Head Teacher's Letter 15th January 2010

Dear Parents / Guardians,

Well, what a start to the new Year! I had anticipated that you would receive this letter a little earlier, but clearly the weather disruption put paid to that. Let us hope that we have seen the last of the snow for this winter.

Last term was most successful and I hope it has set the scene for the  remainder of the academic year.  The pupils were very focused in their learning and were exemplary ambassadors for the school and yourselves. As always,  there are a number of items and reminders of which I need to make you aware.

Parent/Guardian Survey
This has now been fully analysed.  I will, in the next couple of weeks,  publicise the results of this survey.  At the same time I will set out points of action  arising from the  results and/or your comments.

School Fund (Click here for details)
There was an encouraging response to my appeal.  The appeal is ongoing.  If you are in a position to make a donation this will be most  appreciated and will be gratefully received.  Cheques  may be forward to me, at the school, made payable to “Canon Palmer – School Fund”.

Privacy Notice ( formerly Fair Processing notice)
This Privacy Notice informs parents/guardians on the school, LEA and DCSF use of  pupil date under the Data Protection Act.  The notice will be on the school web-site from Friday,  8th January  2010.  Any parent/guardian without access to a computer may obtain a hard copy by contacting Ms. J. Royer at the school.

Uniform
During the recent spell of most inclement weather, we have, understandably, been lenient in allowing the children to wear alternative footwear,  hats etc.  From Monday 18th January children will be expected to  return to full and proper school uniform.

Going home from school
We have a very good reputation in the area and enjoy good relations with our neighbours and local businesses.  This is in no small way due to your children’s very good behaviour on leaving school.

Nonetheless, I wish to remind all pupils:

 

Bede Reception will have a  secretary on duty up to  4.30 p.m.  Should a child need to return to school he/she should report to Bede Reception.  The secretary on duty will contact parents or a member of staff as is necessary.

Government Home Access Scheme (free computers)
The Government are introducing a scheme whereby, under certain circumstances, parents/guardians may be eligible to get a free home computer/laptop.

The contact details and initial eligibility criteria are attached to this letter.  I would encourage parents/guardians, who feel that they are eligible, to make an application to this scheme.

Curriculum
There are, on the horizon, a number of planned innovative curriculum changes.  As a Specialist Computing College we aim to introduce ICT related courses as a core  provision at KS4.  We are also looking at enhancing our P.E.  provision linked to Health Related  Fitness  programmes.  Finally, during the course of  the next two terms we will be piloting the development of parental/guardian and pupil access to our school website.  This exciting development will allow parents/guardians and the pupils to access school and departmental resources form home.

I will keep you updated on these developments as the year progresses.

Diary Dates.
I have attached to this letter the diary dates for the remainder of this academic year.  Included also is the initial information for the start of the academic year 2010 – 2011.  Please read these carefully, make a note of the events that are  specifically relevant to you and keep  it in a safe place for future reference.  A copy will be posted on the school website.

Finally, may I take this opportunity of formally wishing you a  very happy new year.  I hope that all goes well for you and your families.

With very best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

F. Maguire
Headmaster.