What a truly wonderful week it has been at Duncombe — helped along, of course, by some glorious sunshine and an abundance of moments to celebrate including a National Schools Award!

 

We were delighted to see so many of you at our Treetops Sports Afternoon. It really was a joyful event, full of smiles, cheering, and plenty of determination from our youngest pupils. It was lovely to see everyone so

engaged and to catch up with families. A huge congratulations to all the staff and children who contributed to such a memorable occasion — your enthusiasm, organisation and warmth shone throughout.

 

Parental engagement means a great deal to us at Duncombe, and I’m so pleased to share that I’ve received some truly heartening messages recently which reflect the strength of that connection.

One parent wrote to me following a recent Reception and Nursery event: “The staff were all so attentive and you can see how dedicated they are to making the children’s outing a long- lasting memory. The children and staff are a real credit to the school.” Another, from Year 1, shared: “The considerable time and effort you and the team had clearly spent planning, preparing, coaching and rehearsing with the children was evident. It is remarkable.” And an Upper School parent wrote to their child’s form teacher recently stating: “Thanks again, we’re so very pleased with the support Duncombe continues to give. I was really touched by how much effort you went to before we met.”

 

We often speak about the importance of the school-parent-child triangle in achieving the very best outcomes. When we are aligned, our children truly thrive. The open contact and collaboration with our families truly is a significant strength of #TeamDuncombe. Thank you to all of you who take the time to share your thoughts with me and the team — whether directly or copied in — it is always such a pleasure to read your kind words.

 

Hot off the press- I am thrilled to share that Duncombe has been awarded another national prize! We have been recognised by Pearson National Teaching Awards in recognition for Transformational Use of Digital technology- looking at how pupils are prepared for the future beyond school and into the working world. We are thrilled!

 

Meanwhile, the school has been filled with music this week — from breakfast concerts that have inspired and uplifted us each morning, to today’s World Music Day celebration in assembly, where choirs and musicians treated us to a moving showcase of their musical journeys. It was a brilliant reminder of how music can evoke emotions, connect us, and bring great joy to our community.

 

Looking ahead, next week promises to be equally exciting with Year 5 heading off to Kentwell Hall as part of their history studies, more musical breakfast concerts, and our Hatfield Charity Day on Friday — a fun

opportunity for pupils to Dress in Green in support of The National Trust.

 

Do enjoy the weekend sunshine and thank you, as always, for your continued support. Mr Phelan