Dear Families,

As we reach the end of another exceptionally busy week at Chilton, I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank you all for your continued support. This time of year always feels a little like embodying the swan — gliding calmly across the surface whilst paddling furiously beneath the water to ensure that no plate is left unspun. Schools are incredibly busy places, and there is so much that happens behind the scenes each and every day to ensure that our children receive the very best experience possible.

During my visits to other schools for various reasons, I regularly see teachers and staff working extremely hard. However, what I rarely see elsewhere is the extraordinary strength of connection that we have here at Chilton. I genuinely believe that the feeling of love and joy within our school community is tangible. There is something truly special about the culture we have built together.

My role as Head of School means that I hold the responsibility of in loco parentis — a Latin phrase meaning “in place of a parent.” Obviously, nobody can ever replace a child’s family, but I take this responsibility incredibly seriously. At Chilton, every child is treated as if they were our own: showered with care and affection, challenged and nurtured, celebrated and kept safe. We absolutely adore our children and stop at nothing to provide the very best for them every single day.

We never take your support for granted. It means so much to us when families recognise how hard our staff work, and when, occasionally, a plate does stop spinning, we truly appreciate your kindness and patience as we work together to get it spinning again.

Today has been a wonderful testament to the Chilton spirit and the values we strive to instil in our children. A small group of Year 4 and 5 children came to me passionately wanting to improve the wildlife opportunities around our school grounds. It was entirely their idea — including the idea to raise money themselves. Their independently created and confidently delivered video helped make everyone aware of today’s fundraising event, and it will be their enthusiasm, dedication and confidence that helps to sell your incredibly generous donations by the end of today.

I am certain this will not be the last you hear from these inspirational young ladies. They will, of course, update you all on the amount raised and share their plans for how the money will be used to attract more wildlife to Chilton for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you once again for being such an important part of our community.

I wish you all a wonderful Bank Holiday weekend!

Warm regards,

Mr McAuley