As we reach the conclusion of the most bizarre of terms, we are able to look back and reflect on what, I am sure you will agree, is a job well done. Every member of our School community has, in their own way, had to rise to the ongoing challenges presented to us during this time and I am so grateful for the support that has continued to be shown by all.

Easter, for so many, is a symbol of new life and renewed hope. It seems very apt that this is the time at which restrictions begin to ease and we can, once more, begin to see family and friends – albeit in a limited way initially.

This week in School, we have been talking about the importance of being kind in our relationships. I shared with the children one of my favourite sayings, from Dr Wayne Dyer, made famous in the book Wonder by RJ Palacio, “When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind.” Kindness is an active choice and is not always easy. Children and adults alike get this wrong on a regular basis, but being aware of the value of kindness is so vital to relationships and the harmony of an organisation such as SVPS. When everyone makes the decision to be a little bit kinder, particularly when they are feeling tired and toward the end of their tether, relationships are deepened and, as a result, the whole community grows stronger together.

I have written before about the value of reading and I am delighted that every child in Year 3 to Year 6 has been sent home with a ‘Reading Adventures’ booklet, which they can have a go at during the holidays. There is strong evidence to suggest that a bookshelf is the most impactful piece of furniture in a house when it comes to children’s development, but in order to unlock this potential, the books on it need to be more than decorations. I encourage each and every one of our children to explore, share and discover new books and tell us all about them on their return to School.

Pre-Prep has also been provided with their own ‘Spring into Awesome Adventures’ challenge, which I hope will be a springboard for them to explore the outdoors and enjoy what is hopefully warmer weather, with lengthening days and new life beginning to show itself in our fields, woods and gardens. We look forward to hearing about what they have all been up to.

Have a fantastic Easter and don’t forget to change your clocks on Sunday!

Mr Watkins, Deputy Head