part in an exciting and inspiring STEM event delivered by PPMA. The session was designed to introduce students to the wide range of opportunities available within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, and to show how these subjects connect directly to real careers in the modern world.
Throughout the morning, students heard from a series of inspirational speakers who shared their personal journeys into STEM-related careers. They spoke openly about the different pathways available, from apprenticeships and technical training to university degrees and graduate schemes. This gave students a valuable insight into the many routes that can lead to success, reinforcing the message that there is no single “right” path into industry.
Following this introduction, students were set their first practical challenge: to design and build a “Roller Loader” using only limited materials. The brief was based on a real-world scenario — an eco-factory being built in Sleaford needed a gravity-powered system to transport fragile products safely and efficiently around the site. Working in teams, students had to construct a track that would keep a marble moving for as long as possible using only gravity.
This task gave students hands-on experience of the key skills required in engineering and manufacturing. They had to demonstrate problem-solving, creativity, time management, resource management and, most importantly, teamwork. It was fantastic to see groups testing, adapting and improving their designs under time pressure. The winning team achieved an impressive time of just over 10 seconds, a result that reflected both careful planning and excellent collaboration.
The second challenge pushed students’ creativity even further. In just 20 minutes, teams were asked to design an innovative new product before presenting it to the entire year group in a 40-second “elevator pitch.” This encouraged students to think not only like engineers, but also like entrepreneurs — considering practicality, audience appeal and sustainability.
Team 16 was awarded the Best Pitch prize for their inventive product, the “Chillow” — a specially designed pillow created to stay cool throughout the night. Aimed at improving comfort and sleep quality, the Chillow featured a clever temperature-regulating design intended to prevent the pillow from overheating. The team delivered their idea with confidence and enthusiasm, clearly explaining both the problem and their solution in a persuasive and engaging way. Their strong presentation skills and well-thought-out concept made them worthy winners of the pitching award.
Best Pitch Winners
Roller Loader Winners
All students should feel extremely proud of their efforts and enthusiasm throughout the morning. They demonstrated resilience, imagination and strong teamwork, and represented the year group brilliantly. We hope this event has given them a meaningful glimpse into the exciting possibilities that a future career in STEM could offer.
Mr Scott Norris, STEM Lead for Carre's and KSHS
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Year 13 History Reading Group by Bella Whittaker
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The reading group is a useful resource offered as part of the A-level history course. It is an opportunity to meet fortnightly and discuss a section of a book or an article on the topics that we are studying in Russian history.
The reading group is a vital resource that I have chosen to utilise because it has helped to secure and enhance my learning as well as giving me more confidence in history. The reading group has not only given me the opportunity to secure my knowledge of the subject as an extra source of learning, but it has also taught me how to critically think and look a bit deeper into what the historian is writing. The reading group has allowed me to also get others' points of views and ideas that I have been able to use in my longer answer questions. The group has allowed my knowledge of the content to improve, it has improved my writing style, and it has allowed me to develop strong arguments of my own. Overall, giving me more confidence in history.
As a student with learning difficulties, reading is often a struggle and can feel overwhelming. As a result, I also lack confidence in my own ability, so, when first choosing to do A-Level history, the idea of how much reading was required did feel very daunting. However, with the support of the reading group, the amount of reading required has been manageable. I have also been able to find other ways, such as listening to podcasts and watching videos from historians. The reading group has also taught me how to work around my learning difficulties and how I don’t have to let them affect my A-levels.
My tip for anyone studying A-Level history, is to utilise the reading group because it is another layer to learning that has helped me to develop a stronger writing style. I would also recommend it because it is a good way to get other peers' views. These opinions have often proven useful in my writing as different arguments or points that I can make.
My advice for those considering picking the subject is to give it a chance and don’t let your doubts make the decision for you. Had I listened to my doubts I probably wouldn’t be studying history as a Year 13 student. The decision to utilise all the resources and ask for help when I needed support has allowed me to thrive in a subject that I was struggling with, it has given me the ability to recognise when I am actually doing well and produced a good piece of work, and it has allowed me to study a part of history that I have found really interesting.
