From the Leadership Team

Community matters 

Lucas Collins, Head of Junior School

OUR CLASS SOCIAL REPRESENTATIVES 

Recently, I was fortunate to join our Class Social Representatives (CSRs) from across the School at their termly meeting. 

These dedicated individuals, who are part of our Parents and Friends Association (PFA), volunteer their time and efforts to organise social events, keep families informed about upcoming PFA initiatives, moderate group communications, and provide support to their cohort and the School as a whole.

HIGHLIGHTING THE CSRS' IMPACT  

During the meeting, I was inspired by the array of ideas, plans, and reflections shared by our CSRs. Their unwavering generosity, commitment, and eagerness to foster opportunities for families to connect left me feeling immensely grateful. 

It also reminded me that the strength and unity within the Kilvington community were pivotal factors that attracted me to our School in the first place.

IMPORTANCE OF A CONNECTED AND ENGAGED COMMUNITY  

The advantages of a connected and engaged community extend far beyond the realm of a school. Research shows that students whose families feel a strong sense of connection to their child's school community tend to experience enhanced academic gains, increased engagement and attendance, as well as improved overall wellbeing and self-esteem (Mapp et al., 2022). 

Furthermore, families benefit from stronger relationships with their children, improved rapport with educators, effective advocacy for their children, and a reduced sense of isolation.

A common message that was prevalent immediately post our COVID-induced periods of isolation was ‘we’re better together’. At Kilvington, this mantra remains an important tenet underpinning the fabric of who we are as a school. 

THANK YOU TO OUR CSRS AND PFA

The Class Social Representatives play an essential role in fostering a connected and engaged school community. Their dedication, combined with the participation of families, creates an environment that benefits students, families, and educators alike. 

To our CSRs and the wider PFA community, I extend a sincere thank you for the invaluable contributions you make. 

I encourage each of our families to continue to seek and embrace opportunities to connect and actively participate in our broader community. Your involvement will undoubtedly fortify our School, allowing it to flourish even further. 

As we continue to prioritize unity and connectivity, we can nurture a stronger Kilvington community for generations to come.

REFERENCE

Mapp K, Henderson A, Cuevas S, Franco M, Ewert S, Everyone Wins! The Evidence for Family-School Partnerships & Implications for Practice, Scholastic, 2022