As we approach the final days of term and winter settles gently over Edenhurst, I find myself rocking into the school carpark with the radio turned up just a little too loud, singing along (enthusiastically, if not always tunefully) to Christmas classics. This week, one song in particular has taken up residence in my head: Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas. It’s funny how a simple melody can lodge itself in your mind and how you catch yourself humming it without thinking. Then suddenly, it stops you in your tracks, making you reflect not just on the season, but on the moments that shape us, the memories that linger, and the values that truly matter.
And so I’ve found myself pondering, what do I actually want for Christmas this year? The answer, unsurprisingly, can’t be wrapped or placed under a tree. Because what I truly want is already woven into the heart of our school: connection, kindness, laughter and warmth. It is that unmistakable Edenhurst sparkle – the small gestures, the shared smiles, the sense of belonging – that fills our classrooms and corridors every day.
This is always a wonderfully busy time of year in schools, full of glitter, excitement and anticipation. It can be easy to get swept up in the commercial whirlwind, but for me, the real joy lies in presence rather than presents (and before Mr Mousley breathes a sigh of relief, no, he is definitely not off the hook!). The moments of connection we experience daily – the chatter at morning drop-off, the pride in a child’s eyes when they conquer something new, the quiet acts of support between colleagues – these are the memories that stay with us long after the tinsel has settled.
When I look back on this half term, I see a school brimming with opportunity, energy and achievement. Our pupils have shown their Edenhurst Edge in everything they do, stepping forward with enthusiasm, determination and resilience.
Sport has given us many reasons to cheer. From action-packed football and netball fixtures to the incredible accomplishment of one of our Prep 4 pupils reaching the ISA Swimming Finals in London, our children have demonstrated skill, commitment and true team spirit. That moment of pride belonged to the whole school.
Creativity has flourished, too. Prep 3’s trip to Chester Cathedral inspired stunning mosaics and stained-glass–style sun catchers that now capture the winter light in their classrooms. Prep 6 embraced their traditional visit to Keele Christmas Tree Farm, returning with rosy cheeks, warm hot chocolate, and two beautiful Christmas trees that are now twinkling in Nursery and School. Their time spent with Dougie Mac Dementia Services was equally meaningful, giving pupils the chance to connect with others, share activities, and witness how their fundraising directly supports people in our local community.
Our school Inclusion Day was a genuine celebration of individuality and an uplifting reminder that every child’s uniqueness enriches our Edenhurst family. This paved the way to Anti-Bullying Week, where Altru Drama’s performance of Time to Be Different prompted powerful conversations, especially amongst Upper Prep.
Public speaking and performance have been another highlight of the term. From the poise shown at the Bellevue Speech Competition to the charm of the Nursery Rhyme Event, our pupils stepped forward with confidence, joy and unmistakable Edenhurst spirit. One of the most poignant moments was our Remembrance Service at St Giles’ Church. The children spoke with clarity and sincerity before laying a wreath at the cenotaph, an act that resonated deeply within our community.
Assemblies have brought us together time and again: the spectacular Domino Cereal Drive in support of People’s Pantry; our celebration with Dougie Mac as Edenhurst achieved Gold Leaf status on their Giving Tree; and the vibrant ODM Music Assembly that filled the hall with rhythm and laughter. We were also grateful to Reverends Josh and Clair, who helped us explore the meaning of ‘Advent’, a time of anticipation, arrival and hope.
Our Christmas performances were, as ever, pure joy. Kindergarten, Reception, Form 1 and Form 2 delighted family and friends with their wonderfully spirited Wriggly Nativity, while Prep 3 to Prep 6 shone brightly in their festive Winter Concert. Holding these events back at school this year created an enveloping warmth that felt just right.
And then came the day when Christmas arrived in full force at Edenhurst: Monday 15th December! We really went to town with all things festive……Christmas Jumper Day, a delicious Christmas Lunch (thank you, Jen, Michelle and Sarah!), the ever-popular Christmas Fair and the legendary Big Christmas Quiz. It was a glorious whirlwind of celebration.
As All I Want for Christmas continues to play in the back of my mind, I realise more and more that everything I truly wish for is already here: children who feel valued, families who champion and support one another, and staff who pour care, expertise and heart into every day at Edenhurst. However, I am also mindful that, while this season brings joy to many, it can bring sadness to others. For those missing loved ones, whether separated by distance or held forever in memory, please know that we hold you gently in our thoughts.
As we move into the festive season, I hope you are able to find a little rest, some much-needed breathing space, and those simple moments of togetherness that make this time of year feel truly special. May your home be warm and welcoming, filled with laughter, joy, and a lasting sense of connection that lingers well after the decorations are taken down.
Wishing you a very Happy Christmas.
Mrs Emma Mousley
Headteacher
Categories: School Blogs
