Students watched a powerful drama performance following the lives of three teenagers, exploring the challenges they face when alcohol becomes part of their social world. Through relatable characters and real-life scenarios, the performance highlighted how quickly risky situations can arise and the pressures young people may feel around drinking.

After the performance, students took part in an interactive workshop, encouraging them to reflect on what they had seen and discuss wider issues around underage drinking. Together, they explored the social and emotional reasons young people may turn to alcohol, the impact it can have on health, relationships and wellbeing, the role of peer pressure in decision making, and where to seek support for themselves or others.

From 9 students diving into Fine Art and Textiles taster sessions (including paper garments made in just 20 minutes! ), to lunchtime creative challenges exploring fine art, illustration, digital art, animation, game art, architecture and fashion design the energy and imagination on display has been amazing.

Students have designed mascots, created adverts, experimented with different media and styles, used industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop, and even designed their own computer game characters

We’ve also loved hearing from our inspiring alumni, including Emily Stollery, Annie Wade-Smith and Amanda McDermott, who shared their journeys and showed just how many exciting career paths creativity can open up.

A real highlight of the week was our Year 12 trip to the University of Huddersfield, where students experienced university life first-hand through workshops in Fine Art, Illustration and Textiles. Huge thanks to the university staff and student ambassadors for such a motivating day

Thank you to everyone who got involved at lunchtimes, took on challenges, collected passports and earned house points - and well done to our Year 7s for getting started on their competition entries… more on that soon!

The future of the creative industries is looking very bright.

Huge congratulations to our winners:

• Yulianna and Amelia – Using the Scientific Method: Investigating the effects of different drinks on dentine using eggshells. Their project stood out for its clear planning, strong logic and particularly thoughtful evaluation and reflection on the strengths and limitations of their study.

• Miguel – Using the Engineering Design Process: A coded car parking management system that followed the full design cycle from problem identification to testing and improvement. Miguel impressed judges with his working one-in-one-out system and clear explanation of how it could be developed further.

• Tarunikaa – Science and Design: A creative and interactive model of the solar system and constellations, helping others understand how the night sky changes across seasons and hemispheres. The project combined strong scientific understanding with excellent communication.

• Reeti – Science Research Project: “Why haven’t we cured cancer yet?” An ambitious and highly researched project exploring complex biological processes and cancer treatments, delivered with confidence and genuine curiosity.

• Khadeeja - Judge’s Choice Award – Energy Bus: A highly innovative and sustainable design where passengers generate electricity while travelling, showing outstanding creativity, inclusivity and real-world problem solving.

Judging was carried out by Dr Kerry Parris, Lecturer in Medical Education at The University of Manchester School of Medical Sciences, who praised the depth of understanding and quality of discussion throughout the fair.

A huge thank you to King Beds in Halifax for kindly sponsoring the prizes.

Well done to all students involved – a brilliant celebration of science at Crossley Heath!

Katherine was selected for this award in recognition of her outstanding commitment, composure and leadership throughout the season. She consistently remained calm under pressure, providing a steady and reassuring presence that kept her team focused and united.

Playing with excellent skill and quiet determination, Katherine led by example rather than words, demonstrating resilience, maturity and sportsmanship throughout her time representing Crossley Heath. Through her performances and attitude, Katherine is helping to carry forward the proud sporting legacy of Heath Grammar School, which was long known for its sporting excellence.

We’re incredibly proud of you, Katherine, and look forward to seeing you continue to build on this legacy in the years ahead.

Since then, Daphne has continued performing through open mic nights, musical performances and school productions, including Oliver Junior in Year 7. She is incredibly proud to be part of this production and hopes you enjoy the show.

Aqib was always hugely passionate about our house system and was a true team player, consistently encouraging others to get involved and step outside their comfort zones. He threw himself into every opportunity with enthusiasm, supporting those around him and contributing positively to house events across the school.

From singing a solo as Freddie Mercury during House Music, to fully committing (blue paint and all!) to his role as the Caterpillar in Alice in Wonderland, Aqib embraced each role with confidence - all while remaining a popular, well-liked and respectful presence around school.

This award celebrates Aqib’s energy, teamwork and willingness to give things a go. He's already greatly missed, and we’re excited to follow his achievements as he moves on to the next chapter.

Congratulations, Aqib!

The standard was incredibly high, making judging very difficult, but special congratulations go to our winners:

Ajay (7F) – Runner up

Safiyah (9E) – Runner up

Muhammad-Musa (7C) – Winner, with an impressive model of Durdle Door!

Thank you to all students who entered and to the Geography team for organising such a brilliant competition. A fantastic example of imagination, geographical knowledge and house spirit in action!

Zara’s involvement doesn’t stop there, she’ll be returning again tonight as an Ice Marshall and will also play a role in the medal ceremony, making this an unforgettable few days at the championships.

A brilliant achievement and a wonderful example of dedication and commitment. Well done, Zara!

A special thank you to alumnus Thomas Backhouse, who returned to Crossley Heath as a guest pianist. It was a real privilege to welcome him back and to be inspired by his performance.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the festival such a success!

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Rana, winner of The Vernon Brearley Prize for Public Service (in addition to the Sheila Francis Jackson Memorial Trophy for Poetry!)

Since Year 7, Rana has shown an outstanding commitment to serving others and making a positive difference to school life. From her early involvement in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Leadership Group and Student Council, to supporting younger students through transition, Rana has consistently used her voice to improve the experience of those around her.

Over the years, Rana has led and supported a wide range of initiatives including drama club, house events, Duke of Edinburgh, volunteering with YMCA and a local youth club, cadets, student panels, MedTech leadership, and the prom committee. She has also represented the school with confidence and maturity through public speaking, media work, parliamentary visits, and meetings with local MPs.

What truly sets Rana apart is her character. She is a wonderful example of our Crossley Heath values in action:

Kindness through her service to others

Courage in stepping forward to lead and speak up

Excellence in her sustained commitment over many years

Rana, we are so proud of everything you have achieved and the positive impact you continue to make. A very deserving winner - well done!