In March 2023, pupils in our primary schools prepared for Easter.

 

At Siddington C of E Primary School, pupils visited St Peter's Church for their annual Easter service. The children took the lead in the service, sharing pictures and songs. The oldest pupils told the story of Easter and Reverend McKenzie led a blessing and prayer. Parents were very grateful for the opportunity to join the pupils at the Church and share in this special time with the children. One parent said, 'The children did really well. It is so nice to be here and feel a part of everything'. 

 

'The pupils in the school choir had been looking forward to performing for everyone. They did very well. Some of the least confident children sung solos. Everyone was included'. Sian Tranter, Year 5/6 Teacher, English and Music Lead.

 

On the last day of term, much to everyone’s delight, the Easter Bunny visited the school giving each pupil an Easter egg. Some pupils also proudly showed off their Easter Bonnets.

 

Easter Bonnets were also worn at Chesterton Primary School. Libby Pringle, Headteacher, said, ‘We had some splendid Easter Bonnet creations and judging them was very difficult.’ She explained, ‘The final week of term was extremely busy. We focused on finishing off our learning sequences for the term and getting ready for the Easter break. In assembly, we talked about the true meaning of Easter and used eggs as a vehicle to discuss the idea of new life and new beginnings.’

 

The Friends of Chesterton Primary School were also very resourceful. They continue to support the school through their fundraising. In the last week of term, they held a plant sale and pupils raised £90 in The Loose Change Challenge!

 

Kemble Primary School also celebrated Easter by taking part in an Easter Service led by the Open The Book team. This was also an opportunity to say goodbye and thank you to Mr and Mrs Ferris who retired after leading assemblies on Thursday at the school for 14 years. The pupils sang the Easter hymns beautifully and particularly enjoyed the school’s traditional final song ‘Spring Chicken’.

 

Headteacher, Emma Morrogh-Ryan, reflected: ‘A very busy term ended as we dodged the rain clouds for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. I am very grateful to the Kemble Parents Group who kindly supplied chocolate eggs for all the children and staff.’

 

The pupils at Kemble Primary School added another nice touch to the end of term when they gave staff bunches of daffodils. This ensured everyone went home for the Easter break with a smile on their faces.

The Corinium Education Trust and the Local Governing Body are very pleased to confirm the appointment of Louise Lennox to the post of Headteacher at Siddington C of E Primary School from 1 September 2023. This follows a rigorous recruitment process in March 2023. 

 

Having moved to Gloucestershire in 2017, Louise is currently teaching Year 2 at Stroud Valley Community Primary School where she is the English Lead. The school has a similar demographic to that of Siddington C of E Primary School. While sorry to lose her, her present Headteacher, Debbie Sleep, believes Louise will ‘be great’: ‘She is so excited and is really looking forward to a fresh challenge’. 

 

Louise Lennox was previously Assistant Headteacher at The Alton Primary School in London where she was responsible for curriculum development. This provided her with the opportunity to engage with all stakeholders throughout its design, implementation and growth. Prior to this, she taught at Albemarle Primary School. In each of her roles Louise has effectively contributed to bringing about wider school improvements.  

 

‘We are all very excited that Louise Lennox is joining the team in the Autumn. Following an intensive two-day interview with a high level of governor, staff and pupil involvement, she showed a genuine interest in the school, its ethos and community, and consistently communicated a strong passion for education. She was curious and engaging. Most noticeably, pupils and staff warmed easily to her.’ Chiquita Henson, Trust Lead (CEO). 

 

Louise is already looking forward to joining the team and will be working closely with Chiquita Henson, Trust Lead (CEO) and Katie Cook, the school’s current Headteacher before she departs, to ensure a smooth transition.  

 

'The community of Siddington C of E Primary School have made me feel welcome and safe. I feel privileged to be part of a dynamic team of professionals who are fully committed to the children’s wellbeing and education. The children asked excellent questions and were articulate and confident. I can’t wait to meet everyone again.' Louise Lennox. 

 

Over the next six months, as a part of her induction, Louise will be preparing for her new Headship. She is keen to learn more about Siddington C of E Primary School. She will participate in staff training, contribute to meetings and attend key events, including the school’s welcome for new starters in September on Monday 3 July 2023. Katie Cook will also ensure Louise has the opportunity to meet with parents and introduce herself before she commences her post in September. 

 

‘The school governors are thrilled with the appointment of Louise to join as Headteacher. During the recruitment process she was consistently a strong performer which also included receiving excellent feedback from her interactions with pupils and staff throughout too’. Claire Ladwa, Chair of the School’s Local Governing Body.