Headteacher's Weekly Update 4 - Friday 26th September 2025

Dear Parents and Carers

I hope this letter finds you and your families well; a Friday update for you as always.

We welcomed record numbers to our Open Evening on Wednesday.  It was a real privilege to throw open our doors and show what makes Kelmscott such a distinctive and exciting place for young people to learn.  Our students were the stars of the evening – whether as tour guides or supporting in departments, they were outstanding.  A real credit to our school and to you, their families.  Our community school was shown off to our community in the very best light.

Earlier this week, I wrote to you about educational trips and visits.  The letter contained important updates on how we allocate places for students.  The changes are designed to be fairer and more equitable, and they have been shaped by feedback from families.  I do hope you found time to read the letter and that you feel these improvements will be well received.

On Thursday 2nd October, the NHS vaccination team will be back in school to deliver nasal flu vaccinations.  This programme is a vital part of keeping our young people healthy and reducing the spread of flu in the wider community.  The science is clear – higher vaccination rates mean lower transmission and less absence from school.  It would be fantastic to see a strong take-up this year. 

Please complete the online consent form before the vaccination team attends, even if you do not wish for your child to receive the vaccine.  

You can give consent here: https://london.schoolvaccination.uk/flu/2025/walthamforest

About the Nasal Flu Vaccine:

• Protects your child from flu

• Protects family and friends, especially the elderly, young babies, or those with serious health conditions

• Free, painless, quick and effective

• An injectable, gelatine-free version is also available

  
  

For the past few weeks, we have run an amnesty for students who had misplaced or never received a lanyard.  These have now all been replaced free of charge.  Going forward, if a student needs a new lanyard, there will be a £6 replacement charge.  The best way for students to look after their lanyards is very simple: wear them!

It has been a busy and exciting week of football at Kelmscott:

The KS4 girls played their second 11-a-side match this week against a strong Chingford team. Despite a challenging game, the girls put in a great performance and showed excellent teamwork. Player of the Match: Kirsten Singh.

The Year 7 team took part in a competition with two local primary schools, Edinburgh Primary and Jenny Hammond Primary.  It was a fantastic afternoon, the team gained valuable experience in only their second game together. Well done, Year 7.

The Year 8 team secured a thrilling 2–1 victory over Walthamstow Academy, with a dramatic last-minute penalty scored by Kaelan Kwateng (8O), who was also named Player of the Match.

The Year 9 team put in a strong performance at Douglas Eyre on Wednesday but were narrowly beaten 2–1 by Frederick Bremer.  Mohamed Diallo Jr was named Player of the Match for his outstanding efforts.

A reminder that students aged 11–15 can enjoy free or discounted travel on all Transport for London (TFL) services with a Zip Oyster photocard. For more information and to apply online, please see here.

I would also like to highlight an excellent opportunity with the Police Cadets, who are currently recruiting at Mission Grove Primary.  This is a fantastic pastime that builds teamwork, discipline, leadership and confidence, while also giving young people a chance to make a positive contribution to their community.  If you think your child may be interested please see here for more information.

October marks Black History Month and Waltham Forest is offering a wide range of exciting and inspirational events to get involved in.  Explore the cultural history of our borough through the stories of past residents, support local Black-owned businesses, take part in arts and crafts workshops, enjoy walks and runs, experience performances, exhibitions, and much more.  For more information please see here. 

Finally, congratulations to our top reward points winners.  The following students achieved the highest totals for the week of 15th–19th September, I am delighted to recognise their effort and commitment.  A special mention to Alice Fairmaner Chirgwin who topped the entire school with an impressive 31 points. 

➪ Year 7, Abigail Michale in 7O with 24 points

➪ Year 8, Alice Fairmaner Chirgwin in 8E with 31 points

➪ Year 9, Norbert Dorbrovat in 9S with 21 points

➪ Year 10, Alexandra Gutoiu in 10C with 23 points

➪ Year 11, Zahira Echeverry- Garcia in 11S with 15 points

As always, thank you for your continued support.  Wishing you all a restful weekend.

Mr Sam Jones 

Headteacher