Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Yr 7 Netball Practice 12.25 - 12.55pm
**Hockey with Erica is not on this week**

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yrs 8, 9 & 10 ONLY
Drama Club 3.15 - 4.00pm - Drama Studio
Yr 7 & 8 Astroturf Football
Yr 10 Interhouse Netball 1) 12.30 - 12.45 HG v JK
                                  2) 12.45 - 1.00 JG v KH
Yr 8 Hockey Playnight @ Hawarden 3.45 - 5.30pm
Tag Rugby 3.15 - 4.15pm

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 10 Interhouse Netball 1) 12.30 - 12.45 HG v KH
                                  2) 12.45 - 1.00 LS v JK
Girls Football 3.15 - 4.15pm
Street Dance - All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Badminton Club Years 7, 8 & 9 3.15 - 4.30pm

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 7 Book Club
Yrs 9 & 10 Astroturf Football
Yr 10 Interhouse Netball 1) 12.30 - 12.45 HG v JG
2) 12.45 - 1.00 JK v KH
Yr 7 a + b Team Netball Match v Castell Alun @ Home 3.15 - 4.45pm

 Friday      

We have had various visitors to the school this week enhancing our curriculum. Theatre Clwyd visited some of our Year 9 pupils - an event enjoyed by all who took part.

Year 8 pupils were entertained by Flintshire Music Service who provided an excellent rendition of various music items, some of which involved mass audience participation. I would like to thank all the peripatetic teachers who took part and for the positive way the pupils participated.

Year 7 pupils had a safety morning delivered by providers ranging from the Police and Fire Service to Child Line and Road Safety. I would like to thank all the people who came in to provide such excellent presentations and pupils for their active participation.

Trial examinations for Year 11 pupils start on Monday 16th November. Pupils are reminded that they are required to attend normal lessons when they do not have an exam.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Christmas Concert Tuesday 15th December
The Christmas concert is only a month away. The choir, string group, junior band and senior band will be performing.
Any students who want to contribute either as a soloist, band or stage manager should see me as soon as possible.
Many Thanks - Mr C Millard

Ahs Radio
Hi there, have you all logged on to our radio station. You can read stories about your friends, listen to interviews, and watch videos of year 11 pupils in France. But most importantly it is where you can find out what issues / points you as students have discussed with the student council. For example, did you know that there is a proposed plan to place benches under the shaded area for you to sit and have lunch, or just relax.
There are polls to vote on different topics including, the type of music you would like to hear in the canteen to what do you think of ‘JEDWOOD' from the X Factor.
There are pupil blogs to read and to keep you entertained. You can leave comments, become friends of the pupils writing the stories and you make sure you have your SAY about what you would like to see / hear or change!!
Log on to
www.radiowaves.co.uk/s/AHSradio

Library News
The winners of the Halloween Quiz were:
Year 7 - Winner: Nic Hooper 7SW; Runner-up: Lewys Taylor 7SW
Year 8 - Louise Darlington 8PSm
Year 9 - Laura King 9GN
Year 10 - Melissa Bentley 10KH
Well done to you all!

Year 7 Book Club takes place in the Library on a Thursday after school until 4pm. All year 7s are welcome.

Years 8,9 & 10 Book Club is on Tuesday 3.10 - 4pm

Governors Report To Parents
The summary of this report has been sent out with pupils today.

Calling all dancers in year 7!
Do you like dancing?
Do you want to help Children In Need and Nightingale House Hospice? Join dance class - every Tuesday at lunchtime
in the gym - 12.30 - 12.55. Only 20p per class!

Children in Need
Children in Need day is Friday 20th November. This years theme is ‘Superheroes & Villains'. We ask for a £1 contribution towards the theme of the day.
Any other tutor groups who are willing to raise money in another way will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your support - Mrs S Robins

Argoed High School Website
Argoed High School has a new website.
www.argoed-hs.flintshire.sch.uk

Year 7 & 8 Hockey
Unfortunately due to bad weather last week, the year 7 & 8 match against Mold was cancelled. This will be rearranged but only if teams are attending practices.

Year 8 & 11 Netball - The match that was due to be played against Castell Alun this week has been rearranged to Monday 7th December.

Gym Club - As the exams are still taking
place, gym club will take place afterschool
in the Sports Hall starting the week after next.

In Year 7 or 8?
Love drama?
Why not come to DRAMA CLUB on Tuesdays from 3.15 - 4pm in the drama studio??!!

Monday 

8am Revision session in library for English re-sit
Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Yr 11 - English re-sit exam, Paper 1 - P1 & 2
Yr 8 Netball Club - Lunchtime
3.15 to 4.15pm Hockey - All years
3.15pm - D of E Debrief and return of all equipment - All must attend.

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yrs 8, 9 & 10 ONLY
Yr 7 & 8 - Football on Astroturf, Lunchtime
Yr 7 - Netball Club, Lunchtime
3.15 to 4.45pm - North East Wales County Netball Trials @ Mold

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
TAG Rugby practice for Tournament 12.25 to 12.55pm
3.15 to 4.15pm - Badminton Club Yr 7, 8 & 9
3.15 to 4.30pm - Street Dance all welcome
3.15 to 4.15pm Girls Football

 Thursday   

8am Revision session in library for English re-sit
String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 11 - English re-sit exam, Paper 2 - P1 & 2
Yrs 9 & 10 - Football on Astroturf - Lunchtime
Gym Club - 12.25 to 12.55pm
3.15 to 5.30pm - TAG Rugby Tournament @ Hawarden

 Friday      

I hope that you all had a lovely half term (yes even the parents!) and that you are now rested and ready for the half term ahead.

It was a great pleasure to meet Year 11 parents last Tuesday and we are grateful for the high level of support you give us. It is a fine example of succeeding together for excellence in learning.

Examinations have been the theme for our Year 11 students this week. Some students have now sat their first actual GCSE paper in Mathematics, with the second exam taking place on the 10th November. All students should be well and truly underway with their revision as the trial exams start on Monday 16th November. Students should ensure that they are aware of all their exam times and dates. I would also remind students that they are to attend exams wearing full school uniform and that they should ensure that they have the correct equipment with them for each subject.

The new cashless system in the canteen went live this Thursday. Pupils can put money into their accounts using the machines in school or cheques can be posted in the cheque box at the canteen (made payable to Flintshire County Council with the pupils name and tutor group on the reverse). There is a daily spend amount which is currently set at £3.50, this can be altered up or down with written consent from parents. This allows you to put in an amount for the week (or longer) and gives you the piece of mind knowing that the dinner money is only spent in the canteen. Thank you to everyone for making this such a smooth transition.

