Letter to Parents: Exciting Changes to the School Day at Outwood Academy Hindley
Dear Parents/Carers,
I am writing to you today with exciting news about an important development in our school day at Outwood Academy Hindley. As part of our commitment to ensuring every student receives an exceptional education that prepares them for success in life, we are introducing a revised school day structure that will be in place from January 2026.
The most significant and beneficial change is the introduction of a dedicated, substantial Personal Development (PD) programme every morning. This initiative is designed to provide your child with essential life skills, broaden their horizons, and offer targeted academic support outside of their core subject lessons.
The New Morning Personal Development Programme
This new programme is not just extra time; it’s high-quality time focused on holistic growth. The benefits for your child will include:
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Renewed Focus on Personal Finance: We'll be dedicating time to teaching practical personal finance skills, ensuring students understand budgeting, saving, and the basics of financial responsibility. This is a crucial life skill for their future independence.
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Discussion and Debate with Votes for Schools: Students will engage in current affairs, citizenship, and ethics through the excellent Votes for Schools programme. This encourages lively discussion and debate on topical issues, helping students develop critical thinking, communication, and informed opinions in a structured environment.
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An Exciting Programme of Reading: Promoting literacy remains a cornerstone of our success. The new structure will include dedicated time for a diverse and engaging reading programme that fosters a love of literature, improves comprehension, and builds a rich vocabulary.
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Outwood Futures: Renewed Careers Provision: This dedicated time will include our new Outwood Futures provision, offering regular, structured sessions focused on careers education, options after school, and pathways to further study and employment. We are committed to inspiring and guiding every student toward a fulfilling future.
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Targeted KS4 Maths and English Mentoring: For our students in Key Stage 4, this time will also be used for additional, targeted mentoring in Maths and English. This essential support will help to consolidate learning, address specific gaps, and build confidence ahead of their important examinations.
The New School Day Timings (Effective January 2026)
We have adjusted the school day slightly to accommodate this vital new programme. Please note the new timings below:
Part of the Day | Time
Personal Development Mentoring | 8:35 - 9:05
Period 1 | 9:05 - 10:05
Period 2 /Break 25 minutes | 10:05 - 11:30
Period 3 | 11:30 - 12:30
Period 4/Lunch 30 minutes | 12:30 - 14:00
Period 5 | 14:00 - 15:00
Enrichment | 15:00 - 15:30/16:00
We are confident that these changes will significantly enhance the educational experience at Outwood Academy Hindley, delivering a curriculum that is both academically rigorous and rich in essential life skills.
We thank you for your continued support as we prepare to launch this exciting new chapter. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs J Norman
Principal, Outwood Academy Hindley