The Nutshell w/e 9th May

Dear Parents,

Walking through the school this week, I found myself caught between the excitement of what's ahead and the quiet pride of what's happening around me.

As we prepare to mark Hazelwood's 135th anniversary - with all the sparkle and celebration of our upcoming ball at Lingfield Park - it's also a moment to reflect. Not just on the years passed, but on what endures. The laughter in corridors, the bold questions in assemblies, the nervous-but-determined voices during a presentation - these are the markers of a living, breathing school.

Last week, our older pupils welcomed guests from a wide range of industries as part of our Industry Insights programme. It was such a joy to see them engaging with professionals and asking thoughtful questions - questions that made me reflect on the world in new ways. It's moments like these that remind me of an important part of education: helping children explore not just what they know, but how they think.

This brought to mind a line from the poet Mary Oliver, who once wrote: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" It seems so fitting to the spirit of our pupils, who are beginning to explore their own answers - whether it's through the ambitious ideas of their SDG projects or the confidence they bring to new challenges, like our choir's recent trip to Verona.

And though I promised myself not to mention the choir - they were magnificent. Gold Award, second place overall and best song performance of the entire competition. But more than that, they sang with joy, and joy is no small thing.

I had the pleasure of seeing Year 2's production of RockPool this week - a joyful showcase of teamwork, confident voices, and children who sang with such delight, no matter their role. That, too, is what endures.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend.

Best wishes,

Lindie
 

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