Skip to content ↓

NEWS AND EVENTS

Page 1

Archive

  • Hounslow Teen Read

    Published 11/11/26

     

    Hounslow Teen Read Launch Trip to Brentford School for Girls to meet author Bex Hogan

    Being selected to be part of the Teen Read launch at Brentford School for Girls was a brilliant way for us to learn about different origins of fairytales. I genuinely enjoyed listening to [author] Bex Hogan as she spoke about her book set including Nettle, Owl King and Rowan. She spoke about her love for gory stories as a child and how they influenced the way that she writes her books today. This was a great way to start the Teen Read event and can't wait to begin reading the chosen books! Thank you to Miss Bryan for organising the event and giving me the chance for this amazing opportunity! SG 8Y

    The trip was an excellent way for us to understand how the Teen Read club worked and a one-of-a-kind experience meeting the winning author from last year, Bex Hogan. Hogan spoke to us about the development of fairytales overtime and shared her experience and thoughts on the development behind her stories, which could inspire future writers.  MC 9G

    The trip was an amazing way for us to see how Bex Hogan [author] was inspired to write her books and a one-of-kind chance to meet her. This trip helped me understand better what the Teen Read is really about. We also got the opportunity to ask her questions about what inspired her. SH 9G

    Going to the Teen Read introduction was extremely fun. It was fun meeting the author, Bex Hogan, and seeing the books we were going to read. I managed to get a signed book, and we learnt about different versions of Cinderella. The trip with Miss Bryan and Sam was exciting and the School was very welcoming. The author shared her experiences reading fairy tales and showed how before they were very dark. The three books that we talked about were Nettle, Owl King and Roman. We learnt a lot about how inspiration comes from nearby and that writing books is a way you can express another world from within. MP 8Y

    I really enjoyed the trip to Brentford School for Girls. I really liked the part where the actual author came and talked us through her journey of being a writer and the different types of books she wrote and showed us. I’m really thankful for this opportunity. AF 8Y

    I was amazed by today's experience as I really loved the blurb for Nettle. It was a memorable time and I really enjoyed the short descriptions of the further books that we are going to read. Thank you Miss Bryan! JK 8P

    The Hounslow Teen Read trip to Brentford School for Girls was a really enjoyable experience. We were given an amazing opportunity to listen to the author talk about her life from being a child to an author. I am grateful to be able to get the chance to be part of such a special group. SK 8G

    I have had such an amazing experience of meeting Bex Hogan [author]. Meeting her was such an enlightening experience. I enjoyed being able to interact with the other schools, seeing their views of what they thought of the books. LB 8B

    Today we went to the launch of The Hounslow Teen Read and it was so much fun. We met the author, Bex Hogan, and we saw some of the original fairytales that inspired her new book series, including Nettle, Owl King and finally Ronan, which is her latest book that she has released. We were lucky enough to have the chance to buy two of her books that she could sign for us. We got to meet many other students that will be participating in the Hounslow Teen Read. Overall, today was really fun and I enjoyed it immensely. Thank you to Miss Bryan for organising it and Sam for driving us. ABPB

    When we went to the Teen Read meeting, I was surprised by how much detail the books were explained in. It really helped me understand better what Teen Read is about. Also, when the author asked if we had any questions, it was nice getting to talk to her one-on-one. HS 9G

    I really enjoyed this trip to Branford School for Girls. I liked the part where we got introduced to the 6 books we are going to read. Furthermore, I also liked when Bex Hogan [the author] talked about her journey and how the very famous fairytales originated from and their retelling. TK 8P

    In my opinion, today was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed the day. The author was so nice. I am really glad I got to experience this. Overall, I loved this trip, but I would say we should have a bit more time to interact with the author, like getting to ask her more questions. MK 8G

     

       

    Read More

  • Senior Student Team

    Published 11/11/26

    We are delighted to announce the appointment of our new Senior Student Leadership Team following the successful completion of the interview process.

