Headteacher's Message – 17/07/26

As we reach the end of another fantastic year, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on all that we have achieved together as a school community. There have been so many memorable moments, incredible achievements and reasons to be proud.

None of this would be possible without our exceptional staff team. Their dedication, care and commitment provide our children with the opportunities to learn, grow and flourish every day. Relationships are at the heart of St Mark’s, and our staff consistently model the kindness, respect and compassion that make our school such a special place. On behalf of our children, families and governors, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to every member of staff for all that they do.

Today, we also bid farewell to our wonderful Year 6 pupils. We are incredibly proud of the young people you have become and of the way you have lived out our FACE Values of Forgiveness, Aspire, Compassion and Engage. As you move on to the next stage of your journey, remember ‘you bring to this world things that no one else can.’ Go for it!

We must also say goodbye to three much-valued members of the St Mark’s team.

Mr Sim, our wonderful Deputy Head, leaves after an extraordinary 29 years of dedicated service to St Mark’s. His passion for the school, unwavering commitment and care for generations of children have helped shape our community in countless ways. We thank him for the remarkable contribution he has made and wish him every happiness in the future.

Mrs O’Connor - After 12 years at St Mark’s, Mrs O’Connor will be moving on to take up a new teaching SENCO role in a school within Gloucestershire. During her time at St Mark’s, she has made a significant contribution as both a class teacher and Higher Level Teaching Assistant. We are so grateful for her dedication and care and wish her every success in this exciting new chapter.

Miss Ryman will also be leaving after 14 years as a valued member of our Teaching Assistant team. Her compassion, encouragement and commitment have made a lasting difference to so many  children and families. We wish her every success as she begins her new role as a Family Support Worker with Gloucestershire County Council.

My thanks to you, as parents, for your continued support throughout the year. We hope you have a wonderful summer filled with rest, fun and special times with family and friends, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to St Mark’s on Thursday 3rd September for another exciting year ahead.

With our very best wishes to you all and have a super summer,

Mrs A Fitch and the Staff Team