Alongside these modelled discussions, students also had a secret mission... to send their thanks and gratitude to male members of staff. Within just a week of sharing the Form, we had over 420 student responses! The response was phenomenal, each reflecting the profound impact these staff members have on students’ learning, confidence, and enjoyment of school life. All these were printed and created into postcards for all staff, alongside a whole school postcard for all male staff thanking them for their invaluable contribution to the life, work, passion, and excellence of the school. 

Some highlights include... 

In Maths, Mr Hughes was thanked for supporting students “through the whole of last year and this year,” while Mr Mirnateghi made lessons “super enjoyable.” Mr Murray inspired students to “study very well and raise my grades,” and Mr Quinn was praised for “giving me confidence in lessons I previously struggled with.” In languages, Mr Kennedy helped students develop a love of Spanish: “Thank you so much for supporting my love of Spanish. Gracias!” Meanwhile, in Science, Mr Winfield was celebrated for making biology “enjoyable and engaging,” and Mr Riches made chemistry “fun and immensely interesting.”

Students also recognised the dedication of staff beyond the classroom. In PE, Mr Melling’s coaching was described as “fantastic and interactive, making football and fitness genuinely exciting,” while Mr Taplin was praised for improving students’ cross-country and athletic skills. Music technology and IT also featured prominently, with Mr Jackson helping students explore their love of music and Mr Jeffery ensuring IT ran smoothly: “Thank you for making IT at the school so wonderful… even when we forget our passcodes!” Mr Turner was also thanked for his work in IT, and technicians like Mr Lane and Mr Perkin were celebrated for their hands-on guidance in sports and technical subjects.

Form tutors and inclusion staff received heartfelt appreciation for their care and support. Mr Kneeshaw was recognised for creating “a safe and welcoming environment, always helping us understand the content,” while Mr Wharton was called “my absolute favourite teacher of all time” for his guidance and kindness. Mr Lagdon was thanked for supporting students in both Inclusion and PE: “Hello Mr Lagdon, thank you for all your work in school… it is appreciated by all of us.”

Students also reflected on the inspiration and mentorship they receive every day. In DT, Mr Osborne and Mr Samples were praised for helping students feel comfortable and confident, while Mr Rodger in English was recognised for being “as kind and genuine to his students as anyone could be.” Mr Pateman in History received accolades for his humour and encouragement: “Sir is really kind and funny and is always up for a quick joke.” Across the school, staff foster resilience, curiosity, and a love of learning, helping students rise to challenges and develop both academically and personally.

While it is impossible to name every man in this bulletin, all staff should be proud of the contributions they make. Their passion, humour, dedication, and support inspire students to achieve, explore, and enjoy school life to the fullest. On behalf of students and colleagues alike, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone for their incredible work and commitment to the NSB community.

 

Many congratulations to Avantika Singh (Year 12) who has been selected to be the Regional Head Organiser for the Youth Parliament takING place at Aston University on March 13th 2025, which is an outstanding achievement. Michał Wojcik 11S and Kyla Mpofu 12H have also been heavily involved in the Youth Parliament and the West Northamptonshire Youth Counsellors team helping to run a recent Young Citizens Day which supported young people in staying safe online. Kyla and Michal also were an integral part of the NAYC Annual Youth Awards Evening which was a fantastic celebration of the dedication, achievements and positive impact made by young people across our community.

The school is incredibly proud of the positive impact all three students are having in the local community. One of the young people nominated for an award at the Male Role-Model Awards was Jakub Wojcik whose older brother Michal Y11 recently won the Northants Young Hero of the Year. Jakub's exceptional citation is given below:  

 

The November Science journal is out, which again emulates previous issues in being a wonderful example of inspirational student creativity! Mrs Bradley-Brophy reports:

 Once again I am blown away by the time, effort and quality of this issue!

 The Team has asked for readers of the Journal to consider the following message:

"First and foremost, we would like to extend the biggest thank you to Miss Adabale. Her support, advice and ideas were vital to the completion of the edition and the gratitude we have for her attentive role in the production of the journal is immeasurable. We would also like to thank both the Science and Maths departments of Northampton School for Boys for their enthusiasm in the recruitment of our new cohort of writers,  without whom this edition would’ve never been published.

It has been an honour to work alongside an amazing new cohort of writers under the support of the most fabulous subject editors. The contributions of the editorial and writer teams are highly commended for their respect, hard work and impeccable research on topics to explore the impact of some of the greatest scientific individuals and appreciation of STEM within black heritage. Congratulations to Wilfred Peck (Year 7) and Ummur Ali (Year 11) for their winning essays on this year’s Black History Month Science Essay Competition!"

 

 

A highlight of the NSB sporting week has been a fantastic win by the NSB Girls Tennis Team in the National Cup. Mr Websdale, Team Coach, reports:

On Tuesday, NSB's girls tennis team made a winning debut against d'Overbroeks, Oxford. Hattie Kendrick, Lucy Barr and Summer Maradzika gave NSB an early lead by each winning their singles matches. Madeleine Gowler fell just short after playing with great skill and effort in a highly competitive match. The overall tie looked like it was heading for a Tie-Break shootout until Hattie and Lucy rallied from 4-0 in their final set to win 7-5 and give NSB the overall victory. The girls will now be drawn in the Regional play-offs for a shot at reaching the National finals in February. A brilliant overall performance by the entire team!

 

There were also good wins in respective National Cups for the U18 and U14 rugby teams (the U18s now move into the Quarter Finals), the U17 and U14A  Basketball Teams, the U18 Water Polo Team and the U12A, U12B, U14B and U14A football teams.

 

A reminder that tickets for our wonderful Christmas Concert and equally entertaining Staff Panto are currently on sale. It's also the perfect time to be considering NSB merchandise on Christmas lists!

 

Richard Bernard

Headteacher