Welcome to my weekly update.

This week has been a big milestone for our pupils, and now at the end of SATs week, I want to take a moment to reflect on just how proud I am of our wonderful Year 6 children here at Southill Primary.

I have watched with admiration as they have approached every challenge with determination, maturity and positivity. SATs are often seen as a test of knowledge and skills, but for me, they have also shone a light on the qualities that truly matter in life—qualities that, sadly, aren’t measured on any official score sheet.

If resilience, kindness, mutual support and a sense of humour were included in the results, I have no doubt that our Year 6 would be top of the league tables, not just here in Weymouth, but across the country! I have seen children cheering each other on, offering a helping hand, and sharing a smile to lift spirits when things felt tough. These moments have filled me with pride and reminded me of what makes Southill Primary such a special place.

To all our Year 6 pupils: you are so much more than a test result. You have shown what it means to be supportive friends and caring members of our school community. Thank you for showing up each day with courage, kindness and your own unique personality. Well done Year 6—you are a credit to yourselves, your families and our school. I hope you enjoyed the ice cream treat and picnic this afternoon.

I’m also proud of the fantastic commitment shown by our whole school community as we made time to pause for mental health each day. By setting aside a dedicated moment for reflection, mindfulness or simply a chance to check in with one another, we have fostered a supportive and caring environment for both pupils and staff. This daily pause not only helped us to prioritise wellbeing, but also encouraged everyone to recognise the importance of taking care of their mental health. It was wonderful to welcome Darryl from Stormbreak into school on Thursday afternoon and the children really enjoyed stormbreaking with him. Darryl told me he was incredibly impressed with our children and their ability to articulate their feelings and emotions. The positive impact of MH Week has been clear in the increased sense of calm, connection and community across our school. Thank you to everyone for embracing this initiative so wholeheartedly.

Looking ahead to next week: 

• Walk to School Week. Tom has organised a team of staff and volunteers to meet at the shops at 8:35am each morning. They’ll be ready to walk up to Southill Primary School with children and families, helping everyone start the day in a positive and active way. Walking to school offers huge benefits: it supports children’s physical and mental health, reduces traffic and pollution around our school, and provides a great opportunity for families to connect with each other and the community. We encourage as many pupils and families as possible to join us for a healthier, greener start to the day!
• We’re excited to welcome local author Justyn Edwards to Southill Primary School on Tuesday! Justyn will be leading a whole-school assembly in the morning, inspiring our pupils with his stories and experiences. Year 4 will also have the fantastic opportunity to take part in a creative workshop with him later that day. If you’d like to purchase one of Justyn’s books, please see the details shared by Melanie in her recent message.

A quick reminder:

• Next Friday is the last day of this half term.
• Monday 2 June is an INSET day (school closed to pupils).
• Children return to school on Tuesday 3 June.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend!

Caroline

headteacher@southill.dorset.sch.uk