Skip to content ↓

News & Events

Page 5

  • Armistice Day

    Published 15/11/24

    Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, is observed on 11 November to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in wars, especially in the World Wars. This day marks the end of World War I, when, on the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" in 1918, an armistice ended the fighting. Each year on 11 November, people pause in a moment of silence, wearing poppies as a tribute to those who fought and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

    One enduring symbol of Remembrance Day is the red poppy. During World War I, red poppies bloomed on the battlefields of Flanders, standing out amid the destruction. These flowers are symbols of life and resilience amongst the graves of fallen soldiers. The red poppy came to symbolise both the beauty of resilience and the blood that had been spilt on the battlefields. It represented remembrance, hope, and a promise that those who had died would not be forgotten. In many countries, wearing a red poppy has become a way to pay tribute and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for peace, and the civilians who lost their lives in the crossfire. 

    Remembrance Day/Armistice Day is important because it ensures that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. By showing respect to the memories of those who served, we remind ourselves of the devastation that war brings and the preciousness of peace. This day reminds us to honour the past and work toward a more compassionate world.

    Our school plays a vital role in recognising and commemorating Armistice Day, helping students understand its significance and bravery of those who served. On 11 November, staff and students observe 2 minutes of silence to commemorate the fallen soldiers. During November, art projects done by students line the walls; portraits of poppies and symbols of peace are hung to remind students that only in the darkest times do the stars shine. By involving students in these activities, our school ensures that we will always remember the sacrifices made, the legacy of Armistice Day and to appreciate the value of peace.

    Tenay Chak [13D]

      

    Read More
  • Arsenal vs Chelsea Womens' Football Match

    Published 12/11/24

    A few weeks ago, I was able to watch an unforgettable football match at the Emirates Stadium. My overall experience watching Arsenal Girls vs Chelsea Girls football match was amazing. The atmosphere was electric and the stadium was roaring with tons of spectators who responded to every goal and near miss as if we were at a Champions League match. The stands were packed to capacity with enthusiastic supporters from both sides. Going to this football match made me smile with joy and made me more determined to attend as many matches as possible. Football in general is a fierce and exuberant sport. Overall, my experience was exciting and so enjoyable for a nice day-out. 

    Sonia Arora [8W]

      

    Read More
  • CAREERS FAIR 2024

    Published 12/11/24

    Our annual Careers Fair is our flagship event, which invites a wide range of employers, universities, colleges and apprenticeship providers, to join us here at Heston Community School. We invite students and their parents/carers from all year groups, to access information to support at all key transition stages. The purpose of the evening is to provide the opportunity to gather information relating to possible routes into different careers or study from a range of providers.

    We had several talks that took place during the evening, which were well attended.  Students and their parents/carers had the opportunity to engage in valuable conversations with the exhibitors and take away resources to help them to continue to explore options. Feedback was very positive and we look forward to holding this again in the future.

    Ms A Laing [Careers Advisor]

    The Careers Fair helped me widen my opportunities and helped me look at different career paths for the future. I experienced different pathways for careers. It also helped me look at different options for post 16 and post 18. It helped me gather information for my decision for A-levels. It was a very fun and interesting experience.

    Manmeet Sidhu [110]

    The Career Fair really helped me get input from different colleges. I had an interest in West London college beforehand but the Careers Fair helped me venture into different post-16 options and subjects. I believe that the Careers Fair helps younger years such as years 7 to 9 and inspires them to explore different jobs and prospects.

    Magdalena Budai [11Y]

    The Careers Fair helped me to realise the massive number of opportunities I have with my subjects and how I can further advance my skills in order to apply them to my further studies in Sixth Form. It has also helped me find my passion in a career and different A-Levels.

    Kabeer Khan [11B]

    The Careers Fair was very insightful! We had the opportunity to speak with universities, apprenticeship providers, and former students. I especially enjoyed my conversation with Iman, a former student who is currently completing a Level 4/5 apprenticeship. He shared some websites and resources he used to prepare for interviews. Since then, I have taken the initiative to attend a university taster day and arranged a one-day work experience.

    Bob Ryatt [12D]

    The "Getting into Medicine" talk gave me the chance to ask questions about admission tests and the best ways to prepare for the UCAT exams. The talk reinforced my ambition to study medicine in the future. The speaker's determination and passion for the profession was inspiring, and I hope that one day, I’ll be able to come back as a speaker myself.

    Neda Noorzai [12D]

      

    Read More
  • Student Council 2024 – 2025

    Published 12/11/24

    The entire student council met in the Sixth Form Centre to discuss the topics for our meeting with Mr O'Hagan for the following week. In this first meeting, representatives from each tutor group discussed their thoughts on the Trackit Light system and how it has improved lessons and behaviour across the School.  We were also very happy to report on some other areas that we have had a huge influence on changing; these were the toilets and more sports enrichment activities in the school gym.  We also discussed ideas about what should be the next main focus of the student council for this school year.

    During the meeting with the main reps from each year group, students reported that they thought the Trackit Light system was overall a successful idea, as they mentioned that it helps the flow of the lesson and helps to remind students about the expectations of the teacher.

