Headteacher's Newsletter

Thursday 16^th July 2026

Dear Families,

As we reach the end of another school year, I want to take a moment to reflect with gratitude on everything we have shared together as a school community.

Firstly, I would like to say a huge well done to all of our wonderful children. Your hard work, determination, kindness and resilience throughout the year have made every adult in your life incredibly proud: your parents and carers, your teachers and all of the staff at St Mary's. It has been a privilege to watch you grow, not only academically, but also emotionally, spiritually and physically. Each of you has developed in your own unique way and you should be proud of all that you have achieved.

To our Year 6 children, we wish you every happiness and success as you begin the next chapter of your journey. While you may be leaving our school, you will always remain part of the St Mary's family. We hope you carry with you the values you have learned here, continue to be courageous in your ambitions and never forget that you will always be welcome back through our doors. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our parents and carers. Your support, encouragement and partnership throughout the year have been invaluable. Educating children is always most successful when home and school work together and we are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us each day. Together, we help our children to flourish.

To the incredible staff of St Mary's, thank you for the care, dedication and countless hours you invest in our children. Whether in the classroom, around the school, behind the scenes or supporting families, every member of staff plays an essential part in making each day a special one. Your commitment to our children goes far beyond lessons, and I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a talented and caring team.

Finally, I want to thank our children once again. Quite simply, you are the very best part of St Mary's. It is an extraordinary privilege to nurture you, encourage you and watch you grow into the remarkable young people you are becoming. Your laughter, curiosity, kindness and enthusiasm fill our school with joy every single day. You remind us why we chose this vocation and you make our work not only worthwhile, but deeply rewarding.

This Sunday's Gospel (Matthew 13:24-43) reminds us of Jesus' words: "Let them both grow until the harvest." It is a beautiful reminder that growth takes time, patience and care. Just as a gardener nurtures each plant, God nurtures each one of us. Throughout this year, we have watched our children grow in knowledge, confidence, faith and character. Each child has their own gifts, their own pace and their own journey, and together we have worked to help those gifts flourish. As we look ahead to a well-earned summer break, we give thanks for the harvest of this school year and look forward with hope to all that the next one will bring.

On behalf of everyone at St Mary's, I wish you and your families a safe, restful and joyful summer holiday. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in September, ready for another wonderful year of learning, faith and growth together.

Dates for your Diary

Tuesday 1^st September– INSET Day – School closed to children
Wednesday 2^nd September – INSET Day – School closed to children
Thursday 3^rd September – Being of Term – Children return to school

Yours faithfully,

Sarah Fizul

Headteacher

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