8^th April 2024

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am delighted to be able to write my first letter as the new Headteacher of Cropthorne with Charlton CofE First School. I feel extremely honoured and privileged to have been chosen to continue to build upon the success the school has already achieved under the leadership of Mr Bothma.

Prior to this post I was a Deputy Headteacher and Senco of a large first school as well as working for the NCETM GLOW maths hub supporting schools across Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. Being a mother of two girls, I am very much aware of the responsibility that my staff and I have in ensuring that the highest standard of teaching and learning is achieved. I have a hugely committed team and wonderful children, which of course, is a great place for any new head to start!

The needs of the children are always paramount in the life and decision making within a school. I strongly believe in providing the children with exciting, creative and meaningful learning experiences, which build their enthusiasm for learning and help them to grow and develop positively in a variety of ways. I think it is crucial to involve the children and their families as partners in their education. I am also keen on building a whole school community which thrives on mutual respect and values positive relationships. I know how vital working in partnership with parents really is, in order for children to find school a positive and rewarding experience. As key educators in your children’s lives, I feel that it is important that you have a voice and that as a school we are approachable and allocate time to listen to your concerns, worries or thoughts about the school. In the near future I will be inviting parents in for an informal coffee morning. This will be an opportunity to meet other parents, chat to me and other members of staff over a cup of coffee and a slice of cake. Watch this space!

You can be assured that as Headteacher, I will strive to create the best education for your child/children whilst they are members of our school family. Please do come up and introduce yourselves outside school – I will attempt to be on the playground before school each day and at the front gate at the end of each day. I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks.

Thank you for your continued support.

Yours faithfully,      

     

Denise Smith

Headteacher