Newsletters

Welcome to this week’s newsletter!

“Life throws curveballs. Schools catch them.”

Folks,

We’re only a short way into the new term, but it’s already been one of those starts that reminds me how deeply human schools are. Behind the polished corridors, the colourful displays, and the busy routines, real life continues — for staff, children, and families alike.

Since the beginning of term, we’ve faced a handful of unexpected staffing curveballs — ones that have stretched us behind the scenes, even if they haven’t touched the surface for the children.

Mrs Georgina McVitie (formerly Miss Berry), who teaches in Year 6, has had to take unexpected compassionate leave. I’ll be writing to Year 6 parents separately about this matter, which has no impact on the PGL residential at all.

Mrs Anne Foth is currently off following a recent health-related concern, and we’re supporting her fully.

Over at Mossy Lea, Mrs Siobhan C has also had to step away temporarily following a similarly personal situation.

And as many have realised, Mrs Nic Gregson, our Deputy Headteacher, began maternity leave earlier than expected over summer to spend time with her family and help them prepare for the big changes ahead!

These absences weren’t planned, but they’ve been met with calm, clarity and teamwork — with staff stepping up, and the wider leadership team pulling together to ensure strength and consistency across the school.

It’s important to say this: the children remain safe, supported, and entirely unaware of any disruption. If anything, their start to term has been marked by joy, curiosity and routine — and that’s the clearest indicator that the foundations we’ve built are strong.

As I said to staff in our INSET: schools, like cruise ships, occasionally need to amend their course — but you never lose sight of the destination. You scan ahead, make adjustments, and keep moving forward — always with love at the helm.

I’ve spoken to staff — and often to the children — about the importance of “doing your best”, but recognising that our best can vary, day by day. This week, I’ve had to live that out myself. I’ve been reminded that calm, steady steps matter more than panic or perfection. It’s in these trickier moments that we get the chance to practise what we preach: resilience, flexibility, kindness, and clarity.

We began the year rooted in this Bible verse from Deuteronomy:

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

It’s a line that holds up in sunshine and in storm — and it echoes through our school mission statement: Be determined and confident, knowing God is with you. These aren’t just words for a poster. They are values that guide our steps. And they remind us that even when life throws unexpected challenges our way, we are never walking alone.

To our brilliant children — thank you for your laughter, your effort, and your trust.
To our amazing parents — thank you for your partnership, your patience, and your positivity.

And finally, thank you for helping us hold onto what makes our school special: honest, traditional relationships, quietly underpinned by something that can’t always be seen — but is always felt.

As we often say: you can’t beat it.