    • Head Boy: Sahil Shakti Kotak 
    • Head Girl: Jasmin Kaur Sangha 
    • Deputy Head Girl: Alexandra Jones 
    • Deputy Head Boy: Om Aeri
    • Student Governors: Jaania Kanwar, Simran Kaur Punny and Luna Augusta Velasco
    • Society Representatives: Kaia Hall, Manuel Lawson, Inderpreet Digpal, Khemi Dhillon and Hajra Boliya
    • Events and Sports Managers: Diyansh Vasudeva, Shaan Gill and Jaya Dhillon
    Read More

  • Fantasy Wings 2026

    Published 27/10/26

    Heston student, Asees, secures a scholarship to Fantasy Wings Aviation Programme 2026

    Pursuing training to become a commercial airline pilot is prohibitively expensive and exposure to the industry is also exceptionally challenging, especially for students from the vast majority of state schools.  This year we have had the great fortune to secure a full scholarship for one of our students to benefit from the Aviation Development Programme run by Fantasy Wings.  This will provide an invaluable opportunity for Asees to meet industry insiders, including newly qualified commercial pilots and other aviation experts, as she explores whether a career as a commercial pilot is suitable for her.

    Ms I Hall [Deputy Headteacher]

     

    "This year, I had the fantastic opportunity to take part in the Fantasy Wings programme at Queen Mary University of London. It was a brilliant experience that allowed me to meet students from different schools, make new friends and learn more about university life. Throughout the programme, I took part in a range of workshops and activities that helped me develop important skills such as teamwork, communication and confidence.

    One of the highlights was learning from university students and professionals who shared their experiences and gave us advice about future education and career opportunities. Visiting the university campus also gave me a real insight into what higher education is like and inspired me to think more about my future goals.

    Overall, Fantasy Wings was a rewarding and memorable experience that helped me grow in confidence and develop valuable skills. I am very grateful to the Fantasy Wings team, Queen Mary University of London and Heston Community School for giving me this opportunity. It is an experience I will always remember and one that has encouraged me to aim high and make the most of future opportunities."

     

    Read More

  • New Teaching Space for Inclusion - The Pod

    Published 22/10/26

    The Inclusion Team are delighted to have a new teaching space and office for our Deputy SENDCo, Mrs A Andhee. The Pod is being used for small group study support lessons and interventions by our inclusion team.  Students and staff have commented on how clean and bright the pod is and only a short walk from our other teaching spaces. Mrs Andhee has been making The Pod feel homely by the addition of her plants and specialist lighting. 

    Read More

  • New Sixth Form Centre

    Published 20/10/26

    The new Sixth Form Centre offers an organised and supportive space where students can work independently and make good use of their study time.

    Staff are able to provide guidance and maintain a positive working atmosphere, with suitable facilities and academic materials available. The new Sixth Form Centre has 32 computers and can seat an additional 18 students using their own laptops or resources to study.

    Students have responded positively, particularly valuing the improved setting, modern equipment and greater opportunity to study without interruptions.

    Mr R Andhee [Associate Assistant Headteacher / Head of P16]

    I personally like the new Sixth Form Centre as it has many qualities that help students focus on completing their work and feeling in a more comfortable area. I think this is because the new Sixth Form Centre gives a quieter and calmer environment, which makes it easier to focus on and complete the work that I am doing. It creates a mature atmosphere for many students, encouraging them to work harder and not to lose focus. The new computers also play a big part in the reasons why the new Sixth Form Centre is good. This is because they are faster and more efficient, making it easier to research and use them for coursework and more. I think the new Sixth Form Centre is very efficient, has improved focus on work and offers a more comfortable and productive environment for others. [SK 13B]

    As Year 13 students, we feel more pressure than we ever have in our academic lives. Because of this, we try to have the least number of distractions. This has been possible with our new Sixth Form Centre. With a Year 13-only area, we can revise in a more controlled environment, as there are significantly fewer people. It is furnished with an array of brand-new computers ready for students' use, as well as tables for students to use their own devices. There is always at least one teacher in the room to resolve any issues, keep behaviour in check, and to support the students when needed. There are plenty of resources available for students across all subjects, such as textbooks and whiteboards, and teachers are kind enough to collect print-outs to minimise students becoming a distraction to others. [AV 13D]