Simeon Molloy
Head Teacher

Humanities Trip To Chester
All  Year 8 pupils took part in a Humanities trip to Chester before half term. Pupils carried out questionnaires, land use surveys and pedestrian counts in preparation for their work in the IT room. They also visited the Cathedral (a first for many pupils). Here they looked at the symbolism within the cathedral, wrote a poem and studied the history of the Cathedral.

The behaviour of the pupils was excellent and several members of the public stopped to comment.
Well done Year 8!

Calling all budding Morris Dancers
Sharonettes Morris Dancing Troup in Buckley are looking for new dancers to join. Places are available for girls and boys of all ages. Training is on a Thursday evening at Buckley Workingmen's Club, Lane End, 5pm ‘til 8pm, depending on the age groups.
For more information, please call Sharon on 07795565507.

Year 11 English re-sit exams
Monday 9th November-Paper 1 (Periods 1 & 2)
Thursday 12th November-Paper 2 (Periods 1 & 2)
There will be an 8.00am revision session in the library on both days.
Ms R Devine

Guide Christmas Fair

Saturday 28th November 2009
1.00pm - 4.00pm

@
The Mynydd Isa Community Centre
For Mynydd Isa Guides

 The Duke of Edinburgh Practice Expedition

The Duke of Edinburgh practice expedition that took place before half term was fantastic. Despite the cold, wind and rain, most participants kept in high spirits, with nearly all completing the trek. Pupils will be making their final expedition in March.
Thank you to all pupils and staff for their contributions. A big thank you to Mr Rodger, Miss Matthews, Mrs Guy, Mrs Williams, Miss Saby and Miss Morgan for helping and braving the elements!!
Miss Gilsenan

Netball
Congratulations to the Year 9 Netball team, who won their match against Richard Gwyn this week.
Year 10 also played and lost narrowly by 3 goals, despite an excellent performance from all.  Well done.

Year 9 Hockey
The Tournament that was due to place on Monday 9th November has been re-scheduled to Monday 23rd November, due to the pitch being re marked.

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Radio Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Art Club 3.15 - 4.00pm Yrs 7, 8 & 9
Hockey Club All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yrs 10 & 11 Rugby 3.15 - 4.15pm

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yrs 8, 9 & 10 ONLY
5X60 Yrs 7 & 8 Football - Astroturf 12.25 - 12.55pm
Yr 7 Dance Club 12.25 - 12.55pm
Yr 9 & 10 Netball training for match 12.25 - 12.55pm
Yr 9 & 10 Netball Match v Richard Gwyn @ Home 3.15 - 4.45pm
Tag Rugby Club 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yr 9 Rugby Club 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yr 11 Parent/Teacher Evening

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
5X60 Streetdance - All welcome - Lunchtime
Sports Leaders Meeting - Room 21 - 12.25 - 12.55pm
Yr 7, 8 & 9 Badminton Club 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yrs 7, 8 & 9 Hockey Practice for match 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yr 11 Rugby match v Elfed away 3.15 - 4.45pm app

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yr 7 ONLY
5X60 Yrs 9 & 10 Football Astroturf
Gym Club - All years welcome
Yrs 7 & 8 Hockey match v Mold @ Home 7-a-side 3.15 - 4.45pm
GCSE Maths Exam for all Yr11 (am)

 Friday      

Year 11 Pupils have returned from a wonderful trip to Toulouse. We have been keeping tabs on their progress through the Mfl ‘ning' website and it is clear that everyone had a brilliant time. There is nothing better for learning about language and culture than visiting the country. I would like to thank all the staff and pupils involved especially Mrs Holton for leading the trip and also our colleagues and pupils in France. I am sure that further news will follow both on the website and in the newsletter.

The Mexican day on Wednesday was a great success and I would like to thank all those pupils and staff who took the time and effort over their costumes, they were brilliant. I know that the radio group took photographs and interviewed people. Thank you to the canteen staff for the wonderful Mexican food they served and for their tremendous costumes (the fake moustaches were an excellent touch!).

Important Notice
The cashless system in the Canteen will ‘go live' on Thursday 5th November. On Monday and Tuesday of that week pupils will be registering on the system.

I wish you all a lovely and safe break (Year 11's don't forget to revise for your exams!).

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Year 10 Engineering (New Course)
I would like to say what a successful first half term my Engineers have had. Already this term, the pupils have wired a plug and started making a chain de-linker at Deeside College. In school we have disassembled and rebuilt bikes.
For the Welsh Baccalaureate part of the course pupils are planning projects with other local schools.
I am very pleased with the progress pupils have made so far and the maturity shown at college and in school .
A great start to a new exciting course! Well done!
Mrs R. Griffin

** Girls Football will restart the second week after half-term **

FOOTBALLS!
If you wish to play football at lunchtimes, you must bring your own footballs! The P.E. Department have lent out many that have been lost or not returned.

Year 9 Hockey Playnight
This is on Monday 9th November.
Those wishing to play must attend practices.

Year 11
Don't forget to revise during the holidays for your GCSE exams after half-term. Maths paper 1 is on Thursday 5th November.

My Maths Password
This has now changed. All students in Years 8 - 11 should know the new password. If you don't know it, see your Maths teacher.

Mynydd Isa Youth Club - will be open next week during half-term as usual - Monday & Wednesday 7.00 - 9.30pm.
There will be a Youth Club Open Evening on Wednesday November 4th in the Youth Wing, for parents and children to meet the Youth Club staff and see the club in action.
All years are welcome, especially years 7, 8 & 9.
Dave Butler - Mynydd Isa Youth Club

Youth Speaks
This Monday evening at the Beaufort Hotel, the finals of the Flintshire Rotary Club Public Speaking Competition took place. Teams had the daunting task of addressing a large, mainly adult audience. The Intermediate Team, who spoke movingly on the topic of gratitude will not proceed further, but the Senior Team who discussed the teaching of Shakespeare in our schools, were the Flintshire winners. They now proceed to the North Wales and Merseyside Finals.
Hope Lloyd, Katie Deyes, Shaun Dumbill, Kieron Collings, Jacob Bragg, Dominic Cawdell and Tom Blomfield were all a credit to the school.

