As we come to the end of a very special and busy term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a wonderful week of celebrations and to say some heartfelt thank yous.
Firstly, a huge thank you to the Friends of Coalbrookdale and all of the volunteers who gave their time with preparations leading up to the Fair which took place on Friday 12 December. Their support and hard work in making our Christmas Fair such a memorable and successful event is greatly appreciated. The time, energy and commitment shown by everyone involved did not go unnoticed. We know how precious time is, especially at this busy time of year and we are incredibly grateful to those who chose to give theirs to support our school. The joy, excitement and festive spirit created on the night was truly special and something our children will remember for a long time.
I would also like to say a big well done and thank you to our Reception and Year 1 children, who did an absolutely amazing job in their Nativity performances on Monday for the school and on Tuesday for parents. I was so incredibly proud of their courage, their confidence and the way they learned their lines, songs and actions. The inclusion of sign language during Merry Christmas was particularly special and moving! A real reflection of the care, effort and inclusivity shown by both children and staff.
On Wednesday, our Year 2 Christingle was a truly beautiful event. The children carefully created their Christingles and showed great understanding of their meaning. The moment when the lights were dimmed and the children sang carols together was especially powerful and created a calm, reflective and memorable atmosphere for everyone present.
Thursday saw our Key Stage 2 Christmas Service, led so thoughtfully by the children. Each class played an important role:
- Year 3 confidently shared the Christmas story
- Year 4 led us in meaningful Christmas prayers
- Year 5 presented Christmas Around the World, celebrating the cultures represented within our school community
- Year 6 concluded with thoughtful and reflective Christmas poems
The children performed with confidence, respect and pride and it was a joy to watch them lead such a special service.
I would like to thank our parents and carers for your continued support and encouragement. These shared moments, celebrating, reflecting and coming together as a community, are incredibly special and your support enables us to create memories that will stay with the children for years to come.
Your presence, kindness and partnership with the school mean so much.
Thank you also to those parents who were able to join us for the Art and D&T Gallery on Thursday after school. It was wonderful to see the hall filled with families taking time to admire the children’s creativity, effort and pride in their work. The positive conversations and enthusiasm shared truly celebrated the children’s achievements.
Well done as well to all of the children who performed in the music concert, planned by Rosemary Angus. The children did a splendid job, showcasing their musical talents with confidence and enjoyment and it was a pleasure to celebrate their hard work.
As we finish the term, I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved. It has been a busy, joyful and successful term, and I would like to thank everyone within our school community (children, staff, parents, volunteers, Friends and members of the IEB) for the support you give, which allows Coalbrookdale to flourish.
Finally, I would like to wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas spent with family and loved ones. As we were reminded in the Reception and Year 1 Nativity, Christmas is for everyone – a time for kindness, hope and togetherness.
Thank you once again, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year.
Warmest wishes
Mrs M Dhaliwal
Headteacher