It has been wonderful to welcome pupils back as we start the second half of this term. The first half of the Autumn Term has already been packed with significant memories and achievements, many of which we have tried to capture in this bumper edition of The Courier. Punctuated throughout the day-to-day routines of the pupils has been the political uncertainty caused by question of VAT on fees. The budget has now given us clarity and with two years planning already under our belts, the school remains committed to making this life changing education as accessible as possible. Whilst this requires a lot of work in the background, we hope that it remains unseen so that the children can continue to love their consistent school experience as they seek out their own version of ‘exceptional’- I am sure many of them found this through House Singing, a unique and special event just before half term. As Head, I remain committed to an ethos in which the opportunities for every child are rich and challenging but are always supported by a family ethos and sense of belonging which makes TPS feel like a natural extension of home.

A key focus over the coming weeks will be centred around us continuing to find the right balance between our digital approach to learning and the wellbeing of our pupils. Just before half term, I wrote to all parents about a forthcoming Channel 4 series hosted by Dr Rangan Chatterjee – ‘Swiped’ – which will challenge all schools and parents about how we navigate this landscape. One thing is clear, schools need to continue to provide the right leadership and partnership with parents so that your children can continue to have the right boundaries in this area. The dates for the workshops are on the letter which will be sent out again this week.

Blink and it will be the Christmas Carol Services! There is so much to look forward to over the coming weeks and I look forward to seeing you at one of the many events we will be holding between now and the end of term.