Dear Parents,
With only three weeks to go until the end of term, I am relieved that we have managed to stay open. Parents have followed our guidelines to the letter and have kept us up to date whenever contacts have tested positive with coronavirus. I am so grateful to everyone for their thoughtful behaviour which, so far, has kept the whole school safe from infection. Thankfully there has been very little illness in the school this term; far less than normal.
The classrooms are filled with beautiful displays and with the sound of Christmas carols as children rehearse their end of term concerts. Concerts and the Reception nativity will still take place, but sadly without the usual audience. We want everyone to enjoy the children's singing and acting, so will film the class shows to share with you.
I am sorry that you won't see Matthew Miller in person as he leads his final round of Children's House performances. At Christmas he is retiring from teaching after six years with us in different guises - music teacher, class teacher, assistant head, then music teacher again. His joy in making music with children has been infectious and has added an invaluable dimension to their education. Many of you were lucky enough to see his inspiring work during lockdown. I would like to thank Matthew on behalf of the whole school community and wish him all the very best in his new life (as a cabinet maker? composer?) after Christmas.
Our new music teacher, Hannah King, will join us in the New Year. She has taught in north London independent schools and co-leads the Highbury Youth Choir.
Congratulations to Taiba Hussain, who has been appointed Assistant Head of the Upper School. Her energy and passion for the school are attributes that will prove invaluable as we move into an exciting new phase.
Enjoy the pieces that follow from each class. They are testament to the ingenuity of our staff. Every week they deliver an inspiring curriculum despite the restrictions of a covid-safe setting. Thanks to the children for the wonderful work shown in the photographs. Wishing everyone an enjoyable weekend. Please stay well.
Warm regards,
Kate