THANK YOU & GOODBYE
"I would like to say thank you to all the staff at Simon Balle for the most wonderful seven years. They have had a huge part to play in everything I’ve gained over my time here and everything I’ll receive in the near future. A paragraph outlining all the things ...I’ve learned and experienced wouldn’t signify the amount of gratitude I feel towards each and every member of staff; and ultimately, it would be way too long. But despite that, a few words to express my thanks feels absolutely necessary.

Simon Balle has catered to my every need in ways I would never have imagined when I chose it all those years ago. I came from my primary school alone and yet the feeling of loneliness has been completely absent. I like to think I’ve got involved in as much as I could during my school years, but at Simon Balle I think it would be physically impossible to get involved in absolutely everything as their are always different things happening. At times I have felt overwhelmed and nervous with the amount of activities that have been available to me. However, what I now understand is that every individual extra curricular activity has moulded me in a way that only the exceptional staff at Simon Balle could have thought. In addition, throughout your school years it’s necessary to feel overwhelmed and nervous in order to grow and excel. The Simon Balle staff have helped me grow and excel beyond expectations. Genuinely, whether it be Mr Moses asking me to do athletics each week, or Mrs Owen asking me to do a speech on open day, I’ve always been supported unconditionally and come out of it for the better; with a skill that I didn’t have before. More than anything, I’ve seen how the staff have helped other students around me, students that wouldn’t necessarily have got involved as much at another school. But at Simon Balle, everyone is encouraged to be the best version of themselves and it is truly inclusive. Of course I have been taught many academic lessons and the quality of teaching has been incredible: seen in the amazing grades year after year. Although, the staff here also prioritise the type of teaching that can’t be quantified, the type that goes beyond a test or an exam, the type that will literally change a person’s life for the better. Predominately, it is the moments and memories that shape someone’s school years and I couldn’t have asked for any better or any more memories and moments.

It’s bittersweet leaving Simon Balle, and, even in the few months that I’ve been off, I’ve missed the excitement of being in and around the school grounds. I’m sad to be saying goodbye to everything and everyone that I’ve got so comfortable with over that last seven years, but all I can do is trust in the confidence and skills that Simon Balle has supplied me with going forward.

Thank you and goodbye."

Charlie R
School President 2025-26

RIVER LEA ART TRAIL
Our bench has officially taken its permanent place in Little Hartham this week.

After many hours of painting, we are so incredibly proud of the final piece. The sheer creativity of everyone who submitted designs to the final design is to be commended—your talent ...made this possible.

A massive thank you to Jade Dawn and East Herts Council for giving our young artists this amazing opportunity to leave their mark on the community.

Go check it out next time you're in the park!

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SUMMER STORIES: DOMINIC
We love hearing about what our students are getting up to during their summer break, and last week we heard all about Dominic’s incredible experience this year.

At the beginning of 2026, Dominic was accepted onto the Cambridge Higher Aspirations Scheme (CHAS) ...for Natural Sciences (Biological), run by Gonville & Caius College at the University of Cambridge.

Through online supervision sessions, Dominic explored topics including cell signalling, protein dynamics, protein-protein interactions and homeostasis, culminating in an essay exploring the Hallmarks of Cancer.

His journey continued this summer with a place on the CHAS Residential, an opportunity offered to just 1 in 8 applicants. During the residential, Dominic took part in sessions focused on university applications, super-curricular activities and personal statements, before celebrating his graduation from the programme alongside his parents.

What an incredible experience and a fantastic example of our students making the most of opportunities beyond the classroom.

Well done, Dominic. We cannot wait to see where this journey takes you next.

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YOUR MUSICAL JOURNEY
Applications are now open for Year 7 Music Scholars for September 2027 entry.

At Simon Balle, young musicians thrive as part of a vibrant musical community, with exciting opportunities to perform, create and grow.

Our Music Aptitude Test (MAT) is open to ...children living within the Priority Area who show musical potential. No music grades, theory knowledge or formal training are required — just enthusiasm, musicality and a passion for music.

If your child is ready to take the next step in their musical journey, we’d love to hear from you.

Find out more and apply here:
https://www.simonballe.herts.sch.uk/admissions/music-aptitude-tests-for-admission-to-year-7/

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YEAR 11, YOU ABSOLUTELY SMASHED IT!
What a day! It has been incredible to see my Year 11 students celebrate their outstanding GCSE results.

The day has been filled with every emotion imaginable, from happiness and joy to excitement, pride and plenty of relief. Seeing the smiles, ...celebrations and hugs has made all the hard work over the past few years completely worthwhile.

Year 11, you have worked incredibly hard, supported one another and shown just how much you are capable of. You should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved today.

Well done, Year 11. You absolutely smashed it!

Mr East
Head of Year 11

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THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER!
Tomorrow is Year 11 GCSE Results Day, and we cannot wait to welcome our students back to school and celebrate with them.

A reminder that results will be available to collect from school from 08:00.

For students joining Simon Balle Sixth Form in ...September, the Sixth Form team will be available in the Main Hall from 08:15 to complete the enrolment process and support you with your next steps.

We anticipate a busy morning filled with celebration, excitement and plenty of proud smiles. As always, Mr Ford will be on hand to capture some of those joyful moments, so don't forget to smile!

Good luck to all of our Year 11 students. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow and celebrating everything you have achieved.

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