We have talked a great deal about a return to “normality” over the past months. While we are far from there, it is probably fair to say that the return to school this term has been closer to what we have been accustomed in normal times to than what has been happening recently. That is not to downplay the huge challenges of dealing with positive cases, precautionary procedures and uncertain policies around vaccinations etc. It is more to do with the excitement of having corridors full of pupils again, of classes taking place in person, and of school communities coming together.
Last month I had the pleasure of attending my first assembly in a Foundation school, by kind invitation of Russell Bowen, Headteacher at King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys. Seeing the hundreds of faces in the hall, listening to a pupil speaking eloquently about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and having the chance to speak to individual pupils after the assembly, it felt good to be back. Likewise seeing the splendid dance and singing performances at the official opening of King Edward VI Northfield School for Girls made me look forward to being able to experience at first hand the efforts of our pupils and staff this year.
At the end of last term, I thanked you for all your hard work during such a challenging academic year. Those efforts culminated in the pressure of putting together Teacher Assessed Grades. While it is hard to make comparisons with previous years, what we can say is that the processes and care put in place to give pupils fair grades have led to sets of results of which both families and schools should be proud.
As we now begin this year, there are some important priorities that as a Foundation we will be dealing with. One of the most exciting for me, and which you will be able to read about in this and forthcoming issues of Foundation News, is the set of initiatives being led by Amy Whittall to put into action collaborative work across our schools through our new Foundation Leaders of Education scheme, enhanced Subject Networks, and National Professional Qualifications. Add to that a new Payroll system for the whole Foundation, strategies for Sustainability and External Relations, and Ofsted and ISI inspections and compliance visits resuming, we have a busy year ahead, but one in which I am sure we will make great progress towards achieving our mission.
On a personal note, I am delighted to say that my family and I will shortly be putting down permanent roots in our new home in Birmingham following months of temporary accommodation. It is exciting to think of the years ahead in this city and working with you all.
