Dear parents and carers
Further updates:
As promised in my last letter to you all, I provide the most relevant school updates.
Mrs Forte planned absence
Mrs Forte will next week undergo a significant spinal operation. This will mean that she will be absent for the last 4 and a half weeks of term. It is anticipated that she will be sufficiently recovered to return in September in her full time roll as headteacher. We of course wish her well in her operation and recovery. To ensure consistency in management and leadership, Mr Seargent be providing additional cover alongside the wider school leadership staff.
INSET dates and Holiday dates (FRIDGE MAGNETS READY!)
Friday 4th September 2026 (Safeguarding)
CHILDREN RETURN TO SCHOOL ON MONDAY 7th September 2006
Friday 23rd October 2026 (Outdoor provision)
Friday 27th November 2026 (Whole Derby City INSET training - inclusion)
Monday 7th June 2027 (Assessment analysis and moderation)
Monday 26th July 2027 (End of academic year consolidation/preparation and transition)
INSET (IN-SErvice Training) days are dedicated periods within the academic year when schools are closed to pupils, to enable staff to engage in professional development activities. These days are a statutory requirement, with a minimum of five allocated annually, and are crucial for supporting school improvement initiatives. They are an addition to, and do not reduce, statutory education days for pupils.
During INSET days, staff participate in various training and development opportunities tailored to the school's specific needs and priorities. These sessions aim to enhance teaching practices, update knowledge on educational policies, and foster a collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement. While historically these days may have been less formally communicated, schools now routinely provide advance notice to parents.
We understand the importance of these days for the ongoing development of our school and the positive impact they have on your children's education. To help you plan, we are providing the confirmed INSET days for the entire 202026/27 academic year well in advance. Additionally, we are sharing an outline of the anticipated development areas for these days, offering insight into how this time will be used to further support your children's learning journey.
I