The Bakers went out for dinner last night to celebrate Joseph’s birthday. His birthday is a week away, but yesterday was the last chance to be together as a family before Patrick returns to university and Joseph starts this weekend. As much as we are proud and confident that both boys will be fine and will thrive away from home, there is a definite sense of ‘empty nesting’ in our household which Brigid and I are just about coming to terms with. After fourteen (yes, I am counting) dogless years as a family, my campaign to reintroduce at least one hound is back on the agenda though Brigid is keen to caution, “A dog is for life, not just because your sons have gone to university…” We shall see how that debate develops…
When my two children were at school, I would often ask them, “How was school?” and they would, without pausing for thought, reply, “Fine.” I tried a follow up, “What did you do?” and would always get the same response, “Nothing.” I knew that a) that wasn’t true and b) if it was, that did not represent good value for money, but I also accepted that young people are not necessarily at their most chatty after a busy day at school. What is also true is that we, as parents, have so few reference points to spark conversation. For many parents, the last time they would have seen their child’s classroom or school facilities that they and we as staff take for granted, would have been an Open Day or private tour. You can read the weekly Lighthouse and keep abreast of our social media channels of course, but there is nothing that replaces being present. Therefore, we are going to try and change that a bit this year by inviting parents to Friday’s ‘Celebration Assembly.’ This morning, we welcomed Joshua’s parents to witness him receiving the Kindness Cup, and also Leo’s mum to share in his recent equestrian achievements. To see or hear one’s child be recognised for anything is priceless, a lifelong memory and, most importantly, enhances the impact of any award on the child…and, as a result, will definitely give you something to talk about after school! We will be developing this initiative throughout this year, so do not be perturbed if you receive a cryptic message from the school suggesting your attendance at future Friday Assemblies…
Nick Baker