Dear Parents and Carers,

There are few things more rewarding in this job than welcoming our newest Reception and Nursery children on their very first day at De Havilland! Monday was that day and was a huge success, filled with excited faces, and that was just the staff! While there were a few tears and first-day jitters - and I am not just talking about the children! - the week has gone well as the children get used to the routines and expectations at our school. An enormous thank you goes to Mrs. Durkin, Mrs. Ashwood, Miss Dobra, Miss Pryor, and Mrs. Zeqiraj for their dedication this week. Special thanks, as always, to the fabulous Miss Miles, who worked tirelessly throughout the summer break to ensure everything was ready for the start of term. I wish them all a very well deserved relaxing weekend!

Over the past eight days, the continued rollout of our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) program has been a real highlight across the school. Whilst I will leave the fuller update to Miss Colyer, I must say how wonderful it has been to watch the children thoroughly enjoying their lunchtimes and engaging in learning through play. We are all incredibly excited for what lies ahead and further resources which will arrive further down the line. 

Last week I mentioned our updated standards and 'The De Hav Way', which the children have been settling into so well. Today, your child will bring home our updated Home-School Agreement, outlining how we can work together to ensure De Havilland is the very best environment for our children to thrive. Please take a moment to review, sign, and return this document at your earliest convenience. If you have any questions, our upcoming 'Meet the Teacher' evening on 21st September will be the perfect opportunity to discuss them.

Finally, I know our wonderful FODS team has been hard at work planning an exciting lineup of events for the coming weeks. In addition to this, Miss Colyer has organised a bingo night at Hatfield Social Club on Wednesday 23rd September. The Senior Leadership Team and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible over the coming weeks and months. Thank you in advance for your continued support.

Have a lovely weekend,

Mr Bostock

Headteacher