Wow – what a start to the term! Six and a half weeks have flown by in a blur of learning, laughter, and community spirit. It has been a joy to see Edenhurst in full swing once again, and this first half term has reminded me just how special our school family truly is.
We began with two fabulous INSET days. One afternoon, staff threw themselves (sometimes quite literally!) into an afternoon with Circus Sensible – plate spinning, juggling, balancing and laughing together. It was a brilliant way to remind ourselves of the power of teamwork and the joy of learning new skills. Alongside the fun, we also took time to reflect upon safeguarding, inclusion and belonging and our School Development Plan for 2025–26.
This year, our Character Education has had a complete overhaul. We are now focusing on four core areas: determination, respect, service and reflection, with dedicated curriculum time supported by the Jubilee Centre.. Already, this renewed focus is inspiring thoughtful discussion across the school and giving pupils a clear framework for their personal growth. Our academic focus on Instruction and Modelling is also enriching teaching and learning, ensuring pupils experience the very best in the classroom.
Our Prep 6 leaders have embraced their roles with real determination. This year isn’t just about badges and hoodies; it’s about legacy. They’ve reviewed and agreed their job descriptions, set ambitious goals, and are already brimming with ideas. I have no doubt that their leadership will leave a lasting mark on Edenhurst.
The curriculum continues to grow with exciting new opportunities: our humanities programme has been overhauled, finance education has been introduced and creative learning with Grammarsaurus has been extended to all year groups. Wellbeing has also been front and centre, with every pupil meeting their form tutor one-to-one to set personal goals. Watching our children reflect thoughtfully on their growth has been truly inspiring.
Our clubs and activities have never been busier – from Mini and Junior Duke, knitting, water sports, and mindfulness, to chess, judo, and music lessons. Add in fixtures and competitions for football, cross country, swimming, and hockey, plus targeted 11+ support, and there really is something for everyone. Each of these activities add a little extra sparkle to life at Edenhurst.
We have also enjoyed so many celebrations together. The 20th Anniversary of our Nursery, now Little Edenhurst, was marked with a very special event, attended by former Headmaster Mr Nick Copestick, our MP Adam Jogee, Councillor Simon Tagg, and Deputy Mayor Joan Whieldon. Prep 5 and 6 headed off on their residential to Condover Hall, returning with tales of adventure, teamwork and laughter, while our Halloween Disco brought out some rather spectacular (and brave!) dance moves. Charitable efforts have been just as impressive, with Jeans for Genes raising £93 and our Macmillan Coffee Morning adding a further £124, thanks to the wonderful baking of Prep 5 and 6.
Our Future School Event was another highlight, welcoming, amongst others, representatives from Denstone College, Stafford Grammar and St Dominic’s to support families in preparing for the next step. Meanwhile, assemblies have been full of inspiration – exploring “Learning to Learn”, the importance of failing well, and celebrating our first character assembly. Pupils have now voted for determination and respect as this term’s virtues of focus. We are also proud to have begun our journey towards becoming a UNICEF Rights Respecting School.
And of course, our community has been nourished in every sense – from Pastoral Parent Consultations and Open Week to the ever-popular Lunch Club (thank you, Jen and Sarah, for keeping us so well fed).
Looking ahead, our Holiday Club, Edventures, promises to keep the energy flowing over the break, with our brilliant staff leading an exciting programme of activities.
None of this would be possible without the warmth, dedication and care of our staff, the encouragement and trust of our families, and the energy and joy our pupils bring to school every single day. Together, you make Edenhurst not just a school, but a very special community.
Just six and a half weeks in, and we are already moving with purpose – side by side, determined and full of excitement for what lies ahead.
I wish every member of our Edenhurst family a safe, happy and well-deserved break. I cannot wait to welcome you all back, refreshed and ready for more adventures, on Monday 3rd November.
Mrs Emma Mousley
Headteacher
Categories: School Blogs
