Dear parents, carers and children,
Well, we all made it to half term! I would like to say a huge well done to everyone – children, parents, grandparents
and staff – for getting through these last few weeks in such adverse circumstances. The expectations for remote
education during this period of school closures are so much higher and everyone has stepped up to ensure that we
have met these expectations. It hasn’t been easy and there have been difficulties along the way (the technical side in
particular has been a steep learning curve for many!). We would like to thank you for your understanding, and for
keeping up the strong communication whenever you have had any queries or concerns. This period of time also hasn’t
been easy for mental health and wellbeing ,with all the many pressures that people are under, so I would like to
reiterate what we have been saying over the last few weeks: please go easy on yourselves and do what you can. When
it becomes a bit much, put the schoolwork away and go outside to play in the fresh air, or snuggle up to read a book or enjoy a fun film
together.
The Prime Minister has stated a provisional date of Monday 8th March for schools to reopen to all children, which is to be confirmed nearer
the time. As soon as we find out any further information, we will let you know. Let’s keep our fingers crossed!
As you know, Ofsted carried out a remote monitoring visit over the last two days, as part of their programme of the
monitoring of schools’ remote education provision. I would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff for all their
hard work when meeting with the inspectors, as well as to the children who met with them to read to them and talk
about their learning. Thank you also to those of you who completed the parent survey, and for all your positive
feedback. We have been told that the reports are being sent out ‘in batches’ so will be made available for parents by the end of March at
the latest.
Thank you also to those of you who completed our own parent survey. We are collating the results and our responses, which will be sent
out after half term.
Ainslie class were very excited to receive a special message from Sir Ben Ainslie—you can watch this on our Facebook page. Tomorrow Sir Ben Ainslie and his team will begin the races in the final of the Prada Cup in New Zealand,
racing against Italy. Ainslie Class have been sending drawings of their boat and messages, and today we recorded a big
shout out to the whole team during our zoom meeting. Good luck, Ben!
I am extremely delighted to share the news that Mrs Aram is expecting her first baby in July! Her class are very
excited and I know you will all join us in wishing Mr and Mrs Aram many congratulations.
I would like to wish you all a very well deserved and relaxing half term break, and we look forward to seeing you (in
person or remotely) on Monday 22nd February.
With very best wishes,
Mrs Lennon and the Brighstone Team