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15 Oct 2026
15 October 2026
Contents
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College notices
Flu vaccination session – NHS School Age Immunisation Service
The NHS School Age Immunisation Service will be visiting Swanmore College on Thursday, 03 December and Friday, 04 December to administer the annual flu vaccination to pupils.
Parents and carers are asked to complete the consent form by 10am on Tuesday, 01 December, whether they wish their child to receive the vaccination or not.
Please ensure you select your child's current year group when completing the form.
Consent form:
NHS Immunisations | Consent form
The flu vaccine helps protect against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Most pupils receive the vaccine as a quick and painless nasal spray. An alternative porcine-free injection is available and can be requested through the consent form.
For more information about the children's flu vaccine, visit: NHS | Child flu vaccine
If you have any questions, please contact the School Age Immunisation Service on 02382 318318 or email hiowh.swimms@nhs.net.
Flu: 5 Reasons to get protected against flu
1. Protect your child
The vaccine will help protect your child against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
2. Protect you, your family and friends
Having the vaccine will help protect more vulnerable friends and family.
3. No injection needed
The nasal spray is painless and easy to have. A porcine-free injection is available.
4. It's better than having flu
The nasal spray helps protect against flu and has been given to millions of children worldwide and has an excellent safety record.
5. Avoid costs
If your child gets flu, you may have to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare.
School Code
SH116424
For more information, visit the website:
www.healthforkids.co.uk/hampshire/annual-nasal-flu-vaccination-programme/
Temporary closure of the Finance Office
Unfortunately, we have had to temporarily close our Finance Office, which will remain closed until Tuesday, 03 November 2026.
During this period, we kindly ask that you do not contact the Finance Team by telephone or email unless requested to do so.
Staff are continuing to process arrangements for the following trips and events, and we will contact families directly if any immediate action is required:
Currently, staff are working on the trips below:
- Cote Opale
- EARA Meeting
- GCSE Science Live
- Kick racism out of football conference
- Paris
- Quantum Theatre Group
- SIX The Musical
- Ski Trip Dry Slope - Calshot
- STEM Day onsite
Unfortunately, the College is unable to work on any other trips until after half-term.
For trips where the random selection process has not yet taken place, this will be completed after half-term. We will ensure that deposits paid for pupils who are unsuccessful in securing a place are refunded before Christmas.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time. We really appreciate your support.
Bus fare information – Stagecoach
We would like to bring to your attention the fact that, if your child pays cash on a Stagecoach bus and hands the driver more cash than the fare, they should always receive change or a credit voucher for the difference in price.
Stagecoach do not have a 'no change policy' and we advise you to contact them if your child has not been given change for 649 or 69 bus service since joining Swanmore College in September.
Brockenhurst College: October Open Events (Years 10 amd 11)
Pupils in Years 10 and 11, alongside their parents and carers, are invited to attend the upcoming Open Events at Brockenhurst College to explore post-16 study options and view the campus facilities.
Event Details:
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Weekend Session: Saturday 17 October 2026 | 9am – 12pm
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Evening Session: Wednesday 21 October 2026 | 5pm – 8pm
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Location: Brockenhurst College, Lyndhurst Road, Brockenhurst
What to Expect:
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Tour the college facilities, specialist teaching spaces, and campus environments.
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Speak directly with subject tutors to find the right courses and discuss entry requirements.
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Meet current students and ask questions about student life and progression routes.
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Please note: Brockenhurst College is a smoke-free, vape-free, and dog-free campus.
Booking Information: Advance registration is required to attend. Prospective students and families should reserve their place online prior to visiting.
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Book online: Visit Events - Brockenhurst College to register and secure your place.
Year 7
On Wednesday, 04 November 2026, Year 7 pupils at Swanmore College have the opportunity to participate in a free virtual STEM workshop hosted by PPMA BEST.
Held during lessons 1–4 in the main hall, the session will offer hands-on activities and insights from industry professionals into careers like robotics and animation.
Space is limited to 100 pupils (selected randomly if oversubscribed).
If your child is interested and committed to full participation, please complete the following form by Wednesday, 21 October 2026:
Register: STEM virtual workshop | Swanmore College
For any questions, please contact Mr. Thornton at:
maths-help@swanmore-sec.hants.sch.uk.
Year 8
There are no specific College items for Year 8 only.
Year 9
There are no specific College items for Year 9 only.
Year 10
Year 10 Curriculum Information Evening – Thursday, 22 October
We are pleased to invite Year 10 parents and carers to our Curriculum Information Evening on Thursday, 22 October, from 5pm–5.45pm at Swanmore College.
