There have been so many highlights of the school year that it has been difficult to choose a few. Our Year 6 class have been exemplary in every way and they have set such a high standard for other children to follow. We had many things going on in and around school in the last few weeks. Year 6 went to The Cottage for lunch, we went on a whole school trip, we celebrated many whole school prayer and liturgy opportunities, strengthened our links with children at a school in Kenya, played football and netball against Year 6, were awarded a Laudauto Si  award from CAFOD, got 3 rabbits for school (courtesy of our Year 6 leavers), created a ‘buddy bench’  (courtesy of Mrs Unsworth) and much more. We have had some incredible support from friends and families of our school and we give thanks for the many talents and gifts we have all been given. The school band are amazing. Mr. Warren will be continuing with us next year and we now have more brass players than ever.

When you have no option but to wait for building work to commence, it can become a little frustrating but we can assure you that we are working alongside LCC throughout the holidays to secure a start on our return to school.

On the last day of term, our leavers did a ‘staffroom sketch’ and it was hilarious. We forget how much children pick up on and they have been very observant throughout the year. It was when Jess walked on wearing a high vis vest, wellies, hard hat and a fishing net that I knew she had to be portraying my life at St.Francis’ and it was worrying!!I feel that I have unblocked far too many drains, rescued far too many bats, birds and toads, cleaned up too many cow pats and fended of far too many sheep! For those of you who have met me, you will know that these typical jobs of a Headteacher ( or my Headteacher role) are all in my bag of tricks and I can conquer most things. I have conquered nappies and car seats and very small children who ping my tights and laugh hysterically as I read them a story.  I have conquered power cut problems when children are about to sit their SATs.

I have yet to conquer creating a ‘rabbit welfare’ group for the holidays. This is a huge hint that we are reaching out to parents who would like to volunteer in looking after our new rabbits next half term holidays. You may think this is very soon in advance but I know what could potentially happen if I do not have a rota firmly in place! Year 6 gave us 3 rabbits and a beautiful 2 tier hutch, with a gold plaque on the door engraved with the names of the Year 6 leavers. I haven’t seen the rabbits yet but I know the children will love them very much.

Below, you will see me trying to get a reoccurring tiny fruit bat off my dress. It seems that, after drinking a lot of water from a wet paper towel, a tiny fruit bat will suddenly come to life! I am not keen on bats but I must do my duty. You will also see what I love about our school-a variety of activities…

Class pages always show you so much about topics and ‘Learning Logs’ tell you what your children will be learning on a weekly basis but we will be sending you half termly curriculum learning overviews beginning  in September- on paper! These will also have dates for your diaries (particularly relating to your child’s class) and will be an addition to the monthly newsletter.

I cannot believe how much the children grow. Our Year 2 stars will be moving into juniors and our EYFS children will be in Year 1. The time has flown by and we couldn’t be prouder of them all. Our 12 new starters have already familiarised themselves with the classroom and their teacher, Mrs Davies, and we know that our new Year 6 class will be fantastic, sensible and caring in their new roles as children leading children.

We congratulate James Gornall and Libby Riley -our new Head boy and Head girl- and Henry Coupe and Charlotte Coupe as our Deputies. What wonderful role models they will be. Our school is a democracy and we teach this within our British Values curriculum. The children all listened to Year 5 speeches and they all voted to ensure the process was fair. There will be many roles in school for all Year 6 children to lead and use their initiative to further improve school.

Sports teams have been amazing this year, musicians have flourished and the progression and standard of art skills have been outstanding. Children have immersed themselves in Shakespeare and the Beacon Class play was breathtaking. The standard of singing was first rate. The children amazed me!

Children who took part in ‘St.Francis’ Got Talent’ were absolute stars and UFA groups have been thoroughly enjoyed by all. I wholeheartedly thank all staff who work tirelessly in creating and maintaining an amazing learning environment, enriched with active learning opportunities. I thank the parish and parents who continue to speak of our school so positively and thanks to our PTFA. The list could go on. For all volunteers, your work with our children is greatly appreciated and we thank your support.

We look forward to September. Until then, have a safe and relaxing holiday.

Good luck Year 6- enjoy your next adventures and always believe in yourselves.