On Saturday, Hollygirt was delighted to be part of the Southwell Ploughing Match, where we proudly sponsor the children’s classes. Ms Purdy had the difficult task of judging the scarecrow competition, while several of our pupils entered their artwork and jams made during lessons. We were thrilled to see their creativity and hard work recognised, with Jessie taking first prize for her artwork—a wonderful achievement. Well done to everyone who took part and represented Hollygirt so brilliantly. It is a fantastic community event, and we would love to see even more parents getting involved next time—whether by entering the art or baking classes, or by helping to represent the school.

This week, Dr Holbrook and I are hosting a series of talks for parents about how we can work together most effectively to support your children. Each talk is tailored to the opportunities and challenges of the phase of school your child is in and will offer practical guidance on how home and school can work in partnership to help every pupil thrive. We hope that as many parents as possible will be able to join us. Thank you to the Year 6 and 7 parents who joined us last night.

It’s amazing to think that we’re already well on our way to half term, and reports from the classrooms show that everyone is making good progress. Year 6 have taken their new arrangements in their stride, while Year 7 are settling well into their routines and getting increasingly excited for their residential next week. At the top end of the school, Year 11 have had a revision-focused assembly with Mr Dilger, who is putting the finishing touches to this year’s revision guide. It will be published shortly to support pupils as they prepare for their mock examinations.

You may have noticed that we’ve recently had a refresh of our social media, if not, do take a look at our Facebook and Instagram accounts. Along with a refreshed website, we’re trying to ensure that our reputation as ‘Nottingham’s best kept secret’ becomes more of an in-joke! We adore our small school, and we want to keep that vibe, however, we would like a few more Nottingham residents to know we exist. If you could ‘like’ our social media posts (or share or comment) that would help us so much. I’ll be honest, I don’t know the process but that small interaction with a post helps word to spread.

Ever Onward and Upward

Ms Purdy