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As half-term arrives, we reflect on a week filled with achievement. Year 10 Scholars showcased the Scanning Electron Microscope at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry, engaging over 580 visitors in hands-on scientific discovery. We also celebrated National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting former students Sarah and Josh, now completing degree apprenticeships alongside supporting our school community. Our Computer Science students reached the CyberFirst national finals and explored UX design and drone programming during their Paris trip. From apprenticeship opportunities to cultural experiences, our students continue to embrace innovation, ambition, and real-world learning beyond the classroom.

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Year 11 English Masterclasses

Students are able to attend the following dates for English support with Miss Connolly in the Cinema. Each session will focus on a specific area. All sessions take place on Wednesdays from 3:00–3:45 pm.

  • 11th March: Tips to secure Grade 7+ in English Language

  • 18th March: How to write thoughtfully in Literature (for students aiming for Grade 6)

  • 25th March: How to secure a Grade 4 in English Language – resit students welcome


English After-School Provision

Our English department is pleased to offer the following after-school provision for students. They will take place every Monday from 4–4.30pm:

  • Library with Mr Corner – come along and borrow books from our extensive selection.  There will also be a space to read quietly.
  • Culture Club with Mr Murphy – gain a deeper understanding of what is going on in the world, develop your general knowledge and expand your viewpoints and perspectives

For Year 10 only:

  • Support with GCSE content with Miss Jackson 

For Year 11 students only:

  • Target grade 7+ revision with Miss Connolly
  • Target grade 5+ revision with Miss Manzoor
  • Target grade 4+ revision with Mr Mackenzie
  • Grammar and writing development support with Miss Gymnopoulou *This intervention will be particularly helpful for those students whose first language is not English

High-Tech Water Fountains and Reusable Bottles

In school, we have new high-tech water fountains for students to fill their bottles. Students are advised to bring a reusable bottle into school each day if they wish to use this facility. Staying hydrated throughout the day is important for concentration and wellbeing, and using a reusable bottle helps reduce plastic waste.

School Highlights

Scanning Electron Microscope: Final Week on Loan as Part of This Year's Outreach Programme

Last weekend, our students took the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. It was an amazing success with over 580 visitors interacting with the SEM!

This Saturday, we will be at the World Museum Liverpool. Bring your friends and family and discover how our students use cutting-edge technology in real scientific research. 

These outreach sessions are proudly led by our talented Year 10 Scholars, with support from Hitachi, Natural History Museum, The Institute for Research in Schools and Royal Microscopical Society 

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Vaccine Poster Showcase

On Friday, we hosted our Year 12 AstraZeneca Poster Showcase. Our six visitors said the standard was incredibly high this year and found the judging to be a very difficult process.

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After much deliberation, the AstraZeneca Judging Panel decided to award the following prizes:

  • Best Overall – Phoebe 
  • Best Visual – Delight 
  • Best Verbal – Mohammed and Ridwaan
  • Best Scientific Content – Florence and Gaby 

Our Ignite and Year 10 scholars selected Gbolahan in the popular vote.

All of these students will get the chance to complete a week-long work experience placement at AstraZeneca Speke. 

You can see all of the posters on our BRI website.

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National Apprenticeship Week

The focus this year is on Skills for Life, and we’re proud to celebrate staff who have come full circle. 

Sarah-Jane Linkman is an ex-student who then joined us as a member of staff and is now completing a Degree Apprenticeship in Technician Science at the University of Lancashire. She supports students in the lab and beyond every day while continuing her own development through cutting-edge scientific research. 

Her journey shows how we invest in our students beyond the classroom, empowering them to return as professionals and contribute to the future generation of scientists. 

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Josh Thomson is another ex-student who joined us as our Engineering Technician. He is now completing a degree apprenticeship in Professional Engineering at the University of Lancashire. Alongside teaching and supporting students, he continues to upskill himself while working on cutting-edge additive manufacturing projects. 

