Annwyl bawb

Today marks the start of study leave for Year 11 and Year 13, so the school building abounds with farewells, shirt signing, photos… including a Year 11 leavers video from staff, featuring Mr Owen as ‘Ken’. We wish all of our leavers the very best in their future endeavours. Year 13 head off into the wider world to a wide range of exciting next steps, whether that be university, apprenticeship, employment, travel, or something else entirely. For Year 11, the majority will go onto our Sixth Form here, and others will head to college, apprenticeships or employment.  Pob lwc, bawb!

I was very grateful to parents and carers who attended our Smartphone Strategy working party at the start of this week. Our discussions have helped inform planning for next steps, and further information about our developing approach on this will be shared in future newsletters.

You will see further down this newsletter that the Lower School Show has been announced - Newsies JR. Tickets always sell fast, so please do book early in order to see this fantastic show. I have caught a few glimpses of rehearsal, and it is shaping up to be a very high-quality production indeed - exactly as you would expect from our magnificent Performing and Expressive Arts team.

All the best to you all over the forthcoming half term break. 

Hugo Hutchison
Headteacher

Recently Evie Andrews (Year 7) competed in the World Championships in France on her pony Milly. She competed against 24 other children, all under 12, from across the world and happened to be the only competitor in Wales in the whole competition.

Evie won and is now the U12 World Champion.

A brilliant achievement, Evie (and Milly), well done.

Ben Hopkins-Firth plays Rugby Union for Croesyceiliog who have made it to the semi-finals at the Centre of Sporting Excellence in Ystrad Mynach, three years in a row, being defeated twice.

In this year's semi-finals, they knocked Pontypool United out with a 47-15 win taking them into the Dragons Cup Finals which is played at Rodney Parade, home of the Dragons' rugby team.

Sunday 18th May saw Croesyceiliog U14s take on Blaenavon U14s, a strong opposition, but Croesyceiliog came out on top, winning 17 - 10 and are now Dragons Cup Winners ! 

Ben played the full match, was the main ball carrier and played an absolute blinder of a match.  Well done Ben, an amazing win for the team.

Ava Powell, Year 11, received Player of the Year for the second consecutive year for the U16s South East Wales County netball squad.

The team, captained by Ava, were undefeated in their tournament in Bangor against all the other counties in Wales earlier in the year.

The coaches commented on Ava’s passion and determination on the court, and that she has been a very supportive captain this year.

Ava continues to play and train with the Wales U17s netball squad in her pursuit of one day becoming a professional netball player.

Well done Ava.

Congratulations to Sixth Form student Holly Bisson, who has been awarded sponsorship from the local Rotary District to be a delegate at the World Affairs Seminar on “Peacebuilding: Creating Lasting Change” at Carroll University in Wisconsin USA in June. She had a tough interview process, up against students not only from this region, but from the west of England too. 

The World Affairs Seminar brings together peers from around the world to learn international relations and develop skills in diplomacy, communication and cooperation. Holly continues what is now an MCS tradition as we have had successful applicants for the Seminar for the last five years - a brilliant achievement against stiff competition. We look forward to bringing you an update from Holly at the end of June.

Another busy weekend playing tennis for Max Swayne - this time down in Bideford, Devon.

Max played in a Mens Open Regional Grade 3 Tournament at the ARC Indoor Racquet Centre. He managed to beat the 2^nd seed who was ranked 30 places higher than him in the semi-finals, then played  the 1^st seed in the final who was 5 years older than him and much higher ranked.

Max played well but sadly could only take 2 games off him. However, a great result, which will help move Max up the rankings into the top 70 in the UK for 16U!  Well done, Max.

Tickets are now on sale for Newsies JR. at Monmouth Comprehensive School – a high-energy, feel-good musical packed with heart, humour, and headline-worthy performances!

Show Dates:
Monday 7th July – Thursday 10th July 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Venue: School Hall, Monmouth Comprehensive School

Starring our talented Year 7 to 9 students, this dynamic production brings the Broadway hit to life in a junior version filled with rousing songs, spirited choreography, and an inspiring story of young voices rising up and making a difference.

Don’t miss your chance to see the newsboys seize the day!

Book your tickets now and support the incredible work of our young cast and crew.
www.ticketsource.co.uk/monmouth-comprehensive-school

Let’s Talk Community Safety – Have your say today

Monmouthshire Community Safety Partnership is seeking your views to help them better understand the needs and concerns of Monmouthshire communities.

The Community Safety Survey is live and will remain open until 31 May 2025.

This is your opportunity to help shape a safer Monmouthshire. Whether it’s concerns about anti-social behaviour, road safety, or community resources, your feedback will guide future improvements.

Three surveys are available:

• Community members: For anyone who lives in Monmouthshire
• Businesses: For business owners who operate in Monmouthshire
• Young people (Under 18): For our younger residents who live in Monmouthshire (Primary and Secondary schools)
  
  Take part online: letstalkmonmouthshire.co.uk/community-safety-survey
  
  Paper copies are available at community hubs, libraries, and leisure centres.

Armed Forces Day 2025 – Join the celebration at Caldicot Castle and Country Park

On Saturday, 28 June 2025, Monmouthshire will proudly host Wales’ National Armed Forces Day at Caldicot Castle and Country Park.

This free, family-friendly event will honour the contributions of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and their families.

Expect a packed programme including:

• RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team
• Fly-past by the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
• Cadets parade
• Live music and entertainment
• Food and drink stalls
• Exhibits from the Army, Navy, RAF, and Blue Light Services

• Activities for all ages

Book your free ticket today:

https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/national-armed-forces-day-2025/

Volunteer with Us!

We’re looking for volunteers to help welcome visitors, provide information, and support event logistics. Shifts are available for the whole day or in the morning only. Training and refreshments will be provided.

Sign up: Volunteer Monmouthshire