Dear Parents and Carers,

We have had a great day today celebrating as part of Black History Month. The children enjoyed drumming and storytelling assemblies and a delicious lunch. We heard some lovely music as the children came into school this morning. I really hope you enjoyed our Black History celebration after school. Thank you to those of you who helped organise it, attended it and supported it. It was a really lovely and special event. Black History Month gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture. October is Black History Month in the UK and a time to celebrate the contribution black people have made over the centuries in shaping the dynamic and diverse country we have today. Black History Month is about celebrating and sharing knowledge; celebrating the contribution black people have made to freedoms, our culture and our society – from books, music to art, with authors such as Malorie Blackman, musicians such as Christopher Ellis, and scientists such as Mae Jemison, there are many great individuals to celebrate. Although Black History Month only happens once a year, the teaching of black history doesn’t begin and end there at Betty Layward. Our curriculum supports children learning about it all year round.

We have had a great first term of this academic year. The children are settled and happy. I walk around and see them enjoying learning, looking after each other and helping around school. They are an absolute joy to be around and I especially love seeing them proud of their achievements and what they are able to do. I feel very lucky to be here surrounded by them. Thank you for your support this term and I am looking forward to the rest of the academic year.

Betty Layward boys football competed in the Young Hackney football tournament at Mabley Green this week. We played 7 games winning 5, drawing 1 and losing 1. We have qualified for the next round so please watch this space. Well done Simon and the team.

Apologies for the glitch with the Parent’s evening bookings yesterday. I have heard that some of you did not get confirmations by email after you booked. We have checked and your appointments are there. Apologies, ICT can have it’s issues. Thank you for your understanding.

We have had a great first term of this academic year. The children are settled and happy. I walk around and see them enjoying learning, looking after each other and helping around school. They are an absolute joy to be around and I especially love seeing them proud of their achievements and what they are able to do. I feel very lucky to be here surrounded by them. Thank you for your support this term and I am looking forward to the rest of the academic year.

There will be a Dr Bike offering free cycle mechanical checks outside the Clissold leisure centre between 3.30pm and 6.30pm on Wednesday October the 26th. The mechanics will be on hand to make adjustments and simple repairs to bikes of any size.

I really hope you have a great half term break and I look forward to seeing you all on Monday 31st October.

Jessica

Headteacher