Headteacher blog 6/6/25

The summer term is the best term, although it has been cooler and wetter than normal this week. Nevertheless, we have had another great week.

There are so many trips and visitors this half term: we had author Jenny York on Wednesday and 4SN went on a visit to Leeds City Centre as part of their geography work on Thursday, successfully dodging showers and gaining insights and data before they visit a contrasting locality – Burnsall, in the Dales – later in the month. Year 1 are going to Rodley Nature Reserve next week and have an animal workshop later; Reception are off to exciting Stockeld Park; Y2 have a bee workshop lined up and a trip to Skelton Grange environmental centre; Y5 are off to the Dales (Malham) again and Y6 have a visit to the Industrial Museum and an exhilarating residential at How Stean Gorge. Thank goodness we have the minibuses!

The PTA published its plans for this year’s Camp-Over on 12th July. It’s going to be another huge, fun event for all the family. Demand is very strong for tickets with 50 families committing in the first 36 hours after applications were opened (with over 30 families already camping). I think this is a clear highlight of the school year. Many, many thanks to all the volunteers that help it to happen – in preparation and on the day.

On Thursday night, I hosted over 30 would-be applicants for a couple of teaching jobs that we have available. This followed a tour for another dozen interested parties before the half term. I am sure their hearts sank a little when they saw how many people were interested in the jobs. I felt particularly sorry for the fresh-faced, very young-looking newly qualified teachers looking for their first job. This is such a crucial time for them to get their first foot on the career ladder and the clock is ticking for September. It is hard for NQT candidates to make their applications stand out with so little experience. I advised them to make the most of their talents – in music for example – and provide evidence in their applications of their impact and positive feedback that they get. We will employ the best candidates, but I secretly hope that one of them will be an excited, newly-qualified colleague.