Josh is a fantastic example of how we support talent into employment while inspiring the next generation of engineers!

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Computer Science Competition

Recently, several KS4 and KS5 Computer Science students entered the ACE Cyber Security competition run by CyberFirst.  Our Year 12 teams reached the final at De Montfort University where they competed against 10 other teams tackling challenges in Mobile Forensics, Investigative Journalism, OSINT and Phishing. Jack one of our students shared, "It provided us realistic scenarios and insight into real world tools" 

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Unlocking Your Future: Exploring Degree Apprenticeships

On Thursday, students attended an insightful presentation by Career Connect, focusing on higher education and the rising popularity of Degree Apprenticeships.

The session tackled the big question: Is it the same as going to university?

While both paths result in a full bachelor’s degree, the presentation highlighted the unique benefits of the apprenticeship route. Unlike the traditional full-time student experience, degree apprentices are full-time employees of a company, meaning they skip the student loans and earn a salary while they learn.

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Computer Science Paris Trip

Recently, we took a group of Year 11 Computer Science students to Disneyland Paris. We attended a conference looking into the User Experience and User Interface design applied to the Disneyland website.

The conference also examined the programming techniques used to control the drones and the night time extravaganza light show. Discussions included the use of 3D modelling, a variety of programming languages and binary and hexadecimal. Students enjoyed two days exploring the Disney Parks.

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Outstanding Achievement and Attendance in Sixth Form

This week we are delighted to recognise four outstanding Sixth Form students whose commitment, attitude, and consistency have truly stood out.

Florence who has been named Student of the Week for her exceptional dedication, positive approach to her studies, and the maturity she brings to every aspect of Sixth Form life. Her determination continues to set a brilliant example for her peers.

Joining her is Isaac, also awarded Student of the Week. Isaac’s hard work, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond have not gone unnoticed. His contribution to the Sixth Form community is deeply appreciated.

We also celebrate Phoebe and Sebastian, who have both achieved 100% attendance and are recognised as our Attendees of the Week. Their consistency and commitment reflect an admirable level of focus and responsibility.

Each of these students embodies the values we strive to uphold in the Sixth Form, and their achievements deserve to be celebrated.


Apprenticeship Opportunities with Access Industry

On Thursday, Tom and Kayley from Access Industry led a session with our Year 11-13 digital, creative, sports, engineering, and business students regarding national apprenticeships and the company's offerings.

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Arabic Cultural Experience Day

On Tuesday and Thursday, Four Oaks Primary School visited for an exciting Arabic Cultural Experience.

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Students took part in an Arabic Tea Workshop, explored the Arabian Tent, listened to Arabic Stories, and learnt some basic Arabic words. They also discovered fascinating aspects of Arabic culture, including Egyptian Gods, Spices, Traditional Clothes, and Arabian Artifacts. 

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Sickness procedure

From a safeguarding perspective, students who indicate they are feeling unwell will not be sent out of class as an unwell/injured student unaided may faint on the stairs or corridor. Staff will call first aid and first aid will go to the student. Students should not contact home themselves when they are unwell; staff will call parents if needed.

Opportunities Outside of School

1. Bafta Young Game Designer

You've not got long left to apply for Young Game Designers 2026. Whether you're finessing your game idea for our Game Concept Award, or testing your entry for the Game Making Award, it's time to start your application before it's too late.

Curious about how entering YGD can kickstart your career in games? Head to our website and hear from our alumni student and 
YGD finalist Tyler Rotheram, who credits the competition as a great stepping stone to break into the games industry. For Tyler, the competition was an opportunity to network and “learn, develop and improve" his game design skills, and he's since gone onto work at PlayStation and Sumo Digital. 

Entering YGD can open doors into working in games. Plus, there are many skills you can develop by applying, such as creativity, teamwork and problem-solving that you can apply in a range of careers. Don't miss the deadline 
apply now.


