It hardly seems like five minutes since Christmas, but another jam-packed half term has flown by in the life of Kents Hill Park School. Our end of term whole school assembly focused on how we support and care for each other and how we are all leaders of our school, but it was also another chance to celebrate the fantastic achievements of our Year 3 and Year 7 pupils.

Year 7 heard recently from James Whittle about his experiences of rowing the Atlantic and climbing Mount Blanc, in what was a truly inspirational talk. Another group were involved in the MK Futures day where they planned and input with other schools, town planners and councillors on the future development of Milton Keynes. As the only Year 7 group there, they acquitted themselves brilliantly—as always.

Sports fixtures came thick and fast, and there have been some notable victories, including a 22-0 win for the girls in the netball. Coding club grows each week and they have been programming Microbits and using Python regularly. Dance club has also started this term with both boys and girls demonstrating some exceptional skills.

We have held our first subject parents evenings this term and it was a real pleasure to hear all the positive things that staff had to say about our wonderful Year 7s. It was also really nice to hear so many positive comments from parents about what we have achieved so far.

Our new junior librarians have been appointed and they will be really important to helping support the development of the library, recommending books, and pushing literacy across the school. DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) is now fully part of our curriculum and the pupils are enjoying some challenging and stimulating texts, both new and classic.

Also in place is our School Council. All posts have either been elected or appointed, and they have now met to begin bringing their ideas for the development of the school. High on their agenda will be the development of the house system across the school.

Year 7 girls Football Activators got the chance to meet England Lionesses including the former England/Arsenal captain Faye White. They had a great day developing their skills in encouraging more girls to participate in football.

By the time you read this, we are also pleased to say that we have been visited by our local MP, Iain Stewart. He has had a tour of both primary and secondary sites and a chance to meet the pupils and staff. Most notable was the opportunity for the school council to ask Mr Stewart questions about his job and Brexit!

It seems hard to believe that we have completed over half of the school year, and before long we will be thinking about the summer term. However, all of our plans are in place to welcome another cohort of Year 7 and Year 3 pupils to the school in September, and continue to develop this exceptional school.

Have a great half term.

James Pilgrim

Headteacher