Wellbeing, Parents and a Scramble!
It has been such a busy week here at Saint Felix with World Mental Health Day having been marked in the assembly on Monday where Mrs Lambert talked about the importance of developing resilience. This is a key word for all our students as it is incorporated into the Saint Felix Learner Profile; education and adolescence are not always straightforward, and it is so important for all young learners to develop the coping strategies that will enable them to meet the inevitable challenges that they will face. It is our role as educators to guide and support them providing the tools that they need to look after their own wellbeing. That is why developing hobbies, passions and interests can enhance a positive sense of self and provide the lifelong pursuits that enrich and fulfil us all.
When times do get difficult, counselling can play such an important role for both children and adults. I am delighted that we have now appointed a new part-time counsellor who will already be known to many of you as she teaches Modern Foreign Languages one day per week in the Prep Department; Saffron Manning is also a fully qualified counsellor and will now provide a vital element of the broader pastoral support that is so essential for student development and growth.
In an age that is dominated by social media and time spent online, it is vital that our students stay safe in the virtual world. Please find attached an Online Safety Fact Sheet produced by Suffolk County Council, which we hope you will find useful to support your child keeping safe online. Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Alicia Mann (Assistant Head and Designated Safeguard Lead), amann@stfelix.co.uk, if you have any questions or concerns regarding online safety.
The role of the PTA is crucial for the success of any school, and I am delighted to have met such a wonderful group here last week who are so supportive of the vision that I have laid out for the future of Saint Felix. As we collectively explore areas to fund and how to ensure the meetings can be highly beneficial for all parties, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Cathy Pitt and all the committee for their tireless work. There is an excellent opportunity to join this team as they are looking for a new Treasurer; if you are interested in this role, please contact Cathy on cathyPTA@pitt.me.uk for any further information.
I have heard so many great stories about the House Scramble and look forward to seeing it in action on the Friday before we break up for half term. It sounds like a breathtaking event that brings the whole community together; a lovely way to bring a fantastic seven weeks to an end before everyone can enjoy a much-deserved break. As always, the wonderful PTA will also be serving tea & coffee in exchange for a donation. Please do bring some cash if you would like a hot drink whilst you watch the fun. The Scramble starts at 3 p.m.!
I hope that you will also be able to join us all for the Bonfire and Fireworks Evening on Friday 10th November where the PTA will be cooking up a feast.
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head
