Verdant 002 004

I am writing to you directly, as I understand rumours have been circulating and I want to let you know that we are acting as transparently as we possibly can.

As many of you will already be aware, one of our Year 4 pupils has not been in school for two weeks, and her family has taken the difficult decision to withdraw her from our roll. I want to be clear that this is a private family matter, and out of respect for the family's wishes, I will not be sharing further details.

I understand the school community talks, and of course this is human nature. I would ask, gently, that you be mindful of what is said in front of children, and mindful of what is said to each other. Speculation helps no one, least of all a nine-year-old girl and her family who are going through something none of us fully understand.

What I can tell you is that the school takes the wellbeing of every child extremely seriously. Following this, and in the interests of being fully transparent with you, we have begun an internal review of our classroom management practices - including the digital tools we use to support teaching staff. This review is precautionary. I want to stress that.

If your own child has expressed any concerns about changes in friendship groups, seating arrangements, or how they feel in class this year, please do get in touch with your child's teacher directly. We are listening.

I know this letter raises more questions than it answers. I'm afraid that, for now, that's the most honest thing I can offer you.

With thanks for your patience and discretion,