The evening will introduce the Swanmore Curriculum and our whole-school Revision Programme, with presentations from College staff.
There will also be an opportunity to speak with Mr Valentine (Careers and Destinations) and Miss Sutherland (PSHE) in room S01 from 5.45pm–6.15pm.
Pupils are welcome to attend with their parents and carers.
Further details, including how to book your place, will be sent via email.
Year 11
Science revision sessions
A reminder that our dedicated Year 11 Science revision sessions take place every Wednesday after school!
These weekly sessions are a great opportunity to strengthen understanding and build confidence ahead of GCSE exams.
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 3.10pm – 4pm
Location: M01
A little revision each week can make a big difference. We encourage Year 11 pupils to come along and make the most of the support available!
Year 11 Curriculum Information Evening – Thursday, 22 October
We are pleased to invite Year 11 parents and carers to our Curriculum Information Evening on Thursday, 22 October, from 6pm–6.45pm at Swanmore College.
The evening will introduce the Swanmore Curriculum and our whole-school Revision Programme, with presentations from College staff.
There will also be an opportunity to speak with Mr Valentine (Careers and Destinations) and Miss Sutherland (PSHE) in room S01 from 5.15pm–5.45pm, ahead of the main presentation.
Pupils are welcome to attend with their parents and carers.
Further details, including how to book your place, will be sent via email.
AFC Portchester Academy Open Evenings now open for 2027/28
AFC Portchester has officially opened registration for its 2027/28 Academy Open Evenings.
Aimed at post-16 students (ages 16–19) aspiring to work in the sports industry, the programme combines full-time football development under specialist coaches with academic study toward a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport.
What the programme offers
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Academic pathways: Study for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with opportunities to gain physical training and fitness qualifications.
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Career progressions: Clear routes to university, USA sports scholarships, and direct work placements with club partners.
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Session structure: Each open evening includes a presentation from 7.30pm – 8pm, followed by a practical training session from 8pm – 9pm.
Open Evening dates and location
Venue: Cams Hill School
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Girls' Open Evenings:
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Monday, 16 November 2026
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Monday, 22 February 2027
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Boys' Open Evenings:
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Monday, 09 November 2026
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Monday, 18 January 2027
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Monday, 19 April 2027
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Monday, 28 June 2027
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Learn more and register
To find out more or register for an open evening, visit:
Next week’s events
Monday, 19 October 2026
- Y10/Y11 Girls Football vs. Henry Beaufort (H)
Tuesday, 20 October 2026
- Y8 Boys Football vs. Thornden (A)
- Year 10 Sports Leaders event at Swanmore
Wednesday, 21 October 2026
- 'Kick racism out of football' conference
Thursday, 22 October 2026
- Y10 Information Evening at 5pm
- Y11 Information Evening at 6pm
- Y8 Boys Rugby: Hampshire Cup vs. Oaklands and Bay House (H)
- U14 Basketball vs. Weston (H)
- Y8/Y9 Girls Football vs. Horndean (H)
- Y5 Maths Masterclass
Friday, 23 October 2026
- No fixtures/events
Monday, 26 October-Friday, 30 October 2026
- Half-term holiday
Monday, 02 November 2026
- Professional Day - the College will be closed to pupils
Community notices
Winchester Creative Careers fair
Interested in a career in the creative industries? The Winchester Creative Careers Fair is a free event designed to help young people explore the wide range of opportunities available in creative sectors and learn about the different routes into them.
Taking place on Wednesday 11 November at The Nutshell, Winchester, the event will bring together industry professionals from areas including advertising and marketing, design, publishing, writing, live events, theatre, arts and crafts, and more. Students will have the opportunity to speak directly with people working in these industries, hear about their career journeys, and learn about the skills and qualifications needed to succeed.
The fair will also feature interactive exhibits and demonstrations, including sound desks, lighting equipment, live event painting and model making.
Session time:
- 4pm to 6pm – Ages 14+ (open to young people, parents and carers)
Whether you're already considering a creative career or simply want to find out what's possible, this event offers valuable insight into local opportunities, education pathways, work experience and future careers.
Attendance is free, but registration is recommended.
Find out more: Visit Winchester | Creative Careers Fair
ACCA careers in accounting and finance: Webinar schedule and resources (Years 10–13)
Pupils in Years 10 to 13 considering careers in business, accounting or finance can access a series of free interactive webinars and online learning modules delivered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Live webinar series: Redefining the Accountant (2026/27)
Designed for pupils, parents, carers and educators, these live online interactive sessions allow participants to hear directly from finance professionals, explore various entry routes and participate in Q&A discussions.