Visiting Author
On Tuesday morning, the 3rd of November, the school is fortunate to have a second author, Dan Freedman, visiting the school. He will speak to all of Year 7 and 8 about his writing and his career as a sports journalist. Probably there will be an opportunity to buy some of his novels.

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Art Club 3.15 - 4.00pm Yrs 7, 8 & 9
Yr 9 Netball Practice
Hockey Club All Year 3.15 - 4.15pm
D of E IMPORTANT MEETING 3.15 - 5.00pm
KIT ALLOCATION
House Assembly Aer & Tan

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yrs 8, 9 & 10 ONLY
5X60 Football on Astroturf Yrs 7 & 8
Yr 7 & 8 Football 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yr 10 Netball Practice
Girls Tag Rugby 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yr 9 Netball Playnight @ Holywell 3.15 - 5.15pm
Open Day

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mexican Themed Day & Non-Uniform Day
Yr 9 & 10 Netball Match @ Home v Richard Gwyn 3.15 - 4.45pm
KS3 Badminton Club
House Assembly Daear & Dwr

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 9 & 10 Football 12.25 - 12.50pm
Staff v Pupils Netball 3.15 - 4.30pm
Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm Yr 7 ONLY

 Friday      

It was a delight to see so many prospective parents and pupils at our open evening last Tuesday. There was an immensely positive atmosphere generated by the staff and Argoed pupils and it was a brilliant showcase for the school. The comments we received from the many visitors were universally positive. Every single person I spoke to mentioned how impressed they were with the staff and pupils, especially their attitude, enthusiasm and how proud they were of the school. I cannot thank staff and pupils enough for making this such a successful evening. I would also like to say a big thank you to all those people who took the time to come and see our school.

There is another opportunity to see our school on Tuesday 20th October during the daytime. Anyone wishing to come along should ring the school office to arrange an appointment.

Year 7 pupils visited Chester Zoo as part of their science curriculum on Thursday this week. All reports back say that it was an excellent trip and a great time was had by all.
Thank you to the staff and pupils involved.

On Wednesday 21st October we are having a Mexican Theme day including Mexican food in the canteen. This is a non-uniform day with a Mexican twist.

If you are wearing non-uniform please make sure you bring in your £1.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Chester Zoo

Year 7 enjoyed their Science trip to Chester Zoo yesterday. They were all well behaved and a credit to the school! Whilst at the Zoo, pupils found information on endangered species. Over half term they will complete a science project on an endangered animal of their choice.
Many thanks to all staff who helped with the tours around the Zoo - it is very much appreciated.
H. Goodson

Lost Property
There will be a lost property day on Thursday 22nd October. Items will be placed in the Dining Room for collection.
Any unclaimed items will be sent to charities.

Music
Please forward all outstanding payments for instrumental lessons to Mrs. Sant as soon as possible.

Year 11 Leavers Hoodies - If you would like to place an order, please bring £19 into school - PLUS £7 if you would like a nickname across the back. Give the money to your House Captain along with your size requirements and the nickname you would like printed.

Dinner Credits
Dinner credits will not be available next week.
All outstanding dinner credits are to be repaid immediately.

Bicycles
All students are reminded that bikes are not to be ridden inside the school grounds at any time. Once inside the gates, students must dismount and walk with their bikes to where they leave them.
This is a health and safety issue.

Art Club
Art Club will be held every Monday 3.15 - 4.00pm for years 7, 8 & 9.
If you would like to join, please see Ms Tong as places are strictly limited.

Congratulations to the Year 7, 8 & 9 Girls Football Squad who won all but one game in their Playnight this week!

Argoed Netball v Connahs Quay Year 8 lost 25 - 2 this week to an excellent Connahs Quay squad. Year 9 drew 10 - 10 in a nail biting match!
Well done!

Street Dance will start on Wednesday November 4th in the Gym

Library News - Come to the Halloween Quiz in the Library at Lunchtime on Thursday 22nd October. Prizes for the winners of each year group.

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Yr 7 Netball Practice (for tournament) 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yrs 7, 8 & 9 Football Playnight @ C. Quay 3.15 - 5.30pm
D of E 3.30 - 4.45pm
Hockey Club All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Yr 9, 10 & 11 Rugby Training (Boys)

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
5X60 Football on Astroturf Yrs 7 & 8
Yrs 8 & 9 Netball Practice for match 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yr 7 Netball Playnight @ Castell Alun 3.15 - 5.30pm
5X60 Tag Rugby Club all years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Open Evening 6.30pm
Gym Display climbing & fitness stations 6.15 - 9.15pm
Harvest Festival Assembly

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
5X60 Streetdance ***NEW***
Yrs 8 & 9 Netball Match v C. Quay @ HOME 3.15 - 5.00pm
5X60 KS3 Badminton Club 3.15 - 4.15pm

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
5X60 Football on Astroturf Yrs 9 & 10
Yrs 8 & 9 Table Tennis Club
U14 County Netball Training 3.45 - 4.45pm

 Friday      

 OPEN EVENING

TUESDAY 13TH OCTOBER 

6.30PM

Dear Parents and Friends,

Our Key Stage 4 pupils had a super series of activities on Tuesday and Wednesday this week, aiding team building and leadership. All the students that I spoke to enjoyed this set of challenging experiences. Thank you to all the staff and pupils involved and also to the Army and Young Enterprise for their support.

Unfortunately our Key Stage 3 Moel Fammau Trip was postponed due to weather. Understandably pupils were disappointed but hopefully we will arrange an alternative event for them again.

Our Youth Speaks Intermediate and Senior Teams successfully won through to the next round of the competition this week. The standard and talent of the young people taking part in this competition has to be seen to be believed. Congratulations to the both teams and Mrs Tibbett on their quality performances.

We have some very exciting events coming up this week.

