Having received permission for the proposed expansion in the age range of the school we are working hard to be ready for the return of our first Year 3 class at the beginning of term. Those who live near the school or take a look from a distance (for example through the back of the Village Hall car park) will be aware of the speed with which our new buildings went up. They are now being fitted out internally and will be ready for the first day of term. Quite independently of this we have also got builders in to upgrade the kitchen and this has led to the need to install a new electric main supply system. With all these craftsmen at work and with the teachers and other staff popping in and out to get ready for the new term the school often seems almost as busy as it would be during term time!

One of the tasks we completed following the granting of our permission to expand was to make decisions about the uniform to be worn by our Junior pupils. No photographs are yet available but look out for brand new blue blazers around Ripley in September; these will carry a new school badge featuring a view of the Church and the motto "Non scholae, sed vitae discimus".

On behalf of the Development Committee of the Governors I would like to thank the many individuals and community organisations who helped us to raise the money and campaign for this change. We were very sorry that during the process of proposing the change there were some tensions raised between our communities. I am, however, very glad that those concerned have now explicitly consigned these to history and committed themselves to working together for the good of the communities, and especially the children, whom we serve.

The Governors are developing plans for future development of the school so that we can continue to enhance the facilities for our growing numbers of pupils. We will consult with parents and the community over the coming months and are looking forward to ensuring that our children have the best possible experience of education in their Primary years.

Christopher Elson
Chairman of the Development Committee

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