It has been simply fantastic to see more students back in school over the past few weeks. Small groups, socially distanced but together, smiling and pleased to be in school and learning. This feels like such a small thing but it is a step forward and a return to a sort of normality. There is an assembly in this about appreciating things which we often take for granted but that is for another day; what it does illustrate to me is the importance of a school as a community and the connections it offers to us all whatever our role in that community is.

As I wrote last week, we are very much looking forward to September. It will be challenging and very different but it will also provide opportunities in some areas to be innovative and creative and we appreciate that many of the best ideas will come from our students. We shall be listening, reflective and open to suggestions!  The way in which students have already adapted to the new arrangements in school has been hugely impressive and I have no doubt that this will continue next year.

We will write to parents and carers with details about how school will operate in September before the end of term. It has been very noticeable how “well-drilled” the students who have been on site have been so please do keep an eye out of for the letter when it arrives and do talk it through at home.

In the meantime, amongst a great many other things the final bumper House Newsletter of the year will be out soon and our Virtual Sports Day takes place next week and I would encourage all students to participate in what will be a great “virtual” event.