Dear Parents,

As we move from January into February, transition and looking forward seem all the more relevant. There is immediately a difference in feeling, with lighter mornings, and slightly better weather. As we walk around the campus, the green shoots are visible and Spring is on its way.

Many of you are looking forward as you begin to plan secondary schools, and our annual Future Schools’ Fair provided an opportunity to support your preparation. I hope that for many of you this provided you with support and guidance as you begin to think about next steps. My thanks to our staff, and to our many senior school colleagues for your support. We are very grateful to Eastbourne College, and to Tom Lawson, who provided much food for thought as you make those important decisions.

Next week Mrs Scarbrough will be starting the week with an assembly on ‘Let’s talk about it?’ as we mark Safer Internet Day on 7 February. It is also Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, with the theme of ‘reaching out and connecting’. We ask families to support these important themes as all of our pupils have access to online devices. If you need specific advice, or you are thinking about purchasing a device, Mrs Scarbrough is here to provide support.

Thank you to those who came to Coffee Connections this morning, it is lovely to be able to provide a space for our parents to come together for an informal gathering.

Well done to 3W, Mrs Watson, Mrs Harrod and Toby for your terrific assembly about ‘The Lion Inside’, by Rachel Bright, which encapsulated our 5 keys to success and happiness. If we were all 10% braver in all that we do, with our friendships and learning, imagine what we could achieve. Thank you to all the parents – we hope that you enjoyed singing this morning, what an empowering way to finish the week.

Wishing all the cast and crew the best of luck for Matilda next week.

Best wishes,

Emma Neville

Head