I want to take a moment to talk about something that sits at the very heart of Upper Batley High School; our culture of kindness.

 

For me, kindness is about creating a school where every learner feels safe, valued, respected and that they belong. Every day, we are getting to know our learners, greeting them by name, listening to them and making sure they know that there is always someone here who cares about them and believes in them.

 

Kindness is not about lowering our expectations. Kindness and high expectations go hand in hand. We are making sure our learners feel confident enough to be themselves, to make mistakes, try new things and take on challenges, whilst knowing that we are there to support and encourage them every step of the way.

 

When young people feel safe, valued and that they belong, they are far more likely to engage, achieve and flourish. This is how we help our learners to believe in themselves, achieve their potential and succeed, not just in their education, but in their personal development and in life beyond school.

Our ambition is for every learner to leave UBHS knowing they are capable, valued and ready for their next step. Whether that is university, an apprenticeship, further education, employment or another pathway, we are giving them the confidence, character and skills to make the most of the opportunities ahead of them.

 

Our culture of kindness belongs to all of us; learners, staff, parents/carers and our wider community. We all have a part to play in modelling it, protecting it and challenging unkindness whenever we see it.

 

Most importantly, I want every learner at UBHS to be able to say:

 

“I can be myself at UBHS.”

 

“I feel safe at UBHS.”

 

“I belong at UBHS.”

 

“People believe in me at UBHS.”

 

That is what being one big family where everyone thrives means to me.

 

I would also like to extend a very warm invitation to any Year 5 and Year 6 learners and their families who are considering their secondary school options. Our Open Evening is on Thursday 17 September from 5pm to 7pm, and we would love to welcome you into our school. It is a great opportunity to meet our staff, see our school and, most importantly, experience our culture and see what makes UBHS such a special place to learn and grow.

 

Aman Singh Kang