As we approach the end of the year, I would like to thank everyone for the commitment and dedication you have shown towards the children, young people and communities of Brighton & Hove. 2021 has been an incredibly challenging year for everyone but I am very grateful for the contributions you have made in responding to the uncertainties, anxieties and challenges that have arisen throughout this difficult time.
I would also like to thank the Education & Skills team who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure our services run as smoothly as possible and that we maintain the consistent levels of support we offer across the city.
I would like to wish you and your families a very happy and restful Christmas and a healthy and happy new year. I look forward to continuing our work together in 2022.
Brighton and Hove Primary Schools Cross Country
I was very interested to hear more about the Brighton and Hove Primary Schools Cross Country which took place on Wednesday 17 November at Waterhall. Over 1,210 children took part from 41 primary/junior schools from across the city. It was great to see so many children taking part and enjoying the event. A big thank you to Blatchington Mill, Patcham High, Dorothy Stringer and Varndean College Sports Leaders – who all did such a great job helping steward out on the course, hare the races and help with the finish funnel.
A record breaking 80 children from across the city will now represent Brighton and Hove at the Sussex School Games finals on Thursday 3 March 2022 at Waterhall. Good luck to these students!
The Big Sing
On Wednesday 15 December, thousands of children took part in the Big Sing 2021, a singing celebration for schools to connect voices across the region. Together with Glyndebourne, Brighton & Hove Music and Arts/East Sussex Music have been working with 115 schools this term on this digital event that connects more singers and young musicians across our region than ever before.
To see how local schools are taking part, follow activities on the Brighton & Hove Music and Arts social media this week or, for more information, contact maevents@brightondome.org
HAF Programme Update
The Winter Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme will be running during the Christmas holidays, providing free enriching activities and a healthy meal for children aged four (in full-time education) to 16 who are on benefits-related free school meals.
To find out more and book your place, visit this link.
Thank You, Welcome and Goodbye
I would like to thank Alison Colbran who has been Acting Headteacher at Brunswick Primary School for the last year. Alison will be stepping back into her permanent position as Deputy Headteacher at the school from January. Alison has been a strong leader during this difficult year and we look forward to continuing to work with her in her Deputy Headteacher role.
Thank you also to Helen Cowling who has been acting as Interim Head of Early Years since October. We are very grateful to Helen for all of her help and hard work during this time. Helen remains with the Education & Skills team and will be stepping back into her role as Service Manager – Children’s Centres from this week.
Helen Cowling
I would like to welcome Pam Ridgwell who was appointed as Interim Executive Head based at Homewood College last month. We look forward to working in partnership with her in her new role.
I am delighted to confirm that Kate Claydon will be continuing in her role as Headteacher at Blatchington Mill School, having recently been appointed to the position in a permanent capacity. Congratulations to Kate and we look forward to working with her in the new year.
We are very pleased to welcome Jo Templeman to the Education & Skills Team this month. Jo comes to us from East Sussex County Council and will be taking over the role of Head of Early Years and Early Help Strategy this week. I am sure everyone will welcome Jo and we look forward to working closely with her over the coming months.
We also say goodbye to Louise Cook as Executive Head at the Central Hub. I would like to thank Louise for her dedication to the young people who face the most challenges within the city and wish her the best for the future.
Best wishes,
Jo
Keep in touch and follow me on Twitter @JoMLyons
Find details here Twitter accounts across all council services.
