By Richard Gill, ATLP CEO.

In schools and in Trusts, we are all navigating unchartered waters proving that learning is, indeed, lifelong. We have all been developing new skills – finally using the latest technology that we have managed to avoid for so long or, for some, multitasking: mixing work commitments with home tutoring. For me, faced with a-level questions around English literature, psychology and music has, perhaps, shown that I’ve not spent as much time in the classroom as I would have liked over recent years.

The response ,over this last week, that I have felt, seen and experienced across the ATLP family of schools has been, quite simply, outstanding. Our co-ordinated effort, involving each and every colleague within our schools, has ensured that our children remain at the heart of everything we do.

This, of course, has been mirrored across all schools, trusts and local authorities. The combined efforts of many and the steadfast leadership within our brilliant profession has come to the fore.

I continue to be filled with great pride, appreciation and respect for everything my team do and for everything they give that ensures our children, in our schools, are provided for, cared for and loved. I have spoken to many school and Trust leaders over this last week who rightly feel exactly the same. To my ATLP community, I would like to thank you all, sincerely, for going above and beyond – not just in this unprecedented week, but all the time. I am humbled to have the privilege to lead such a caring and inspirational learning community. We will continually adapt our models to suit the needs of our communities.

I am not the only leader to recognise the exceptional contribution that schools are all making. This week, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson thanked all schools for ‘stepping up to this challenge with such dedication and determination’ and for ‘demonstrating true civic spirit in unparalleled circumstances.’

There is much more thinking and planning to be done; this is a marathon and we have yet to pass the first marker. There are many who are already thinking about what the ‘new normal’ might be and what the transition might look like? But what we do now will help keep us on track for the weeks ahead.

During these testing days our mental health and wellbeing are paramount. For many children and adults these times of change will bring additional stress and challenge. We can all help each other. We must keep talking, keep looking after self and each other because caring is the greatest life skill of all.

I’d like to leave you with some words of inspiration from John Willmott School assistant headteacher Lisa Lockley, whose motto is, ‘be bold, be brave’.  Lisa and her family have experienced their own remarkable journey and she has very kindly shared their personal story to provide comfort and hope to others https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/latest-news/news/2020/3/27/teachers-message-as-son-is-shielded-from-covid-19-during-transplant-recovery/. Thank you, Lisa, – wishing Elijah and your amazing family all the best.

Sincerely,

Richard