Today, we were delighted to celebrate the commitment of pupils who demonstrated excellent attendance and punctuality during the final three weeks of term with a visit from an ice cream van.

To qualify, pupils attended school every day between 29 June and 17 Julyand arrived on time each morning. In total, 312 pupils met the criteria and received a free ice cream or slushie:

• Year 7: 95 pupils
• Year 8: 81 pupils
• Year 9: 78 pupils
• Year 10: 58 pupils

All other pupils also had the opportunity to purchase an ice cream or slushie should they have wished.

The event was a fantastic way to recognise pupils' dedication, resilience and commitment to attending school every day. It also provided an opportunity for pupils to enjoy time with their friends as we celebrated the end of another successful school year.

At Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School, we know that every day in school matters. Excellent attendance supports academic achievement, wellbeing, friendships and a strong sense of belonging. We are incredibly proud of every pupil who earned this reward and thank our families for their continued support in promoting excellent attendance throughout the year.

Over four afternoon sessions (12:30pm to 3:00pm), our incoming SEN pupils took part in a carefully planned transition programme designed to help them feel confident and excited about starting at their new school.

The sessions included activities centred around "All About Me", giving pupils the opportunity to share information about themselves and begin building relationships with staff and peers. Pupils also enjoyed a tour of the school, helping them become familiar with key areas and routines before September.

To support pupils in getting to know the school community, they took part in a range of staff quizzes and interactive activities to learn who staff members are and how different aspects of school life work. They also had the chance to experience a variety of lessons, including English, where they created their own evil villains; Dance, which incorporated martial arts-inspired movements; and Science, where pupils safely explored the use of Bunsen burners.

As part of the transition experience, pupils were able to trial lunchtime routines, helping them become familiar with the dining hall environment and expectations.

We are incredibly proud of all the pupils who attended. Their enthusiasm, participation and willingness to embrace new experiences were fantastic to see. To celebrate their achievements and commitment throughout the programme, every pupil received an ice lolly at the end of the final session.

We look forward to welcoming them back in September and wish them a happy and restful summer.

Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia which can both lead to sepsis. Being around lots of new people in shared living spaces like university halls increases the risk of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease spreading. Getting 2 doses of the MenB vaccine before the autumn term is one of the most important things young people can do to protect themselves.

Starting from Monday 13^th July those aged 17 to 18 years old and born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 will be eligible for the MenB vaccine.

The MenB vaccine is given in 2 doses, which need to be at least 4 weeks apart. Book your 2nd dose after you've had your 1st dose.

Book an appointment via this link: Book a MenB vaccination appointment - NHS.

Walk-in pharmacy appointments will also be available for those born on or after 21 July 2001 who are: (i) either starting university this autumn or (ii) starting at some further education colleges as a residential student this autumn.

For more information, visit the UK Health Security blog: Who is eligible for the new one-off MenB vaccine programme?  – UK Health Security Agency

Our Attendance Reward Breakfast, held on Friday 19 June, celebrated the commitment of 159 pupils across Years 7–10 who have achieved 98% attendance or above since September. It was a pleasure to recognise these pupils for their resilience, commitment and excellent attendance throughout the academic year. Their dedication demonstrates the positive impact that attending school every day has on both academic success and the wider opportunities school provides. 

At Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School we strive for excellence and want the best for every child, regardless of who they are. If you are looking for an exceptional secondary school for your child, book to attend one of our Open Events to see what we have to offer.

Open Evening will take place on Thursday 17^th September 2026 4:00pm – 7:30pm | BOOK HERE

Open Mornings will take place on 21st, 24th September 2026 and 8th October 2026 9:45-10:30am | BOOK HERE

Our Year 9 and Year 10 Work Experience programme highlighted another important reason why attendance matters. Consistent attendance helps pupils develop the knowledge, confidence and employability skills needed to succeed in the workplace. Pupils who attend school regularly are better prepared to take advantage of opportunities such as work experience and to represent both themselves and the school positively. 

To celebrate the success of our Year 9 and Year 10 Work Experience programme, we held a prize raffle on Friday. Any Year 9 or Year 10 pupil who attended school on Friday 3 July, following two successful days on their work experience placement, was entered into the draw. Well done to our £50 voucher winners!

Year 9: Alexander & Lyla-Rose 

Year 10: Megan & Corey

On 1 July, we were delighted to welcome our new Year 7 pupils to Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School for Induction Day, helping them prepare for a smooth and successful transition to secondary school.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in a range of lessons and activities, supported by our outstanding Year 7 Pupil Leaders. Their kindness, confidence and enthusiasm helped new pupils feel welcomed, supported and at ease, ensuring the day ran smoothly and reflecting our STRIVE values in action.

We also received excellent feedback from staff about the positive attitude and engagement shown by our new pupils, alongside positive comments from parents and carers about the experience.

We look forward to welcoming our new Year 7 cohort back in September and wish them an enjoyable and relaxing summer.

On 25 June, our Year 11 pupils marked the end of their time at Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School with a fantastic Prom, celebrating together in style before taking their next steps.

The evening was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the friendships and memories they have made throughout their school journey.

We are incredibly proud of everything our Year 11 pupils have accomplished and wish them every success and happiness for the future. Congratulations, Year 11!

On 24 June, our Year 11 pupils came together for a Leavers' Assembly to celebrate their time at Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School and reflect on the journey they have shared.

The assembly included a look back at old photographs and videos, heartfelt farewell messages from staff and a range of staff-nominated awards celebrating memorable moments, unique qualities and the many contributions pupils have made over the years. Led by our Heads of House, the event was filled with laughter, reflection and plenty of happy memories.

The celebrations concluded with the traditional shirt signing, giving pupils the opportunity to leave messages for one another as they marked the end of this important chapter.

We wish all of our Year 11 pupils every success and happiness for the future and thank them for the positive contribution they have made to our school community.