Keep up-to-date with what's been going on at Highgate Hill House School! Headteacher updateI am very pleased to say that following Monday's announcement, it feels like there is finally light at the end of the tunnel for us all. From 8th March, schools will be open to all pupils, with asymptomatic testing in place to ensure that the return is as safe as possible. We are happy to welcome back all of our pupils full-time from Monday 8th March. I would like to take the opportunity to express gratitude to all parents, carers and families for their hard work in keeping their children and young people safe, entertained and able to access education from home. I would also like to thank all of our fantastic teachers and support staff for working tirelessly in difficult circumstances to do the same. Just to confirm - attendance for all pupils will be mandatory from 8th March onwards. We are pleased to say that the vast majority of staff have now had their first Covid-19 vaccination, and have just received dates for their second. We are busy preparing for everyone's safe return on 8th March, and are looking forward to hopefully returning to some sort of 'normal' in the not too distant future. Warm wishes, Gina Wagland Headteacher Chair updateHello everyone, Hope you are all keeping well. There are signs out there that spring is on its way – with snowdrops and even a few daffodils peaking through. Similarly, there are signs that we are getting through this most challenging and difficult winter coronavirus lockdown, with the vaccine rollout appearing to be going well - fingers firmly crossed. I am always inspired by the creativity of the children; whether it be in school or at home at the moment; whether it be baking, that looks almost too good to eat; art creations, such as Kitty’s sword, or music, all of which talents I am in awe of. In the same way, I am always inspired by you, the staff and parents and carers of the school and how you have stuck together and supported each other through thick and thin during this pandemic period – and I thank you all for that. Kind regards, Dr Julie Smith Chair of the Board Spotlight on MichelleThis month, it's your chance to get to know our School Administrator Michelle a little better. We asked Michelle... 1) Which part of your job at HHHS do you enjoy the most and why? Having impromptu chats with the pupils when I pop out of the office. It's nice to get to know them and I really enjoyed the open days i.e. sports day, when we could invite parent/carers in to school, as it is an opportunity to meet the people I speak to on the telephone. 2) What do you like to do in your spare time? Spend time with family and friends, walking on the beach whatever the weather with my dog, and having a good night out dancing. 3) What would we be surprised to learn about you? As a child, my dad taught me how to jive to 1950's/Elvis Presley music and this is still my favourite dance style and music (although I get out of breath a lot quicker these days!) 4) If you could choose to go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Norway, to stay in an ice hotel and see the Northern Lights. Also I have seen Orca whales at Seaworld, they are magnificent mammals but I would love to see them in their natural environment. School Founder Sir Peter Birkett announced as ambassadorWe are delighted to announce that our School Founder, Sir Peter Birkett, is now an ambassador for SENDit (SEND management software for education leaders). You can read the full story here. |