Letter from Ms Ellis, Assembly Info and House Day Activities

I would like to start with a huge thank you for your continued support for your children and the school over this extraordinary period. All of our lives have been shaken and changed in so many ways and this “new normal” is set to be with us for the coming weeks. We also send our sincere thoughts to those who we know are really struggling – those who themselves or their families are sick and hospitalised – those who have lost their jobs – those who are finding it so hard to cope and manage. We all do need to be strong for our children and I am sure that we will emerge with new ways of working, new hobbies and hopefully better and more thoughtful citizens. I am also aware that many of you are volunteering, whilst others as key workers are employed for long hours tackling this pandemic.

The engagement of our students with the virtual learning we have set up has been astonishing. They have brought enthusiasm, positivity and commitment to their studies and the quality of learning that is continuing in this situation should make you feel incredibly proud of your sons and daughters. They are a credit to themselves and you. You may be aware that the You Tube channels we have set up (Fearnhill Live, Fearnhill English, Maths etc) have now passed 10,000 in terms of online views, and this reflects the professionalism and care of our teaching and operational staff, who are working tirelessly to maintain high quality education provision for Fearnhill students. We know from research that in these situations, routine is a friend and can make a real contribution to health and wellbeing. We hope you have found the morning assemblies a helpful marker to start the day. Exercise is also key to staying well and balanced so do try and keep that going during the break.

We are still awaiting clarification from the government and Ofqual about the Year 11 and 13 GCSE and A Level grades. This has been a very difficult time for students across the country and once we know more, we will of course share the information with you. We know that Year 11 and 13 this year were exceptional in terms of their work ethic and positive attitude; we will do our utmost to ensure the grades they are awarded do justice to their commitment and hard work.

Friday 3rd April is our last day of term and you will be aware that we are running the morning as a ‘House Day’ as always, with a variety of challenges for students to get involved in. It is a half day, as usual, and no formal lessons are being set. We then have a two week Easter break and the new term begins on Monday 20th April, starting at 8.40 with a whole school assembly. Fearnhill will be closed over the Easter period, but if you are a key worker and you need to secure childcare provision during this time, HCC have advised us that you can email Inyear@hertfordshire.gov.uk and they will be able to help you.

Finally, on a personal note, can I thank you for all the messages of support and appreciation you have sent to the staff team. Knowing we have your full support makes a great difference during difficult times like these. We know we will get through this and emerge even stronger, ready to face our next challenge.

I wish you a peaceful and safe Easter.

Yours sincerely

Ms E Ellis
Headteacher

Assembly on Friday, 3rd April is at 8.40am with Ms Ellis

For details of House Day activities please click House Day Outline