Dear ALS Community,
After our Christmas Lunch on Tuesday and a day of celebrating Christmas today, it is, as of 4pm today, officially Christmas. That means Christmas clothing (jumpers, socks, T-shirts etc) should be considered compulsory, Michael Buble’s album (or variations therein) should be played daily and Mince Pies now contain zero calories (at least, so I’m told). A daily Christmas movie is also good practice with classics such as Muppets Christmas Carol, The Snowman, The Holiday, Love Actually, Home Alone and Elf up against more modern films such as Arthur Christmas, The Christmas Chronicles, Jingle Jangle and Klaus.
To ease you in to the Christmas Spirit, our virtual Christmas Concert has been released on our social media channels. Pop over to Facebook to watch the video here. Alongside some truly wonderful musical performances, there’s a message to close from pupils across our school that I hope you will enjoy.
Fittingly, when we return to school at the start of January, our mantra comes from Amicus: Be Grateful for the Kindness of Others. I really didn’t plan for the mantras to fall that way but it’s pretty wonderful that they have. Coming off the back of the Christmas holidays, reflecting on the kindness of others and passing our gratitude on is part and parcel of the season. By all accounts, a pretty easy mantra to fulfil! I’d like to share my gratitude for the gifts and cards I’ve received from pupils and parents and, in particular, the kind messages of thanks written in them. Those few lines of thanks really do mean a great deal. Thank you.
After staff training on Monday 4th January and Tuesday 5th January, we return to school on Wednesday 6th January 2021. I hope that the whole ALS community takes time to rest and recharge over the Christmas break. As I wrote last week, this past year has taken a toll on everyone, regardless of whether we know it or not. There are silent losses, of the things that matter, each day. Lost opportunities, memories and celebrations. We’ve all lost something (whether that is big or small) and this will accumulate over time. Do take the time to enjoy the festive period and recharge as best you can: you deserve it.
From all the staff at ALS, I wish you, and your family, a lovely holiday period and a very Happy New Year.
David Preston | Headteacher
