It has obviously been a very hot week, and I would like to thank our staff and pupils for all they have done to manage the conditions so positively. A few water pistols have brought some welcome fun and refreshment, while staff have worked hard to keep everyone as cool as possible; although the building has remained manageable, we took the decision to cancel some outdoor events, which we hope to rearrange soon. Looking ahead, it may be that we need to consider investing in air conditioning across the site - a conversation I am sure many schools will also be having.

Meet our new teachers - Rachel and Jessica:

We are excited to welcome Jessica and Rachel to the school in September. They have already visited us several times this half term, giving pupils and staff the opportunity to begin getting to know them. I have also asked them a few questions so that you can get to know them too - please see their responses at the end of the message.

INSET Day - Friday 3rd July:

A reminder that next Friday, 3rd July, is an INSET day. School will be closed to pupils on this day.

Celebrating Pride:

This afternoon, we will be celebrating Pride in school. Pupils will take part in a parade at 2:15pm, followed by an assembly where we will explore what the letters in LGBTQIA+ mean and share photographs of the learning that has taken place across the school. Classes will be wearing their allocated colours, and we are looking forward to a positive and celebratory afternoon together.

Rights Respecting School - Child Friendly Policies:

This week, our Rights Respecting School Council has created child-friendly versions of our Positive Relationships and Safeguarding Policies. These are designed to help pupils understand the key messages in a clear and accessible way, and you can view them below.

Non-Uniform Day - Friday 10th July:

As part of our work on the Global Goal of Zero Hunger, we will be holding a non-uniform day on Friday 10th July to raise money for Mary’s Meals. This charity provides nutritious school meals for children living in some of the world’s poorest communities. If you would like to make a donation, we kindly ask that pupils bring £1 to school on the day. For further information about the charity, please visit the Mary’s Meals website.

Sports Day and Summer Fayre:

Reminder regarding our upcoming Sports Days and Summer Fayres. Please see the information below for dates and details of these events. We would also be very grateful for any donations to support our Summer Fayres. Any contributions, no matter how small, will help us make these events enjoyable and successful for all of our pupils and families. Thank you in advance for your continued support.

• Wednesday 1st July (12:30pm arrival) for Butterflies, Robins, Foxes, Rabbits and Hedgehogs
• Thursday 2nd July (12:30pm arrival) for Moles, Woodpeckers, Post-16 Owls and Squirrels.

Weekly Safeguarding Update: Keeping Safe in Hot Weather

Hot weather can present a number of safeguarding and wellbeing considerations for children and young people. The main risks are dehydration, overheating and heat exhaustion, particularly during physical activity or prolonged time in direct sunlight.

Signs to look out for (heat-related illness):

• Headache or dizziness
• Excessive tiredness or lethargy
• Nausea or vomiting
• Flushed or pale skin
• Excessive sweating or, in some cases, lack of sweating
• Confusion or irritability
• Muscle cramps

Prevention measures:

• Encourage regular water intake throughout the day
• Ensure access to drinking water at all times
• Promote wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Use hats and sun protection when outdoors
• Limit strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day
• Provide access to shaded or cooler indoor areas

Actions if concerns arise:

• Move the child to a cool, shaded or ventilated area immediately
• Encourage small sips of water
• Remove excess clothing if appropriate
• Apply cool compresses where possible
• Monitor closely for any deterioration
• Seek medical advice or emergency support if symptoms are severe or do not improve quickly

Where children have additional medical needs or are more vulnerable to heat, individual risk should be considered and appropriate adjustments made.

Have a great weekend!

Ben Norman

Headteacher

bnorman@nexusmat.org