A very warm welcome to the start of the Summer term – a start to the final term of the year which we never expected nor could have predicted...
A very warm welcome to the start of the Summer term – a start to the final term of the year which we never expected nor could have predicted, but more on that later. As Robin Williams once famously said, “Spring is nature’s way of saying – ‘Let’s Party!’” This is definitely the case at Edge Grove and, together with the fantastic weather, is helping enormously to keep us positive and focussed on the beauty of the environment around us and nature’s capacity for repair and renewal. It is most certainly a time to rejoice and be thankful for everything we have and to look ahead with optimism, fortitude and excitement.
The teaching staff has been working very hard over the last few weeks to ensure that the Edge Grove CAPP (Continued Academic and Pastoral Provision) is not only of the highest quality, but also achievable for all our families, whatever their individual home circumstances. The removal of the physical classroom and the need to do things differently creates an opportunity for greater independent learning and thinking; to explore and develop valuable skills for life. The best kind of education is one you choose for yourself. Whilst we have provided a structure together with a rich variety of activities, resources and online teaching, true learning for children of all ages goes far beyond this. It is time to worry less about what children might be missing whilst not at school and embrace the possibilities and opportunities that now exist due to the enforced lockdown. Children will not suffer academically nor fall behind their peers over the next few weeks, but think of the life skills which can be taught, explored and be retained forever – the science of cooking, a fascination of nature and how things grow, the ability to tidy, be organised and methodical, the importance of kindness, sharing and thinking of others. The possibilities are endless and the rewards huge.
“If you want to go quicker, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” The African proverb chosen for the front cover of our CAPP booklet was not picked randomly and accurately sums up our whole school approach to remote learning. The fostering of teamwork and working together as a community is essential. We have made great endeavours to ensure that our communication to you all has been regular, concise and purposeful, whilst also understanding that everyone’s circumstances are different. This first week will not be easy as we all become accustomed to a new way of teaching and learning which also includes providing a high level of pastoral care through the Flourish programme (for pupils and parents), marking and feedback of pupil progress and ensuring pupils feel connected with school and their friends – all done remotely. I understand that for some of you, anxiety levels will be high but please relax! In a global pandemic such as this, the most important thing is that our community stays safe and well. The teachers will be working tirelessly to not only teach via Google Classroom and Google Meet, but mark work (and do remember that this cannot be done simultaneously for 18 children!), provide ongoing support and be there to answer queries and provide ongoing daily care for the children of key workers. The Daily Sheets (for Pre Prep) and weekly curriculum letters will give you all the links and information needed but please do not race ahead or attempt to do the work in isolation as this will not be beneficial nor replicate how we teach at school. As mentioned in the CAPP2 booklet, we will be sending out regular questionnaires to seek your feedback which will help us to adapt and evolve our provision. I am increasingly hopeful that we will be back together at school by half term and enjoying all the delights of the Summer term. Until then, my best wishes to everyone for the week ahead and good luck. Please remember, we are here to help and available every day from 8.00am to 6.00pm.
Best wishes Ben Evans