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A Warm Welcome and a Wonderful Start to the Year

A Warm Welcome and a Wonderful Start to the Year

It’s been a joyful and energetic start to the new school year here at Rusthall, and I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to all our new Reception children and their families. It’s been lovely to see the children settling in so confidently, exploring their new environment and beginning to build friendships.

Across the school, we’ve been focusing on creating a strong sense of community and shared values. Each class has been engaging in high-quality, teacher-led sessions designed to help children reflect on themselves, their classroom environment, and what it means to be part of Rusthall School. These sessions have included:

• Class Charters – collaboratively written agreements that set the tone for respectful and positive behaviour.
• All About Me – a chance for children to share their interests, backgrounds and personalities.
• Paper Chain Links – symbolising our connection to one another.
• The Dot Activity – inspired by the book The Dot, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
• What Makes a Great Classroom – exploring the ingredients of a happy, productive learning space.

On Wednesday afternoon, we held a whole-school rotation where each teacher, along with myself, led a group focused on one of our school values. The children created beautiful picture frames that will be displayed in the activity hall – a celebration of our shared ethos. A big thank you to adults for leading groups, and to our SENCo and FLO for their support throughout the afternoon.

Throughout the week, I’ve also been spending some time with each year group to co-create our Playground Charter. This will be a shared agreement that reflects the voices of all children and helps ensure our playground is a safe, inclusive and fun space for everyone. 

We’ll end the week with a whole-school trail on Friday afternoon, where children will visit each classroom to admire the ‘All About Me’ displays. It’s a lovely way to celebrate individuality and build connections across year groups.

Thank you to all staff and families for your support in making this first week so purposeful and positive. I’m looking forward to a fantastic year ahead!

Warm wishes,

Lyndsay Smurthwaite

Head of School