Week 4

This week I have been struck by the kindness of strangers, the thoughtfulness of neighbours and the dedication of colleagues. I have been deeply moved by the kind and supportive comments from the Winshill Village Community and I am overwhelmed by the continued dedication and generosity of the school staff.

Captain Tom Moore, by Isabelle (Nursery - Little Stars)

From the fear, loneliness and anxiety, generosity and kindness is emerging and it is important that we focus on the positive to support each other through these difficult times. That we celebrate the good in the world and appreciate those who make it a better place.

One of the big news stories this week was about a 99-year-old army veteran who set out to raise £1,000 for the NHS by walking lengths of his garden. When he completed his final lap, he had raised more than £15 million for the NHS. Second World War veteran Captain Tom Moore decided to fundraise to help the NHS fight the coronavirus crisis by walking the 25-metre loop of his garden 100 times, ahead of his 100th birthday. After finishing his final lap on Thursday morning, completed with a guard of honour from the 1st Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment, he said: "I feel fine, hope you are all feeling fine too!"

This is an outstanding achievement and just one example of how something small can grow and lead onto helping so many. Another example is about three young boys and their parents who have helped more than 50 isolated neighbours needing food or a friend during lockdown. The family members have set up a free vegetable stall, delivering essentials to vulnerable residents, and offering to connect with those quarantining alone. A lifeline for many.

Just last week “Winshill Together” delivered over 350 Easter Eggs around the local community, as well as food parcels. I know from delivering food parcels myself that they are greatly appreciated and needed. I have had lovely chats with many of you on your doorsteps (2m apart obviously) and it has been great to see you safe and well. None of the children seemed phased at all by their headteacher turning up on their doorstep!

The acts of kindness continue with two schools from JTMAT – John Taylor High School and Paulet High School – making visors for the Health Service. They are planning on making 1000’s and their DT departments are working hard to meet this target.

But kindness is not about big, grand gestures – it’s the small things that put a smile on our faces and help us get through this difficult time. From the residents of Alexandra Road making scarecrows to decorate their street, to Chloe in Year 6 making an Easter Wordsearch for the website. From the Tipper and Fall families leaving decorated trinkets around Winshill, for children to find on their walks - to Mount Pleasant decorating their trees; to all the rainbow paintings in the windows, they are brightening up our day and making a life a little bit easier.

So to all of you, looking out for each other and spreading the kindness. Thank you.

Stay Safe

Miss Goodson

Not all heroes wear capes