On Tuesday it is the Open Evening where we celebrate and showcase our school. I am really looking forward to meeting prospective parents and pupils on this evening as making the correct decision about your children's education is one of the key factors in their success. I appreciate the time and effort parents put into attending our open evening. Thank you.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Harvest Festival Assembly Tuesday 13th October
Please bring into school food donations which will be given to Plas Bellin, which is locally situated in nearby Northop.
Plas Bellin provides shelter for homeless families and desperately needs any dried and tinned food donations.
Please bring any items to Mrs Robins (Room 2)
Many thanks for your support. Mrs Robins

Youth Speaks
Congratulations to both the Intermediate and Senior public-speaking teams, who have won places at the district finals on the evening of Monday, the 19th October at ‘The Beaufort Park Hotel'. Both teams were a credit to the school, especially as the Senior Team, consisting of Yr 10 pupils, had to compete against sixth-formers. Well done!
M Tibbett

French Educational Visit to Toulouse
A reminder for pupils that there is a meeting for all pupils going on the trip, on Monday 12th October at 12.30 in room 4. Please bring your E111 European Health Insurance Card with you. Mrs Holton & Mrs Kelsall

Library News
The winners of the Fictional Character Drawing Competition were:
Yr 7: 1st - Daniel Pearce 7SW, Runner up - Bethan Williams 7KR
Yr 8: 1st - Josh Palmer 8JKe,
Yr 9: 1st - Jack Messiter 9DT, Runner up - Izzie Ramsey 9DT
Yr 10: 1st - Mathilda Hardstone 10KH, Runner up - Symmone Hyde 10KH
Well done! There were many wonderful entries which are now displayed in the Library. Come and have a look!

Book Club News: Book Club on Tuesday is now for Years 8, 9 & 10 only. Year 7 Book Club will be on Thursdays 3.10 - 4pm.
Monday Book Club is now full.

Year 8 Netball
Congratulations to the Yr 8 Netball Squad who played inn the County Playnight this week. They played 6 matches, winning 4 of them, drawing 1 & losing only 1
game! Well done! Miss Gilsenan
D of E The practice expedition is drawing near. All participants to attend on Monday to ensure they receive any kit that they need to borrow.

Halloween Quiz
There will be a Halloween Quiz in the Library at Lunchtime on Thursday 22nd October 2009.
Prizes for the winners of each year group!

Argoed Radio Club
Hi there all you budding radio clubbers!!!
If there is anyone who thinks they may have the right skills to be a:-
                  DJ, Broadcaster 
                  Photographer, Cameraperson
                  Interviewer,  Journalist,  Editor
Or you may have an interest of what goes on in our school?
Then we are the right club for you! Everyone welcome!
Diolch - Miss N. Matthews

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Hockey Club - All years 3.15 - 4.15pm
D of E - Bring food to cook! 3.15 - 4.45pm
Yr 10 & 11 Girls Football Tournament @ C. Quay 3.15 - 5.30pm
House Assembly - Aer & Tan

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 7 & 8 Football Turn Up & Play 12.25 - 12.50pm
Tag Rugby 3.15 - 4.15pm
Gym Club for all & practice for Open Evening 3.15 - 4.30pm
KS4 Challenge Day

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 8 Netball Practice/Meeting for Tournament
Girls Football Practice All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Badminton Yrs 7, 8 & 9 3.15 - 4.30pm
Yr 8 (a + b) Netball Playnight @ Richard Gwyn 3.15 - 5.30pm
KS 3 & 4 Challenge Day

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 10 & 11 Netball Practice 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yr 10 & 11 Netball Match @ Connahs Quay 3.15 - 5.15pm
House Assembly - Daear & Dwr

 Friday      

Dear Parents and Friends,

A new innovation is coming to Argoed High School's canteen. Following the successful use of Biometric recognition systems in several secondary schools and libraries in the County a cashless till system is being introduced. This will enable pupils to pass more quickly through the canteen reducing queues. It will also enable pupils and parents to have easier ways to pay for purchases from the canteen.

How does it work? Each pupil will have their finger scanned which produces a unique digital number code. When they purchase items from the canteen their finger is scanned and the amount is deducted from their account. You can pay into the account using a cheque (made payable to Flintshire County Council) or by cash using one of the stations. There is a daily limit on each account to make sure that pupils do not spend all the credit in one go! This limit can be increased by parents if necessary.

It is also possible to get a report from the canteen that itemises purchases made by pupils. A written request is required from parents to the canteen for this.

We are hoping the system will go live after October Half Term, we will advise of a definite date closer to the time. As with all new systems there may be some teething problems and if there are could you please bear with us.

Linked to this the Student Council is trying to raise money to create a picnic area undercover beneath the staff room. This area is linked to the canteen by a set of stairs. If anybody is keen to support us (industrial picnic tables etc.) could you please contact me at school.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

LOST
Large Black Lonsdale bag - 
Contains P.E Kit, lunch bag & various school items.
Bag is labelled 
If you know its whereabouts please see Mrs Hawkins

Public Speaking
Once again Argoed High is participating in the Rotary Club of Britain's "Youth Speaks" competition.
The Intermediate Team consists of Katie Deyes, Shaun Dumbill, Hope Lloyd and Kieran Collings, the researcher, while the Senior Team consists of Dominic Cawdell, Jacob Bragg and Tom Blomfield, who last year were finalists at the Competition for Great Britain in Somerset.
The Intermediate Team will talk on Friday about gratitude: the Senior Team will debate on Tuesday, the teaching of Shakespeare in our schools. Both events will take place at Theatre Clwyd.
We wish them well.

A reminder to all Year 11
GCSE Maths
Thursday 5th November (am)
Tuesday 10th November (am)
Please make sure you are revising/learning your Math's in preparation for the exam. Remember, you can access Bitesize and www.mymaths.co.uk to aid your revision.

GCSE English Re-sits
A reminder to those Year 11 students re-sitting their English GCSE after half term, the dates are:
November 9th Paper 1
November 12th Paper 2

J. A. Henderson
On Thursday 1st October we were lucky enough to be visited by the author J. A. Henderson. He spoke to Year 7 and Year 8 who all thoroughly enjoyed his hilarious stories.

Year 6 Science Transition Day
The Science Department held their annual transition day event with Year 6 pupils from Mynydd Isa, Sychdyn and Southdown Junior Schools. The objective of the event was to solve a fabricated murder using scientific techniques. The pupils really enjoyed all the activities and were well behaved throughout.
A big thank you to all Science staff and Mrs Eccleson for organising such a successful event. H. Goodson - Head of Science

Cake Stall
A cake stall will be held in Room 1 (Miss Nolans room) on Monday - there will also be sweets and tombola (win a priza every time!).

Oliver!
Mrs Payne has made copies of our production of ‘Oliver!'
If you would like a copy , please see Mrs Elliott.

Schools Fantasy Football League
20 teams have been registered for our school so far. See Mr Coppack for your Managers form as the league will officially start on October 17th.

