The Week Ahead Weekly Updates and Communication for Parents

Thanks to all who joined our weekend of prayer last week. As a staff team we were encouraged, it’s good to know we are in this together.

In John 15:4-5, Jesus reminds us: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

You will receive a letter/ email today about fee increases in September due to the government VAT. Our SLT has worked hard with governors, making sure we share any pain as much as possible. Please make sure you read all the communication fully.

This week we have builders in school, continuing with damage repairs after our flood. There will be some upheaval for the next half term as saturated walls dry out, ready to be redecorated. The snow caused a lot of damage, and repairs are slow because of the moisture. However, classes are operational if a little unsightly.

Despite this obstacle, our team has worked together to make sure children have been well taught. I am so appreciative of the ‘can do’ attitude of the staff at BCS. They have spent time and energy making sure the classrooms are still wonderful places for the children. They have managed to keep our reason for existence at the centre, and the quality of teaching and learning is good. Staff are involved in peer observations this year, sharing pockets of excellence identified by inspectors. I love hearing the professional conversations resulting from this, and seeing people grow their skills.

Our Year 11s are mid mock GCSEs, which are running well. Fifteen students are managing two weeks of intensive exams. They have been well prepared, and still have time to address any gaps before the real GCSEs in May and June. Some of the year 8’s attended their GCSE options evening this week, for them the journey is just beginning.

Jaylan, one of our Year 11 students, has had a short story published in a Young Writers competition, which is magnificent.

We have a new member of the PE team in Upper School - Mr kwon, a keen basket ball player will be sharing this skill after half term. He is also teaching Finance, and middle school maths and science alongside our current team.

Have a good holiday, there are some fabulous little (and not so little) people to share the time with.