    The next area to be reviewed is the behaviour amongst students outside the classroom, as one student mentioned that the new system in place could have caused shifts in behaviour outside of lessons.

    We are confident that, as always in our meetings with the Headteacher and the Deputy Headteacher, that we will be listened to and that our ideas where possible will be used to make the school community better for us all.

    Katharine Massey-Jones [9P]

    Read More
  • CELEBRATIONS EVENING

    Published 06/11/24

    Celebrations evening was a divine way to manifest the School’s recognition of the remarkable work-ethic of its students, congregate the community in spirit and propagate aspirations for the future. Upon entering, I was greeted by a wealth of smiles from the dedicated Senior Team members welcoming attendees into the school, and a jovial atmosphere as they were served a multitude of appetisers.

    Subsequently, everyone became seated in the Hall as Mr Berdesha commenced the presentation, followed by current Year 13 student speeches. Students straddling across Years 8-11 were nominated for their varied achievements in each academic discipline.  In turn, each student’s name was called, they euphorically ascended the stage and received their certificate from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, who was our guest speaker this year.

    Celebration Evening itself deserves a celebration for its success!

    Alisha Rizwan [13A]

      

     

    Read More
  • Open Evening

    Published 06/11/24

    The School hosted its annual Open Day on 01 October for potential Year 6 students joining Heston’s Year 7 in September 2025. After a short presentation in the Main Hall from the Headteacher and students, approximately 40 parents and Year 6 students toured the School with Year 9s acting as guides, while lessons were taking place. Parents and students gave some lovely feedback to Senior staff during the question and answer session that took place in the library before they left our site.

    In the evening, the Main Hall was filled with parents and Year 6 students to hear presentations, followed by a tour with student guides from Years 8-11. The experience allowed families to see Heston at its best with lots of positive praise for students, staff and our site.

    We look forward to welcoming the new Year 7 students on their Induction Day on 04 July 2025.

      

     

    Read More
  • Author Visit and Year 7 Scholars Club

    Published 05/11/24

    In the LRC, we met the author of The Bike shed Bully Hunter series, Nathanial Thomlinson. During this remarkable experience, we got to learn about this amazing author, what inspired him and asked questions related to reading and writing. We created a scenery from our own imagination, as the setting is one of the most important parts of a book, and transformed it into a short story. Mine was about the four elemental nations working together until the fire nation attacked. We discussed our favourite genres too. Mine was the Gothic genre. I enjoyed learning how a setting from your own imagination can create a beautiful image in your mind and that writing needs to flow and link together. I have to admit, I also really enjoyed the snacks too. These factors can support me in my studies because now I will be able to more easily do creative writing and will freely use my imagination. With a variety of genres, I will be able to use different perspectives for each piece of writing. Thanks to Mr Thomlinson, I have fixed one of the things that was missing in my writing. 

    Tanek Madan [7W]

     

    Start of my story 

    Mako stared at the ceiling of his hut, it was snowing outside, again. He wished he belonged to any of the other nations, life was so monotonous in the water tribe. Wake up, eat breakfast, have a nap, stare at his ceiling, sleep, eat and then repeat. There was no action. Mako wanted to boast his awesome water bending.  

    "Lunch is ready!" his mother said loudly. It wasn't a shout, more like the sweet call of a mother. He already knew what was for lunch; squid stew, again. Mako took a step outside and his feet instantly sunk into the snow. But that's not what got his attention. The snow was black? All of the tribe's people froze and there was absolute silence. 

    Read More
  • World Mental Health Day

    Published 05/11/24

    Drop Everything And Read [DEAR]

    At School, from Year 7 through Year 9 all students read for a minimum of 20 minutes a day through Drop Everything And Read. Our Learning Coordinators check our book choices every assembly when we go into assembly with our DEAR books for a very orderly and calm start.  

    I like DEAR because we get to read about what we enjoy and engage our thoughts about books.

    Also, we don’t have to think about anything stressful for 20 minutes and it is great to reduce stress and increase wellbeing. We get to read any book we like, no matter if it’s our own personal book or the library's. It's important because it helps us increase our vocabulary. 

    My current book is ‘The Climbers’ because I like how adventurous it is. It allows me to escape once a day.  

    Jannat Siddique [7Y]

    DEAR: One word. Four letters. Eternal consequences. DEAR is the structure of your journey to the GCSEs, so you can call it one of the most important parts of your time in school. Who knew that just 30 minutes, just 30, can help your English and literature so much. My writing skills have developed exponentially over time, giving me more and more confidence. During World Mental Health Day, teachers showed their commitment to their mental health and reading via partaking in DEAR too! It was inspiring to see.  

    Zayd Rahman 8G 

    Read More
  • Amazon and Taylor Wessing Law Insight Day ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

    Published 05/11/24

    Brentford FC: Amazon and Taylor Wessing Law Insight Day 24 October

    I recently participated in the Amazon and Taylor Wessing Insight Law event at the Brentford FC Community Hub, and it was a fantastic experience. I met a varied group of professionals who work in different fields from Amazon and Taylor Wessing.  We took part in different activities that enhanced my skills in communication, debate, problem-solving, and teamwork. Engaging in discussions, tasks, and presentations allowed us to learn extensively while being part of a lively and cooperative atmosphere. Overall, we found the event immensely enjoyable, insightful, and inspiring. Thank you to Mr. Green and Mr. Naqvi for giving us the opportunity to have such a wonderful experience! 

