Laboris gloria Ludi

My philosophy in life is to "work hard... play hard" but the first few weeks of the school year have certainly tested my core belief and I have found little time for "play". Although my wife and daughters forgive my foibles, I must apologise more formally to the Arnold family because, although I have been working relentlessly on your behalf since the start of term, I have neglected my blog about our daily school life.

However, I have managed to talk with hundreds of you since the announcement of our merger with KEQMS; in lessons, in parental meetings, in assemblies, in one-to-one consultations, in phone calls, at the school gate, at The OA Annual Dinner, at PFA meetings and on the touchline. I certainly do not underestimate the challenges this has placed on our community and I want to thank pupils, parents, colleagues and OAs for your understanding. I am grateful to have listened to your opinions, constructive criticism and supportive ideas - all of which have been underpinned with a passionate and dignified desire to do the best for our children.

At our pupil-led School Council meetings and in classroom discussions, the children have been bursting with creative ideas about how they will meet and integrate with their new classmates before we move in together. We are all looking forward to building new friendships, peer groups and working relationships. Although you will receive regular and formal updates on our progress by 'Parentmail', should you wish to speak to me directly, please ring 01253 346391 or email headmaster.arnold@church-schools.com.

Despite the lack of a blog from the Headmaster (ahem!), I am particularly proud that our normal school routine has continued here as one would expect. We have had an excellent start to the term and we are moving forward united in our commitment to providing our parents, pupils and staff with an outstanding place of learning.

So, even if I am temporarily neglecting my work-life balance, I am proud that our teachers and students are not. Normal blogging will resume shortly...

Best wishes

Jim Keefe, Headmaster

Follow School headline news on Twitter: jimkeefe_arnold

Posted by: J E Keefe
Date: Friday 23/09/2011