It’s a time of endings. For pupils moving on to new schools, for staff retiring after long and dedicated service, for staff stepping away from roles where they have made a lasting impact. And yet, it’s also a time of quiet anticipation, a pause before the beginnings that September brings.

This year, we would like to highlight a mix of goodbyes and fresh starts at one of our Trust schools, Kingswood Primary School.

After many years of dedicated leadership, the Head of School, Julia Waterson is retiring after 16 years at Kingswood. Julia has been known over the years for her compassion, steadiness and belief in every child’s potential.

"I feel grateful for the journey I’ve had. I’ve seen generations grow and whilst it is time for me to step away and retire, Kingswood school will always hold a special place in my heart." Julia said.

At the same time, the Executive Headteacher at Kingswood, Tim Samuel, is taking on a new role beyond our Trust. Tim said:

“It has been a privilege to be part of the leadership team at Kingswood, guiding the school through its transition to join Greensand and going from strength to strength serving the local community.”

And so, as we say goodbye, we also welcome new leadership. Martinet Pretorius, currently Head of Standards at BJS Federation of Schools, takes on the role of Headteacher at Kingswood. With 11 years of leadership experience in schools, Martinet is equipped with the knowledge, experience and commitment to step into her greatness and lead Kingswood into the future.

"It’s an honour to step into this role. I’ve learnt from the best and I’m excited to build on those foundations, supporting children, staff, and families at Kingswood as we continue to grow together." Martinet said.

The rhythm of the academic year has a strange poetry. Children leave in July with hugs, tears, and a rush of celebration…and then silence. Over the summer, schools pause. Buildings are cleaned, classrooms reimagined, policies reviewed, planned improvement of processes & systems implemented. Then, as September approaches, everything resets.

New children arrive, a little nervous perhaps but also wide-eyed with excitement. New staff join with fresh perspectives. Existing staff return refreshed and with a new sense of purpose. New routines begin and yet, continuity remains. The spirit of the schools in our Trust, their values, sense of community, commitment to our values of Collaboration, Support and Challenge underpins everything.

These cycles of ending and beginning are unique to education. Few other professions see such a collective departure followed by such a collective return. Each year, we are reminded that change is part of the fabric of school life, not something to fear, but something to embrace.

To all those leaving: thank you and good luck with your journey. To those joining us: we’re excited to welcome you as part of our Trust. To everyone returning after the summer break has done its work of rest and renewal: welcome back. Let’s begin again, together.