Friday 18th December

Happy Friday!

As I sit to write to you all this evening, I have found myself reflecting on the year that has been 2020. It is difficult to remember the start of the year, the time prior to Covid19, when our children were able to mix together; when our families could come into the school building; when our staff were all able to take a break together; when we could meet face-to-face and when our corridors were full of the footsteps of children. So much has changed in very short space of time.

Our wonderful, adaptable children have settled into their ‘bubbles’ and our new routines and expectations are now embedded. Who knows what next term is going to bring, but for now it is time for us all to have a break. For us all to recharge our batteries so we are ready for the challenges that lay ahead.

We have continued with our planned festive activities this week. The children have continued to enjoy the mischief of our elves (they will remain in school over the break and they have promised me that they will be very well behaved),. The children have enjoyed lots of creative activities, and today they partied away. The prize for the most dancing definitely goes to year two!

There has been a lot of talk in the media about the last week of the autumn term and the lack of learning that takes place because it is all Christmas activities and Christmas parties. I disagree about the lack of learning, a lot of learning takes place through these activities. There are many fine motor skills involved with making a Christmas card; Christmas party games support the children to understand about taking turns and showing respect to others; the children learn how to have fun and they create memories. All of these, and more, are skills essential to life.

The school will be closed for the Christmas break, including the office. If your child has a positive covid test result between now and the 24th December it is important that you let us know by emailing covidreporting@olive.dudley.sch.uk. This will then allow us to apply our track and trace procedures. We have an INSET day on Monday 4th January but you will be able to phone the school office between 8am and 4pm on that day. The children return to school on Tuesday 5th January.

A huge thank you to our amazing community for all the support you have shown us this term. It really does mean a lot to us all. In addition, your generosity has supported those in need. We had that many donations of gifts for children of all ages, Miss Lee had to find a separate cupboard in which to store it all.

An enormous thank you to our children for being wonderful - Santa has told me you are all on the good list!

Finally, a very large round of applause for the brilliant staff at Olive Hill, you make me so proud.

From me and all of the staff, we wish you a happy and prosperous new year. Keep yourselves and your loved ones safe.

See you in 2021!