Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been exciting and energising to be back for our first full week of the term. I am pleased to say the happy faces from day one are still beaming with enthusiasm and there is a real sense of purpose and industry in classrooms. This week I have walked the school with Mrs Ansell and Mrs King. On both occasions, it has been a pleasure talking to children about their learning and the values we are reconnecting with after the summer break. Thank you for ensuring your children have been ready to return: they look great in their new uniforms; they are arriving early and the attendance this week is a promising 94.9%.

Values: This week has seen us focus on 'responsibility' as we ensure we are ready to learn. We watched a video on Monday promoting the phrase: 'I am responsible for me.' Our values champions this week were praised for their responsible approach to school in our first celebration assembly of the term. Next week our value is ambition as we think about what it is we want to achieve now that we are back in school.

Votes for Schools: Our first topic of the term linked nicely with our value of responsibility as we considered the question: 'Should businesses only think about making money?' The topic sparked some powerful conversations about the responsibility of businesses to look after people, consider the environment and protect the future. 

Meet the Teacher: School will be open from 3.15 - 4.00pm on Wednesday 17th September for parents to pop into classrooms and meet this year's teachers. It is an informal opportunity to say hello and take a quick look at the classroom environment and any work that might have already been completed.

Arbor App: Last term we invited you to join the Arbor App. Arbor is our data management system in school. The platform is capable of many impressive things. One of these tools is booking parents' evening slots. We will be utilising this function in October so I encourage you all to sign up to the app now to avoid missing out. Simply click the link here and click Forgot your password? to set up your account. Getting started with the app can also be found here.

Google Classroom: This week you should have received an email with the login details for your child's Google Classroom account. It is vital that children can log in independently as these accounts are used in some lessons as well as for homework. Please note that Google Classroom is not a communication channel to teachers. Messages are not always seen and will not get a response. Please email office@lanchester.herts.sch.uk

Jeans for Genes: It is a day to raise awareness and money for an important charity. If your child doesn't wear jeans, no problem! Leggings, shorts and other options are fine. School jumper and shirt (or PE kit) for the top half, please.

The first full week back can be a shock to the system so I hope you all have some relaxation and down time planned into your weekend. Whatever you choose to do, have a great time.

Best wishes,

Mr. Matt Morey - Headteacher