The Nutshell 18th September

Dear Parents,

Our first Nutshell of 2026/27! It has been quite a start to the new school year.

Within the first few days of term, we learned that Hazelwood had been selected as one of just six finalists for Prep School of the Year, from hundreds of applications. This came alongside the news that we had also been recognised as Pastoral Care Champion by School House magazine. Coupled with the publication of our ISI report, it has been the most wonderful boost at the beginning of term. There are, of course, always things we can do better, but there is also a great deal in all three of which we can be very proud.

I spoke to the children in assembly last week about community and the part it plays in who we become. Being part of a community reveals aspects of our character that may not always emerge within the familiarity of home. Other people can reveal things in us that we might not otherwise see – our kindness and generosity, but equally our impatience, our willingness to listen, whether we include others and how we respond when things don't quite go our way.

A community also encourages us to become better. We learn from the people around us, we are challenged by them and we begin to recognise the part we each play within it. I shared one simple thought with the children: the things we do, do something to us. When we do something kind, for example, it clearly has an impact on the person receiving that kindness, but it does something to us too. The choices we make and the things we repeatedly do gradually become part of who we are.

Even the seemingly small things matter. The children have returned looking especially smart this term and we have already seen the positive impact this has had on classroom culture and on the way they approach their learning. Thank you for your ongoing support with this as it really does make a difference.

It has been lovely to have everyone back and to see the school so quickly settle into the rhythm of a new academic year. I hope your children have enjoyed these first few days as much as we have enjoyed having them back.

Lindie

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