Dear Families,

As we reach the end of another wonderful academic year, I simply want to say 'thank you'.

Thank you for all of your support—not just this week or this term, but throughout the entire year. Schools are at their very best when children, families and staff work together, and that partnership has been so evident throughout this year.

Together we have celebrated so many special moments. We have enjoyed assemblies that made us smile, energetic Wake and Shake mornings, exciting Sports Days, family picnics, wonderful nativities, performances and productions. Alongside these memorable events have been the countless everyday moments that perhaps matter even more: the smiles on the school gates, the greetings each morning, the conversations at the end of the day and the trust that we continue to build together.

That is what makes Chilton such a special place.

I genuinely feel that we are on this journey together. We all share in our children's joy, their experiences, their achievements and their growth. Every milestone is celebrated as a community, and it is a privilege to be part of that journey with you.

This week, our transition days have been a resounding success. It has been wonderful to see children embracing new classrooms, meeting new teachers and beginning to build the relationships that will help them thrive in September. We hope they leave for the summer feeling excited and confident about the next stage of their learning.

Of course, this time of year also brings some emotional goodbyes.

To our Year 6 families, your Chilton journey with us has now come to an end as your children prepare for the exciting adventure of secondary school. The relationships we build with our children and families are incredibly special, and saying goodbye is never easy. We are immensely proud of everything our Year 6 children have achieved and know they leave us as kind, confident and capable young people.

We wish every one of them the very best of luck for the future. Remember, once you're part of the Chilton family, you're always part of the Chilton family—so please don't be strangers. Come back and visit us whenever you can. We would love to hear how your journeys continue.

Speaking of new beginnings, we also say farewell to Chloe, who begins a very well-deserved retirement. Chloe has been part of the Chilton community for many years and has made an enormous contribution to our school. She will be greatly missed, but we wish her every happiness in this next chapter. We are equally delighted that Tara will be stepping into Chloe's role, and we know this will be a seamless transition.

As part of Chloe's leaving gift, we held a collection which, in a wonderfully selfless gesture, Chloe chose to donate to a charity that is very close to her heart, supporting people affected by leukaemia. If you would like to support the charity in Chloe's honour, you can do so using the donation link that has been shared with families. Click here.

We also say goodbye to Mr Keam, who is moving on to new adventures. We thank him for everything he has contributed to Chilton and wish him every success and happiness in the future.

As one chapter closes, another waits just around the corner. Before we know it, September will be here, bringing fresh opportunities, new friendships and exciting challenges.

Until then, I hope you all enjoy a wonderful summer break. Whether your summer is full of adventures, holidays, time with family, or simply a chance to slow down and recharge, I hope it turns out to be exactly what you want it to be.

Thank you once again for making this such a fantastic year. It has been an absolute pleasure to share it with you all.

Have a wonderful summer, stay safe, and we look forward to welcoming you back in September.

With very best wishes,

Mr McAuley