END OF TERM NEWSLETTER
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we come to the end of this academic year, it is hard to believe how quickly the time has passed, and how quickly our time at St Michael’s has come to an end.
Looking back over the past year, Mrs Sillett and I are incredibly proud of everything that has been achieved. Together, we have seen the school move forward in so many ways. From the excellent attitudes to learning shown by our pupils, to improvements across the school environment and an exciting programme of trips, visitors and enrichment opportunities, there is much to celebrate. Our newest children have settled in brilliantly and have flourished this year. We are particularly pleased to have seen improvements in outcomes across a number of end of Key Stage assessments, from the proportion of children achieving a Good Level of Development in Reception to the number of pupils leaving Year 6 'secondary ready'. Every success reflects the dedication of our staff, the support of our families and, above all, the enthusiasm and determination of our children.
At the heart of everything we do are our wonderful pupils. Time and again, visitors to our school, coach drivers, residential staff and members of the public comment on how kind, polite and caring our children are. They are exceptional ambassadors for St Michael’s and a real credit to you, their families, as well as to our whole school community. Their character, compassion and willingness to support one another make this a very special place to be.
At this time of year, we also say a fond farewell to our Year 6 pupils. It has been a privilege to watch them grow into confident, compassionate and resilient young people who are ready for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Their recent residential visit, including our memorable day at Alton Towers, was a wonderful way to celebrate not only the end of their primary education but also the friendships, courage and memories they have built together. We wish every one of them every success and happiness as they begin the next stage of their journey.
Whilst our staff team remains wonderfully stable, we also say goodbye today to Mrs Farran and Mrs Adams. Between them, they have dedicated many years of loyal service to St Michael’s, touching the lives of countless children and families through their kindness, commitment and unwavering care. Their contribution to our school has been immense, and they leave with our heartfelt thanks, deepest gratitude and every good wish for the future. We also say goodbye to our school cook, Ms Beveridge, and thank her for her dedicated service to the school community.
The summer holidays provide a well-earned opportunity for everyone to rest, recharge and enjoy precious time together as a family. Alongside making wonderful memories, a little learning over the break can make a significant difference when children return in September. Reading every day remains one of the most powerful ways to support your child's learning, and even just a few minutes each day helps to build confidence and a lifelong love of books. We would also encourage families to take part in the Library Summer Reading Challenge. Likewise, spending five minutes each day on Times Table Rock Stars will help children maintain and strengthen their mathematical fluency, ensuring they return to school feeling confident and ready for the year ahead.
As we look ahead, we are excited for the future of St Michael’s. Under Mr Sharp's leadership, we know the school will continue to flourish and build upon the strong foundations that have been laid. We have every confidence that St Michael’s will continue to go from strength to strength, and we look forward to following its continued success in the years ahead.
Finally, we would like to express our sincere thanks to every member of the St Michael’s community. From our very first day, we have been welcomed with warmth, kindness and unwavering support. Your kind words, cards and gifts over the last few days have been really appreciated too. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such dedicated staff, supportive families and, most importantly, your remarkable children. We leave knowing that St Michael’s is a school full of ambition, compassion and opportunity, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of its journey.
Thank you once again for your continued support throughout the year. You remain in our thoughts and prayers, and we wish you all a safe, happy and restful summer.
Warmest regards,
Chris Speller & Louisa Sillett
Interim Executive Headteacher & Head of School