CEO end of term message

To our wonderful ATLP learning community,

We are coming to the end of the first half term of the year and what a challenging, yet often rewarding, six weeks it has been.

Our schools are committed to ensuring that our children and young people receive excellent learning opportunities, both remotely and in school. The support we receive from families is truly fantastic and our students show such dedication and hard work in all that they do.

I am extremely grateful for this continued support, trust, and togetherness.

Our priority is the wellbeing, health, and safety of our school communities. Our schools have recently taken part in ‘Children’s Mental Health Week’ and ‘Safer Internet Day’. The pandemic continues to impact us all and it is vital that we keep talking and listening to each other. Our schools are more than just places of education. We care about the whole child and their health and happiness is at the heart of all that we do, and we are here for those who need us. To our staff and volunteers, we appreciate all that you do to support our work.

In an uncertain world, it is reassuring to see that human kindness and love prevail. Staff at Scotch Orchard Primary School were moved when they arrived at school to find that caring parents and pupils had decorated the school gates with messages and pictures of love and support. What amazing families and staff we have!  You can read more here: https://atlp.org.uk/2021/02/04/act-of-kindness-brings-joy-to-school-staff/

I was also struck by the selflessness and generosity of Coleshill student, Libby, who shaved off her long hair to raise funds for the hospital who cared for her father. More on that story here: https://atlp.org.uk/2021/02/01/libby-cuts-her-locks-to-thank-poorly-dads-caring-medics/

I am proud to be part of such a caring and thoughtful partnership. Last week, I was humbled to accept a Chamber of Commerce award for services to education and community on behalf of the entire ATLP learning family. This recognition is for our collective contribution and none of this would be possible without the support and teamwork of so many.

There is much that we cannot do right now, but that does not stop our aspiration to help shape lives and transform communities. Last week, the nation mourned the passing of the inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore. His parting words ring true: “you can do and be anything you want to be.”

Have a restful and healthy half term.

Richard Gill.