Caerdydd 09
Ar Dydd Mawrth 22ail ym mis Medi, aeth 27 o blwyddyn 11 i Caerdydd gyda Miss Brown a Miss Matthews gyffrous iawn. Roedd ein antur cyntaf yn yr "Big Pit". Ar ôl y taith tywyll yn yr mwynglawdd, aethon ni i ein ail cartref, y ganolfan Urdd! Cyn un noson hwyl o bowlio deg, aethon ni i bae Caerdydd am amser cymdeithasol. Ond roedd yn mwy na roedden ni'n meddwl achos gwelon ni serenau WRU Mike Phillips, Stephen Jones a Jamie Roberts!!
Er hynny, roedd Dydd Mercher yn gorau! Mewn bod, aethon ni i canol Caerdydd. Traithon ni yr Stadiwm Mileniwm ac yna Castell Caerdydd ac yna ..... siopa!! Ar 9 o'r gloch aeth y grwp i'r sinema i gweld "Adventureland".
Ar y dydd diwedda, aeth y grwp blinedig i Ganolfan Mileniwm a'r Senedd. Roedd yn ddoniol i archwilio pel yn yr maes glanio tra yn Caerdydd on beth bynag! Roedd y trip yn ffantastig a llawn o hwyl.
Diolch yn fawr iawn i Miss Brown a Miss Matthews.

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
Yr 7 Hockey Club 12.25 - 12.50pm
Duke of Edinburgh Meeting 3.15 - 5.00pm
U16 County Netball 4.00 - 5.00pm @ Connahs Quay
Yr 7 CATS
KS3 Assembly

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
5X60 Yr 7 & 8 Football - Astroturf 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yr 7 Netball Club 12.25 - 12.50pm
Year 9 Netball Playnight @ Holywell 3.45 - 5.30pm
5X60 Tag Rugby 3.15 - 4.15pm
Football Club Yrs 7 & 8
KS4 Assembly

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Gym Club - All years - All welcome - Girls & Boys 12.25 - 12.50
Girls Football Practice All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
5X60 Yrs 7,8 & 9 Badminton 3.15 - 4.15pm

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
5X60 Football Yrs 9 & 10 Astroturf 12.25 - 12.50pm
Yr 8 Netball Club 12.25 - 12.50pm
Under 14 County Netball Trials
Yr 10 & 11 Hockey Practice for Tournament on Oct 6th 3.15 - 4.15
Football Playnight @ Maes Garmon

 Friday      

The Year 11 GCSE Art students had a fantastic trip to the Lever Art Gallery in Liverpool. This will be a springboard for success in their Art. All reports so far suggest that everybody enjoyed it. Thank you to all staff and pupils involved.

Some of our Year 11 pupils have just returned from the Cardiff Trip which was a great success. This was an excellent opportunity to explore some of our cultural heritage. I have even heard that some members of the group had their photographs taken with some famous welsh sporting heroes. Thank you to the Welsh Department and pupils involved.

A brief reminder to students that plimsoles and trainers (whatever colour) are not a substitute to school shoes.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Well done!
Well done to the Yr 7 Netball Squad who had their first game against Mold this week.
Both teams lost to strong Mold players, but all played enthusiastically and were a credit to the school.
Players can attend local (Mold or Deeside) Netball Clubs to develop skills further.
Details in School.

Young Enterprise
Please meet on Monday 28th October in the VCR room 12:40 (have lunch first).
It is important that you all attend as we shall be finalising meeting days and the company structure and name as well as some ideas for a product.

Link Teachers (AE, NM, KS, HS)

The Young People's Counselling Service
I am pleased to be able to inform you that the young people attending our school will have available the Young People's Counselling Service. It will be available, by appointment, during school hours, after school and during the school holidays. The service will also be available for young people who do not attend school.
This counselling service is a new project in Flintshire that is provided by funding from the Welsh Assembly Government. The service is based with the Educational Psychology Service but works independently. In the near future there will be publicity materials about the service, including a new website (www.flintshire.gov.uk/help4yp) where young people can look for possible sources of support for a range of issues.
If you have any queries about the service please contact the manager, Ian Spence, Principal educational Psychologist (01244 846752 or write to Educational Support Services, Queensferry Campus, Deeside, Flintshire, Ch5 1SE)

Duke of Edinburgh Award
The expedition practice walk and camp is taking place on October 23rd & 24th. All participants must attend ALL the Monday training night sessions in order for them to take part.

Can you solve this weeks Sudoku puzzle?  See the paper copy of this weeks newsletter for the solution to last weeks puzzle and this weeks new puzzles!

Autumn Term 2009

September

 1^st

 Tuesday

 Staff Day

 2^nd

 Wednesday

 Staff Day

 Thursday

October

 23rd

 Friday

 School closes for Half Term Holiday

November

 2nd

 Monday

 School opens for pupils

December

 18^th

 Friday

 School closes for Christmas  Holiday

Spring Term 2010

January

 4 ^th

 Monday

 Staff Day

 5^th

 Tuesday

 School opens for pupils

February

 12^th

 Friday

 School closes for Half Term   Holiday

 22nd

 Monday

 School opens for pupils

March

 26th

 Friday

 School closes for Easter Holiday

Summer Term 2010

April

 12^th

 Monday

 Staff Day

 13th

 Tuesday

 School opens for pupils

May

 3rd

 Monday

 May Day Holiday

 28th

 Friday

 School closes for Half Term Holiday

June

 7th

 Monday

 School opens for pupils

July

 13^th

 Tuesday

 Staff Day (Buckley Jubilee)

 16^th

 Friday

 School closes for pupils

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm
Year 7 Netball Practice
U16 & U18 Hockey Trials @ Mold 4 - 5.30pm (see Miss Gilsenan if you wish to trial)
U14 County Netball Trials @ Argoed
D of E Meeting 3.30 - 4.45pm
Mandarin 3.30 - 5.00pm
House Assembly - Daear

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 7 Netball Practice 12.25 - 12.55pm
Yr 7 & 8 ‘Turn up & Play' Football - Astroturf
Dragon Sports Meeting (Yr11)
Yr 7 (a&b) Netball Match @ Mold 3.15 - 5.00pm approx
Tag Rugby Practice (5X60)
House Assembly - Aer

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 10 Netball Practice 12.25 - 12.55pm
U16 & U18 County Hockey Trial (2nd) @ Mold 4 - 5.30pm
5X60 Yr 7,8,9 Badminton 3.15 - 4.30pm
House Assembly - Dwr

 Thursday   

String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 9 & 10 ‘Turn up & Play' Football - Astroturf
Yr 10 Netball Playnight @ Argoed 3.15 - 5.15pm approx
House Assembly - Tan

 Friday      

It was a pleasure to meet parents of Year 7 pupils last Tuesday. There were many very positive comments about our young pupils and they seem to have settled in remarkably well. For those new parents to the school we hope that this will be the start of a achieving our motto of succeeding together for excellence in learning.