    Read More

  • Action Break Silance

    Published 20/10/26

    Our Year 12 and 13 students attended an inspiring workshop led by Action Breaks Silence Team, exploring how education can help prevent violence against women and girls. They learnt about the charity’s work in primary schools, teaching children about personal safety, respect and healthy relationships. The session highlighted the importance of raising awareness from an early age while empowering young people to become confident advocates for positive change. Our students will embark on a series of workshops to train on delivering assemblies in primary schools to bring awareness of violence against women. [ZB 12D]

    I enjoyed the workshop, and found it quite insightful, hearing about how the organisation makes a difference in educating young people regarding violence against women, and the reality of what many women face all over the world. I liked hearing about how the organisation visits primary schools, delivering a range of workshops, such as self-defence, and I feel it would really impact people's perception of the seriousness of these issues. By educating people from an early age, I feel, we can create a future where there is more awareness, and understanding towards women, helping to make a difference in the future. [IK 12F]

    Action Breaks Silence is a charity based on educating and empowering young people to become more aware and challenge violence against women and girls. It works on a scheme of programmes that range from giving in-person workshops to Year 5 students, to defence classes for Year 6 students and above. It's a great opportunity to help young people recognise abuse, violence and discrimination against such a vulnerable group of people. [AO 12F]

    The Action Breaks Silence workshop demonstrated the organisation's enthusiasm in raising awareness of violence against women. The idea of sending young students, that are trained and helped by the organisation, to primary schools and teaching them about the day-to-day violence that occurs around the world is not only helpful for primary school students but also the students themselves. They build confidence skills, speaking in front of an audience, as well as communication skills through their ability to teach the children about the organisation's principles. Overall, the workshop helps spread awareness of something that is silenced around the world.

     

    Read More

  • Royal Geographical Society

    Published 20/10/26

    As part of our A-Level Geography course, we study a unit on the coasts and later in the year we will visit Slapton in Dorset to carry out our NEA.  When we were notified that the Royal Geographical Society [RGS] in London was holding a school's lecture about the Slapton sands gravel barrier system and the recent storms that took place there in January 2026, we knew it was an opportunity not to be missed.  The visiting lecturer, Professor Gerd Masselink from Plymouth University, gave us a first hand account of the changes that were happening to the area, why they were happening and, for me most interestingly, what types of coastal management strategies should be put in place moving forwards. Given the winter storms that the UK is experiencing are increasing in both frequency and intensity, local and national authorities are having to grapple with the question: Is Slapton sands worth saving? As Geographers, we can examine this question through different lenses. As a student in London we could argue that the money needed to protect the area could be better spent elsewhere, where it would benefit more people.  However, I have no doubt students living in the local area would have a very different view.  

    For me, this trip really helped solidify my decision to pursue a degree in Geography, as I now have a great insight into what my lectures will be like; aiding my academic journey with confidence. Overall, this opportunity has broadened my perspective on A-level geography and has enabled me to appreciate its relevance and significance in today's rapidly changing world. [ID 12A]

    Read More

  • Post 18 Transition Day

    Published 20/10/26

    For Post 18 Transition Day / UCAS Day, I was part of a group that had a lecture given by Peter Rowley from period 1 to 2. We were taught how to write a personal statement that was unique to ourselves and some common mistakes with SPAG, structure, and content that previous year 13 students have made in their personal statements. I also learned how to structure the personal statement using the new three question structure, which I found particularly useful, as it is now easier to split academic and extracurricular achievements and interests into sections. In the lecture we also learned about how lots of extracurricular and super curricular activities could link to a personal statement, like the EPQ, work experience and readings. 

