I’m writing to you today to share my plans for my maternity leave which will start on 8th November 2021.

As you know, under borough guidelines I am currently working at home, which is both frustrating and sad as I haven’t been able to say a proper farewell to the children or staff.

From Monday 8th November, Mr Evan Hollows, Headteacher of Eastbrook Primary School will be stepping into support in my absence in what will be an Interim Headship. Evan knows the school well as Monteagle and Eastbrook have worked closely together over the past two years and we have very similar approaches to our curriculum, behaviour and assessment processes.

The Senior Leadership Team at Monteagle is an incredible one, full of a wealth of experience and knowledge and they all know and understand the vision and ethos that have been carefully built upon over the past several years and are more than equipped to continue in my absence. Indeed, the staff at all levels, are the most dedicated and passionate I have ever worked with and I have never had more confidence in a group to execute our school aims and priorities.

In short, nothing will change and there should be no noticeable difference whilst I am away. The team are prepped and ready to go!

I will be back in school at various points from February for what are called, ‘keeping in touch days’ which will give me the opportunity to keep up to date with the school. I am also going to be at school for the Year 6 SATs in May so that I can support the children and staff and maintain our high expectations.

My maternity leave will come to an end on 10th July and I will return to school from Monday 11th July.

Monteagle has been a huge part of my life for past three years. It is my biggest passion and a huge part of who I am as a person. It is very difficult to step away from the school even for a few months but I know I am leaving it in more than capable hands.

I would like to finish by thanking you all for your kind words and best wishes which have been passed back to me and for your support. It has meant so much.