Thankfully this week has been far less hectic than the last couple. One of the main reasons is that I have been based in the North West for the week rather than ‘hopping’ around the country. I love the fact that I get the opportunity to greet the children, young people, parents and families when they come into school first thing in a morning.

It’s been very much a catch up week. I’ve had a number of governor and trustee meetings to ensure they are kept up to date with the latest developments within our schools. This week we have focused on personnel and finance issues. We have also had to complete a couple of evaluations. One related to our teaching school and the other for our role as a National Support School. It’s important to reflect on our external work. Sometimes it is easy to see the links between our external efforts and how it influences our work in Oldham and East Manchester. At other times it is quite subtle.

One of the very many compliments we get in relation to our work is how we have very high expectations for all our children. This was exemplified on Wednesday when I received an email from a parent of a former pupil. The email was as follows:

“I have just had a phone call from a mum. Her daughter was a student at NBS, Coral.
Coral has finished college and has been accepted into University this year.
Graham asked that if Coral got into university could she please contact him / the school to let him know the news.”

I know I speak on behalf of the whole team when I say that we totally celebrate all the achievements of our young people. Our role is to always expect a little more, whether it be a better piece of work, improved behaviour, extra effort – the list could go on and on. Truly outstanding organisations constantly break through those glass ceilings.

Coral (and Luke, another of our former pupils) going to university this year is putting into practice our vision. There have been so many moments like this throughout the year – Oliver at the Atrium café, GCSE passes at the highest grade, our IB/AB groups participating in a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, over 100 learners involved in work experiences, the highest number of Future Finders working or volunteering – and 2 young people going to university. I’m hoping Coral (and Luke) will write a short article that we can publish telling us all of their experiences.

Let’s keep leading the way, challenging expectations and sharing our ambitions. Can I take this opportunity to thank you all for joining us on this amazing journey?

Have a great weekend,

Graham