Dear Parents and Carers,
We are writing to explain the changes that were made to the Key Stage Two Christmas Performance yesterday and to acknowledge the inconvenience and disappointment that this may have caused for some families. Please be assured that we were equally disappointed that the event did not run as originally planned.
Throughout the day, we closely tracked the weather forecast using several sources, including live satellite mapping. Three different forecasting services were consistently predicting a 90%+ chance of heavy rain and strong winds during the scheduled performance time. Importantly, this forecast did not change as the day progressed. In light of this, we made the decision to move the performance to what was forecast to be the only clear window available to us.
That the rain did not ultimately materialise was frustrating for everyone involved, including staff and pupils. However, this was entirely beyond our control. Had we continued with the original plan and the forecast rain and strong winds had occurred, children could have been soaked, equipment damaged, and we would understandably have faced criticism for proceeding despite such strong warnings. We were therefore placed in a very difficult position and had to make a decision based on the best information available at the time.
The forecast for today is, if anything, even worse; hence the decision to go with Friday morning, which looks set to be clear.
We would also like to explain why the Key Stage Two Christmas Performance has historically been held outdoors. This approach began during the COVID period, when it enabled us to be one of the few schools able to offer a Christmas performance at all. It was very well received, and feedback at the time indicated that many families and members of the wider community preferred this format. Around the same time, the church, which had previously hosted us, declined to continue doing so, leaving us without an indoor venue. Despite extensive efforts, we have not been able to secure an alternative.
While the school hall is an option, it would require multiple performances. In the past, this has presented significant challenges, as many families chose not to send their children to the second performance if they had already seen the first. As a result, attendance for the second show dropped to just over half of the pupils, creating difficulties with roles, continuity, and ultimately the quality of the performance for the children involved.
Yesterday’s change was therefore challenging for us, but it was the best decision we could make in the circumstances we faced. We fully recognise that it was not ideal, and we thank you for your understanding and patience. We are sorry to those who were upset or disappointed and who took the time to contact us about this. Again, we share your frustration!
Looking ahead, we will recommend that the new incoming leadership team explores alternative solutions for future years and consults with the school community in due course to help shape a more sustainable approach.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of the school and our pupils and special thanks to those who have thoughtfully contacted us to voice this on this particular matter.
Kind regards…