Dear Parents, Carers, and Visitors,

It is a great privilege to introduce myself as the Acting Head of School at Brackenwood Junior School, covering the maternity leave of our Headteacher for the coming year. I feel incredibly proud to be leading a school that places such a strong emphasis on supporting both pupils and their families. My aim is to ensure that every child feels safe, happy, and supported, and that every family feels valued as a key partner in their child’s learning journey.

Brackenwood has been a central part of my professional journey. I joined the school in 2011 as a newly qualified teacher and have had the pleasure of growing alongside our dedicated team ever since, most recently serving as one of the Assistant Headteachers. Having spent over a decade here, I know how special this school is, and I am committed to continuing the excellent work already in place.

At Brackenwood Junior School, my vision is to ensure that every child feels valued, challenged, and motivated to achieve their full potential. I believe in the power of collaboration, where teachers, parents, and the wider community work together to provide the best possible educational experience. Our dedicated staff shares this vision, and together, we strive to create a school where curiosity, creativity, and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.

Well-being sits at the centre of our school life. We understand that a child’s emotional health is fundamental to their ability to learn, grow, and thrive. That’s why we place great emphasis on supporting pupils to develop emotional regulation—helping them to understand and manage their feelings in a positive and constructive way. We also encourage a strong sense of citizenship, helping children understand their role within the school and the wider world as respectful, responsible individuals who care for themselves and others.

We value every child’s voice and individuality. Through opportunities for expression—whether through the arts, discussion, leadership, or creative thinking—we empower pupils to develop confidence, share their ideas, and celebrate their uniqueness. At the same time, we strive to foster inspiration, creating engaging learning experiences that spark imagination and nurture a lifelong love of learning.

Brackenwood Junior School is proud to be part of the Oak Trees Multi Academy Trust. Our close collaboration with the other schools in the Trust strengthens our practice and ensures that the Trust’s shared values of collaboration, citizenship, expression, and inspiration are embedded in all aspects of school life.

I’m very much looking forward to the year ahead and to working with our fantastic pupils, families, and wider school community. Together, we will continue to make Brackenwood a truly special place to learn, grow, and flourish.

Warm regards,

Mrs Lees

Acting Head of School

Safeguarding Statement

Brackenwood Junior School acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring that safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.