Dear Parents
Last week and this week, we are fully embracing our Unitarian ethos of kindness, tolerance, respect and inclusivity through our Around the World Fortnight initiative. This event, introduced several years ago, will culminate in a showcase of pupil work displayed in classrooms around the Junior School on Founders’ Day.
I wanted to take this opportunity to emphasise the importance of maintaining a culture of inclusivity within our school community. Inclusivity lies at the heart of a well-rounded education, essential for creating a supportive and welcoming environment where every pupil feels valued, respected and able to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. By fostering an inclusive culture, we demonstrate our dedication to nurturing a diverse and harmonious community, where all pupils have the opportunity to be the very best version of themselves.
Encouraging inclusivity equips our pupils with invaluable life skills such as empathy, acceptance, and understanding (embodied by one of our Channing Characters, Empathy Rabbit). It prepares them to interact positively with individuals from different backgrounds, beliefs and experiences, ultimately shaping them into compassionate and tolerant individuals ready to contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, this inclusive culture enhances the overall learning experience for our pupils. When pupils feel included and supported, they are more likely to engage actively in their education, participate in classroom discussions and collaborate with their peers. This, in turn, leads to a more enriching and fulfilling academic journey for each pupil.
As parents, your role in promoting inclusivity is vital. By reinforcing the values of respect, acceptance and inclusivity at home, you can help to solidify these principles in your daughter’s everyday interactions and choices. Encouraging open dialogue about diversity and inclusion can further support your daughter in developing a deep appreciation for the benefits of a diverse and inclusive community.
Together, we can create a school environment where every pupil feels valued, respected, and included. I encourage you to engage in conversations with your daughter about the importance of inclusivity and to actively support our efforts to foster a culture of inclusivity within the school community.
During Around the World Fortnight, the girls will participate in a variety of activities to support their cultural adventures. Each year group has embarked on a journey to learn about one of the chosen countries that have previously hosted the Olympic or Youth Olympic Games (or are scheduled to do so) which aligns with the celebrations for the Olympic Games taking place in Paris, France this year. Some aspects each year group has explored include: culture, geography, language, currency, landmarks, traditional dances, art and music. The focus for each year group is as follows:
- Reception: Greece
- Year 1: Italy
- Year 2: China
- Year 3: Senegal (hosting Youth Olympic Games in 2026)
- Year 4: Brazil
- Year 5: Argentina (hosted the Youth Olympic Games in 2018)
- Year 6: USA
I look forward to seeing you all at Founders’ Day this Saturday morning to mark the founding of the school. Doors will open at 9.30 am and close at 11.30 am. The girls need to arrive wearing their Summer school uniform. Please note that all pupils are expected to attend Founders’ Day, and permission must be sought in advance for any absences.
Upon arrival, your daughter will need to collect her personalised passport from her year group’s table in the courtyard. You will then progress down the ramp beside the Drama Studio and follow our one-way system for a unique around-the-world trip. Please remember to visit the work on display in all form rooms, as well as in the PE Pavilion, Music Room, Library and Drama Studio. The girls will be able to stamp their passports as they visit each of the countries/rooms.
I look forward to seeing everyone and wish you all a wonderful time!
Eid Mubarak to our families celebrating Eid al-Ghadi this week!
With warm wishes
Miss Dina Hamalis
Head of the Junior School