What a term it has been for our wonderful Prep 6 pupils! After months of dedicated hard work and admirable determination in the run-up to their exams, the children approached the exam period with a maturity and focus which  made us incredibly proud. They were truly exceptional, and they thoroughly deserved the exciting programme that awaited them on the other side.

We are now well into what can only be described as the most rewarding chapter of the Lady Barn journey - a time where our Prep 6 children can grow in Community, Creativity, Resilience, Respect, and Teamwork in the most meaningful and memorable of ways.

Rehearsals are well underway for our school production of Bugsy, and what a start it has been! Auditions were impressive, with children stepping up and showcasing their talents with real confidence. We cannot wait to watch the performance take shape, and look forward to a polished and spectacular show in May.

A highlight of the term has been the annual Prep 6 French Trip to Hardelot, Pas-de-Calais. The children have immersed themselves in French culture, dining in local restaurants, browsing traditional markets, and visiting the wonderful Beussent Chocolate Factory. They also spent time at the Etaples Military Cemetery - a poignant and important experience - and explored Europe's largest aquarium in Boulogne. What an incredible adventure!

Back in the classroom, the children have been engaged in creative English projects based on the much-loved novel Boy Underwater by Adam Baron. Their creativity never ceases to astound; each week they find fresh and imaginative ways to present their work, and the results have been a joy to see. In Maths, we have begun our hybrid curriculum, bridging Prep 6 learning with the Year 7 expectations of senior school. The children have thrown themselves into work on chord patterns and circle patterns, and we have been thrilled with their enthusiasm and progress.

Our Woodland Sessions have also begun, giving the children the precious gift of time to play freely in the woods and stream, whilst also developing special skills such as whittling, den building, using flints, horse-shaving, and willow-weaving. There is something truly special about watching children connect with the outdoors in this way.

We are also very much looking forward to our upcoming Modules Week, where the children will come off timetable for a whole week to immerse themselves in a subject of their choosing. This year's wonderful selection includes scrapbooking, a gardening project, Classics  (exploring Latin phrases and mythical stories) and Mindful Mood Boards, amongst others. Each child selects two modules to complete across the week, and the results are always wonderfully varied and creative. Watch this space for photos!

Perhaps one of the most heartwarming aspects of this term has been the launch of Reading Buddies. Each week, our Prep 6 children pair up with a Reception pupil to share books and help practise Magic Reading Words. Year after year, I am astounded by the kindness, patience, and care that our oldest pupils show to some of our youngest. They step into this role with such pride and responsibility; it is a beautiful reminder of the community we have built here.

Finally, work on the Yearbook is well underway, and the vote for Leavers' Hoodies is complete - two sure signs that the end of an era is approaching. But for now, we are savouring every moment of this special time.

This really is the best part of the Lady Barn journey and these Prep 6 children are making it unforgettable.

Miss Bradford