Dear families,
As we reach the end of another wonderful school year, I have found myself reflecting on just how much there is to celebrate. It has been a year filled with achievement, growth and countless moments that have reminded me what a privilege it is to lead such an incredible school community.
One of the highlights of this final week was undoubtedly our Year 6 production of The Lion King. The confidence, talent and joy our children brought to the stage was simply outstanding. My heartfelt thanks go to the staff who worked so tirelessly behind the scenes to make the production such a memorable success. Most of all, I feel immensely proud of our Year 6 children. As they prepare to leave The Vineyard for secondary school, they are truly showing that they are ready to fly the Vineyard nest. They leave us as happy, confident young people who embody our values of being caring, courageous and curious. They have embraced opportunities, shown resilience when faced with challenges and are well prepared for the exciting journey ahead. We wish them every success as they begin this next chapter.
Another very special moment this week was joining our Reception children for their Graduation celebration on the school field. Watching them proudly mark the end of their very first year at school was a wonderful reminder of just how much our children grow during their time with us. Seeing our youngest children celebrating alongside thoughts of our oldest pupils preparing to leave perfectly captured the journey that children make at The Vineyard.
From Reception through to Year 6, every child has made their own unique journey this year, striving to achieve their personal best and demonstrating what it truly means to thrive. Whether through academic achievement, sporting success, musical performances, creative arts, acts of kindness or simply growing in confidence, every child has contributed to making this another fantastic year. I want to say a huge well done to all of our children. You continue to amaze us with your enthusiasm, determination, curiosity and kindness, and we are incredibly proud of every one of you.
Many of you will also have seen the announcement from our Chair of Governors last week that I will be stepping down as Headteacher at the end of the Spring Term in Easter 2027. This has been an incredibly difficult decision and one that has come with very mixed emotions. While I am excited about taking some time to recharge, visit my daughter in Sydney and reflect on what I would like to do next, deciding to leave The Vineyard has not been easy.
Although there is still plenty of time before I say goodbye, I already know I will leave feeling enormously proud of everything we have achieved together. Over the years, we have strengthened teaching and learning, developed a truly bespoke curriculum that reflects the needs of our children, and embedded our vision and values so that they are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we have created a school where children are encouraged to thrive, aim for their personal best and develop into caring, courageous and curious young people who are well prepared for the future.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication and commitment of the exceptional staff team, the support and challenge of our governors, the wonderful children and the overwhelming support I have received from the vast majority of our parent community throughout my time as Headteacher. Thank you for your kindness, encouragement and partnership. It has been a privilege to work alongside you in helping our children flourish.
I want to assure you that my focus remains very much on leading The Vineyard through another successful year before I leave at Easter 2027. I look forward to continuing to work with our staff, governors, families and, most importantly, our incredible children as we build on all that makes The Vineyard such a special place.
Finally, I would like to wish all of our children, families and staff a wonderful, restful summer holiday. Thank you for another memorable year. I hope you enjoy spending time together, making special memories and returning in September refreshed, ready for another exciting year of learning and thriving together.
Frances Bracegirdle
Headteacher - headteacher@vineyard.richmond.sch.uk
