Headteacher's Message – 01/05/26

We are really excited to introduce a new feature in our playground – the ‘Friendship Buddy Bench’.  The idea for the Buddy Bench came from the House Captains. At the beginning of the year, they were asked to think about changes that they would like to make in school to help everyone feel happier and more included.

One thing the house captains talked about was how, at times, children can feel lonely at playtime. They wanted to find a simple way to help and ensure that no one feels left out.

The PTA very kindly agreed to fund the Buddy Bench, so we could make it happen, and we are very grateful for their support. Thank you!

This term, our school value is Friendship, so we felt this was the perfect time to introduce the Buddy Bench and explain how it can be used by everyone in school.

The Buddy bench has been placed in the sensory garden and can be used by any child who is feeling lonely, would like someone to talk to, or would like to join in a game. Sitting on the bench lets others know that they would welcome a friend. The bench will be visible to everyone, encouraging others to check if someone is ok, extend the hand of friendship and invite them to play. 

The inscription on the bench reads: “We sit, we chat and ask each other questions, we leave as friends with all good intentions”, which we thought was a very fitting reminder of how we live out our value of friendship.

Thank you again to the PTA for your support in purchasing the bench for the children.

Have a super Bank Holiday weekend,

Mrs A Fitch and the Staff Team