Headteacher's Message, Friday 7th May 2021

As I drove to work this morning my attention was drawn to an articulate speaker on the radio discussing the impact of Covid on young people. The consultant was referencing the unnatural state lockdown has created for all of us and particularly young people. She went on to say that there has been an increase in young peoples’ admissions to hospital driven by the medical and psychological consequences of Covid. Both Covid and lockdown have had an impact on families in health and bereavement and equally, children and young people not in school in the last twelve months have experienced a loss of structure, routine, division of work, rest and play, peer and teacher support, and engagement in activities crucial for social and emotional development.  

As we conclude the seventh week of the return to school for all students, I can echo all the consultant referenced and we are very aware of the challenges many of our families have and are facing. We have used an approach of reinforcing routines and structures, keeping learning interesting and challenging, using the rewards and behaviour policy, regularly communicating, and most of all, focusing on the positive relationships that can help everyone feel connected to their school community. I am impressed by how resilient and adaptable our students have been and as always, I am grateful for your support in achieving the best for all our students.  

Our new Deputy Headteacher David Hewett begins at CNS on Monday.  He is eager to meet everyone and is looking forward to being warmly welcomed to the CNS community. 

I wish everyone an enjoyable, safe and happy weekend. 

Jo Philpott 

Twitter: @head_cns_school