Dear Parents,

I wanted to start this, my final newsletter as Interim Head, by saying thank you. Thank you for all your support and kindness over the last few months. It has been my pleasure and privilege to return to the Senior School and oversee pupils on every stage of their journey, from our very youngest in Pre-School who have just turned 3 years, to our oldest in Sixth Form who are maturing into exceptional young adults.

This time has re-affirmed my belief that Windermere School is a truly unique place for children to learn and grow. In this short time, I have seen Sixth Form students conquer their IB examinations, Year 7 pupils throw themselves into Senior School life, pupils challenge themselves on the lake, up mountains and in the outdoor classroom, while others have pushed boundaries in their academic learning and extracurricular activities.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is not only a phenomenal qualification, within which we gain exceptional results, but the holistic skill base and personal qualities it promotes in our Sixth Form separate it from other similar qualifications. The IB grows the whole person, ensures that our students don’t close doors too early and opens pathways to higher education and life beyond school, not only in the UK, but around the world.

This is coupled with our Round Square IDEALS which underpin the character development of every pupil. Our Adventure programme which supports the evolution of a growth mindset, helping our pupils to understand that failure is a crucial part of the learning process. Our emphasis on outdoor learning which allows pupils to actively participate within their education and contributes to our strong academic record at GCSE. And our pastoral system, that focuses on each child as an individual and is at the core of everything that we do as a school.

I am excited to be returning to my role as Head of the Infant & Junior School after the half term break and I very much look forward to working alongside Mr Thompson as he takes the reins.

Wishing you all a restful half term.

Jenny Davies

Interim Head