Willington News

Well, here we are again, as if we've never been away! It's great to welcome you all back to Willington for what I'm sure will prove to be another fantastic and successful year for the school. For many of the children, there would have been nervous excitement as they approached the new school year, new teacher, and of course, new friends. It's wonderful to see how the community has grown, as we welcome so many new families to Willington. We even welcome back a couple of families who have spent time away from London, and I know they're delighted to be back in the fold.

Of course, the big development this summer has been the building of our brand new Lego room. Firstly, I must say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated their pre-loved Lego or Duplo to kick off the new year with such a fantastic resource. I believe it is a truly unique room, and when you have a chance to look inside, I'm sure you will be mightily impressed by what has been created. I think over the next couple of weeks, if you ask your son or daughter what they think, it will be a resoundingly positive reaction. We will be holding an official launch event later in the term, so keep an eye out for the details of this.

This year, there is another milestone to celebrate as we say congratulations to Thomas, the Head Boy, who will lead the last ever cohort of boys-only to go through the school. For the first time next September, we will be awarding badges to both the Head Boy and Head Girl of Willington Prep.

There is so much to look forward to this term, with trips and outdoor learning taking place across the year groups. Our hugely successful Year 6 Oates Afternoon initiative starts its fourth year, with respite from the 11+ in the form of outdoor activities taking place every Thursday across a number of venues in London and Surrey.

It is the huge benefit of outdoor learning that has driven our choice of this year's national school charity—the Outward Bound Trust. This educational charity uses outdoor adventures to teach young people from underprivileged backgrounds, confidence, resilience, and teamwork through challenging experiences in wild environments. Closer to home, we are continuing our close relationship with Dons Local Action Group, with our pupils volunteering at supermarkets and, thanks to your generous donations, Food Bank Friday on the first Friday of every month. In October, our Harvest Festival donations will once again be supporting the Wimbledon Guild. Instilling the value of charity in our pupils not only enriches their lives but also empowers them to make a meaningful difference in the world.

One diary date I would like to highlight is Grandparents' Morning, which will take place on Friday, 5th December. The children are beside themselves with excitement as they show their grandparents (or other family members) their classrooms, their work, and the wider school, making it a very popular event for everyone.

I look forward to seeing you over the coming weeks at Information Evenings and the myriad of other events in the calendar. Feel free to catch me at the playground gate on a Wednesday or Thursday for a brief chat—no need to wait for small issues to become big concerns.

Have a great weekend. KB