This week I have had the privilege of accompanying our New Bridge Year 8s to Disneyland Paris – I’m writing this on the first leg of a 14 hour coach journey back to Oldham.

Our Group has been taking children to Paris for many, many years. We have always seen the value of giving children varied and exciting opportunities. All our young people can participate in and contribute to shows, performances, scouts, karate, sports events and Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in addition to many other exciting curricular opportunities. The skills that our young people gain from these varied activities help prepare them for their future life.

From a personal perspective, this week I have had the privilege of observing the most amazing group of staff supporting our children. The staff work tirelessly to ensure the children have amazing experiences – this week that has included being frightened on the Tower of Terror, greeting Micky Mouse and singing along to ‘Let it Go’!!!! One of the reasons we are an outstanding organisation is due to the commitment of our staff team and their constant passion for giving our children such fantastic opportunities.

It has been brilliant to see the pictures on our Facebook page of these amazing experiences. It has also been lovely to read many positive comments from our former students with memories of their own school trips to Disney.

Our Group believes that these opportunities help develop well adjusted young people. They take these memories with them throughout their lives and the friendships, relationships, sense of belonging and trust help prepare them for more formalised learning.

Most of all, the young people have fun! At times we are in danger of losing the fun and enjoyment in schools. It’s all too easy to get bogged down with league tables, curriculum reforms and assessment systems. The best staff understand that teaching is about relationships which are the scaffold for future successes.

Let’s hope that in the future schools will still have the finances to subsidise these amazing opportunities. I am absolutely convinced that they are an essential element in the progress and achievement of all children.

Have a great weekend – I may need a lazy one!

Graham