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History Department: Year 10 and 11 Berlin Study Visit
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From 27 February to 2 March, 71 of our Year 10 and 11 students embarked on an immersive GCSE History visit to Berlin. Accompanied by Mr Quinton, Mr Holland, Mrs Wilson, Mrs Carpenter, Miss Wood, Mrs Feneley, and Mr Grundy, the group enjoyed a packed itinerary that brought their classroom studies to life.
Despite an early start at the airport, we began our visit with a walking tour of the city. Learning about Nazi Germany and the Cold War along the way.
Our home for the week was the fantastic Industriepalast Youth Hostel — conveniently located right by the Berlin Wall — where students enjoyed tasty food and some competitive rounds of table tennis in the evenings.
The trip offered a powerful balance of architectural wonder and sombre reflection.
Highlights included:
- The Reichstag: Students climbed the famous glass dome, enjoying spectacular panoramic views across the city’s historic skyline.
- The Berlin Wall: We were privileged to have a guide who lived through the city's division, providing invaluable first-hand insight into life behind the Iron Curtain.
- Sachsenhausen, The DDR Museum and The Stasi Museum: These were moving and thought-provoking visits. Students showed great maturity as they learnt about the difficult realities of life under Nazi and Communist rule.
- The 1936 Olympic Stadium: A firm favourite for many, this tour took us behind the scenes of the historic venue — from the changing rooms to the press gallery — showcasing its unique blend of ancient architecture and modern sports facilities.
It wasn't all hard work, though; the group enjoyed a brilliant evening of bowling and experienced the local culture by navigating the city’s S-Bahn (train) network like locals (well, almost!).
The trip was an enormous success, and our students were excellent ambassadors for the school. A huge thank you to the staff who gave up their weekend to make this experience possible. We returned to England exhausted but historically inspired!
Mr Quinton, Head of History
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The journey to the grand Sheffield City Hall was a valuable opportunity for Carre's students, providing the chance to witness the wonders and potential of modern science in a variety of fascinating forms. From the intricacy of material science and the human body to the possibility of time travel, this trip displayed a comprehensive range and taught by the professionals.
Professor Robert Winston (a distinguished scientist working as a Medical Doctor in Human Fertility), Professor Andrea Sella (Professor of Chemistry at UCL), Professor Jim Al-Khalili (Professor of Physics at the University of Surrey), Doctor Eleanora D’Elia (Material Science Specialist) and Doctor Hannah Critchlow (Neuroscientist at the University of Cambridge) gave inspiring talks on their respective fields.
From the audience, it was easy to see their contagious love for their work and develop a similar fascination with the boundless world of science. When watching Professor Al-Khalili give his talk on the possibility of time travel based on Einstein’s theory, we were motivated to learn and understand the concepts and theorem behind the lecture and consider the many other riveting notions posed to us.
Dr Critchlow allowed us to see the brainwaves of a volunteer and explained their importance in a way that was both somehow complex and easy to comprehend, and Professor Winston gave an informing and inspiring speech that made use of wondrous new technologies.
Many of the students, myself included, left the hall with a renewed awe of science and a wish to pursue the area in later academic ventures and potential careers.
Mrs Johnson, Teacher of Science
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On 23 January, nine Year 13s sat the British Biology Olympiad. This exam is open to students around the world.
The Biology Olympiad challenges and stimulates students with an interest in Biology to expand and extend their talents. In offering a wider syllabus than A-Level, it allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and to be suitably rewarded and publicly recognised by the awarding of certificates.
Over 13,000 students from around 800 schools took part this year, so we are very proud to announce that we were awarded three Highly Commended and one Bronze (Jack), one Silver (Emily) and one Gold Medal winner (Rosie).
Congratulations to all – this is a testament to all our Year 13s and their hard work in Biology.
Mrs Johnson, Teacher of Science
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Year 11 Geography Fieldwork at Snipedales Country Park
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On 3 and 6 March, the Year 11 GCSE Geography students went to Snipedales Country Park to carry out their exam fieldwork. The day was run by Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust.
