12th September

As the weeks of the first semester start to tick over,  the children at East are finding their stride and settling into the routines of school. Although still feeling  new, and largely focused on observing and understanding how Chatsworth East operates, my initial impressions of our school are forming which I am happy to share with you.

The staff at East take their responsibility to provide a strong academic grounding for students very seriously, and I see evidence of this everyday when moving around the school. Our teaching is strong and staff are well trained to provide and support teaching and learning programmes that cater for the needs of the class, and individuals within it. Teachers are well supported by their team leaders and our curriculum coordinator to fine tune their programmes. The PYP Curriculum provides an amazing structural support for us all to work within. After a short time here, I am confident in the ability of the school, when working collaboratively with you, to provide for the learning needs of your children.

I am really pleased to see a commitment by staff to  focus on developing the whole child, and not just their academic needs. I listen to the conversations that tell me that the staff care about the safety, happiness and wellbeing of children. There is a strong belief in providing  experiences and opportunities to grow independence, leadership skills and self confidence in a range of areas. I see evidence in this with my interactions with children, and am pleased with the level of self confidence I have observed.

An example of an experience that helps develop these skills that are so important as an adult is the Year 3 overnight  camp at school. Opportunities that allow children to be children, developing confidence in themselves in new situations, and working alongside new people constructively are an important part of a child's development. Although there may be a degree of apprehension, they grow tremendously from these experiences. It is rare that they don't rise to the challenge.

We appreciate the trust shown by you in us as a school to do the right thing with your children.

Confidence in front of the camera at such a young age!