BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

Week 4 of the Lent Term began on a very positive note as we welcomed our new School Nurse, Rachel Phipps. We are delighted that Rachel has joined us and it is reassuring for the whole community to know that such a highly qualified and experienced practitioner is overseeing our health centre. The wellbeing of our pupils is always paramount, and Rachel’s arrival further strengthens the care and support we are able to offer each day.

Many parents will also be aware that registration is now open for the BCS Music Festival 2026. I would encourage families to read the entry requirements carefully and, where appropriate, to register their child. Events such as this are about far more than competition. They provide valuable experience of performing before adjudicators and an audience, culminating in a grand finale that is both celebratory and inspiring. For many pupils, the process itself builds confidence, resilience, and, perhaps most importantly, a renewed commitment to regular practice.

This week also saw a strong focus on online safety, an area of growing importance as our pupils navigate an increasingly digital world. Educating pupils to stay safe online is not simply about rules and restrictions but about helping them to develop sound judgement, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility. I am very grateful to Karl Hopwood for delivering excellent and engaging talks to pupils, staff and parents which built effectively on our already robust programme at BCS. As one safeguarding expert aptly observes, “The goal is not to raise children who fear the internet, but children who understand it.” That principle very much underpins our approach.

Year 4 enjoyed a valuable visit to a mosque as part of their study of other world religions. Experiences such as this play an important role in helping children to develop a factual and respectful understanding of Islam, while also fostering tolerance and empathy. In a diverse society, it is essential that young people learn to appreciate different faiths and cultures, not through assumption or stereotype, but through informed engagement and thoughtful reflection.

In Pre-Prep, I would like to thank the parents of Nursery, Reception and Year 2 who attended the recent mathematics workshops and then stayed to visit pupils in their classrooms. These were very positive events and a clear example of the strong partnership between home and school that we value so highly. Seeing learning in action and sharing approaches to teaching mathematics helps to create consistency and confidence for pupils, and it was heartening to see such enthusiastic parental involvement.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I wish you all a restful and enjoyable weekend.