Our first classes!

Pupils have settled quickly into their new school – and plans for an open event with three sessions have been announced.

Waltham Gateway Academy is based in high quality temporary accommodation before children and staff switch to the new building after October half term.

The pictures show children with their teachers and support staff in their classes.

Principal Lindsay Holness was delighted to see the school open on schedule for the start of the new academic year.

“We have created a thriving learning community in what we are affectionately calling ‘our village’,” she said.

“The temporary accommodation is currently placed on what will be the Key Stage 2 playground and the children have loved seeing the building of their new school from an insider’s perspective.

“The team have done a fantastic job with the temporary accommodation to create warm, welcoming, busy learning environments.

“We have had terrific feedback from parents about the first few weeks. We have an outstanding team and the children, in their small classes, are receiving a first class education.”

Everyone, Mrs Holness said, was “excited” about the switch to the new building.

“We have enjoyed our time in the temporary accommodation but are really looking forward to spreading our wings in the new classrooms and enjoying our fantastic new facilities, which will all be in place for when the children return to school on Monday, 3rd November.

“We have already had interest and have children due to join us over the next week. I am confident that once we are in the new building, our community will continue to grow .”

To that end, the open event will take place on Tuesday, 11th November for parents / carers of children due to start in reception next September. There are three events scheduled: 10am, 11am and 5pm.

Mrs Holness said: “It won’t be long (31st January) before parents and carers need to decide where they would like reception-age children to start their educational journey.

“We can’t wait to show prospective parents and carers around our fabulous new building and run through the engaging curriculum we have put in place.”

Prospective parents can sign up to the event by clicking on the link https://forms.office.com/e/ZsMsUVmfg5

Robins class, Years 1 and 2 with (right) teacher Miss Aisthorpe and teaching assistant Mrs Farrell.

Kestrels class, Years 3 and 4 with (left) teacher and Assistant Principal Mrs Smart and teaching assistant Mrs Playford.

Chicks Reception class with (centre) teacher Miss Grayson, and teaching assistants Mrs Riddall (left) and Mrs Nelson.

The Nest class with teacher Mrs Holdsworth (left) and teaching assistant Mrs Chambers.