HGS Celebrated Nationally for Pioneering Cyber Security Education with CyberFirst Silver Award

We are delighted to announce that the Computing Department has been awarded the prestigious CyberFirst Silver Award by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This national accolade recognises our innovative approach to cyber security education and our unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of digitally literate, cyber-aware leaders.

The CyberFirst programme, developed by the NCSC (part of GCHQ), is designed to identify and nurture young people with potential in cyber security. It provides structured, inclusive pathways into one of the UK’s most vital and fastest-growing industries. The Silver Award affirms our success in embedding cyber security across the curriculum and in delivering transformative learning experiences that extend well beyond the classroom.

“In a world shaped by rapid digital transformation, it’s not enough for young people to simply use technology, they must understand it, challenge it, and be empowered to shape it for good,” said Mr King, Head of Computing.

This recognition further strengthens the school’s reputation as a forward-thinking, future-ready institution, dedicated to equipping pupils with the knowledge, confidence, and ethical grounding to thrive in the digital age.

Mr Hawkins and Mr King would like to thank everyone who contributed to the whole-school accreditation process. We look forward to building on this success, broadening participation, deepening our impact, and inspiring even more students to become confident, responsible, and capable digital leaders.

Dear Parents and Carers,

Yesterday, as a school we paid our respects to our much-loved colleague Harvinder Rayet who sadly passed away at the start of May at the age of 58. Students in Years 9, 10 and 12 lined either side of Grove Lane outside of the school and applauded as the funeral procession went past the school as a mark of respect. Our students conducted themselves with great maturity and compassion, and we are incredibly proud of the way they honoured Mrs Rayet’s memory. Our thoughts are very much with Mrs Rayet’s family – she was a wife, mother and grandmother, and a good friend to so many people. She will be sorely missed.

I also want to thank you for your understanding with our decision to close the dining room yesterday meaning we were unable to provide lunch to our students. Your support, in providing packed lunches for your children, allowed those staff who worked most closely with Mrs Rayet the chance to attend her funeral and it is very much appreciated. Thank you also for those of you who have sent kind words, thoughts and prayers to the school for Mrs Rayet’s family – we have made sure that these have been passed on.

At a later point this half term we plan to have a non-uniform day where donations will go towards a charity that Mrs Rayet supported and I will be in touch with more details later in the half term.

Kind Regards

Tim Johnson

Yesterday, Monday 19th May, HGS 6th formers visited London for a day of culture, university preparation and legal knowledge with a visit to KCL Law. They distinguished themselves with interesting questions and the excellent way they carried themselves around the capital. Well done to all students involved!

Congratulations to L’hobibearfoot!

Winners of the inaugural Re-Connect Cup, getting young people off their screens, physically active and reconnecting with each other.