Head of Primary fortnightly blog

Our teachers have been working incredibly hard this half term, settling children into routines, adapting their teaching to ensure all pupils are included and thriving, and embracing professional development alongside CCAs and wider school life. Just as we reminded the children today, showing gratitude has a huge impact on mental health and wellbeing, and this applies to adults too. A simple “thank you” from a parent can mean a lot to a teacher, it lifts spirits, reaffirms their efforts, and helps sustain the energy they give each day. If you feel like dropping them a quick thank-you message, it will go a long way. As a small token of appreciation from me, I treated them to donuts today!

Now back to competitions!  At BSKL, we are always looking for ways to ensure that every child has the opportunity to shine. In recent parent feedback, many of you shared how much you value the wide range of sporting and musical competitions we provide, while also expressing a wish to see children representing the school in academic competitions.

We listened, and last year we trailed several academic events, including the World Scholar's Cup, Kangaroo Maths, Kancil Science, and several AIMS competitions. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Children embraced the challenge, and for those who achieved recognition, the experience not only boosted their self-esteem but also gave them a sense of pride that will last long beyond the competition itself.

Taking part in academic competitions offers many benefits:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving - students are challenged to apply their knowledge in new and exciting ways.
•  Confidence and resilience - both success and setbacks help children learn to persevere and grow.
• Collaboration and teamwork - many competitions require children to work together, sharing strengths and supporting one another.
• Exposure to global opportunities - students connect with ideas, themes, and peers beyond the classroom, broadening their horizons.
• A sense of pride and identity - representing BSKL gives children the chance to be ambassadors for our school community.

Building on this momentum, I asked Mr Antcliffe to take the lead in expanding our academic competition provision. He has done a remarkable job (Thank you Mr Antcliffe!), already organising a wide range of opportunities for our students this year - from chess tournaments and spelling bees to Maths Olympiads and creative design projects. The impact is clear: not only are more competitions now available, but more children are eager to take part. For example, our most recent Exoplanet House Competition, run in partnership with MIT, attracted over 80 entries - a fantastic sign of growing enthusiasm and engagement.

We are committed to continuing this growth, making academic competitions as much a part of the BSKL experience as music, drama, and sport. We are excited to see even more children discover their talents, grow in confidence, and represent BSKL with pride.

Finally, I'd like to wish all our families a wonderful half-term holiday. Please allow your children time to switch off, relax, and enjoy themselves so they return refreshed and ready for another busy, fun-filled half term beginning on Monday 13th October.
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Warm regards,