 The students worked in small groups testing various river variables such as velocity, width, depth and sediment size. They were investigating how these variables changed as they moved downstream over a total of five sites. Once they collected their results, they processed them back in the classroom and will be ready to answer questions about what they investigated in their GCSE exam in June.
Miss Chaddock, Head of Geography
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Wheelchair Sports Festival
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On Wednesday 4 March, Carre’s Grammar School hosted a Wheelchair Sports Festival, welcoming students from both Carre’s and other local schools. Participants had the opportunity to experience a variety of wheelchair-based sports activities, including Slalom Pushing, King of the Hill, Dribbling, Shooting, Passing, and more.
The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all involved, offering students a valuable insight into how sport can be adapted to ensure it is inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Mrs Millband, SENCO
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Schools' Golf Invitational
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For the first time since its inception, Carre’s competed in the Schools' Golf Invitational at Woodhall Spa on Wednesday 25 March. We faced opposition teams from Queen Elizabeth Grammar School Horncastle, St George’s Academy, Oakham School and Boston Grammar School.
Our 4-player team represented the school wonderfully in some cold and windy conditions typical of early-season golf!
Year 12 student Oliver won the overall individual competition and our team won the event with a team score of 85 points.
Congratulations to James, Caleb, Oliver and Liam!
Mr Newell, Teacher of PE
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Performers from both Carre's and KSHS came together to showcase their talent at the Spring Concert.
Performances included the School Band playing Habanera and Toreador's Song from Bizet's Carmen, piano performances from Filip, Matthieu, Finley and Joshua, Fred on drums and the School Choir singing 'You'll be Back' by Lin-Manuel Miranda and 'Corner of the Sky' by Stephen Schwartz. Owen and Nathan gave fantastic solo performances on saxophone and violin plus many other singing and band performances. The concert concluded with a tribute to Black Sabbath.
Refreshments were served, and a collection was held in aid of the Year 11 Prom and a raffle took place in aid of the Namibia trip in July.
Mrs Quinton and Mrs Karumazundo would like to thank everyone who took part, including Mr Beska and the lighting and sound technicians.
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Word of the Week
Each week, our students are introduced to a new word to explore and use in both their speech and writing. When they use the word correctly, they earn positive points as part of our ongoing effort to celebrate learning in action.
We’d love to share this initiative with our wider community so that you, too, can encourage the use of these words at home.
Research consistently shows that a rich and varied vocabulary is central to students’ success. A broader vocabulary helps them access the curriculum more confidently and express their ideas with greater clarity and confidence.
Through Word of the Week, we aim not only to expand our students’ vocabulary but also to deepen their understanding of the world around them. As philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once said, “The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.”
Let’s work together to help our students find their words — and their voices!
Conform (verb)
Synonyms: fit in with, agree, obey, comply
Antonyms: disagree, oppose, deny, reject
Definition:
To follow the rules and behave in a way that is expected by others.
Examples in Context:
- She was happy to conform once she was persuaded it was the right thing to do.
- The toy conformed to British safety standards.
- He refused to conform and wore trainers instead of shoes.
Mrs James, Teacher of English
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Representatives from Carre's recently met at the North Kesteven District Council Offices to take part in the NK StudentCouncil. Students meet three times a year and the aims of the Student Council are: (from the NK website)
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'To give young people a voice in shaping services and organisational priorities within the district
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To give young people a direct link to decision-makers
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To establish an infrastructure for engaging young people in local democracy
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For young people to learn more about their community, local and county council and have a real impact on issues that affect them and their peers'.
Well done to our four students (Oliver was not available at the time of the photograph), for your input and acting as young ambassadors via the NK Youth Council.
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Our PTA team would like to thank all the parents attending the recent Parents' Evenings for not only making donations in return for hot drinks and biscuits but also for taking part in our survey to find out how families would like to support the PTA for the benefit of the students in the school. From around 90 responses, the overwhelming majority would be in favour of giving a regular-term donation. This could generate some very useful amounts to support school projects. We are currently looking at the best ways of setting up such a scheme.
In the meantime, please do sign up for EasyFundraising using the QR code (below) and use it when you do your online shopping – this is at no cost at all to yourselves, but the retailer makes a donation to your chosen cause, Carre's Grammar School PTA.
