The end of this term marks a good point of reflection, we’ve achieved so much in this term as Year 11 and Year 13 have completed their last non-examined assessments, Year 10 have completed work experience, we have raised money for charity in healthy (our Elms wellbeing walk) and funky (Prep school non-uniform and retro disco) ways, Year 6 had their transition day, and we all contributed to the school inspection. As the days get longer, warmer and lighter we can also look forward to the next term: for many of the senior pupils this will mean preparing for public exams or internal assessments; for Year 6, preparing for the move into Year 7. For all our pupils it will be about resting well over the break and returning ready to make the best of the final term of the year, for those revising for exams taking time to rest helps the mind process information. A little and often approach to revision works incredibly well, as does staying hydrated, so keep those water bottles topped up. For the rest of the school, rest is important to prepare for approaching their next term with the best of efforts and being able to say ‘I achieved the best I could’; upholding the school values of kindness and honesty and treating those around us with courtesy whether we are the best of friends or not – we are all part of the community at Hollygirt.
For me, the end of term and the ISI inspection marks a good moment to reflect; I have learned a lot about the school and the Hollygirt community, I have seen what works well and where we can start to effect positive change and growth. A wise person (internet sources vary on exactly who!) once said “Sometimes leadership is about planting seeds under whose shade you will never sit”, while some of the meaning here is about being selfless in serving others, it also recognises that change beings at a foundational level. I like to remember this line when considering what Hollygirt needs and how best to implement that. In the interim, I am looking forward to some long walks with my dog as I reacquaint myself with Nottingham and surrounding areas.
The long break between the spring and summer terms provides some wonderful opportunities for pupils, many will get out and about on holidays, trips and to see friends. During their time at Hollygirt, pupils are required to hand in their smartphones, so their focus is on learning during the day, however, for many young people a lot of their social and recreational activities take place in the online world and they will have more opportunity to engage in this over the break. Sadly, some of these online spaces can be detrimental to young people’s wellbeing, and in some cases, dangerous. There are many games hosted on online platforms, such as Fortnite, that also offer the ability for young people to chat to other people, including strangers. Young people may also use platforms such as WhatsApp or Discord to communicate with their friends. These can be positive spaces for social interactions but used inconsiderately can become a place where unkind comments can thrive. If you would like to know more about social media platforms and helping your children stay safe online there are some very good guides on the NSPCC website. We are also looking at hosting an event in the summer term to support parents with keeping your children safe online.
One event on the horizon is our Open Morning, this takes place on Saturday 10th May; our wonderful pupils are our best and brightest way to showcase what we do best at Hollygirt and it is expected that all pupils will be available on that day to support the school and tour prospective parents. Pupils should arrive by 8.30am, in school uniform, and will be able to be collected by 11.30am. We’d also love to hear from any parents who would like to support on the day by helping with refreshments, or in advance by with the distribution of leaflets. If you are interested in helping, please contact Admissions manager Charlotte Schmidt for more information.
Looking further ahead, a reminder of summer term dates: Pupils return to school on Wednesday 23rd April, half term is from Monday 26th to Friday 30th May, and the final day of the Summer Term is Tuesday 8th July. For those pupils using the school bus service, this will continue to run until the end of term.
I would like to wish everyone a restful break, Eid Mubarak, and Happy Easter respectively to those celebrating, and apologies to those who celebrated Holi earlier this month as I missed that in my newsletter at the time.
Ever Onwards and Upwards,
Ms Purdy
Head