A message from the Acting Head of Primary School
This Friday is a key event in the Primary School calendar, our 2026 Orientation Morning. This day is a wonderful opportunity for students to become familiar with their 2026 classroom environment, meet their teacher, and spend time with their new classmates.
The morning is designed to help students feel confident and comfortable as they prepare for the year ahead. They will take part in a range of activities, explore their new learning space, and begin forming connections that will support a smooth transition into the new school year.
When creating classes, teachers try to ensure that they are balanced with an even spread of academic, social and emotional needs. As a result of this, classes are mixed up each year and this gives children the opportunity to make new friends and expand their friendship circle.
As part of our commitment to supporting student wellbeing, we recognise the importance of helping children learn to manage change. New classrooms, teachers, and routines can feel exciting but also a little uncertain. Experiences like Orientation Morning give students a safe and supported way to practise adapting to new situations, build resilience, and develop confidence as they embrace the year ahead.
We understand the important role that parents play in helping their children navigate their emotions around class placement in a healthy and constructive way. You can support your child by:
- Listening and acknowledging their feelings without immediately trying to “fix” them.
- Modelling optimism, focusing on the positives of a fresh start and new opportunities.
- Reassuring them that new friendships often form quickly and that their teacher will help them feel settled.
- Encouraging independence, reminding them that learning to handle change is an essential life skill.
- Promoting confidence in their ability to adapt, reminding them of times they have coped with change before.
We are very much looking forward to welcoming our students on Friday and sharing this exciting step in their transition to the new school year. It promises to be a morning filled with new opportunities, fresh connections, and a positive start to 2026.
Kind regards
Mark Pressley
Acting Head of Primary School