Newsletters

Dear Parents,

Happy half-term everyone, what a fabulous first term we have had with so many moments that have inspired joy for our children, their families and our staff.  

About a year ago we changed our meeting format at all levels to include "big wins".  Staff are encouraged to share something that has delighted them since the last meeting.  This is sometimes personal, relating to their own achievements or those of their family members, but more regularly are related to their classes and the absolute privilege it is to be part of your children's learning journeys.

I was asked about my big wins during my performance management meeting with governors this week and there were so many I could have shared, but here is a snapshot from term 1.

• Having the opportunity to teach as well as be head at Benhall.  This is really important to me and I firmly believe I make better decisions as a head for your children and the staff as a result.
• Returning to where my teaching career began, teaching in Reception.  Being part of those first experiences as your children begin their learning journey is so special.  I have enjoyed getting to know all of our new families.
• Being out on the KS1 playground in the mornings, I don't teach, so I can chat to children and families.  
• Witnessing how pre-school has evolved following Miss Millward's appointment as manager.  There have been lots of changes, but everyone in the team is committed to the vision and the children are very lucky indeed. 
• I have loved seeing how teaching and learning has developed in year 1 this year.  The children have been so excited by the opportunity to learn both indoors and out.  There certainly couldn't have been a better 'big question' this term either, as the children have been finding out how the weather affects animals and humans! 
• Spending time with the children in their classrooms and other learning spaces around school.  They talk so enthusiastically about their learning and can share all of their sticky knowledge with confidence.  
• Finally, I was thrilled to attend my son, Rhys', graduation.  He is now a fully fledged agricultural engineer about to embark on his next adventure working for Claas in New Zealand!

None of these big wins would have been possible without the huge commitment our teachers, parents and governors give to school.  Thank you never seems enough but I am hugely grateful to you all.

Have a wonderful half term everyone and I hope to see many of you at the PTA scarecrow trail on Saturday afternoon.

Love from Miss Morris and the team