Week 20 | Friday 6th February 2026

Theme of the Week – Love and Compassion

Message from the Headteacher

We were delighted to welcome parents/carers to our Year 10 Parents’ Evening. Thank you to everyone who attended and for your continued support.

This half term, our students have also taken part in many enriching educational visits, including a Computer Science visit to Bletchley Park, once the top secret home of the World War 2 codebreakers. We have had A Levels Textiles Group attend the Barbican Centre for the ‘Dirty Looks Fashion’ exhibition, exploring how dirt and decay have been used to defy beauty standards in fashion. Such experiences are vital in bringing learning to life, deepening subject understanding and broadening students’ cultural and academic horizons.

We have commenced the exam season, with Art, Textiles and Hospitality & Catering exams taking place. We are proud of the focus, maturity and determination shown by students, who approached their creative assessments with commitment and resilience.

Last week, we continued our work with Challenge Partners, a national network of schools and trusts that supports school improvement through collaboration, peer review and shared practice. Our involvement in this partnership allows us to draw on the collective expertise of educators across the country, providing both support and constructive challenge to further enhance teaching and learning for all our students.

Early Closure – Friday 13th February 2026 2.10pm

As communicated yesterday, school will close on Friday 13th February at 2.10pm. Students will attend their form rooms for registration at 2.00pm and will be dismissed shortly after registration.

This early closure is to allow staff dedicated time to plan and prepare for the new half term. In particular, focusing on the learning environment so they celebrate students’ best work, modelling the standard we expect and reflecting our high ambitions. Please note:

  • Online learning will be set for Period 5, and students should complete this work at home.
  • Detentions will continue for students who are required to attend – 2.00-3.00pm

Should you need your child to remain on site during this time, then please contact the school and we will plan for them to remain on site.

Burns Night Celebration

The very first Burns' Night Celebration of the life and work of Scottish poet Robert Burns at SNS was an absolutely smashing success! The event was packed with memorable moments - including a marvellous rendition of 'To a Haggis' by Head of Drama, Mr Stewart, poetry recitals by Year 7 students, traditional music including an outstanding  performance by a Year 9 student and an engaging presentation about Scottish cultural and historical artefacts by Ms Bruce, Lead Pastoral Support.

Mayor of Hackney Music Award

We were so excited to attend the Hackney Music Service Gala at the Empire Theatre on Tuesday 20th January, where our wonderful students performed a We Will Rock You Medley to a sold-out audience! Our wonderful Music department were proud to receive an award from the Mayor of Hackney for Best Ensemble Development. Once again, a huge well done to our students for once again showing what Stokey can do!

World Book Day - Thursday 5th March 2026

To celebrate World Book Day, we are hosting a dress up day for Year 7 students. Our chosen theme is Heroes and Villains, so students are encouraged to dress up as their favourite book character. If your child is in Year 7 and wants to participate, there will be a £1 collection at the gate on the day. The money will go towards the World Book Day charity and help to promote reading nationally.

There will also be a second-hand book sale in the Library at lunchtime on the day for students in all year groups. If students wish to buy second-hand books, they need to bring in 10p to participate and their own bag to fill with books (e.g. a plastic bag). 

Language of the Month – Korean

For February, our SNS language of the month is Korean. We warmly welcome suggestions from students and families to help promote the language, customs and traditions - such as posters or other creative ideas for display. Please send your contributions to our Community Languages Team. We are also looking for any parents/carers who can offer insights into Korean culture and customs to help a workshop in the Library for students. Please do get in contact if you are able to support.

The Slade – National Saturday Club

If your child is in Years 8 – 10, they may be interested in joining this amazing Saturday art club, located in Stratford. It is completely free and is a great opportunity if they are considering taking, or already taking, GCSE or A Level Art. You can find more information using this link.

Careers Events

Understanding Apprenticeships Webinar – Monday 9th February 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Taking place during National Apprenticeship Week, this online webinar provides information on what apprenticeships are and how to support your child in considering, searching and applying for apprentices. You can sign up to the webinar using this link.

Simplifying University – Wednesday 25th February 6.00pm – 7.00pm

This online webinar provides information on the application process, choosing the right course and financing university, and student day to day experience. You can sign up to the session using this link.

Parent/Carer Forums – Spring Term

  • Year 7 – Tuesday 10th February 5-6pm
  • Year 10 – Thursday 26th February – 5-6pm
  • Year 11 – Tuesday 10th March – 5-6pm
  • Year 12 – Wednesday 11th March – 4.30pm – 5.15pm
  • SEND – Wednesday 11th February – 5-6pm

Key Dates

Please see a link to our school calendar here.

With this week’s theme focus on love and compassion, students in 10E shared the following quote by Aesop, Greek fabulist, for our morning Thought of the Day.

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever waste”

Wishing you all a restful weekend,

Zehra Jaffer