Junior School

What a ‘sensational’ yet fantastic voyage we have had at CCJS&N this year, full of exciting adventures for all members of our community. It will be a memorable year for plenty of reasons, least of all because we all experienced living with a pandemic. The way in which each and every community member showed amazing resolve not only in lockdown, but in how the Junior School and Nursery reopened in June, is a testament to the strength we have here.

It is inevitable that 2019-20 will be defined by Covid-19; however, let’s cast our minds back to life before March. It is to be celebrated and remembered in many other ways and with common themes representing the whole year: fun, learning, kindness, positive experiences, collaboration and laughter.

There is no doubt that this academic year has been a ‘sensational’, readall-about-it year. Much of the credit must go to the extraordinary people who look after the children at school and who make this part of Churcher’s College such an inspirational place. Every single member of staff worked even harder than usual to create such stimulating virtual learning spaces and environments for the children and prepare exciting and innovative lessons that inspire the children to learn. Since March, the teachers not only adapted to home working but changed their style and methods of teaching, taught through a screen, and prepared the most amazing lessons on video that I have no doubt could have been shown on TV. Then the school partially reopened following the Government’s advice in June and some teachers continued their inspirational work online while, others had to change their methodology again for a third time. Again, the common theme for both staff returning and the children coming back was their willing adaptation to the changes.

There will be plenty of fond memories as the children look back on an unforgettable year, no matter what age they are. From the youngest Pussycats to the Year 6 pupils, and not forgetting our very strong parent body, ultimately what has drawn everyone together during this academic year has been everyone’s love of Churcher’s College. United we are in the appreciation of life as we knew it and in knowing that the ship only sails when everyone pulls together. Here’s to another incredible voyage! Ffion Robinson Head of Junior School and Nursery