This year's Student Council has now been established and is working with members of the School's Senior Management Team to enable pupils to have a voice in our school. We hope that this innovative approach will enable all in our learning community to help in the goals of continuous improvement and aspirations for all. If you would like to know more or help support the school let us know.

Connected with the Student Council is our newly reformed Argoed Radio. This is an opportunity for young people to get involved in all aspects of putting together short radio programmes from reporting to music to learning how to DJ. Hopefully this will inform and entertain all members of our community. If you are interested in being part of this exiting project please see Miss Matthews.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Year 11 Netball Playnight
Congratulations to the Year 11 Netball team who played this week. They won all but one game and all played
extremely well against tough opposition.
Well done!

Maths Club
Are you in year 7 or 8?
Do you like solving puzzles and playing Maths games?
The you should come to Maths Club?
Every Monday 3.10 - 4.00pm Room 23
All welcome!

ESDGC Committee
Calling all members of last year's Fairtrade and Eco-schools Committee! We will be holding our first meeting Monday lunchtime in S3 (12.20). We will outline this year's action plan and be deciding on dates for meetings.
NEW MEMBERS WELCOME!

Miss Saby and Mrs Williams

County Hockey Trials
Anyone who wishes to attend the County Hockey Trials, please see Miss Gilsenan before the end of the day on Friday.

Have you got all of your maths equipment?
Calculators (£4) and Maths Sets (£1) can be purchased from school. Please see your Maths teacher if you are interested.

Library Competition
Draw your favourite fictional character (by hand) for our Library Competition. Prizes for the winners of each year group!
Closing date Tuesday 29th September 2009.

There are lots of new non-fiction books in the Library this term. Titles include: The Art of the Video Game, Charles Darwin, Volcanologists, Robberies, Pets Parents Hate, and many more.

Newsletter Sudoku

Try this weeks Sudoku on your paper copy of this weeks newsletter - answers in next weeks newsletter!

Puzzle Corner ??????

Can you pair the groups of letters to make 6 words with a common theme?

IST   CAN   IGN   MOS   IEF   STU   ART   REL   VAS   AIC   DIO   DES

Monday 

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Junior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 7 Netball Trials 12.20 - 12.50pm
Yr 8 & 9 Netball Trails 3.15 - 4.15pm
Maths Club Yrs 7 & 8 3.10 - 4.00pm

 Tuesday  

Book Club 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yrs 7 & 8 Football 3.15 in Gym - Training on grass (bring boots)
5X60 Yr 7 & 8 Football - Astro turf
5X60 Girls Tag Rugby All Years 3.15 - 4.15pm
Under 14 County Netball Trials Mold Alun 4.00 - 5.00pm
Yr 7 Pastoral Evening

Wednesday  

Language Club 12.30pm Room 5
House Assembly - Aer & Tan
Choir 12.40 - 1.05pm
Senior Band 3.10 - 4.00pm
Yr 11 Netball Practice 12.20 - 12.50pm
Yr 11 Playnight @ Argoed 3.15 - 5.00pm

 Thursday   

House Assembly - Dwr & Daear
String Group 12.30 - 12.50pm
Yr 9 Football Match Playnight @ Home 3.15 - 5.15pm
5X60 Yr 9 & 10 Football - Astro turf
Yr 10 Netball Practice 12.20 - 12.50pm
Under 16 County Netball Trails 4.00 - 5.00pm @ Connahs Quay

 Friday      

I would just like to thank all pupils and staff at Argoed High School for the magnificent way this term has started. All pupils have settled straight into the school routine and I am sure we will maintain this focus on our learning. I am especially pleased with the way new pupils to the school have started with such a positive and mature attitude. It is a testament to our feeder schools and the work that we do together that ensures this smooth transition from primary to secondary. A fine example of our motto "succeeding together for excellence for learning".

Our Year 10 information evening took place last Tuesday and set out the agenda for the pupils starting their GCSE courses. We are extremely proud of our achievements at Argoed High School and it is evenings like this that promote the teamwork needed to ensure our continued success. Thank you to all the parents that attended, it was a fantastic turnout.

The Year 7 Pastoral Evening is on Tuesday this week and I look forward to meeting you at this event.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Congratulations
Congratulations to Sabrina Fortune for winning the Under 13, Girls Welsh Shot Put Championships in the summer.
Well done!

Cardiff Trip
Anyone who is owing money for the Cardiff trip please send it into school by Tuesday 15th September.
Thank You

Maths Club
Are you in year 7 or 8?
Do you like solving puzzles and playing Maths games?
The you should come to Maths Club?
Every Monday 3.10 - 4.00pm Room 23
All welcome!

Year 11 French Trip to Toulouse
Reminder - There is a meeting for all pupils going on the visit at 12.20 in room 4 on Friday 18th September.

ART
Old art sketchbooks from 2007/8 can be collected from the Art room at lunchtime 12.40 on Monday & Tuesday.

Library Competition    
Have you seen our Edward & Bella poster in the Library? Now you can design your own poster of your favourite fictional character. Draw a picture on a sheet of A4 of any character from a novel, cartoon, comic, film or animation. Sorry, no computer picture or tracings fro this competition. Prizes for the best entry in each year group. Competition closes 29th September. All entries to be given to the Librarian by this date.

Music Update

Rehearsal times are as follows:
Junior Band Mondays 3.10 - 4.00
String Group Thursdays 12.30 - 12.50
Choir Wednesdays 12.40 - 1.05
Senior band Wednesdays 3.10 - 4.00

Argoed School Fantasy Football League 2009 - 2010
The School Fantasy League will be starting very shortly and I would like to invite all students to enter a team in the league this season. As in previous years, you select a team of Premier League Players and compete against other pupils, parents and teachers from schools around the country.
To register your team, collect a managers form from Mr Coppack and enter your team via the Fantasy League Website.
I will be in assemblies next week to explain in more detail, particularly to our new Year 7 students, how the league operates.
Everyone can take part! Mr Coppack

Library News
Welcome to the new Year 7s! The Library is open every day at break, lunchtime and after school until 4pm for you to read and complete homework. Come and have a look at our great selection of non-fiction books as well as all the popular fiction titles. Its all free! Why buy Twilight when you can borrow it from the Library?
Join our Book Club on Tuesdays! We are reading The Fire-eaters by David Almond, starting Tuesday 15th September. Let the librarian know in advance if you'd like to come so that we have enough copies. The Book Club also meets on Monday, but this is only open to regular Book Club Readers. Come along on a Tuesday and we'll take it from there!

