Headteacher Autumn Term Message
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome to the start of the new academic year 2022-23 and our Autumn Newsletter.
Sadly, as you will be aware, Queen Elizabeth II has died and with her death comes an enormous feeling of change. We have thought about her all week, in assemblies and in lessons or in conversations with pupils. We have reflected on our gratitude for her truly unique dedication to this country and what she did for us. School will close on Monday 19th September as a mark of respect and this will give all of us the opportunity to watch proceedings on television, or even travel to London if we are able to. Some of you may not remember this, but Princess Anne came to visit school in Autumn 2018. It was the most wonderful experience for all of us and we are thinking of her this week.
This year we have welcomed 22 new pupils and many new staff as well. So far it has been a thoroughly successful start for all and long may it continue! It’s always so wonderful to see all the pupils returning happy and taller!!
It is amazing to be returning to a normal start, following the pandemic. The class groups are working very well and the pupils are already working hard in all their subjects. This year, we only have 11 of the ‘old’ boarders left, which makes this a very special experience for them. We continue to prepare to open to our new 38-week boarding provision in September 23, all being well.
As you will be aware by now, the school had 2 very successful Ofsted inspections last term: one for education and one for the residential/care setting. You will note that all grades in every single category were a very high ‘Good’ and the school has little work to do to achieve an even better grade next time. We were thrilled with both reports and feel they reflect the ethos of the school and of course the hard work of all pupils and staff, as well as the support from all our parents and carers.
The pupil numbers are likely to rise further but we cannot admit any more pupils, so we are working very closely with the local authority who are supporting us in trying to meet the huge demand for places at Welburn Hall. There are now 93 pupils attending, up from 79 last year, due to the demand. We will always grow at a rate we can manage and preserve the very special curriculum offer that we have worked so hard to create.
Finally, I would appeal for any parent or carer who wishes to join governors to please consider doing so. Please feel free to contact me in the first instance.
Best wishes for a successful term!
Marianne
Ms M Best
Headteacher
