Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you are all well and had a wonderful half-term break. I am sure, like me, you were very grateful that the hot weather was reserved almost exclusively for the school holidays! Hopefully, you were able to make the most of it and enjoyed some quality time in the sun. My own activities contrasted wildly, ranging from experiencing the pure chaos of a UK outdoor pool on a hot day (just don't do it!) to a memorable walk down a section of the Thames Path. This week, I am sure we have all appreciated the much cooler temperatures since returning to school, and hopefully the sun returns in time for sports week and De Hav Fest later in the term.

Yesterday, we were delighted to welcome Irish racing cyclist Alice Sharp to De Havilland. Thank you to all the children and families who supported the event, both through fundraising and by dressing up in Irish colours! Alice was taken aback by the number of children who made the effort to recognise her nationality and shared what a memorable morning she had. I have to say, the children did themselves and our school proud - especially during the whole-school assembly, where engagement levels were incredibly high. Alice explained to the children that she trains for 20 to 25 hours a week, emphasising that success takes sheer determination and hard work, especially when dealing with setbacks and injuries. She shared that her proudest moment was showing the resilience to 'get back on the bike' after tough times, and encouraged the children to follow their dreams, just as she did when trying out every sport possible as a child. I must also place on record my thanks to Miss Kilby, who organised the event and secured Alice’s visit to De Havilland.

Elsewhere this week, I was delighted to receive a visit from Emy in Chestnut class, who proudly shared her science home learning completed over the half-term. Emy had been investigating the properties of different materials and then used that knowledge to design her very own house! It is honestly so rewarding to see such impressive pieces of home learning completed with families during the holidays.  

Next week, we have a range of assessment activities taking place at De Havilland. These include the Year One Phonics Screening Check, the Year Four Multiplication Check and a Year Six writing moderation. When the leadership team met yesterday evening, it was particularly evident just how much work has gone into preparing for these milestones. I am incredibly grateful for the immense dedication shown by our staff, as well as the hard work put in by our children. In advance of next week, I want to say a huge thank you to both my team and the children and I know the outcomes achieved will make our school proud!

Wishing you all a very pleasant weekend,

Mr Bostock

Headteacher