Science Trip to Paris
Just a reminder that the next instalment should have been paid by now. A letter will follow shortly confirming the overall price and the final deadline for payments. We also advise that you check that your son/daughter has a valid passport.
Many thanks.
H. Goodson

Maths - Calculators (£4) and Maths Sets (£1) can be purchased from school. Please see your Maths teacher if you are interested.

Monday 

Book Club

House Assembly - Daear

 Tuesday  

House Assembly - Aer

Wednesday  

Language Club Room 5 12.30pm

 Thursday   

House Assembly

 Friday      

It was a pleasure to welcome all our new students to the start of their first term at Argoed High School. You all looked extremely smart in your new uniforms! Year 7 photographs will be taken on Friday 11th September.

To all returning students; welcome back to school and the start of another exciting academic year. And what a start it has been! This Summer's exam results were exemplary, all indications suggest that Argoed High School is again in the Top 15 of all schools in Wales in terms of pupils attainment. The challenge for all the current students is to continue the trend of exceeding the previous years results. Indeed I have stated that I would like the results to move to over 80%. We can only achieve this if we fulfil our motto of "Succeeding Together for Excellence in Learning".

Summer 2009 GCSE Exam Results
5 or more A* - C grades   93/117   80%
5 or more A* - G grades   117 /117   100%
% boys 5 or more A* - C   49 / 64   77%
% girls 5 or more A* - C   44 / 53   83%
% A and A* Grades   151 /1260   12%
Core Subject Indicator   85 /117   73%

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all pupils, parents and staff whose hard work and dedication enabled us to be so successful this year.

In this vein can I please remind all parents of Year 10 pupils that there is a parents information evening on Tuesday 8th September.

Simeon Molloy - Headteacher

Music Update
Instrumental peripatetic lessons and school ensembles begin next week (7th September).
Please can all year seven students that were learning instruments in year 6 please check that their names are included on the noticeboards outside the music classroom. If there is a problem please let me know.
If any students would like to begin learning an instrument please see me as soon as possible for details.
Rehearsal times are as follows:
Junior Band Mondays 3.10 - 4.00
String Group Thursdays 12.20 - 12.45
Choir Wednesdays 12.40 - 1.05
Senior band Wednesdays 3.10 - 4.00

Mr Millard.

Music Update
Instrumental peripatetic lessons and school ensembles begin next week (7th September).
Please can all year seven students that were learning instruments in year 6 please check that their names are included on the noticeboards outside the music classroom. If there is a problem please let me know.
If any students would like to begin learning an instrument please see me as soon as possible for details.
Rehearsal times are as follows:
Junior Band Mondays 3.10 - 4.00
String Group Thursdays 12.20 - 12.45
Choir Wednesdays 12.40 - 1.05
Senior band Wednesdays 3.10 - 4.00

Mr Millard.

Congratulations
Well done to the following students for passing
Associated Board Music Exams:
Rhian Whitehead
Emma Pottle
Lucy Hoban
Sian Singleton
Please collect your certificates from Mr Millard.

Reminder
A reminder to all Yr 10 Parents. The Year 10 Information Evening will be held on Tuesday 8th September at 7pm.

French Educational Visit to Toulouse
Could all pupils going on the visit please bring in their passport as soon as possible so that we can photocopy the information page for the Advanced Passenger Information form required for the air tickets.

Thank You. Mrs K Holton

School Calendar 2009 - 10

Autumn Term 2009      
September      1st Tuesday           Staff Day
                        2nd Wednesday    Staff Day
                        3rd Thursday         School open to pupils
October           23rd Friday            School closes for Half-Term holiday
November       2nd Monday           School opens for pupils
December       18th Friday            School closes for Christmas Holiday

Spring Term 2010      
January          4th Monday            Staff Day
                       5th Tuesday           School opens for pupils
February        12th Friday             School closes for Half-Term holiday
                       15th Monday          Staff Day
                       16th Tuesday         Staff Day
                       22nd Monday         School opens for pupils
March             26th Friday             School closes for Easter Holiday

Summer Term 2010      
April                12th Monday        Staff Day
                        13th Tuesday       School opens for pupils
May                   3rd Monday        May Day Bank Holiday 
                        28th Friday           School closes for Half-Term holiday
June                  7th Monday        School opens for pupils
July                  13th Tuesday      Staff Day (Buckley Jubilee)
                         16th Friday          School closes for Students

Monday 

 Tuesday  

Staff Day

Wednesday  

Staff Day

 Thursday   

School Opens today for pupils

 Friday      

This afternoon we will be reflecting on what a fantastic year it has been at Argoed High School, with concerts, superb drama productions, sporting achievements a brilliant Eisteddfod, a fantastic Strawberry Prom and last but not least an excellent Estyn Inspection. However, most important is today's celebration of our pupil's achievement and effort. I am really proud of all our students. All of this could not be done without the effort that staff, pupils, parents and the community put in. Thank you to everyone - a real example of succeeding together for excellence in learning.

This year is memorable in another way: we have three members of staff leaving Argoed High School. Helen Kimber is moving on to be second in Maths in Cardiff. Jeanette Rock has been head hunted by the local authority and will be instrumental in the development of their inclusion service. And finally, Lyn Payne will be retiring, she has lead the English Department for several years and has been inspirational in developing this area of the curriculum and for producing so many fantastic theatrical performances.
One thing that connects them all is their dedication to our school and its pupils. I have spoken to many people, colleagues past and present, pupils past and present, and it has been wonderful to have heard such affection and appreciation for all they have achieved over their time here. I can only add my thanks to such a long list and hope you will join me in wishing them best wishes for the future.

A couple of reminders; in September it will be compulsory to wear your school sweatshirt again and school starts for pupils on the Thursday 3rd September.

