We are well and truly up and running now and we have been so impressed with how quickly the children have settled into the school year, taking all the new changes in their stride. It is already impossible to tell which children are new to the school compared to existing pupils as everyone looks so at home.
We know that there will still be some nerves or even anxiety about coming to school, and for some children in any year group, it can take longer to get used to or there might be times it feels tougher than others. This is very normal and we will continue to ensure there are lots of familiar and friendly faces around at the start of each day to help encourage the children and build their confidence. Well done to all the parents who are experiencing this all for the first time too and indeed everyone for navigating the start of the school year. It is also a big change for you and whilst I often joke about parents being desperate for the children to return to school I know that it can be a tough transition for you too.
One thing that has definitely helped encourage children to come through the gates has been the return of our fury friend River! He has been in twice this week as he also settles back into post-holiday life, and it was so lovely to see how happy children were to see him. We are in the process of sorting a timetable for him and he begins special school dog training soon. He loves his gate duty and we will make sure we give any children who might be a bit unsure plenty of room, he also went out at break time where he was made to feel like a “rock-star” and he was very well behaved during his first fire drill. The children set a great example so River was quiet and calm and it all went well.
We are going to try a few new things this year with newsletters, blogs, vlogs and other ways to support and help. It was lovely seeing so many parents at the Meet the Teacher evening on Wednesday and also last week at our first Meet and Mingle event. Feedback has been very positive, and staff are grateful for your kindness and support. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, we are here to help you too!
Have a lovely weekend from River and I.
Jon Chesworth
Headteacher
