A Personal Welcome

From Miss Sampson, Headteacher

Every child known. Every child valued. Every child included.

Together, we love, learn and grow with God

Every morning, as I stand at the school gate welcoming children and their families, I am reminded what a privilege it is to be Headteacher at Walesby Church of England Primary School.

As families arrive, music plays at the school gate; parents stop to chat, children greet one another and everyone takes time to say, "Good morning." It is one of my favourite parts of the day.

Before the school day has even begun, children are eager to share the moments that matter to them. It might be a swimming certificate proudly held aloft before Mum or Dad is allowed to leave, a Player of the Match trophy, fingers crossed together as we wait to hear whether they have been given the part they so hoped for after their audition, or simply exciting news they cannot wait to tell us. Sometimes, it is simply a child who runs through the gate for their morning hug.

To some, these may seem like ordinary moments; to me, they tell the story of Walesby.

Over the years, one thing has become very clear to me: the smallest moments are often the most important. They are the moments when children know they are seen, celebrated and encouraged; when families know they belong; and when our Christian vision comes to life in the way we care for one another every day.

What makes Walesby so special is not simply what we do, but who we are.

Our Christian vision is the heartbeat of everything we do. Because we believe every child is uniquely created in the image of God, we are committed to ensuring every child is known, valued and included. Through our vision, Together, we love, learn and grow with God, we seek to nurture a community where everyone is welcomed, encouraged and able to flourish.

As a small village Church of England school, relationships shape everyday life at Walesby. We know our children well because we believe every child deserves to be noticed. We celebrate children's successes, walk alongside children and families through life's challenges and make time for the conversations that quietly say, "You matter. It's lovely to see you." Often, it is the quietest moments that stay with us the longest.

Our R.I.C.H. Christian values and The Walesby Way shape our relationships, our conversations and the way we care for one another each day. They are woven through the life of our school, helping every member of our community know that they belong.

We have high aspirations for every child because we believe every child can fulfil their potential. Through inspiring learning and rich opportunities, we encourage children to be curious, courageous and compassionate, helping them experience life in all its fullness (John 10:10) and to let their light shine before others (Matthew 5:16).

Children thrive when home and school work together. I am deeply grateful for the trust our families place in us and for the wonderful sense of community that makes Walesby so special. Whether families come from a Christian faith, another faith or no faith at all, everyone is welcomed, valued and encouraged to belong. I am equally grateful for the dedication of our staff, governors and the wider community, whose love and support enrich the life of our school every day.

Since becoming Headteacher in 2013, I have had the privilege of watching generations of children grow into thoughtful, compassionate and confident young people. I have also had the joy of working alongside remarkable colleagues whose commitment, kindness and dedication continue to shape the life of our school every day. Those experiences have reminded me that relationships are the foundation of every successful school.

Although much has changed over the years, the heart of Walesby has remained the same. Every day reminds me that education is about so much more than lessons and results. It is about helping every child recognise their God-given worth, discover who they are and become all that they are created to be. Above all, it is about building a community where everyone is known, valued and included; where people notice one another, care for one another and are always glad to say, "It's lovely to see you."

I hope our website gives you a glimpse of life at Walesby, but nothing compares to experiencing it for yourself. I would be delighted to welcome you to Walesby, show you around and introduce you to the wonderful children, staff and families who make our school such a special place.

With every blessing,

Miss Sarah Sampson
Headteacher

"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds."
Matthew 5:16

Please feel free to contact the school direct with any queries you may have on 01623 860575 or email office@walesby.notts.sch.uk

Our Admissions page can be found via the Key Information page on the website, or by clicking here.