The new school year has begun!
We hope you all had a great summer break! It was exciting to welcome back pupils this morning as we kicked off a brand new academic year. A special welcome also goes to our new pupils and families who have joined us today for the first time.
Over the summer we faced the challenge of a fire, but we are very pleased to say that all the building works are now complete. Changes include three new classrooms, a resurfaced drive, wider corridors, an upgraded heating system, and a brand-new reception area. Our Lower School teachers have moved into their new spaces, which look fantastic.
Reception has now moved to the new building next to the car park. All visitors, including parents collecting or dropping off children outside normal times, should sign in there. We will be adding more signage shortly to make this clearer.
A little reminder that pupils in Years 8–11 and Sixth Form should bring a school bag and a pencil case with basic stationery (pens, pencils, ruler, eraser, sharpener, colouring pencils, and highlighters). For Year 7, this is encouraged as part of their preparation for Upper School. We know some pupils need extra support with organisation, so classrooms are stocked with spare supplies if needed. Please support your child at home where you can — we have a visual checklist available if helpful.
We recognise that in our setting, some pupils have specific needs around uniform, and we continue to strive for a balance between inclusion, comfort, and consistency. Please note the following:
• Full school uniform Monday–Thursday
• KS2 pupils may wear PE kit on PE and Forest School days
• Footwear: black school shoes or plain black trainers. PE shoes can be any colour
• Bottoms: charcoal grey trousers, skirts, or shorts. Pull-on trousers or joggers are permitted where needed. Black bottoms are for PE only
• Polo shirts: plain or school branded. An option with a printed logo is available for pupils who dislike embroidery
If your child requires any adaptations for sensory or other needs, please do let us know. Tutors will also follow up where support may be needed.
Thank you, as always, for your support in helping us provide the very best start to the term for every pupil and student. We are looking forward to a positive year ahead.