I wanted to take the opportunity this term to share some reflections and positive observations from a recent governor visit, where I spent time learning more about the support in place for children with additional needs.
I came away feeling incredibly positive about all that is being done. During my visit, I was able to see how different areas of the school are thoughtfully used to support children and help them feel confident, settled and ready to learn. It was especially pleasing to see how well children are supported within their classrooms and throughout school life, learning alongside their friends and taking a full part in the wider school community.
What stood out most was the whole-school commitment to inclusion. There is a clear focus on making sure children receive the right support at the right time, while also helping staff feel confident and well-equipped to meet a wide range of needs. This creates calm, caring and purposeful learning environments where children can flourish.
We also discussed the increasing demand for this support and the importance of continuing to work closely with families so that children receive joined-up care both in school and at home. It is always encouraging to see the strong partnership between school and parents, which makes such a difference to children’s progress and wellbeing.
As governors, it is a privilege to see the dedication, kindness and teamwork that goes on behind the scenes each day. Supporting children with additional needs is clearly a real strength of the school, and something the whole community can be proud of. Co-Opted Governor
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities, support, and trust I have been given during my time at William Harding Preschool. Working within such a caring, dedicated team and building meaningful relationships with the children and families has been a genuinely rewarding experience.
I would like to sincerely thank you and the wider team for the guidance, encouragement, and professional growth I have experienced. The role has allowed me to develop both personally and professionally, and I will always value the memories and skills gained here.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will do everything I can during my notice period to support the team and the children.
Thank you again for the opportunity to be part of William Harding Preschool. I wish the preschool continued success in the future. Staff Leaver
As I leave today, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone at WHS. Thank you so much for the lovely cards, kind words and generous gifts. I have felt incredibly touched and very much loved by everyone, and it truly means more to me than I can put into words.
WHS has been a huge part of my life, and I will always be grateful for the support, teamwork and friendships I’ve shared with you all.
I am leaving with so many special memories. Thank you again for everything. Staff member
‘The school is good; good teaching, good learning behaviours and the children are happy learners.’ School Improvement Adviser, October 2019
‘The depth of learning and the amount of high-level vocabulary is so much greater than I have seen at any other school and it is fantastic to see how our children rise to the expectations set by our History and Geography curricula.’ KS2 Teacher January 2020
‘Whilst visiting the school on a tour for a Reception place I was immediately aware of how far the school has developed and how positive it all was.’ Local professional educator January 2020
‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Choir from William Harding School for coming along to the Pace Christmas Gift Fair on Saturday to sing. We have received so much positive feedback about how lovely it was to have the children along and they really helped to create a wonderful atmosphere at the event. I am delighted to inform you that the event raised just over £5,300 which will go towards helping to transform the lives of the inspirational children here at Pace. Thank you so much, we couldn’t have done it without you!’ Children and staff at Pace, November 2019
'From your submission, it is clear to see the passion you have for improving the teaching and learning of science at William Harding. Your application paints a picture of a rapidly improving science provision that has enriched the education of the children at your school. Well done!' Primary Quality Science mark reviewer, September 2019
‘You've got your finger on the pulse, and the school is fortunate to have you both.’ PIXL associate Zeenat on working with Miss Cotchin and Miss Brydon on assessment, September 2019
‘Thank you for the Harvest basket beautifully delivered by your pupils - it was kind of you to think about me.’ Local resident, November 2018
‘It was a pleasure having William Harding visit - such wonderfully polite pupils.’ Hampton Court Palace, June 2019
‘The school has such a lovely feeling when you enter, unique for such a large school.’ EYFS external adviser, June 2019
‘The Year 6 children have been absolutely superb on their residential this week and have represented the school brilliantly.’ River Dart Residential Centre, November 2019
‘A beautiful, eloquent, mature and respectful assembly by the Year 5 pupils on Remembrance. Well done.’ Visitor, November 2019
‘This is the only one that I can recall being invited to attend. I thought the children immaculately turned out and presented a very good assembly.’ Year 5 parent attending the Remembrance assembly, November 2019
‘I work for a supply teaching company and was working in your school today. I just wanted to email to say what an amazing class and staff you have. The TAs were amazingly supportive and the year group leader was fantastic and willing to give up her time to talk me through the planning.’ Supply teacher, November 2019