Another academic year is coming to an end, with this year appearing to be one which will be remembered for how poor our summer weather has been. However, where the weather may not have been ideal, there has been a lot more to celebrate at Harlow Green.
We all know that, in many people’s views, school is about the traditional ‘three Rs’. Having children develop their reading, writing and mathematics is extremely important to us and this has been demonstrated once again in our results across school. By the time children leave us in Year 6, data continues to show that achievement is at least in line with the national average but, in most cases, outcomes are above those averages. Our children have done us proud once again not just because of the attainment but because of the outstanding progress they have made through their hard work and dedication. However, at Harlow Green, education is much more than this. We aim for all children to develop personally and physically, acquiring a breadth of knowledge because of the wide experiences offered, which in turn is aimed at supporting each individual to dream of new possibilities.
Over the year, we have ensured that children have visited new and interesting places, in order to spark wonder and enthusiasm. The number of educational visits has increased greatly which has ensured that the majority of children have been out of school multiple times. Additionally, visitors have been invited to school so that they can share their expertise with both the children and the staff; sports coaches, scientists, historians, medical practitioners, emergency services, authors, have all added to the quality of provision. Wider events have also been organised to allow children to showcase their talents and abilities; on top of the countless sports competitions organised, we have had children record music in a professional studio, sing and dance at The Glasshouse, compete in a robotics competition, perform in a talent show, the Year 6 Leavers’ Show … the list goes on.
Understanding that we are a school at the heart of our community means that we have also aimed to strengthen our connection with our families and beyond. Having parents and carers come to school for events such as Christmas nativities, Family Learning, and the Early Years Sports Day, is essential in how we work with families for the best experience that children can have. Once again, our summer fayre was a wonderful example of how our community comes together with positivity and respect during which we can help create a fun and enjoyable experience for all, within the safety of our school site.
On a personal level, as Head Teacher, I know that I am in a privileged position. I am able to come to work every day where not only do I have amazing children to work with, but I have a fantastic staff team and a community of families who support school to set high expectations for our children so that we can support them to be the best that they can be. I would like to thank all the mams and dads, uncles and aunties, grandads and grandmas for their support over the year which has been evident in many ways – bringing children to school every day so that they are ready to learn, ensuring uniform standards are met, communicating with teachers if concerns arise, attending events to support the achievements of your child and their friends – the impact at every level should not be underestimated. No matter what challenges will emerge, and we all know that they will, the collaboration between home and school is the key to success and we look forward to continuing this work in September.
On behalf of the staff and Governors of Harlow Green, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. Whatever adventures are planned, I hope that they provide families time together to create happy memories full of laughter and joy.
Kind Regards,
Mr M. Malik
Growing happy, healthy and successful, together
