Headteacher's Message – 12/06/26

What a super week it has been at school—well done to all of our children for another excellent effort in their learning, attitudes and for ‘playing their part’ so brilliantly. It has been lovely to see the children making the most of these last weeks in their current year group, showing our school values with such commitment.

 Our school value this term is Respect, and we have been exploring the positive difference that showing respect can make in all aspects of school life. The children have been reflecting on qualities in others that we respect—such as compassion, honesty, courage, perseverance and engaged listening—and considering which of these they might like to develop further in their own lives. This could be a lovely conversation to continue at home together!

I am very sorry that we had to make the difficult decision to cancel Sports Day on Wednesday due to the very changeable weather. We know how much the children were looking forward to it, but we are hopeful for much finer, sunnier conditions when we hold our rescheduled event on Friday 26th June.

On Wednesday, our Year 6 children visited Gloucester Cathedral to take part in the annual Leavers’ Service. This special event is a massive annual celebration held every June for thousands of Year 6 (and Year 2) pupils across the Diocese of Gloucester. The service marks an important milestone as children prepare to move from primary to secondary school. It included collective worship, uplifting music, and moments for reflection.

The children from St Mark’s participated with great enthusiasm, showcasing their excellent singing and demonstrating what a credit they are to our school. We were even given a special mention in the service by the Bishop, who specifically congratulated St Mark’s children on their fabulous singing and engagement! We are incredibly proud of them. A special well done also goes to the children who took part in the readings—they represented the school beautifully.

During the service, the children were presented with holding crosses, hand-carved in Bethlehem.  The children learnt that each cross is unique, just like each one of them.  The holding cross serves as a reminder that, as they move on and face new challenges, they are never alone—God is always with them.

It was a truly beautiful service and a proud moment for both the children and their teachers.

Have a super weekend, 

Mrs A Fitch and the Staff Team