Gate duty is one of many highlights of my day, possibly topped by an impromptu Hide and Seek championship with Nursery on Wednesday, and this week I had a fascinating discussion about influences. As with many a gate chat, Year 6 started by discussing books, and then cultural impact. Inevitably, we ended up at two authors with initials in their publishing name, JK Rowling and JRR Tolkein, and how to describe their influence on others – the “Dark Lord” mantle passing from Sauron to Voldemort being a prime example. “Tolkeiny” one suggested, with “Tolkeinist” being a, quite frankly, brilliant suggestion. Although Tolkeinesque is the commonly acknowledged term, the fact that two engaged and interested girls were willing to get things wrong is significant. Miss Telford’s assembly on the importance of saying “I can’t do [insert challenging activity here] yet”reemphasised this message. As will all things, effort trumps attainment and the journey is as important as the destination.
Of course, children need help and support on their journey. Mrs Hall’s piece on the improvements to English below is one such example of this, with earlier curriculum evenings (all complete in record time) and the addition of an extra parents’ evening providing further opportunities for parents and teachers to discuss this guidance. On that note, following feedback from parents, we hope the booking system is even smoother this year and that the chance for Year 4-6 to book appointments with their daughters’ English, Maths and Science teachers are both welcome. Further improvements to our Wraparound Care in both After School Club and the new Homework Club, have provided two different kinds of support, but both are equally valuable.
This week, Year 3 were the first taxi off the rank in terms of trips this year, as they journeyed to the Roald Dahl Museum. These visits are vital to developing the whole child; my thanks to the teachers who arrange them, and parents for volunteering to chaperone.
I hope you enjoy your weekend and the remainder of the glorious Indian Summer.
Mr Hammond
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