It has been lovely to welcome everyone back after the half-term break. The children have returned refreshed and ready to learn, settling quickly back into their classroom routines. We are already into our second week, and there is plenty happening across the school.

I am always proud to showcase our children and their learning to visitors during our weekly Reception tours, but last week we also welcomed a group of Headteachers from other local primary schools. It was a real pleasure to share the fantastic learning taking place across Kelvin Grove, visiting classrooms and our hub classes and seeing first-hand the positive behaviour, engagement and enthusiasm of our children. We were particularly proud to highlight the importance we have placed on reading this year, with new book corners in every classroom and our ongoing ambition to create inviting book nook spaces around the school for children to enjoy. Developing a love of reading is so important, and we want to make sure children have plenty of opportunities to discover books and enjoy reading throughout their school day.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank and say farewell to Ms Adams, who left us last week. Ms Adams has been an invaluable member of our Early Years team over many years, making a wonderful contribution to the lives and learning of our youngest children. We are incredibly grateful for all she has given to Kelvin Grove and will miss her greatly. We wish her all the very best for the future.

A huge well done to Year 5, who enjoyed a wonderful experience last week attending the opening film of the Into Film Festival 2026. They received some lovely feedback about their impeccable behaviour and enthusiasm throughout the visit, and were fantastic ambassadors for Kelvin Grove. There will be plenty more trips and learning opportunities this term, alongside our winter events. One of the highlights of the term will, of course, be our Winter Fair on Friday 4th December, which is always a special occasion for our school community. Please keep an eye on the school website for important dates, and look out for a letter next week with details of our winter performances and class parties, which will take place during the final two weeks of term.

We are also using this term to highlight some important issues and events. Next week is Anti-Bullying Week and Road Safety Week. We will begin with Odd Socks Day on Monday 16th November, with children taking part in activities throughout the week to celebrate individuality, promote kindness and raise awareness of bullying. Alongside this, classes will be exploring important road safety messages and thinking about how we can all help to keep ourselves and others safe.

On the subject of road safety, I would also like to remind parents and carers of the important part we all play in keeping children safe during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. Where possible, walking to school makes a real difference. For those who need to drive, taking the extra time to park further away and walk to the school gates helps reduce congestion and creates a safer environment for everyone. In particular, parents are reminded not to park on Brickwood Close. This is becoming increasingly difficult for local residents, and we need everyone to be considerate of the people who live in our surrounding streets. The safety of our children must always come first, and I thank you for your continued support.