2. Half-Term Activity for 13-18 year olds

The Hive Start-up Week is for 13-18 year olds and run in The Hive Youth Zone across the half-term break, Monday 16th - Friday 20th February.  The Start-up Week runs a range of activities to help you learn entrepreneurial skills and x5 participants are even going to win a £100 grant to start-up with! Full agenda and registration can be found here.


3. The InvestIN Scholarship Scheme

The scholarship scheme offers students aged 15–18 the chance to attend a fully funded one-week in-person Summer Experience. With 15 career paths to choose from, you’ll gain real-world insights, meet industry professionals and take part in hands-on simulations that will bring your future career to life.

You can find out more and view the full eligibility criteria here.

Applications are now open - Deadline: 20th February


4. Free Online Mentoring

All About Futures supports recruitment in the North West for STEM Learning’s free national online mentoring scheme. The Spring 2026 Cohort 2 runs for six weeks from 16th March. In partnership with The Brightside Trust, it helps 13–19-year-olds explore careers by chatting with trained STEM mentors. Students can gain advice, learn about careers, and plan life after school. Schools can register individual students or cohorts, with cohort registration allowing engagement tracking. The programme is free, supports Gatsby Benchmarks, and covers wellbeing, study skills, job prep, and independent living. Messaging is via a secure platform; video calls are optional.

Find out more here, Wednesday 11th March is the individual student registration deadline.

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Apprenticeships Resources

Amazing Apprenticeships is a leading organisation in the education sector, working with schools, colleges and employers, tackling misconceptions and promoting the benefits of apprenticeships and technical education.

They work closely with the Department for Education and a wide range of other partners and stakeholder organisations in England and internationally, to ensure that more individuals and businesses can access the benefits of apprenticeships.

Explore more here.


1. Peel Ports Group Engineering Apprentice Liverpool 

This four-year programme offers a structured pathway into both electrical and mechanical engineering, combining fully funded academic study with hands-on experience.

Programme Structure:

  • Year 1:  Includes 20 weeks of technical college study before onsite application
  • Year 2 &3: Features 10-week college blocks to further develop technical skills.
  • Year 4: Focuses on completing a Level 4/HNC via day release while working alongside experienced engineers.

Requirements and Benefits:

Candidates must possess (or be predicted) at least 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4), including Maths, English, and Science. Applicants should be comfortable with heights and confined spaces and must obtain a full driving licence within 12 months of starting or becoming eligible. Along with a competitive salary, benefits include a matched pension up to 10%, flexible lifestyle schemes, and 24/7 employee support.

Applications must be submitted via the Peel Ports careers page by 2nd March 2026 - Find out more and apply here.


2. Bentley Motors Apprenticeships Crewe

Explore all here.

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Degree Apprentice within Quality Planning 
  • Engineer – Networks 
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Degree Apprentice within Finance
  • Product Design & Development Engineering Degree Apprentice within Finance 
  • Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice within Production Planning 
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Degree Apprentice within Manufacturing 
  • Product Design & Development Engineering Degree Apprentice within Engineering 
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice within Engineering Console 
  • Engineering Technician Level 3 Apprentice within Engineering 
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Degree Apprentice within Engineering 
  • Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice within Aftersales 
  • Data Scientist Degree Apprentice within Field Quality 
  • Heritage Engineering Technician Level 3 Apprentice within Mulliner
  • Automation and Controls Engineering Level 4 Apprentice within Production Maintenance 
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice within Engineering Calibration 
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice within Engineering Chassis Dynamic Systems 
  • Data Scientist Degree Apprentice within Sales & Marketing 
  • Supply Chain Leadership Degree Apprentice within Logistics 
  • Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician Level 3 Apprentice within Production 
  • Advanced Upholsterer Level 3 Apprentice within Manufacturing 
  • Project Control Degree Apprentice within Product Strategy
  • Functional Manager – Connected Applications & Remote Services 
  • Materials Scientist 
  • Technical Manager – Diagnostics

3. Software Development Apprenticeship, Engineering September 2026 Start

As an Apprentice at Google, you’ll develop essential skills for the future of work by joining Google’s software engineering teams for a 24-month apprenticeship. Starting in September, you’ll begin with onboarding, followed by a 14-week bootcamp with our partner Makers. You’ll work alongside Googlers to solve real problems, gaining exposure to coding, development, testing, and project management. You’ll build problem-solving abilities, learn new technical skills, and understand how software is designed and developed. As an engineering-driven company, Google hires versatile technologists to tackle global challenges and create impactful products used by millions worldwide - Find out more here.


