Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you are well.

This week saw us encounter what is known as 'Blue Monday'; the third Monday in January which has been dubbed the gloomiest day of the year due to cold weather and failed New Year's resolutions! I am pleased to share that that vibe was nowhere to be found at De Havilland with a series of feel-good events that brightened the week.

Firstly, on Tuesday we welcomed Miss Chapman from another primary school in our trust who is working with us on reading across Key Stage Two. As part of her visit, we undertook a learning walk across the phase and were delighted by such engagement across all of the classes. This was a view shared by Miss Chapman, who commented that ‘It was fantastic to see the children so engaged in their reading and particularly impressive to hear how eloquently they spoke, confidently engaging in rich discussions about the texts and vocabulary’.

On Wednesday, we were delighted to welcome back our former headteacher and current Primary Director, Sarah King, along with colleagues from across the Trust, to host our very first ‘January Jolly’ event. Whilst the name was lighthearted, the purpose behind it was deeply meaningful: to ensure that our families feel valued and supported during these winter months. I would like to place on record my heartfelt thanks to everyone in and around our school community who donated so generously to this event. To those who attended on the day to collect items - thank you for being part of this and for the gratitude so many of you showed. I understand that it is not always easy to reach out or ask for help, but please know that our school is always here to help in any way we can. We are already making plans to grow the ‘January Jolly’ even further next year.

Speaking of our community, I could not let today pass without giving a big shout out to our Friends of De Havilland (FODS). Charlotte and Hayley spent their Thursday morning counting up lots of pennies from our classroom jars around the school, raising vital funds for some upcoming school projects. They have made no secret of the fact that they would love some more company! So if you would be interested in joining the FODS team and helping to plan events that directly benefit our children, please do drop us an email at admin@dehavilland.herts.sch.uk. We would love to connect you with our wonderful team! Finally, at the end of last year, I promised an update on how your generosity is being spent. I want to reassure you that I have not forgotten and as soon as I can, I will be sharing an exciting new chapter regarding our break and lunchtime play provision with you all. Watch this space!

Wishing you all a very lovely weekend,

Mr Bostock