On my visits to Camden schools this term I have been struck by how well represented children’s artwork is in displays and frames in corridors, halls and stairwells. This not only represents a rich art curriculum offer but their prominence creates a sense of pride and ownership for pupils. Of course, even the youngest children enjoy using paints and crayons and get some great results, but to get consistently high-quality outcomes from children needs high expectations alongside carefully planned lessons and sequentially taught skills. The best planning is often closely linked to the work of inspiring and representative artists. I have certainly been seeing many examples of this alongside activities involving artists in residence and Arts Mark recognition. It is exciting to think that there are a generation of Camden young people who are now learning about artists from a wide range of cultures, encouraged by schools that see the value of good teaching of the arts in the curriculum.

The end of term is almost in sight, but with all the bugs and illnesses impacting on staff and pupil attendance it might not feel like it. Guidance has been sent to schools, and recently released by the Dfe, on Strep A which has caused some alarm in parent communities. It was a slightly unwelcome return to times past when our colleagues from public health shared some graphs (and graphic images) of the symptoms at our Primary Heads catch up meeting on Tuesday afternoon. Thank you for continuing to push for daily attendance despite all these competing pressures. With only 190 days a year in school it is important that learning continues right to the end of term. Stay well, keep warm and thank you as always for all you do.

Best wishes

Stephen Hall

Chief Executive Officer, Camden Learning