Letter from Mrs Taylor

Dear Parents,

I would like to introduce myself as the new permanent headteacher of Stanmore Primary School. I have already enjoyed meeting some of you during Parents’ Evening and the Christmas Fair and I look forward to meeting more of you in the next few weeks.

I am really pleased to be starting before Christmas as it gives me the opportunity to start to get to know your children and to be involved in the school events in the run up to Christmas. The behaviour in assembly today was excellent.

It also gives me the opportunity for a smooth handover with Mr. Johnson and Mr. Davies who have led the school so well in the interim period since Ms. Wood left. I am sure that you would like me to thank them on your behalf.

You will be concerned about the number of changes that have already affected the school and your children. My role is to bring some stability to the school, building on the improvements already underway. One of the differences that a permanent appointment brings, is that longer term decisions can be made. So, while I can’t promise you that there won’t be further changes, including to staffing, I can promise you that decisions are being made to secure better provision for your children in the longer term.

What does this mean? By Easter we expect to be able to recruit permanent new members of staff to the teaching team where needed. We already now know what your children can do in reading, writing and maths and more importantly, what they can’t do. By Easter, you will see progress in their books and we expect stronger outcomes this summer that we can continue to build on for the future.

I chose to apply for the position because I recognise the potential in the school and feel genuinely excited by the opportunity. The children are delightful and parents and staff very welcoming. I have worked in Hampshire Schools for 25 years in 6 different Primary Schools. I was headteacher at both East Meon and Colden Common Primary Schools. Most recently I have been a Primary Phase Inspector, working in schools across the local authority to improve outcomes for children.

As a parent of two older teenagers, I know something of the joy and frustrations of parenting. I expect to work in partnership with you, sharing your aspirations for your children. My office is in the main entrance area of the school. I will be on the gate in the mornings. If you want to come and say hello or share good news or a concern, please do.

With very best wishes,

Sharon Taylor