Growing up my house was always full of people, be it neighbours, extended family members or school friends, all brought together by the endless kindness of my mother. As my mother is someone who often shows love through food, there was never the option of stepping foot into the house, without being gently forced to eat something – resistance was futile. Surrounded by so many different people, at an early age, I realised that family was not merely a group of individuals living under one roof; it is better defined as a sanctuary, the place where we find solace, understanding, and a sense of belonging. Family is hugely important to me, and with my own two children (one being a poorly trained forever hungry chocolate Labrador), I am endlessly reminded that the time we have together needs to be cherished.
Family is indeed the cornerstone of our lives, a fundamental unit that shapes our identity, provides support, and nurtures our growth. It is a bond that often transcends bloodlines, encompassing love, trust, and unwavering commitment. There is safety as part of a family, in that at the heart of it lies unconditional love that withstands the test of time, remaining steadfast in the face of challenges and adversity.
At school, we are in essence one large extend family and it is our family values, that make Broomfield the special place that it is. Children are encouraged to respect one another, to celebrate each other’s joys and to support during difficult moments. This creates a safety net, both inside the classroom and in the playground, that provides comfort and reassurance, reminding our children that they are never alone. Our holistic approach and strong pastoral care wraps around the support the children are already openly giving each other, which in turn bolsters the love and care received at home.
The concept of family is the foundation upon which we build our approach to school life. We are very aware that from a child’s earliest days at Broomfield, that we are a home away from home, shaping the values, beliefs, and moral compasses of all. We aim to instil the importance of honesty, compassion, and resilience and throughout their time with us support them as they learn important life lessons while navigating the childhood complexities of the world around them. I want the school to serve as a guiding light for all our children, illuminating their path and endlessly giving them the confidence to be authentically happy in their own skin.
In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often dominates our interactions, time with family can offer a much-needed respite after a busy day. Gathering around the dinner table, sharing stories of the school day, and engaging in heartfelt conversations allows us to hopefully reconnect on a deeper level. It is in these moments that I feel it most crucial to be fully present, to enjoy the time together and in doing so, further build the sense of unity that strengthens the bonds that hold us together. With this in mind, I look forward to picking my daughter up from nursery this evening, walking home with her and following in my mother’s footsteps, sharing an entire punnet of strawberries. Although, I am currently her forth favourite, (after Sally, the dog and our house plants), I know that the time we spend together is special and hugely important.
Whatever your plans this weekend, I wish you all the very best.
Categories: Academics