9 September 2016

Dear Parents/Carers,

The beginning of a new year is the ideal time to revisit some of the expectations we have that will enable us, working together with you, to make this a successful time for all. The children have already made a fantastic start by arriving at school looking so smart and excited about their learning and we know that this will continue.

As outlined in our first assembly with the children, we expect everyone in our school family to value our school environment, each other and themselves. We have summarised this under three headingsto make it easier for everyone to remember and they form the behaviour code for the school.

LOOK SMART

Take care of our own and others’ belongings

Take pride in our school, our work and ourselves

ACT SMART

Keep ourselves and others safe

Treat others as we would wish to be treated ourselves

THINK SMART

Only say things that are kind, thoughtful and true

Make the most of our learning at all times

It would be most appreciated if you could reinforce this message and help with such aspects as keeping their uniform as smart as it is now and encourage independence in taking care of belongings. We have raised expectations in school with regard to presentation of work and handwriting and every child will now be expected to write in pen. The new behaviour zone boards will continue to help the children to focus on developing positive behaviour in class, with an emphasis on fresh starts and opportunities to reflect when mistakes are made.

We believe that every child has the potential to achieve and are now working hard to build a Growth Mindset in every member of our community, which will encourage all to strive to do their best and persevere in times of challenge. Your children will talk about the ‘power of YET’ – moving mindsets from ‘I can’t…’ to ‘I can’t…YET’.

Finally, a reminder that school starts at 8.50am and arriving on time ensures a positive start to the day. However, children must not be on the playground, unsupervised, before 8.35am. It would also be best for your child, and the rest of the class, if any medical appointments could be arranged for outside of the school day where possible. Thank you for entrusting your child to our care – we will do all we can to provide the best possible opportunities for them to be happy, safe and successful.

Yours sincerely

Mrs S E Lambert

Headteacher