Headteacher Message

We all wanted to say a great big THANK YOU to the FOGWS who, through their fundraising activities, were able to buy this amazing screen for the hall.  We have been using the screen for lessons and collective worship. The children said ‘It's really good because it is much easier to see and the words are clearer’. We really can’t thank them enough for all their efforts, if you would be interested in fundraising with the FOGWS in any way please get in touch through fundraising@greatwaltham.essex.sch.uk or come along to their AGM on Monday 26th September at 5pm.

Last week Harry, Frankie, Mrs Goodwin and myself walked to the church to light a candle and sign the book of condolence for Her Majesty the Queen on behalf of the school. We had a quiet moment of reflection and thought about the Queen, her life and work, and how she epitomised our school values.  She really was such an inspiration and with this in mind the staff are busy planning some kind of commemoration to celebrate the Queens life.  We will let you know the plans once they are finalised.

It was great to see so many of you at the afternoon tea yesterday and I hope this will become a regular event in the school calendar. I shared the school improvement plans for the forthcoming year and it was good to listen to your feedback on what you love about our school and what we could do to make it even better.  Lots of you commented on how friendly and helpful the office staff are, often they are your first port of call and are always so welcoming.  You were also impressed with the dedication and care the teachers and teaching assistants provide, as well as being very complimentary about the kitchen team.  This was wonderful to hear and I will update you on any improvements we will implement from your feedback shortly.

Today in assembly, I talked to the children about the home school agreement, they have all be come home with a paper copy of this today.  It outlines what you can expect from us but also what we can expect from you. Please take the time to go through this important document with your child/ren so they understand. Please respond to the ParentMail form to confirm you have received and read it. Thank you.

With this newsletter we are sending out a copy of the diary dates for this school year, which I hope you find helpful.  Please do remember to check back on the calendar facility on the school website as any changes will be shown here. This will also let you know what is happening in the forthcoming days - Website Calendar Link

A few key dates from the calendar that I wanted to highlight;

• School Photos will be taken on Tuesday 27th September.
• KS1 and EYFS Phonics Information Afternoon on Wednesday 5th October. Come along at 2.30pm and find out more information about our new phonics scheme.
• SATs Information Evening on Monday 10th October KS1 parents 5-6pm and KS2 parents 6-7pm
• Harvest Festival 2pm on Wednesday 12th October, at the church.

We look forward to seeing many of you at these events.

Have a lovely weekend,

Mrs Justine Brooks