The Parents Lottery is another option. If you have not already signed up, please visit Play the Lottery: https://www.theparentslottery.org/find-your-school to register.
We hope to be able to report back on the income received from Easyfundraising and the Parents Lottery after Easter when we are expecting the first payments to come through.
PTA Bingo – the date previously advertised has now been postponed until the summer term. We will let you know the new date and details when tickets are on sale once the arrangements are confirmed.
Many thanks for your support.
Carre's Grammar School PTA
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Help Strengthen Local Schools by Donating Unused Apprenticeship Levy Funds
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CIT is seeking support from businesses that pay into the Apprenticeship Levy but don’t use all their funds. By transferring unspent Levy contributions, organisations can directly help develop skilled, motivated apprentices who play essential roles in our schools – from supporting teaching and SEND provision to administration and vital operational services.
Apprentices at CIT receive high-quality training, structured mentoring, and a clear development pathway, giving them the confidence and experience to build meaningful long-term careers in education. Levy funds can help us grow a dedicated workforce that shares our commitment to inclusion and excellence.
We’re looking for organisations that:
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Have a payroll over £3 million (levy-paying employers).
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Don’t fully use their Apprenticeship Levy funds.
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Are willing to transfer their unused funds to support apprenticeships within CIT.
By partnering with us, businesses can make a real impact on young people, schools, and communities across the region.
Interested in supporting CIT?
Contact: Lauren.Bedford@citacademies.co.uk
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Other Notices and Information
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Free School Meals
If you receive any benefits, you should tell your school as they can get extra funding called the Pupil Premium grant. This includes:
Universal Credit – your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)
Income Support
Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
The guaranteed element of the state Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit (provided you're not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more £16,190)
Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
Children who get paid these benefits directly can also get free school meals.
If your family is facing hardship https://www.gov.uk/ or www.lincolnshire.gov.uk
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A polite reminder that the front car park should not be used to drop students off in the morning or at the end of the school day. This is for safety reasons due to the number of students and staff arriving/leaving the site.
If your son/daughter needs to be collected during the day for an appointment/is injured or poorly, you are welcome to use the front car park.
Thank you for helping to keep our site safe for everyone.
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Road Safety
Please reiterate to your son/daughter the need to stop at the kerb and check for vehicles before crossing the road, not to be on a mobile phone whilst crossing and to be aware of members of the public when using the pavements/marketplace and other areas.
Thank you
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![]( "MACCA Academies Easter Events")
The course is open to BOTH eligible Free School Meals students via HAF eligibility and students/families who wish to pay for a place.
admin@maccasportsacademies.com
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Lincolnshire County Council wants to hear from you to help shape childcare for in Lincolnshire.
We want to make sure every family in Lincolnshire can access childcare that truly works for them, from nurseries and childminders to breakfast clubs, after‑school sessions, and holiday clubs.
Your voice is vital in helping us understand what’s working well and where there may be gaps. Your feedback will help shape childcare across Lincolnshire.
For a chance to win a £50 high street voucher, complete the survey here:
Childcare survey 2026 | Let's Talk Lincolnshire
https://www.letstalklincolnshire.gov.uk/childcaresurvey/surveys/parental-childcare-survey-2026
(T&Cs apply)
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Social Change is running a survey about adult learning, employment, and skills alongside Lincolnshire County Council. Their goal is to understand experiences and barriers to learning across Greater Lincolnshire.
The survey is open to residents aged 19+ and takes just 10 -15 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous and confidential, and results will directly inform how Lincolnshire County Council and partners shape and promote future adult learning and skills opportunities.
Residents aged 19+ in Greater Lincolnshire are invited to share their views on adult learning, employment, and skills opportunities.
This 15-minute survey is anonymous and confidential. Your feedback will help guide how adult learning and skills provision is developed and communicated in the region.
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27 Mar 2026
Year 12 Examination Timetable - April 2026 Now Available
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11 Mar 2026
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Carre’s marked World Book Day with a whole host of fun, book‑inspired activities. Form groups kicked off the day with energetic litera...
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