Are you able to spare a little time each week to support our wonderful nursery children?

The Curriculum Governors’ Committee met on 16 September 2026 and began the meeting with a tour of the school’s central Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, led by the school SENDco. Governors recognised the importance of these spaces in supporting pupils’ individual needs and discussed opportunities to further enhance the provision. They suggested that the school explore potential partnerships with local businesses that may be willing to contribute funding towards future developments.

Governors then received an update on the school’s ongoing Stronger Foundations agenda. As part of this, leaders shared an end-of-year assessment grid, which demonstrated the progress made against the school’s stronger foundations priorities. Governors also learned about the targeted support provided for Key Stage 2 pupils who had not met the expected standard in the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, and the actions in place to close gaps in learning and improve outcomes.

The committee enjoyed meeting with six KS 2 pupils, who spoke confidently about their transition into a new year group. Pupils discussed the strong emphasis placed on relationship building and the explicit teaching of the school’s behaviour curriculum. Governors were able to clearly identify the positive impact of this work through the pupils’ comments and reflections.
Governors carefully reviewed the Annual Summary Report produced by the Independent School Improvement Partner and considered how its findings aligned with the priorities identified within this year’s School Development Plan.

Finally, governors received a comprehensive presentation from Mrs Shayes, the school’s Child in Care Lead. The committee was reassured by the depth of training, expertise and commitment demonstrated in this role, and by the robust systems in place to support children in care & previously looked after children effectively.

The Health & Safety Governors met this week and began the meeting with an escorted tour of our SEND provision rooms. Mr McFarland explained the purpose of each room and the different resources available within these learning environments.

Following the tour, governors reviewed the new Use of Reasonable Force policy, along with the accompanying reporting documentation. They then considered the Local Authority Safeguarding Audit Report and discussed the next steps arising from its recommendations.

The RoSPA playground report was subsequently analysed, and discussions were held regarding site manager cover while the current postholder is absent on health grounds.

Governors also enjoyed carrying out a ‘spot check’ with a randomly selected member of staff. This time, the focus was on the Pastoral Manager, Mrs Byrne-Corbett. Governors were highly impressed with her knowledge and understanding when responding to some challenging questions posed by the Lead DSL.

Governors went on to approve several key policies before concluding the meeting by analysing the Summary Report prepared by the school’s SIP.

Dear Parents/Carers,

I would like to let you know that our much-loved Site Manager, Mr Thomas, will be spending some time away from Newdale while he undergoes some medical treatment and attends a number of appointments.

Mr Thomas is hoping to return to school as soon as he is able, and we are all looking forward to welcoming him back when the time is right.

In the meantime, arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth running of the site, and members of our current staff team will continue to be on gate duty each morning and afternoon.

I am sure you will join me in sending Mr Thomas our very best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Kind regards,

Miss Cook

Headteacher