Dear Parents, Carers and Children,

I write to introduce myself as the Executive Headteacher for the Orchard Academy Trust, of which Allington and Barming Primary Schools are a part of.  Many of you will be aware I have been appointed to this role, following the retirement of Mrs Young in July. I am very excited to start my new role, after 17 very rewarding years as a Headteacher at my previous school. Whilst this job is very new to me, being an integral part of primary schools is not, having started my teaching career in 1995!  As a mother myself, I am very aware of the importance of your child's time in Pre-School/Primary School and am committed to supporting Mrs Howson and Mr Laker in ensuring your child's time with us is a happy one.  Children come to school to learn, however there are a huge number of factors that need to happen to make this possible. As a Trust, we know and understand that the well-being of your children and our staff is essential in making schools happy, exciting and wonderful places to be.   Over the coming months, I look forward to getting to know both schools, their staff, pupils and families. Whilst you may not always see me, please know I will be working very hard to ensure the Orchard Academy Trust is developing as a trust where 'we inspire our children to thrive and lead fulfilling lives'. Wishing your children, a very happy school year ahead.

Kind regards

Mrs Ashley Crittenden Executive Headteacher Orchard Academy Trust www.orchardacademytrust.co.uk  

"We inspire our children to thrive and lead fulfilling lives."