Headmaster's Welcome
Dear Parents
I hope that everyone has settled into the school routine and the children are happy to be back in their normal term-time routine. This week I have had the opportunity and pleasure to speak with several parents - in the morning, after school, and during parent information evenings. It was lovely to see many new families, and I hope you gained valuable information about the school and the upcoming year.
Beginning your parent academic journey at a new school comes with its own challenges. However, rest assured that with a little time, you'll become accustomed to the routines and expectations. The Chronicle can be a source of valuable information about events and extra-curricular activities as well as giving you an insight to school life. If there are any unforeseen changes to the week ahead, your child's teacher or the school office will keep you informed. If you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our welcoming office team or your child's teacher in the first instance.
Participating in a social media group, such as a Parents WhatsApp group, can be an extremely helpful tool for connecting with other parents who have children in your child's class. It can be a great way to share information about upcoming school events and obtain valuable advice on parenting-related issues. However, it is important to keep in mind these groups are not officially affiliated with the school, and there is always the risk that inappropriate comments may be made in the chat or misinformation may be shared. To prevent any misunderstandings and ensure that our standards are upheld, we ask that all participants in Parents WhatsApp groups refer directly to the school for any information or queries and also exercise good judgement, consideration for others and respect for all when contributing any posts. Positivity and teamwork go a long way – so do the opposite approaches.
The PTA held their AGM on Thursday, and I would like to thank our Chair, Mrs Maria Gordon and her committee very much for all that they do for the benefit of our school and pupils. The PTA is an integral part of the school community. It has been a tremendous source of help and support to the school over the years, both in terms of fundraising and social activities, and assisting at school events and with various projects. The money raised by the PTA has funded many projects over the years which have been enjoyed by all. I am grateful to all parents who find time to help during their busy lives. As you can appreciate, however, they need a strong team of volunteers to commit to keep it functioning. It is totally flexible, whether you’re a full-time parent or working traditionally long hours, anyone can become involved. It is an ideal opportunity to meet and chat with a wider circle of families from different classes and year groups. Mums and dads, please do consider joining in whatever way that you can, even offering support at one-off events.
We are already receiving numerous enquiries about our popular holiday club, and I can confirm that during the October half term, this will be available. Details of how to book and the timetable will be released soon. Further details of when it will run over the Christmas holidays will be circulated soon.
Only recently the lovely staff in the front office were exchanging recipes for homemade soup and ginger ‘flu shots, while also deliberating on the best places to purchase pumpkin spice candles for the approaching winter season. However, I did not expect to see the arrival of COVID-19 and winter illnesses so soon. Therefore, I strongly ask that you take the time to remind your children on the importance of proper hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, to safeguard the well-being of all individuals.
Our school has a strong tradition of celebrating achievement and encouraging children’s self-esteem. Our weekly Celebration Assemblies are used to formally celebrate and reward children’s achievements in class and outside of school. Parents are always warmly invited to join us at our assemblies. I was impressed by the number of awards and achievements by the children this week. Congratulations to all our Stars of the week: Nursery: Reeyan and Hari; Reception: Rosie and Isher; Junior 1: Jamie and Margot; Junior 2: Ella and May; Junior 3: William and Harriet; Junior 4: Beatrice and Francesca; Junior 5: Ava and Zara and Junior 6: Phoebe and Arthur. We were treated to a wonderful performance in assembly from Matilda by Daiya, Jessie, Diya, Harriet and Grace, and Sienna was excellent on the piano – well done to all of them. There were fantastic achievements by pupils outside of school, particularly by Isaac in making the Warwickshire tennis training squad for the fourth year running and Henry who won his category at the Leamington Music Festival. Congratulations to Venus for winning this week’s house competition.
A lot of sport awaits us this weekend and Ireland are favourites as they come up against the Springboks. England have an easy game against Chile, hopefully Wales will do well against Australia in a make-or-break game and Scotland should beat Tonga.
Have a lovely weekend with your families.
God bless
Rob Duigan
