Dear Families,

How lovely it is each day to see so much wonderful learning across the school. We really do have such amazing children and staff.

As you will see, the building project is moving along; the current work is focusing on preparing the space to pour the slab for the STEAM centre. The construction of this will enable us to remove the demountables that we currently use for Art and Performing Arts.

Thank you to our families for their understanding around closure days. Last Friday, we spent the day with Trish, our facilitator from Real Schools, continuing our focus on building a restorative culture within our school. You may have noticed the first video we launched on our school Facebook account around our School Engagement Plan. Keep watching each week as we share more about what we are working on. Click on the link below to hear from Trish about the work we did together.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKQ3wjyTInc

Sadly, the situation in the Middle East means our children may hear a lot of information that can be distressing or confusing. A reminder that the School TV resource is available via the school website, and this links you to a lot of supportive information for families around a wide range of topics. I encourage you to take a look. Below is some key information and a link on how to both protect and support your children.

SPECIAL REPORT: Discussing War & Conflict

With the recent escalation of conflict involving Iran, children may be hearing or seeing distressing updates through the 24-hour news cycle, social media and conversations at school. Even when events are geographically distant, repeated exposure to images, headlines and commentary can heighten anxiety, particularly for young people whose understanding of the world is still developing.

It is important for parents and caregivers to be mindful of overexposure, as constant coverage can amplify fear and uncertainty. Reassurance is key. Children need to feel safe and supported as they process complex global events.

Before beginning these conversations, take a moment to check in with your own emotions. Children often take their cues from the adults around them. Remaining calm, listening openly and offering reassurance can help your child regulate their feelings and maintain a sense of security.

This Special Report provides practical guidance to help families navigate conversations about war and conflict in a measured, age-appropriate way, while reinforcing hope, empathy and resilience. We encourage you to take a moment to review the information provided. If this topic raises concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please consider seeking appropriate medical or professional support.

Here is the link to this Special Report http://smjhorsham.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-discussing-war-conflict

Enjoy this long weekend with whatever you have planned.

Stay safe, and we look forward to seeing the children on Tuesday.

Louise

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