    Jaidev Chahal [12C]

      

    Read More
  • Ben's Work Experience Visit to BYD

    Published 05/11/24

    Hello, I am Ben, currently in Year 12 at Heston Community School. While on work experience placement with the London Borough of Hounslow 14-19 Service, I had the amazing opportunity to visit BYD.

    BYD is an exciting, rapidly expanding company that is revolutionising the electric vehicle world. BYD are the manufacturer for the brand-new electric buses that are being launched to replace the existing diesel fleet, with one of their sites [responsible for admin and engineering] being based in the Borough of Hounslow. BYD buses already account for roughly 20% of the Transport for London fleet through a previous joint venture with ADL. They are committed to giving opportunities to young people in a vastly developing industry with new technology with the support of the Borough of Hounslow. BYD do not just work with buses, they also have a line of cars and motors which are some of the safest in the industry.

    BYD has a number of exciting opportunities in the pipeline and our Employment and Skills Team will be working with them as they continue to grow. Watch this space for further details. 

    Head to the BYD website to find out more about their battery technology and their mission to change the world by creating a complete, clean-energy ecosystem that reduces the world’s reliance on fossil fuels and how they are dedicated to making public transport emission-free by clicking on the button below.  

    Ben Rixon [12A]

    Read More
  • SPORTS NEWS

    Published 25/10/24

    Cross Country Report

    Heston had a team of 13 students who competed in cross country in Osterley Park on Wednesday from Year 8s up to year 10s. Each student did their very best. It was a bright sunny day, but a tough course with some hills in parts.

    Sonia Arora finished a commendable 8th place, with Raayan Badar finishing in 9th place in their year 8 race of 3,200m, both receiving a letter to go and represent Heston at the Middlesex competition.

    Some great performance also by Khalid Abdirehman and Migle Berankyte finishing in the top 15, also Emelia Kudhail and Angela Khan placing in the top 20.

    Congratulations to all who took part and we wish Sonia and Raayan the best of luck in their next round of county cross country which takes place in February.

    Y9 Football Match Heston V Reach

    The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with the defence standing tall from start to finish. The defenders played a pivotal role, repeatedly shutting down attacks and keeping their cool under pressure. Younger players also made a mark, combining energy and creativity in the midfield to drive the team forward. Their contributions added balance and flair to the performance, showcasing the squad's depth and potential while securing a hard-fought point.  Waliullah Said [9O]

    Y8 Football Match Heston V Reach

    The Year 8 boys’ football team had an outstanding game against Reach Academy winning 5 goals to 2. Heston dominated the game with good possession of the ball in the midfield and numerous attacks on goals. If the team was better at finishing their chances there could easily have been more goals for Heston.

    Heston defence was good, Oliver Kuter and Enver Daci linked up well in as central defenders reading the game well to stop a number of chances. The two goals from Reach came as a result of a couple of lapses in concentration. Reach were quick to pounce on these chances and scored two goals. Andrei Mirea [8Y]

    Scorer: 2x Andrei Mirea, Enver Daci, Ahmed Grama, Zak Vohra

    Player of the Match: Andrei Mirea & Oliver Kuter

    Girls’ Junior Football Match Heston V St Marks

    The match ended with a 5-3 win to Heston, with the midfields and attack on fire. The defenders played a pivotal role, in particular Sumaya Ahmed not letting a goal past her.

    Younger players also made a mark Laara Bussunt and Aliyah Connolly, combining energy and creativity in the forwards to drive the Team on. Their contributions added to their performance, showcasing the squad's depth and potential while securing the hard-fought goals.

    With some great team play, Hafsa and Aariya worked incredibly well together, finding each other to set up the goals. Angela Khan and Ashwini Fernandes made excellent team managers, helping referee the game and providing vital feedback to players. Ashwini Fernandes [10P]

    Read More
  • Flu Vaccinations

    Published 24/10/24

    Nurses from Vaccinations UK attended school on Friday, 18 October to administer the  Flu nasal spray, OR the non-gelatine IM Flu vaccin to KS3 and KS4 students.

    Flu can be a very unpleasant illness causing fever, stuffy nose, dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints, and extreme tiredness. This can last several days or more. Vaccines help protect children from what can be very nasty illnesses. They can help avoid disruption to education and having to miss out on the things children enjoy. They also reduce the spread of flu to others, and in turn help to protect families.

    The recommendation is for an annual flu vaccination as the virus changes every year. The vaccine is administered as a nasal spray and is absorbed quickly in the nose. There are minimal side effects of the vaccine such as runny or blocked nose, headache, general tiredness, which are much better than developing full-blown flu and its complications.

    The next session is planned for Tuesday, 26 November for a 'mop up' session.

        

    Read More

Page 5