Welcome to The Learning Curve,
They say that it’s the little things that make the difference.
Our respect value highlights the importance of politeness and courtesy. These two words have been explored by all of our students during form time or in primary classrooms. I am pleased to say that I am seeing them living these words on campus. It’s amazing what a difference people smiling at each other, saying hello, thank you and wishing others well can have on the culture of a place. It really is low hanging fruit, it costs nothing and is easy to do.
So thank you to everyone for the kindness, courtesy and politeness that has been shown in these early weeks. It stands us in good stead.
Our learning value talks about the importance of reflection. Earlier this week I walked into one of my colleagues’ rooms and my eyes were immediately drawn to a pack of chocolate hobnob biscuits (us British people view such biscuits as the ultimate snack) and I was kindly offered one. As I picked the packet up I saw a yellow post note attached to it. The note read: “Sorry I was a bit snappy yesterday (“snappy” is slang for a bit rude or impolite)”. This made me smile. Not because someone had not been their best self in a given moment (that happens to all of us) but because there had been sincere reflection after that moment, followed by an action. This is a wonderful example of our values coming to life.
As we move into next week we will see THRIVE bedding down with students going to their electives. I’m really excited about my tag rugby and basketball sessions and to watch how this program unfolds and develops.
My team and I will also be revisiting and discussing the strategic plan for the near and middle term and I look forward to being able to share this with you soon. I want this process to be transparent.
Finally, I am afraid that there will be a few minor bumps in the road over the next two months with some staffing disruptions related to administrative processes caused by BREXIT. These are entirely out of our control. Frankly, I am not sure that either government is in control. We will plan the best that we can to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our students. I thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
James Wellings
Head of School