Headmaster's Welcome
Dear Parents
As this half term draws to a close, I would like to congratulate each and everyone one of our families for coping so magnificently during this lockdown. It has been hard for everyone and, I feel, particularly more difficult this time due to the fact that we haven’t been able to get outside so much and enjoy fresh air and nature. However, seeing the children online, their photographs, the PTA events and hearing about what you are all managing to accomplish at home is heart-warming and encouraging. We are often able to find ways to adapt and make the best of situations and credit is due to people who manage this. That’s not to say that we wouldn't all welcome a return to traditional schooling (with new initiatives) as soon as possible.
This week has seen a flurry of activities with children from Nursery to Junior 6 exploring Chinese New Year celebrations with Mrs Huang, with help from other members of staff. Not many of you would have known that we have a British and European Gold Medallist in our midst. Mr Vaughan, a black belt in Aikido organised live Wing Chun lessons for pupils which was very well received by many and you can learn more later in this edition.
This week’s stars of the week were: Ella, Charley, Isabel, Beatrice, Shuvan, Finley, Darcey, Mairen, Carter, Leonardo, Stephanie, Freddie and Noah. I was also delighted to announce that there were lots of Da Vinci awards presented this week including: Andrew, Lucas, Matilda, Kate and Elle for their work in English. Lexi and Josh for super work in Mathematics. Finley, Hattie and Isla for their efforts in Science. Well done to all of you and I know that your certificates will be posted to you very soon. I have been made aware of some others who have or are receiving their awards soon and we look forward to announcing these in the next celebration assembly.
As you will see from the newsletter, I am pleased to announce that we will be welcoming a new member of staff in September. Ms Sharon McAloon will be joining us as Assistant Head in September and brings with her a wealth of experience. I am thrilled that Sharon will joining us and I know that you will make her feel very welcome indeed.
There is a lot more to read in this week’s edition so I will keep my message to you brief for today. School will be closed over half term but Nursery will remain open; as will the school office, but on reduced hours. Critical Worker care will reopen on 22 February and a questionnaire asking for your requirements will be sent during half term; please bear in mind that if any changes are made to your booking, we will need 24 hours’ notice in order to organise staff and ‘bubbles’.
We are currently working through the mid-year reports and these will be available to you towards the end of the half term break.
I should like to thank all my staff for their tireless efforts over the past half term, including being able to adjust and manage their routines so well.
I wish you all a restful half term with your families.
God bless,
Mr Duigan
