2020 has been an exceptional and challenging year for all our community and of course, globally too. When I reflect on this academic year though I am exceptionally proud of how our children have coped and that is a huge credit to you as parents and our teachers for making these unusual circumstances feel more normal. And although the end of this academic year feels rather strange it is still a time to reflect, to celebrate and to look forward.

Some personal highlights for me this year include Pumpkin Palooza and mingling with you all on the front playground dressed as ‘Maleficent’ in a sea of wonderfully creative and delightful outfits as the children enjoyed all sorts of different stalls and activities. I have also enjoyed watching a variety of performances; our Key Stage assemblies, Winter concerts and Chinese New Year performances - it has been a delight to see the children become more confident and I look forward to when we can gather all together again.

Our Year sixes have now graduated and are ready for the next part of their learning journey in Secondary school. We held a celebratory Zoom call this afternoon and fondly reflected on their memories and photos of their younger selves, as well as their hopes for the future. For some, I remember teaching them in Year 1 and it is a real pleasure to see how they have maintained their thirst for learning, their sense of humour and become more responsible. I look forward to seeing them continue to make great strides in their learning next year in Year 7.

All our pupils should feel proud of what they have achieved this year. I also thank the parents and staff for their support over the past year and also for the words of gratitude and acknowledgement over the past few weeks. Next year may bring its challenges but together we can forge through and make Britannica even better!

I hope you and your families have a restful summer break. For those families leaving I hope you remember your child’s time at Britannica with happy memories and I look forward to welcoming our returning and new families back to school next term.

Katherine Mustoe
Head of Primary