4. Hill Dickinson Apprenticeships 

Hill Dickinson offers two apprenticeships for September 2026.

  • Paralegal apprenticeship leading to a Certificate of Higher Education in Law and Legal Practice (with progression to a solicitor apprenticeship)
  • Finance apprenticeship leading to AAT qualifications (with further study opportunities).

Applications run till 28th February, via online application, assessment, and in-person assessment day. Applicants should research Hill Dickinson, show commercial awareness, judgement, and relevant skills.

Requirements include five GCSEs (grade C/4+), availability from September 2026, and meeting funding criteria. Contact [email protected] for questions. Inclusive applications from all eligible candidates are encouraged.

Find out more here.


5. Coachbuilding Apprenticeship Vacancies

  • Classic Vehicle Restoration - Coachbuilding:  Closing date 27th February, Worcestershire, WR14 2L

As a Sheet Metal Apprentice at Morgan Motor Company, you will embark on an exciting journey. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to acquire hands-on experience in the art of coachbuilding. You will work closely with skilled craftsmen, gaining invaluable insights and expertise in sheet metal fabrication and vehicle construction - Apply here.

  • The Tank Museum - Classic Vehicle Maintenance/Restoration: Closing date 27th February, Dorset, BH20 6JG

 As part of the engineering team, you will help to maintain, repair, conserve and restore the running fleet of historic vehicles, and work on exciting conservation and restoration projects. The Tank Museum houses one of the world’s finest and most significant collections of armoured vehicles - Apply here.

  • Classic Vehicle Restoration - Mechanical: Closing date 27th February, TAMWORTH, B79 9BJ

This Mechanical Heritage Engineering Apprenticeship vacancy offers a unique opportunity to assisting in the preparation and servicing of race cars and luxury vehicles and contribute to classic restoration projects. At M tech you will gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals - Apply here.


6. Bellway have launched multiple apprenticeship roles across Liverpool closing early March

  • Joiner Apprentices
  • Bricklaying Apprentice

Take a look at their website here for roles in your area.


7. DfE-supported student programmes are now live on Springpod

These short, online experiences are designed to help students explore post-16 pathways in a clear, practical way, including T Levels, Apprenticeships, and Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs). They’re free, on-demand, and easy to embed alongside your existing careers provision.


8. Network Rail Level 3 Apprenticeships (Advanced – A-Level Equivalent)

Level 3 apprenticeships are typically equivalent to A-levels and usually take 2–3 years to complete.

  • Level 3 Rail Engineering Technician (England & Wales
  • Level 3 Finance Apprenticeship 
  • Level 3 HR Support Apprenticeship 
  • Level 3 Information & Communications Technician Apprenticeship 
  • Level 3 Rail Infrastructure Operations Apprenticeship 

Level 6 Apprenticeships (Degree-Level)

Level 6 apprenticeships are equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree and usually take 4–5 years.

  • Level 6 Civil Engineering Apprenticeship
  • Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship 
  • Level 6 Electrical and Electronic Engineer Apprenticeship
  • Level 6 Project Management Apprenticeship
  • Level 6 Rail & Rail Systems Engineering Apprenticeship (Signalling) 

Find out more here.

Work Experience Opportunities

1. Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Daresbury super computer home have upcoming work experience opportunities

  • KS4 & KS5 students
  • Mon 22nd June
  • 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Online

Each year at STFC, are proud to run a highly successful work experience programme online and in person at Daresbury Laboratory, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and Royal Observatory Edinburgh. For the Summer 2026 programme, the work experience team will be delivering online work experience placements from 22nd-26th June. 

