Pupils were treated to one final lie‑in at the start of the week while staff took part in inspirational INSET training focused on cultivating belonging and strengthening our phonics provision. We have already seen a positive impact from this development work during our learning walks, even in these early days. The session on belonging, in particular, prompted valuable reflection on our approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, and I look forward to sharing more with families over the coming weeks. 

There have been smiles all round this week following the relaunch of Happy Lunchtimes. Over the holidays, the leadership team cleared out the sheds and refreshed playground resources, ready for our staff coordinators and pupil play leaders to lead a wide range of engaging activities. It has been a real joy to visit each playground and witness the positive interactions, mixed year‑group collaboration and playful energy on display. Encouragingly, we have already seen a reduction in incidents and improved engagement in learning following unstructured time. Our Year 5 pupils, pictured above, perfectly capture the joyful atmosphere of our breaks and lunchtimes. As we agreed together at the start of the week, “alone we can’t do very much, but together we can achieve a lot.” 

With one week already complete, I hope—like me—you are looking forward to everything the rest of the term has to offer.