    As we all had different aspirations for subjects to study at university, including Architecture, Medicine, Engineering, and Economics, Peter met with each of us individually during period 3 and 4. This was to discuss any existing activities we had undertaken to add to the personal statements and what else we could do to strengthen our applications. Since I expressed an interest in studying Architecture, Peter recommended some books that I could read to improve my understanding of Architecture history and theory, and places I could visit to see how Architecture has changed over time. This was very useful in knowing how to differentiate myself from other applicants whilst simultaneously learning more about the subject I wish to study post A-Levels. Overall, UCAS day was informative and provided me with lots of new knowledge about perfecting the personal statement and UCAS application. [KT 13E]

    Attending Post 18 Transition Day was a hugely valuable experience in preparing me for my next steps after Sixth Form. An admissions expert from Brunel University delivered an insightful talk on personal statements, giving us expert advice on how to structure our writing and portray our strengths in a way that stands out to admissions officers. We were also able to receive a talk from Uptree, which was especially helpful for those who are considering apprenticeships, as it opened our eyes to the wide range of opportunities available outside the traditional university route, and how to make ourselves competitive applicants for them. An enlightening session on student finance from a representative working at Westminster University, which clarified details that many students find confusing and intimidating.

    In addition, he gave a valuable presentation on interviews, teaching us how to present ourselves confidently and professionally. One of the most useful parts of the day, however, was the dedicated time we were given to work on our personal statements, with individuals who work in admissions from universities offering one-to-one advice. Being able to receive direct feedback from those who actually assessed the applications gave me increased confidence for my own statement and vital critiques that I was blind to, making the UCAS day an experience I will undoubtedly benefit from throughout my application. [SD 13A]

    Read More

  • Open Evening 2026

    Published 19/10/26

    On 29 September we hosted a highly successful Open Evening for prospective Year 6 families. The event welcomed a large turnout of parents and children and showcased our inclusive, ambitious culture and curriculum intent.

    We started with a warm welcome from the Headteacher and senior team, who set out our vision, values and expectations for student achievement and wellbeing.

    Guided student-led tours of the building, gave visitors first-hand experience of lessons, practical rooms and our sixth-form areas. All subject had short demonstrations across Maths, Science, DT and performing arts — pupils enjoyed interactive activities and spoke confidently about their learning.

    At the end of the evening, there was strong, positive feedback from parents about the school’s atmosphere, behaviour expectations and the very helpful guides! Several families commented on how welcome their children felt during the student tours:

    "My son really wasn't thinking about coming to Heston, but now it is his first choice".

    “This is our fourth open evening and you had the most friendly and helpful students, and the most engaging, knowledgeable and warm staff, of all of them. Please pass on my thanks to everyone – you should be extremely proud of your school. We will see you in September. "

    Ms S Jassal

    Assistant Headteacher

     

    On 29 September, I joined my new friends at school for a football session with the PE department. We were very excited and couldn't wait as this was not a normal football session. It was for Open Evening, so we all knew that we would see our siblings and younger friends in Year 6, wanting to join our school. The experience of representing the school was amazing, and we were laughing and cheering like it was a real match against another school.  We played mini-matches between ourselves, and we had dribbling drills which were really fun. We also were able to play on the AstroTurf so we didn't have to stop in the rain. When the session came to an end, we were all talking nonstop about it. [TH 7Y]

     

    Heston Community school recently had its first open evening for this year. I got a great opportunity to represent the School as a tour guide. It was so much fun to talk about my experiences and answer any questions about the School and what it is like to be a Hestonian.

    It was also interesting to see the teachers contributing and talking about the subjects they teach and what the future Year 7s would be learning. They put together a variety of displays and activities throughout the evening.  I can remember Miss Bahra, the Drama Teacher, engaging with the prospective students by playing splat with them, which created a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

    Overall, the open evening was well-structured and successful and was an amazing opportunity for me. The evening was beneficial for the families to learn what Heston Community school is all about. [SS 8R]

     

    Being selected to guide prospective families and students around Heston Community School on Open Evening was a privilege and an experience which boosted my confidence. Taking parents and children around to each department gave them a brief insight of what our school community has to offer. I talked about my experiences, the array of enrichment clubs and the extremely helpful staff, who help you to settle in quickly. I explained our Hestonian Values and their importance as well as the topics being covered in Year 7. It was great to see the visiting pupils taking part in the interactive activities, playing sports and engaging in practical science experiments.

    Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and took pride in representing our school. I was pleased to meet potential families, and this opportunity allowed me to display my leadership skills. [SG 8Y]

     

     

     

    Read More

  • Hengistbury Head

    Published 19/10/26

    Our Geography trip to Hengistbury Head was a great chance to experience the coast ourselves. After spending two and a half hours travelling, we finally arrived at Hengistbury Head. Although the journey was pretty long, the location was easily accessible, giving us plenty of time to investigate when we arrived.

    The purpose of our trip was to answer our question: 'To what extent does beach width vary?' For this we had to investigate beach width alongside longshore drift whilst exploring the different coastal managements.

    For the beach width, we measured the width at 50 meter intervals, collecting data which we compared later. For investigating longshore drift, we used an orange. We threw it into the sea and timed it for one minute to see how far it travelled. This gave us a practical way of seeing how sediment is transported along the coastline. As we were walking along the coastline, we explored the different types of soft engineering, including beach nourishment, which is adding extra sand/pebbles to the coastline when the natural sand has been eroded by the waves. We also looked at different types of hard engineering, including groynes and gabions. Groynes help trap sediment from longshore drift while gabions were cages filled with rocks, protecting the coast from erosion. 

    Overall, the trip was an enjoyable and useful experience, giving us the opportunity to collect our own primary data and see the coastal management up close. [ZS Y10]

     

    Read More

  • Eton Summer School

    Published 21/09/26

    During the Eton Summer School Preparation Course, I was fortunate to be part of the Biology and Chemistry cohort, which gave me the opportunity to engage in a wide range of academic lectures and practical sessions. As the programme separated Biology and Chemistry into dedicated sessions, I was able to develop a deeper understanding of each subject individually, an approach that both my peers and I greatly appreciated.

    As part of the Chemistry cohort, I completed a variety of practical experiments that both expanded and challenged my understanding of the subject. These sessions pushed far beyond the scope of school-level chemistry, introducing me to new concepts and demonstrating the vast possibilities within the field. Learning how to carry out practical investigations safely and effectively, while also exploring the complex scientific principles behind them, provided a valuable insight into what studying Chemistry at university might be like.

    The Biology sessions combined theoretical learning with hands-on practical work. Two particularly memorable activities were a whole-body rat dissection and a bull’s eye dissection. Gaining first-hand experience of anatomy while simultaneously learning about the structure and function of different biological systems was both fascinating and unforgettable, despite the awful smell. Exploring topics such as immunisation, antibodies, and human anatomy introduced me to medical terminology and processes in greater depth, further strengthening my enthusiasm for pursuing Medicine at university.

    While studying at Eton itself may remain out of reach for students of a similar background [annual fees of over £63,000!], participating in the Summer School Preparation Course was an eye-opening and rewarding experience. Throughout the week, I felt welcomed into a genuine academic community. The town-centre campus, combined with the enthusiasm and expertise of the teachers, created an environment that was both intellectually stimulating and thoroughly enjoyable. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking to broaden their academic horizons and gain a taste of university-style learning.

    Prem [Y13] 

    Read More

  • Year 7 Induction Day

    Published 21/09/26

    On induction day, we first had an assembly about all the things the teachers expect us to do in different scenarios and the school values. After that, we had a tour of the whole school so we would know where to go for a break and lunch or lessons. We went back to our classroom where we sat and introduced ourselves. Then we did some CAT tests to see how good our knowledge was on patterns we ended the day with receiving our planners and writing our timetables into our planners. The day and activities helped us to feel prepared for Monday and onwards to make a good start in Year 7. 

    Alissa -  Year 7

    On the first day, we met our tutors and learned how to use the canteen at lunchtime. After lunch, my tutor showed us our classrooms and took us on a tour of the school. Back in class, he explained how to find our lessons in the three main buildings; Sutton, Osterley and Hogarth. We learned that G means ground floor, F means first floor and S means second floor. I now feel more confident about finding my classes.

    Shrihas - Year 7

     

    Read More

Page 1

Archive

Cookie Policy