During the summer holidays, I have spent much time reading to my young grandchildren. One firm favourite is Giraffes Can't Dance written by Giles Andreae and beautifully illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees. The book tells the tale of Gerald, who would love to dance in the annual Jungle Dance. But with his thin legs, knobbly knees, and very long neck his dance style is somewhat unique. The jungle animals tease Gerald and laugh at him, leaving him feeling sad and lonely. Fortunately, Gerald meets a wise violin playing cricket who plays a different tune for Gerald and ignites his senses. Gerald's hooves begin to shuffle, and his neck to sway. Before long he is dancing a mesmerising dance to the amazement and delight of the other jungle animals! We can learn so much from the pages of Gerald's story – understanding and accepting our own differences, as well as the differences of others; how confidence can grow; and self-esteem can let us flourish. What a wonderful toolkit to start a new year with.
Although the start of the school year has been a little different in 2022, the excitement of the first day of the new school year remains the same. New stationery, new shoes, freshly cut hair – I'm sure that the students are excited too! Sadly, some of our start of year and 40th Birthday celebrations have been postponed due to the Pandemic. Later editions of this newsletter will provide updates on when we are able to come together. I look forward to sharing some of the year with you.
