Dear Parents and Carers,
As we approach the end of another busy term, the Local Cast Board would like to take a moment to celebrate the achievements and share updates from our school community.
Firstly, we are thrilled to highlight the continued success of our students, both academically and in extracurricular activities. Notable achievements this term include the fantastic performance of the Year 6 team at the Wellington Maths Challenge and the musical talent displayed during the Rock Steady Concert. We also enjoyed the wonderful Nativity performances, which are always a special highlight of the season.
We are immensely grateful for the hard work of everyone involved in our charity initiatives, which reflect the vibrant and inclusive community we foster at St. Nicholas. This term, we proudly supported Children in Need with our spotty dress-up day and are looking forward to the upcoming Reindeer Run to support Hospiscare. These events, made possible by your generosity, ensure that all funds raised go to deserving causes.
The school continues its journey of improvement, informed by lessons from the recent OFSTED inspection and supported by Plymouth CAST, the multi-academy trust encompassing Catholic schools in the Diocese of Plymouth. Together, the school and CAST have developed and are implementing a focused plan to direct resources where they are most needed. Exciting developments include the recruitment of a new deputy headteacher, additional teaching assistants, and enhanced support for our SEND pupils, all of which will strengthen the school’s capacity to excel.
If you would like to play a more active role in supporting the school’s growth, we encourage you to consider joining the Board of Governors. It’s a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the school’s future. If you’re interested, please reach out to me (chair@stncs.uk) or Ali Brocksom, Clerk to Governors (abrocksom@stncs.uk), in the school office, we’d be delighted to discuss the role further.
We are deeply proud of the dedication and resilience of our teaching staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure our students thrive. This term alone, they’ve navigated the challenges of a new headteacher, inspections, and even a snow day! One of the privileges of being a governor is meeting teachers and hearing about their incredible work. I’ve been particularly impressed by the range of extracurricular opportunities they offer, including my own childhood favourite, chess.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the PTA, whose efforts continue to enrich our school. From organizing the NEON disco to the Christmas Fair, their fundraising initiatives provide our children with a broader and more vibrant school experience. As you consider your New Year’s resolutions for 2025, why not connect with the PTA? It’s a fantastic way to support the school and build community. You can reach them at pta@stncs.uk.
Finally, I would like to thank you, as parents and carers, for your support and patience as we go from strength to strength. As it says in scripture, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Together, we are creating a brighter future for our children.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Warm regards,
James Cookson, Chair of Governors
On behalf of the Local Cast Board