Head's Newsletter

Dear Parents,

I think we can all agree that this half term has been an absolute whirlwind, but I do feel pleased with the progress we are making. I am so proud of the children's hard work and behaviour, and I see them demonstrating our school values every day.

Parents' Evenings

This week, you have met with your child's teacher and learned how they've settled in and the progress they have made. I hope these sessions have been helpful; please remember teachers are happy to catch up with you whenever you need to - not just parents' evenings. We look forward to our second parents' evenings later in year, which will be held in school. 

Listening Ear

Following the departure of Mrs Haycock last year, we felt it was really important to continue "Listening Ear," which is our emotional support service for our pupils. I am pleased to say that Mrs Charlotte Smith, one of our fabulous Teaching Assistants has now fully completed the required training and is going to be working with pupils who are finding things tricky, for whatever reason. Additionally, we are amending Mrs Smith's timetable to give her time to welcome in pupils, catch up with parents and provide support first thing each morning where needed. Although this is in its early stages of implementation, please feel free to get in contact if you would like to learn more. 

Parents' Sessions

As you know, I believe strongly in keeping parents informed as much as possible, including the reasons behind why decisions are made. I also want to welcome parents back into school where possible, and keep you informed of changes and new things in school. This half term, we have held a session for parents on Early Reading, Phonics and Rhino Readers. We have also opened our Early Years doors to prospective Reception parents. Next half term we have a SEND session scheduled. If you, as parents, feel any other sessions would be beneficial and informative, please do get in touch.

Governance

I have been extremely fortunate to work with such a caring and supportive Governing Board this year. Next half term, I have invited all governors to attend an Open Morning where they can come into school and learn exactly what we are doing for our children - effectively seeing our School Improvement Plan in action. This will help all governors have a first-hand understanding of our priorities and where we need to go next. In addition, our governors have each formed a "link" with particular curriculum leaders, so that they can develop a deeper knowledge of what a particular subject looks like across school. The governance section of the website will be updated over half term with all the changes we have made.

You may have seen from my earlier update that we have a new Chair of Governors - Mr Mark Emly. If you get a chance, please do read Mark's letter to parents in "Latest News."

Looking Forward...

Despite being pleased with our progress this term, we are all aware we have so much we still want to improve and develop. There is also a lot of change going on behind the scenes that parents don't always see, but which does make a real difference to school effectiveness. Next half term will be very busy, with Christmas performances to rehearse as well as trips, the Primary Maths Challenge and many other exciting things. 

Thank you once again for your support and your positivity as we work together to make this school fantastic. Have a lovely half term.

With best wishes,