Finally, may I wish you all a wonderful and safe summer.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

Many congratulations to Mr. Richard Markey, winner of the Argoed High School Football Fantasy League 2009. Mr. Markey is the first parent winner of the league narrowly beating Mr. Smith (Staff) into second place and Harry Carter Year 8 into third. I hope everyone who participated in the league this year enjoyed the competition and we have registered the school for the 2009/2010 season this term so prepare your team for September.

Young Enterprise
On Monday, the young enterprise group, Performance, went to the launch of next years competition. They performed their presentation in front of local business men/women to show what is capable of people in Young Enterprise. The night went very well and we would like to thank everyone involved. Performance would also like to thank all the teachers who helped them get to the Welsh final. Thank you!

H.S.A Summer Raffle
Thank you to all friends and family who bought raffle tickets. The winner of the £100 prize is Dennis Mukchy. All prize winners will be notified.
Thank you
J. Grice

Library News
The year 7 Creative Writing Workshops held in the Library on Wednesday 15th July 2009 were a great success. Published author Ms Patricia Burton guided our Year 7 through the process of creating believable characters in fiction. Using her second novel Time-Sett to illustrate her techniques, Ms Burton took us into the mysterious world of 12 year old Todd. Students and staff had an extremely enjoyable and informative day. Ms Burton fundraises for the Mahalapye Daycare Centre in Botswana, for children orphaned by AIDS, and we were able to present her with a cheque for £50 for this cause.

County Athletics results Year 7 & 8
Year 7 Girls 4th
Year 7 Boys 6th
Year 8 Girls 3rd 71 points (only 5 points off 1st!)
Year 8 Boys 4th
Well done to all the teams who competed. The year 8 girls were very close in the top 3!

Dear Parent,
By the time we return from the summer holiday break, all the evidence suggests that flu will be circulating in our communities and we will expect to see cases in the school.
Please remember that if your child is ill with flu-like symptoms, you must keep them at home until they are fully recovered. Siblings and other household members who are well can continue to come to school.
With swine flu circulating within the community, public health advice states that closing the school will not help to slow down the spread of the virus as people could still be exposed outside the school.
Equally, over the summer, many children will enjoy various activities and holiday clubs. As is usual practice, if they become ill, they should not attend until they are fully recovered.
Symptoms of flu include a fever, cough, sore throat, aching muscles, sneezing, fatigue, runny nose and lack of appetite. Some people with swine flu have also reported vomiting and diarrhoea.
For most children swine flu is a mild illness. However, if you think you or your child may have flu and want to check the symptoms call the Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513513. If you are still concerned contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 4647.
Everyone can play their part in reducing the spread of flu by practicing good hygiene:
Washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people
Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
Making sure children follow this advice
I hope this helps to clarify the position regarding all schools in Wales and for our school in particular.
Yours sincerely

S Molloy
HeadTeacher

Monday 

 Tuesday  

SCHOOL CLOSED - BUCKLEY JUBILEE

Wednesday  

 Thursday   

Interform Cricket 7PSm v JKe
Climbing Club TBC 3.15 - 4.30pm

 Friday      

Mandarin 3.20pm
Interform cricket 7JKe v VB

PLEASE NOTE
17th July
School closes today for the summer break
School will re-open for pupils on Thursday 3rd September

As I write this newsletter some fantastic events are taking place: The Eisteddfod Ysgol Uchwradd Argoed and Year 6 Induction Day. Many competitions have already taken place but today is the real celebration of all the different aspects of an Eisteddfod, from dance and music to recitation and poetry. The sight of all the Houses in their colours and banners was tremendous - more next week. I hope the year 6 pupils enjoy their day and time watching the Eisteddfod.

Last week saw the final production led by Mrs Payne and what a production it was! Mrs Payne told me when the production was in its infancy, that she wanted to go out on a ‘high', and that is exactly what she did. ‘Oliver' was a tremendous success, a brilliant example of succeeding together and a demonstration of the teamwork and talent at Argoed High School. Thank you to Mrs Payne , the staff and pupils involved.

On Wednesday 15th we are holding a non-uniform day with a French theme to celebrate Bastille Day. For pupils who come in non-school uniform there will be a charge of £1.

Next week is the final week of school and we are open for pupils Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Simeon Molloy
Headteacher

URGENT - CAST OF OLIVER!
RETURN OF SCRIPTS/VOCAL SCORES/COSTUMES
If you have not returned any of the above items, please do so on Monday July 13th at the latest.

FUN ATHLETICS
Any Year 7 or 8 pupils who would like to take part in the
‘Fun Athletics' evening please turn up on Wednesday after school.

Yr 8 Rounders
Congratulations to the year 8 squad who played Connahs Quay and won 20 - 12.5. Well done!

Mountain Biking August 29th
Anyone interested in ENDURO Mountain Biking in Snowdonia, please give names to Mr Smith next week.
Summer Rides over the summer - please see Mr Rodger.
 

Year 7 Rounders
Congratulations to the Year 7 rounders squad who are
County Playnight Champions after winning all of their games on Tuesday - Well Done!
The squad: Bethan Davies, Megan Banks, Emily Davies, Kerry Brockley, Meilian Li, April Tasker, Emma Fox, Jessica Day, Annette Roberts & Rowena Griffiths.
Miss Gilsenan.

Strawberry Prom
The Strawberry Prom will be held on Thursday July 16th at 7.00pm.
Tickets are now available from reception
£5 adults, £4 concessions.

Dinner Credits
Dinner Credits will not be available next week - 13th - 17th July. All outstanding dinner credits are to be repaid immediately.

Appeal from the Science Department!
The Science department would be very grateful if you could send in any ball dispensers from washing powders or fabric conditioner bottles. Many thanks!

Congratulations

Tom Blomfield has won a place in the National Youth Orchestra for Wales.
Congratulations Tom on this fantastic achievement: the Music
department is extremely proud!

Strawberry Prom (Summer Concert)
Rehearsals Thursday 16th July
Periods 1 & 2 Choir
Periods 3,4 & 5 Whole Concert run through - choir, junior band, string group, senior band, soloists.
Please note - there will be NO rehearsals for the choir or senior band on Wednesday 15th July.

**Argoed Sports Stars**
Congratulations to James Moore who took part in the welsh Schools Golf Championships this week in South Wales. He finished 24th out of a field of 64 which is an excellent performance out of the whole county! Well Done!

Congratulations also to former pupil Gavin Williams who graduated from SD in 2007, and makes his debut tonight for Warrington Wolves Rugby Club.
Good luck and well done!