With exactly a month to go before we officially begin, we have been blown away by the support from our students, families and wider community. The enthusiasm for this year's campaign has been truly incredible, and we are so grateful.

Fundraising Fortnight is a real team effort, with our entire school coming together to deliver a range of fantastic events while also taking on fundraising challenges of their own outside of school.

We're delighted to see students already creating their own fundraising pages and getting a head start on this year's campaign, and we've had a fantastic response to sponsorship opportunities for both our Colour Run and Student Marketplace. We can't wait to introduce our generous sponsors very soon.

For those who are unfamiliar, Fundraising Fortnight is Crossley Heath's annual fundraising mission, with all money raised being shared between our three chosen charities and our school. This year, the school's share will contribute towards our new 2G pitch project, creating a lasting legacy for both our students and the wider Halifax community.

Curious to learn more? Visit our Fundraising Fortnight campaign page to discover the causes we're supporting and follow our fundraising journey! https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/chfundraisingfortnight

Today, we celebrate Saif — the recipient of our Crossley Heath Academic Scholarship Award, presented by Head Teacher Mr Jones. But the award tells only a small part of an extraordinary story.

From the moment Saif joined us, it was clear he carried a quiet determination. What wasn’t immediately visible was the daily battle he has faced. Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Saif has had to confront physical challenges that would make many of us stop in our tracks. Some mornings, he would wake up in pain so severe it brought him to tears. Walking the corridors meant effort most of us will never experience. Even asking for the support of crutches—something he once saw as a weakness—took immense courage.

Yet Saif never stopped showing up.

He never stopped working.

And he never stopped believing that every drop of sweat, brought about by physical exertion, had to count.

During his GCSEs, when his body was pushed to its limits and he discovered a spinal asymmetry that made everything harder, he faced a moment of crisis. He questioned whether the hard work was worth it. Whether his dreams were even possible. Whether his future would be defined not by his potential but by his limitations.

But then came the shift. Saif chose to rewrite the story he was telling himself.

He decided that his challenges would not define him — his mindset would.

He realised that while others could walk comfortably to lessons without the daily fatigue he endured, he was ready to fight to reach his impressive potential. And that fight became his fuel and motivation. His message to others now is simple but profound:

“Never feel you’re at a disadvantage. The only thing that separates people is the effort they are prepared to put into the work they do.”

Saif also learned that seeking support isn’t weakness — it’s human. And as he gained confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging, he grew not just academically but personally. Acceptance came first. Then connection. Then purpose.

And that purpose is powerful.

Saif’s dream is to work in scientific research, focusing on SMA — not just for himself, but for others. His diagnosis at age three, and later his younger brother’s diagnosis, shaped a mission much bigger than personal success. He wants to contribute to better treatments, deeper understanding, and one day, maybe even a cure.

Today, Saif stands as a scholar, a role model, and a young man whose strength of character and resilience inspires everyone around him.

A grade 8 GCSE average.

A scholarship award.

A future scientist in the making.

A leader for his generation.

We are unbelievably proud of you, Saif.

Your story reminds us that strength isn’t found in the absence of struggle — it’s forged through it.

Congratulations, Saif — the best is yet to come

The Crossley’s Chess A Team travelled down the M1 to face Nottingham High School in the M1 North Regional Final of the U19 English Schools’ Chess Championship. With a place in June’s national finals at stake, both teams arrived knowing every move would count.

Earlier rounds had seen Crossley’s face mostly lower‑rated opposition, but this match promised to be a real challenge. Nottingham fielded a team closely matched to ours, and the classical 50‑minute time control meant that even the smallest mistake could decide a game.

Board 2 finished first: after capitalising on an early opening error, Alex secured a decisive material advantage and delivered the first point of the day. Soon after, Sri on Board 1 converted a passed pawn to victory against a highly rated opponent, giving Crossley’s a strong 2–0 lead.

Nottingham struck back on Board 6, where Lewis fell to a sharp tactical sequence from the Nottinghamshire U12 champion, narrowing the score to 2–1 and keeping the match very much alive.

Nine of our students recently had the fantastic opportunity to attend a Boys Sing workshop at Hallé St Peter’s.

The workshop brought together young singers from across the region to develop their vocal skills, build confidence and experience the joy of singing as part of a larger choir. It was an inspiring musical experience and a great chance for our students to learn from expert musicians in a professional setting.

Well done to all of our students who took part and represented Crossley Heath so brilliantly!

Last week, we were delighted to welcome Harold the Hare to Crossley Heath for a fantastic Big Brew in support of Overgate Hospice.

It was wonderful to see our school community come together for such an important cause to support local people and families when they need it most. Harold had a brilliant time meeting everyone and seeing the incredible effort that went into making the event so special!

Inspired to get involved? Hosting your own Big Brew is a great way to support Overgate Hospice — simply gather friends, family or colleagues, pop the kettle on and make a difference.