Headteacher blog 14/1/22

It is fair to say it’s been a tricky week: COVID cases increasing markedly and, in the end, we have had to close one class again. This is not a decision to be taken lightly, but we had 12 positive cases in just a few days in that particular class and it was untenable to continue. We have also had half our kitchen staff off with COVID all week – a major challenge when we are serving well over 300 meals a day! I heard of a West Leeds primary school that has been having Ofsted this week: I may not have been too polite had they chosen to come to us. I thought Ofsted inspectors were being encouraged to help schools out with their teacher crisis not visiting and putting even more pressure on head teachers.

Wherever possible, we are continuing with the curriculum and provision as planned (and recommended by the government). Show Time Club went to the Leeds Playhouse for a spectacular performance of Wendy and Peter Pan mid-week, and Year 3 are at The Alhambra this afternoon for a pantomime. Next week, we have some football matches and a tournament and nearly 10% of the school will begin tutoring sessions with White Rose Maths.  After school clubs have re-started again. Lessons are ‘normal’ most of the time and school is typically calm but staffing arrangements are a challenge every day.  Children and staff have, typically, shown great resilience and flexibility: the show goes on!

A scientist from the National Marine Aquarium did a remote talk with Year 6 on Wednesday – some Covid-related innovations certainly have enhanced the curriculum.