STFC Work Experience programmes are open to young people who are living in the UK and in full-time education in Years 10-13. Their online work experience is open to young people who live further than one hour’s drive from a STFC National Lab site that is currently delivering in-person work experience, or to young people who have access needs or barriers that make it a challenge to attend work experience in person, including transportation.

Applications opened on 1st January, find out more here.


2. Careers in Veterinary Science

Join this exclusive experience hosted by fully qualified and experienced Vets and practitioners from the University of Liverpool’s, School of Veterinary Science - Application deadline is 23rd February.

They will take you through a journey of understanding about careers in this profession. From what it takes to qualify, the skills you need, what and how you learn and highlight the varied specialisms and roles that you could achieve and build your career upon.

Whether you are interested in exploring a career as a Veterinary Nurse, a Researcher or have a passion to specialise in roles with exotic animals, farm animals or small animals this experience will give you exclusive access to top professionals in this field.

Find out more, and apply here.


3. A free resource to help your students find great work experience placements

Jamie, a careers adviser and business owner, shares insights from both perspectives to explain why many employers say no. He highlights the importance of understanding the benefits of work experience, building real-world skills, and developing professional networks. The video stresses the need for realistic expectations, strong research, and meaningful outreach that shows interest and adds value to employers. It also encourages resilience, reframing rejection as an opportunity, and seeking alternative ways to gain insight into future careers - watch here.

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Career Opportunities

LIPA free after-school online taster sessions for students in Year 10 and above, introducing careers and opportunities in creative management

  • Online Management Taster Session 1: Be Remarkable: Creativity, Innovation & Standing Out - Monday 23rd February, 17:00–17:45pm

Ever wondered what makes a product, performance, or idea truly unforgettable? Join our online taster lecture to explore how creativity and innovation drive success across music, theatre, film, and live events. Through real-world examples, we’ll show how originality and bold thinking can disrupt markets and create cultural buzz - Book here.

  • Online Management Taster Session 2: Student Showcase: Creative Projects in Action - Monday 16th March, 17:00–17:45pm

Curious about what it’s like to turn an idea into a real creative project? In this session, hear directly from LIPA first-year Management students as they share the stories behind their creative projects. Learn how they developed their ideas, overcame challenges, and are currently bringing their visions to life - Book here.


University Opportunities

1. Unifrog Virtual University Fair

When? 18th March at 4-6.30pm.

Over the course of two hours, students can attend mini-lectures on a range of subjects and meet 32 universities from across the UK, including Kings College London, Manchester Metropolitan, and the University of Aberdeen.

The fair is free to all students and ideal for Years 10-12 - Sign up here.

Students can learn about:

  • Cybersecurity and AI: How ChatGPT works with the University of Westminster
  • Environmental and earth sciences: Global sustainable development with the University of Warwick
  • Business: Brands and what they mean to consumers with the University of Essex

And much more, with sessions on other popular subjects including Criminology and Psychology, Medical Sciences, and Creative Arts.

Browse the full schedule

2. University of Sheffield Subject Taster Days

Book the below sessions here.

Arts and Humanities:

  • English Literature: The Many Loves of Jane Eyre - Wednesday 11th March, 17:00–18:30
  • Philosophy: Manosphere and Misogyny – An Illustration of Engaged Philosophy - Wednesday 11th March, 17:00–18:30
  • English Literature: Adaptation: Interrogating Austen’s Novels Onscreen and Onstage - Tuesday 17th March, 17:00–18:30
  • History: Britain in the 60s: A Decade of Change - Wednesday 18th March, 17:00–18:30
  • Languages, Arts and Societies (German): Freud on Mind and Society - Tuesday 24th March, 17:00–18:30

Engineering: 

