A little more conversation – CEO blog

I’ve been finding much joy and emotion in the heart-warming videos that our schools have created for our learning communities.  Our staff, children and families are the stars of the show – along with a few four-legged friends!

It’s so lovely to see the faces, or to hear the voices, of those we care about. These communications act as touchstones, connecting us to the people we are missing.  The opening credits of Curdworth’s short film say it all: ‘Although we are not together at the moment, we are still one big family.’

I’m so impressed with how our schools are adapting and rising to the challenge of remote teaching and learning, along with other communications. Our growing bank of resources will be of enormous benefit to our families and staff, so thank you for all you are doing.

Technology is revolutionary, but it is so much more than an information highway. It unlocks feelings and emotions, transports loved ones to us, lifts our spirits, and restores that sense of familiarity.

The tech may be ever-evolving, but communication is timeless. What truly connects us is love, soul, humanity and togetherness. It’s not about how you deliver the message, but what you say.

Communication is a two-way street and just as we communicate with our learning communities, I hope that they will talk to us and that we will continue to listen to them. I’m touched by the messages of support and appreciation that I’ve received following my letters to staff and parents.

Communication may not come easy for some. There may be barriers, and our excellent pastoral and safeguarding teams are here to support and keep in contact with our most vulnerable families.

Many of our children may not articulate their thoughts and feelings in conventional ways. They may communicate through art, sport, pets (and it’s great to see Poppy the Pet Therapy Dog on the ‘Slade Story Time’ YouTube channel).

Music is another outlet. It’s wonderful to see so many talented staff and student performances online. International recording artist Rosie O’Sullivan is a former Arthur Terry student and current staff member – listen out for her current charity NHS single.

There are so many ways in which we can communicate. Sometimes, simplicity is enough, like the ATLP primary school pupil who cycled past his school to wave at his teacher.

However you communicate, please make sure that you continue to talk to and listen to others and that you look after yourselves.

Above all, continue to be kind. As Mother Theresa said: ‘Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”

Stay safe,

Richard Gill