Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 5th September 2025
Head’s Blog
“The beginning is the most important part of the work.” – Plato
Plato’s words feel especially fitting as we start a new academic year. The beginning of term really does set the tone for everything that follows. It has been such a joy to welcome the children back this week after the summer holidays and to hear about their exciting adventures. The long break provides a wonderful opportunity to recharge, relax, and enjoy a change of routine, but September always brings with it the anticipation of something new. Whether moving into a different year group, meeting a new teacher, or even joining a new school, this is a time of change for children and for parents too.
It is important to acknowledge the children’s feelings, whether excitement, nervousness, or a mixture of both, and let them know that these emotions are normal. However, lingering too long on worries can amplify them. Gentle reassurance, without overanalysing, helps children to move forward with confidence.
Every family finds their own way through the start of term, but you may find some of these ideas helpful as your child settles in.
- Acknowledge their feelings – Let your child know it is completely normal to feel excited, nervous, or even at the same time. Offer reassurance but try not to overanalyse or dwell too long on worries.
- Encourage friendships – If possible, arrange play dates early in the term. Spending time with classmates outside the classroom can really help children feel more settled and connected.
- Don’t over-question – At the end of the day, your child may just want to switch off. Avoid giving them the “third degree”; instead, let them share in their own time. Often, no news really does mean good news.
- Model connection – Just as the children are adjusting, you are too. Making links with other parents, joining in with school events, and showing how to build friendships sets a powerful example for your child.
- Support learning at home – Encourage good habits with reading, homework, and general organisation. When children feel prepared, they walk into school with much more confidence.
- Communicate with us – If something is worrying you, let the teachers know promptly so it can be addressed quickly. At the same time, encourage your child to start solving small problems independently, this helps them grow in resilience.
- Create calm routines – Children thrive on consistency. Keeping mornings and evenings predictable, and prioritising a good night’s sleep, makes an enormous difference to wellbeing and readiness for learning.
- Be realistic about activities – Enrichment opportunities are valuable, but too many commitments can be overwhelming in the first weeks back. Easing into the term gently will give your child the best start.
- Most of all, remember that your presence and reassurance are what matter most. A snuggle on the sofa at the end of a busy day can do more to ease anxieties than anything else.
As we begin this new school year, I would like to wish all the children and you a smooth and happy start, full of new opportunities, discoveries, and joy.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Simone
Celebrating Authenticity: ‘I Am Me’ at Boardman Welcome Back Assemblies
Zach (FVII) got his first drum kit and began playing in December 2021, and at the beginning of July 2025, passed his grade 8 Rock School exam, achieving a distinction! He had to play 3 technically very difficult pieces for his exam, as well as listen to a piece of music and then play it back by ear. He also had to answer a number of theory questions. Zach has had to learn and play a range of styles for his exams over the last couple of years, but can now let loose on his favourite – rock!
