It has been a pleasure to welcome everyone back to school this week and to experience the energy and enthusiasm of a new term. The pupils have returned with such positivity and eagerness to learn, setting a wonderful tone for the term ahead.

This term promises to be exceptionally busy and exciting. I encourage you to regularly consult the calendar on the Parent Portal to ensure you are fully informed about all upcoming events.

In my assembly yesterday, I shared reflections with the pupils inspired by finally watching Wicked last Saturday. Although I was familiar with its famous songs, like Defying Gravity, seeing the full story brought its powerful themes to life. Wicked reimagines the story of Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch” from The Wizard of Oz, showing her as a brave, intelligent, and compassionate young woman who is misunderstood because she is different. The story challenges us to reconsider judgments and see the world through others’ perspectives. In one pivotal moment, Elphaba sings Defying Gravity as she decides to embrace her true self and stand up for what she believes in, even when it means standing alone. This is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to be authentic and to defy others’ expectations.

I encouraged the pupils to reflect on times they have felt judged or misunderstood and to consider how they can approach others with curiosity and kindness. By taking time to understand others, we can uncover the full story and build stronger, more supportive connections.

These themes from Wicked align with our core values of courage, curiosity, and kindness. Just as Elphaba’s story teaches us to look beyond first impressions, I challenged our pupils to view the world with fresh eyes. To be curious about others’ stories and experiences, even when they seem different from our own. To show kindness by suspending judgment and seeking to understand. And most importantly, to have the courage to be themselves authentically, even when it feels challenging. Like Elphaba, each of us has unique gifts to share with the world – and it is through embracing these differences that our community grows stronger.

To read more of this week’s Primary High Notes,  please click here.