Dear Parents,
I hope that you all remain healthy and in good spirits.
We only have another week left before half-term and still there is no certainty about our return. Although the government has expressed an intention to open schools, there is no actual instruction to do so. I am working on the basis that Nursery, Reception and Year 1 children will return soon, but cannot say when Year 2 will come back. The government has hinted that other primary year-groups will be sent back to school before the end of term; we hope this happens soon.
Unfortunately for everyone, we cannot simply open our doors and welcome all of the children back simultaneously. There are social distancing constraints placed on us, so despite opening both sites, hours and class sizes cannot be as normal. Next week I will attempt to find the best compromise between a safe return to school for children and staff, a manageable workload for teachers and the most helpful hours for parents. A reminder (if you haven't already done so) to tell us whether or not you intend sending your child back to school, as this will help with timetabling and planning. Please contact Sue or Ainsley.
I have been visiting the Upper School regularly over the past three weeks. The playground is sunny and welcoming, but feels incomplete without children to bring it to life. When we do return, we will spend as much time as possible outside and will set up gazebos to provide shade. At the Nursery we will open all of the windows for a through-flow of air.
David and I have been taking it in turns to water the playground planters. I set about getting rid of some enormous 'weeds' on Monday and was astonished when I pulled up three beautiful turnips! These must have been planted by our green-fingered pupils before lockdown. I love gardening but obviously have a dismal understanding of vegetable growing. Well done children!
Once again, thank you for the great work you have been doing with your children; the photos below say it all. I am proud of the teachers for adapting so quickly to a completely new way of working, but am equally proud of you and your children for completing such a huge range of activities at home. The weather forecast looks good for the weekend, so I hope you enjoy some time outside in the warmth.
Very best wishes,
Kate