During last week, the first full week in school, I found myself back on the rollercoaster of emotions that I had experienced during lockdown number one, last Spring. It felt different this time somehow, perhaps due to the fact I know what it feels like to be in this situation. Different? Yes. Better or more tolerable? Questionable!

I found myself once more with that sinking feeling, something I am sure we have all experienced at one time or another.

Not one to wallow in self-pity I decided to focus on the positives. The wonderful sound of innocent young voices playing happily in Nursery reminded me of how oblivious the youngest members of our school are to the troubles of the world. The strength of the staff team, supporting one another and sharing good practise, in order to provide the best experience for the girls is another thing to feel really positive about. We all have our health and, in newspapers this week have reported that more people have now been vaccinated than newly diagnosed with Covid-19 in this country – now that’s certainly something to celebrate. On taking my daily exercise, being propelled at speed by my over-enthusiastic dog, I caught a glimpse of the first spring bulbs pushing through the soil. A sign of hope that lighter mornings are on their way. There is most definitely light at the end of the tunnel on all fronts.

This week I am due to deliver my annual lesson to Year 5 on Quakerism, and whilst planning for this, I was reminded of a quote by, I was reminded of a quote by the Quaker William Penn, something that I will hold in mind for the weeks ahead:

"The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their troubles." ~ William Penn (14 October 1644 – 30 July 1718)

Mrs Claire Lilley, Head of Prep