What a term. I write this having just come out of the House Music Competition, and I couldn’t be prouder of our school. The energy, confidence and feel-good factor are so strong right now, and I am sure that everyone who was able to join us will be heading into the Easter break with the same buzz I am currently feeling!
Throughout the term, I have had the privilege of touring many people around Pennthorpe: prospective families, visiting speakers, members of the Hurst team and staff from other schools. It is a genuine honour to talk to people about our school and, as interest in Pennthorpe grows and word spreads, I am getting more opportunities to do just that. One word I have heard used more than any other from visitors is ‘happy’, and that makes me incredibly proud. Children deserve to be happy above anything else, and Pennthorpe is certainly a happy place. Your children are happy children.
This term has been the start of a new journey for us and, to use a very ‘Spring’ analogy, it has been about cultivating the soil. The culture at any school is where everything starts. The positivity around Pennthorpe over the last three months has been incredible; now it’s time to watch us grow!
This week, we held interviews for a new Deputy Head Pastoral. We had 19 strong candidates apply, long-listed seven for online interviews, and then invited two to final-stage interviews on Wednesday. We have decided not to appoint either candidate. Both were very strong in certain areas, but we felt that neither was completely right for Pennthorpe. Although I am disappointed with the outcome, I also feel reassured knowing that we must find the right person, and that didn’t happen this time. When we find them, we will know. As such a crucial role for the school, it must be right. I will continue to update you regarding our next steps, but please be assured that when we do appoint, just as with every decision I have made over the past three months, your children will be front and centre of my thoughts.
We also held interviews on Thursday for a new Head of English. Although I cannot confirm this appointment yet, we have made a verbal offer, and I will share further details as soon as I am able.
Today, we also say goodbye to James Davies and Vicky Daley. I would like to thank James for the incredibly positive impact he has had on the Pre-Prep, Early Years and Forest School over the last three years. His knowledge, passion and genuine care are truly exceptional, and he will be very much missed next term.
Vicky leaves us after 23 incredible years. Having been her ‘office-next-door neighbour’ for four years, I have been privileged to hear her working with hundreds of children. I can honestly say that she cares on a level I genuinely admire. Her patience, understanding and ability to always find another way to explain something are unparalleled, and she will be sorely missed.
Although we are breaking up for Easter for three weeks, we have lots going on during that time, including holiday camps, prospective parent tours and (perhaps most excitingly) the building of our brand-new outdoor classroom! I cannot wait for the children to return to school and begin using this in the sunshine. We will try to keep you updated with the build via social media over the next few weeks. The Estates team have worked tirelessly this term to get the woodland area ready for this, so a massive thank you to them for their efforts.
Finally, on a personal note, thank you for all the support, trust and positivity you have shown and shared this term. It has been an incredible privilege to take on the role of Head of School, and it is a responsibility I do not take lightly. This school is a community; we are on a journey together, and I genuinely appreciate the part you are all playing in it.
Have a great Easter, eat lots of chocolate, buy lots of flowers, get the BBQ out for the first time, and enjoy time with your families.
Enjoy the break and bring on the Summer Term!