  • Chemical Engineering: Optimising Your Future with Chemical Engineering - Tuesday 24th March, 17:00–18:30
  • Computer Science: Machine Learning and Data Science - Tuesday 21st April, 17:00–18:00
  • Materials Science & Engineering: From Engines to Atoms - Tuesday 28th April, 17:00–18:30

Health:

  • Orthoptics: Orthoptics: Why Do We See Double? - Wednesday 11th March, 17:00–18:15
  • Nursing: The Kidneys – Why They’re So Great - Tuesday 17th March, 17:00–18:15
  • Pharmacy: More Than Counting Tablets - Wednesday 18th March, 17:00–18:15

Science:

  • Maths: The Mathematics of Monopoly - Wednesday 11th March, 17:00–18:30
  • Chemistry: Designing Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials - Thursday 12th March, 17:00–18:30
  • Psychology: Psychology in Action - Thursday 19th March, 17:00–18:30

Social Sciences:

  • Journalism: What Would You Do? Ethical Dilemmas in Journalism - Wednesday 15th April, 17:00–18:15
  • Landscape Architecture / Urban Studies & Planning / Geography - Creating a Sustainable City Tuesday 21st April, 17:00–18:15
  • Economics: Environmental Economics: What Is the Right Amount of Pollution? - Wednesday 22nd April, 17:00–18:15
  • Sociological Studies / Management / Data Science - How Can We Better Understand and Impact People’s Health and Wellbeing? - Thursday 23rd April, 17:00–18:15
  • Politics: What Is Capitalism? - Thursday 30th April, 17:00–18:30

Personal Electronic Devices Policy Reminder

All personal electronic devices, including mobile phones, are not permitted to be used during the school day. We expect all devices to be switched off and kept out of sight during lessons unless the pupil is using the device as part of a lesson with the permission of their class teacher.

Mobile phones will be confiscated if they are seen, heard or used during the school day unless a pupil has been given permission. The headteacher will determine the length of time they deem proportionate for confiscation.

Children & Young People's Mental Health Support in Liverpool

Bite-size sessions coming up in February, delivered via Zoom

  • Introduction to Self-Harm - 18th February 10am - 11am Book here 
  • Understanding Mental Health Support for Children and Young People in Liverpool  23rd February 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Book here 
  • Managing Challenging Conversations - 23/02/2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Book here 
  • Behaviour as Communication - 23rd February 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Book here
  • Parental Mental Health - 24th February 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Book here
  • Understanding and Managing Anxiety - 24/02/2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Book here 
  • Body Image – Eating Disorder Awareness Week - 26th February 10:00 am - 11:00 am Book here
  • Child & Adolescent to Parent Violence & Abuse Session (CAPVA) - 26th February 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Book here 
  • Nutrition and Wellbeing – Eating Disorder Awareness Week - 26th February 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm Book here 
  • Cultivating Self-Compassion - 26th February 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm Book here 
  • Adolescent Brain Development - 27th February 9:30 am - 10:30 am Book here 
  • Emotionally-Based School Avoidance - 27th February 10:00 am - 11:00 am Book here
  • An Introduction to Eating Disorders – Eating Disorder Awareness Week - 27th February 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Book here
  • Kinship Kids and Mental Health - 27th February 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Book here

Career Guides to Help People in the Liverpool City Region Make the Best Career Decisions: Visitor Economy

The visitor economy attracts people to our region through unforgettable tourism, hospitality, and leisure experiences. It combines customer service and social skills with practical skills used to build, restore, and manage attractions such as museums, zoos, hotels, and restaurants. Liverpool City Region welcomes millions of visitors each year and continues to grow its rich culture, history, and links to innovation, life sciences, manufacturing, and major events - find out more here.

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Vaping – We would like to remind you that we do not allow students to bring items such as cigarettes, lighters, matches or e-cigarettes/ vapes into school.

Zero Tolerance of Abuse - The NST has a zero-tolerance approach to abusive language, violence, aggression or harassment towards employees, governors and volunteers.

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