A message from Ms Middleton - Head of Year 8

Our Year 8 core value is to  SHINE: Self-respect, Integrity, Helpful, No limits, Excel. As we work to become the very best versions of ourselves. We want every pupil to approach their learning and their relationships with kindness, honesty, ambition, and the confidence that there are no limits to what they can achieve.

In Year 8, our vision is centred on Why Reading Matters. Reading opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and opportunity. It strengthens learning across every subject and helps pupils to grow not only academically, but as individuals who can connect with the wider world. Through reading, they learn to think critically, to communicate clearly, and to understand different perspectives, all of which prepares pupils to shine both inside and outside the classroom.

At Leytonstone School, we encourage Year 8 pupils to be Be Exceptional: academically, socially, within our community, and as individuals.  Year 8 is about strengthening foundations, nurturing curiosity, and discovering the power of words to shape who we are and who we will become. By embracing Why Reading Matters, our pupils can truly SHINE and step forward ready for the exciting journey of Year 9 and beyond.