Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Punctuality
We would like to remind parents and carers of the email that was shared on the last day of term, attached for your information.  Consistent punctuality and positive routines are crucial for students and their learning and we will be adopting the approach laid out in the original email, from the beginning of term onwards.  We appreciate your continued support in maintaining our high standards.

Nut Allergies and food choices
Townley Grammar School is committed to maintaining a nut-free environment to ensure the safety and well-being of all our students, staff, and visitors, especially those with nut allergies. This remains a high priority for us, and we sincerely appreciate your continued support in helping us achieve this.

While Townley Grammar School remains a nut-free zone and the ingredients in the products Caterlink provides to us do not include nuts, some items carry a "May Contain Nuts" advisory on their packaging. This advisory is a precautionary measure mandated because these products are manufactured in facilities that also handle nuts. Although the products themselves do not contain nuts as an ingredient, the risk of potential cross-contamination during the manufacturing process necessitates this labelling. If a student has a nut allergy, Caterlink staff cannot serve food products that 'may contain nuts'. Please be reassured that alternative options are always available and students with nut allergies will be guided by qualified Caterlink staff to select food products that are nut-free.

For parents/carers of students with a diagnosed nut allergy, please be assured that our dedicated and qualified staff in Bytes (our catering facility) are well-informed and prepared to offer safe and suitable alternative options for your child. Please ensure that Bytes staff are aware of your child's allergy.

Thank you once again for your understanding and ongoing cooperation in making Townley Grammar School a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

Year 8 HPV Immunisations – 13^th June 2025
The Bexley Immunisation Team will be visiting Townley on Friday 13^th June.  In order for your child to receive the HPV vaccination, together with any missing Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) doses, please complete the consent form, using the link in the attached parent letter.  This form must also be completed if you do not give consent for the HPV vaccination.  Please be aware that the link will close on 9^th June 2025. For more information and support, please see the letter and information leaflet attached.

For parents/carers of children with an ADHD diagnosis
The ADHD working group in Bexley is looking to collect the views and experiences of parents/carers of children with ADHD. This is part of a wider project to improve their offer and they would love to hear from parents and carers whose children have a diagnosis of ADHD, via a short survey.

The survey will take around 10 minutes and will be anonymous.  The information gathered will be used to support Bexley staff’s understanding of the current experience of parents and carers to help them identify areas for improvement. The deadline for the survey is Friday 10th May and can be accessed here: Bexley ADHD Parent/Carer Survey

Gap Years and The Hugh and Montague Leney Travelling Awards Trust
Students who are spending their gap year doing community or humanitarian projects can apply for an award of up to £2,500 from the Hugh and Montague Leney (Travelling) Awards Trust. The trust will award bursaries or maintenance allowances of up to £2,500 (and will consider awards of more than £2,500). The money provided is not intended to cover total costs. Parents' contributions, individual initiative and other sources of fundraising or sponsorship will be considered towards the application. Individuals and small groups are encouraged to use their initiative in the planning and fulfilment of worthwhile projects and in their commitment to the less fortunate.

For further information and how to apply, please click here: Application Guidance and see the attached leaflet. If parents have any queries, please contact: hughmontagueleneytrust@kent.gov.uk and /or lspencer@townleygrammar.org.uk.  The deadline is Friday 2^nd May 2025.

Global Events
The Death of Pope Francis: The school is deeply saddened by the death of Pope Francis, a leader admired for his kindness, humility, and to serving the vulnerable. His legacy of compassion and unity will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts are with those who mourn his death during this difficult time. Students who may be affected are encouraged to come forward, we are here to help.

Kashmir terror attack: In light of the tragic terror attack in Kashmir, we want to acknowledge the sadness and worry some students and families may be feeling. Please know that you are not alone, if any student needs to talk or for pastoral support, do not hesitate to reach out. We are here for you.

Kind regards,

Miss H Mitchem
Deputy Headteacher