Webinar dates and schedule:
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Pathways into Accountancy with ACCA: Tuesday, 01 December 2026 | 6.30pm–7.30pm
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A Day in the Life of an Accountancy Apprentice: Wednesday, 02 December 2026 | 6.30pm–7.30pm
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Where Can a Career in Accounting Take You?: Thursday, 03 December 2026 | 6.30pm–7.30pm
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Applications Masterclass: Tuesday, 08 December 2026 | 6.30pm–7.30pm
Explore the Careers in Finance course on Unifrog
Pupils with an active Unifrog account can access the dedicated Careers in Finance course directly through their pupil portal. The interactive course introduces various roles across the financial sector and outlines technical, university and apprenticeship routes into the profession.
How to access and register:
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Book live webinars: Visit the Webinar Calendar 2026/27 | Book your place to reserve places for upcoming webinars.
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Access the Unifrog course: Log in to your Unifrog account to complete the module.
Join the Hamble Area Youth Wind Bands
Calling all brass, woodwind and percussion players... come and join the Hamble Area Youth Wind Bands!
Whether you're looking for a new musical challenge, want to improve your playing, or simply enjoy making music with others, we'd love to welcome you. New members are welcome to come along and try a rehearsal at any time.
Concert Band: 6pm - 7pm (Grade 3+)
Training Band: 5pm - 6pm (Grade 1+)
Tuesdays (term time only) at The Dart Community Centre, Hedge End.
For more information, please contact hayb@hms.hants.gov.uk.
GCSE PE badminton club
Looking to improve your GCSE PE badminton assessment?
Ben Maltby Badminton is offering individual coaching sessions designed specifically around the GCSE PE badminton specification, helping pupils maximise their practical assessment performance and confidence on court.
What to expect:
- Sessions based on the GCSE PE badminton specification
- Improve practical assessment performance
- Develop advanced badminton techniques
- Learn tactical awareness and court positioning
- Build confidence through match-play coaching
- Individual coaching tailored to assessment targets
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About the coach:
- Badminton England Level 2 Qualified Coach
- 10+ years coaching experience
- 20+ years playing experience
- GCSE PE badminton-specific coaching
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To find out more or book a session:
Ben Maltby
📞 07715 583 512
✉️ benmaltbybadminton@gmail.com
Parent workshop: Autism
Osborne and Shepherds Down School Outreach Services are running a free parent workshop designed to provide insight into autism and how it affects your child, along with practical strategies to support them at home.
Date: Wednesday, 25 November 2026
Time: 10.00am - 2.30pm
Venue: Oliver's Battery School, Austen Avenue, Winchester, SO22 4HP
Cost: Free of charge
The workshop will cover:
- An introduction to autism and the areas of difference
- Positive behaviour management
- Communication
Led by:
- Carson Elday (Osborne School Outreach Service)
- Laura Watts (Shepherds Down Outreach Service)
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
To book a place, please contact Osborne School Office only. Please do not contact Shepherds Down or Oliver's Battery School regarding bookings.
Email: admin@osborne.hants.sch.uk
Telephone: 01962 854 537
Refreshments will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch.
Parking is available on site.
Youth Impact: Summer 2027 programme for Years 11 and 12
Youth Impact is a four-day programme for young people aged 15–17 (Years 11 and 12), offering opportunities to build confidence, develop life skills, make friends and contribute to their local community.
Run by Your Sports Education, the programme includes team-building activities, first aid and public speaking workshops, debates and a community action project.
Sessions run Monday to Thursday, 10am–4pm.
Cost: £99 per participant, with payment instalments available. Places are free for eligible young people receiving free school meals who qualify for a HAF code.
Find out more
Visit the Youth Impact website for full programme details, including activities and eligibility.
Dates and locations
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28 June–01 July: Bournemouth (New Forest pick-up)
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05–08 July: Fareham (Havant pick-up)
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12–15 July: Reading
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19–22 July: Bath and Farnborough
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26–29 July: Eastleigh
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02–05 August: Andover
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09–12 August: Winchester
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16–19 August: Basingstoke
Register for Youth Impact to book a place.
Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Wake Up Wednesday
Here is our latest pick from The National College’s Wake Up Wednesday series, providing parents and carers with practical information and advice on topics affecting children and young people.
The guides cover a range of areas, including online safety, mental health and wellbeing, helping families stay informed and supporting conversations at home.
