Fresh new haircuts and smart new shoes and summer tans already fading, it has been exhilarating to welcome everybody back to school. A particular warm welcome to our new starters to the school, pupils, parents and staff. I have asked our existing pupils to ensure they give them all the characteristic friendly welcome that we at Claires Court pride ourselves on, supporting them as they get used to a new school and an unfamiliar environment. It has been wonderful to see over the last three days the school bursting with life and energy again. The cardboard boxes have been emptied, painters ladders removed and computers restored (well nearly).

Inevitably over the holidays, our main news has been our fantastic GCSE results, 26.3% of the girls and boys grades at 9-7, against the national average of 20.5% and the girls saw 5.8% of grades at Grade 9, higher than the national average of 5%. More will be said of these results at prize giving in a few weeks time, an important event where the whole community comes together to celebrate our success.

Next week I would recommend the ‘Resilience Talks’  delivered by Rachael Williams our school counsellor for many years;  Monday for years 9,10 & 11 at Senior Boys site and Y7 on Thursday at the Senior Girls School.

On Friday in conjunction with the National Trust, Y7 will have the opportunity to learn more about each other and begin the foundations for strong friendships on the Team Building Day at Cliveden. An extremely exciting opportunity!

Not much news this week given the holiday but much to look forward to in the immediate future.