Keep calm and carry on. This week, the Lyonsdown leadership team were looking ahead to the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe *, and the war time motivational message was mentioned in passing. Wikipedia says this: “the poster was intended to raise the morale of the British public.” In that sense, I feel it is timely – the top news stories this week were: flooding, the potential collapse of EU trade talks and COVID-19. There was even a very brief rumour that snow would close schools in north London; it is well known that we will remain open except in extreme circumstances.
So in the spirit of 1939, I intend to raise morale. We should, and do, take those issues that might affect our school community very seriously, but it is important to focus on the positive. You are reading this on a Friday and the weekend beckons: hurrah! The School Quiz (my Twitter profile picture still depicts the clay avatars from 2019) is taking place next weekend: hurrah! Children and parents know that there are a litany of amazing events still to come this year, but the great fun of being a teacher is planning ahead and adding new events to the calendar: details are TBC, but we will be marking VE Day 75, of course.
The smallest things can bring joy – at break time this week, I was shown a card a younger girl had made that read “I love you, Mummy.” The child was joyous, I beamed and I am sure the parent in question was extremely happy. In the world of the Headmaster, joy comes in spades from speaking to children. Seeing Year 1’s fashion design of undergarments (please see Year 1 for a full explanation) was a highlight this week. I really enjoy children bringing me interesting things from home or their lessons, and I will always have a discussion about books with any child. In fact, I have just had an in-depth discussion on graphic novels next week.
So, whatever brings you joy, I hope you are able to make the most of the imminent weekend. Hurrah
Mr. Hammond
* This bank holiday is now on Friday 8th May 2020 (your calendar may be wrong). School will not be open on this day.
COVID-19
We continue to take appropriate precautions in school and follow the latest advice issued by the UK Government. We have also increased the frequency of cleaning on site.
Please could all parents read the letter that was sent to you this week. Although our advice remains the same, the countries covered by this advice may change. Please check https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-information-for-the-public for the most up-to-date information. In addition, please could parents make sure that all children wash their hands before coming to school in the morning.