This week’s guide explores the risks of AI companions for young people, including emotional dependency, inappropriate content, privacy concerns and mental health.
Click on the accordion title below to read this edition.
Wake Up Wednesday - What Parents and Carers Need to Know About AI Companions
AI companions are powered by generative AI models such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Apps and virtual chatbots including Character.ai, Snapchat My AI, Replika, and Talkie allow users to create, customise, and chat with synthetic avatars at any time. While many young people use them for entertainment, creative writing, or homework help, these tools are designed to simulate human empathy, emotional bonding, and friendship.
Emotional dependency
AI companions are designed to be endlessly agreeable, attentive, and available 24 hours a day. Unlike human friendships, they do not disagree, set boundaries, or need time away. Young people, particularly those experiencing loneliness, social anxiety, or low self-esteem, may develop unhealthy emotional attachments and begin to see an AI as a best friend or surrogate romantic partner.
Distorted social skills
Real-world friendships involve conflict, compromise, boredom, and awkward moments. When young people spend significant time interacting with an AI that consistently validates and flatters them, they may become less tolerant of genuine human relationships. Over time, this can contribute to social withdrawal, increased anxiety in peer settings, and greater dependence on online interactions.
Dangerous mental health advice
AI chatbots do not possess genuine empathy, professional clinical expertise, or moral judgement. Although developers often state that these tools are not intended to replace therapists, vulnerable young people may turn to them during times of crisis. Chatbots have been known to generate inaccurate health information, reinforce negative thought patterns, and fail to respond appropriately when users disclose self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
Inappropriate or explicit content
Many mainstream AI platforms include safety filters and moderation systems. However, some users discover methods of bypassing these protections through "jailbreak" prompts. Certain platforms may encourage romantic roleplay or mature themes, while others with weaker safeguards have generated sexually explicit conversations or intimate imagery.
Data harvesting and oversharing
Because AI companions are designed to feel supportive and understanding, children and young people may reveal sensitive information they would not normally share. This can include personal details, school information, family issues, or private concerns. Conversations may be stored, analysed by third parties, or used to train future AI models, creating potential privacy risks.
Freemium upsells and subscriptions
Many AI companion services operate on a freemium model. Basic features may be free, but additional options such as voice calls, custom avatars, less restricted conversations, or enhanced relationship features are often locked behind paid subscriptions or in-app purchases. This can create pressure on young people to spend money in order to maintain their connection with the AI companion.
Talk openly about fake relationships
Help young people understand how AI companions work. Explain that these tools do not possess feelings, memories, awareness, or consciousness. Instead, they generate responses by predicting the most likely next words based on their training data. Learning about how large language models operate can help young people recognise that AI companionship is simulated rather than genuine.
Encourage real-world connection
Support healthy technology habits that prioritise face-to-face interactions, hobbies, sports, and family activities. Establish sensible boundaries around device use, such as keeping phones and tablets out of bedrooms overnight. These steps can help reduce the risk of developing excessive reliance on conversational AI systems.
Audit privacy settings and age limits
Regularly review which AI companion apps are installed on children's devices. Some companion apps are rated for older teenagers, while platforms such as Character.ai impose minimum age requirements. Check privacy settings together, disable unnecessary data-sharing options, opt out of model training where possible, and ensure location permissions are restricted.
Reinforce where to get real help
Ensure young people know that AI cannot replace professional support services or trusted adults. Remind them that they can seek help from school staff such as their Form Tutor, Head of Year, or Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). They should also be aware of dedicated support services including Childline (0800 1111) and Shout (text 85258) when they need guidance or assistance.
Meet our expert
Darren Coxon is the Founder and Executive Director of Kompass Education, a consultancy that supports educators, students, and parents in making informed decisions about AI. His book Ethical AI and Education, co-authored with Clara Hawking, is scheduled for release later in 2026 by Taylor and Francis.
The National College®
See full reference list on our website.
www.thenationalcollege.co.uk.
Users of this guide do so at their own discretion. No liability is entered into. Current as of the date of release:
09.10.2026.
MYPATH: Job of the week – Railway Engineer
Ever wondered what it's really like to work in different careers?
Each week, we'll be sharing a new Career of the Week video on YouTube from MYPATH, giving pupils and their families the chance to discover different jobs, learn what they involve and explore the many career paths available.
Why not take a few minutes to watch this week's video with your child? It could spark an interest in a career they hadn't considered before!
Please note that any external clubs / events / organisations that are advertised here are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with Swanmore College in any way.
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