Dear Parents,
It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Ms. Julia Watson, our Middle Years Programme Coordinator. Ms. Watson passed away yesterday morning after a brave and difficult battle with cancer. Ms. Watson has been a much loved and valued member of the staff team for over six years. Her enthusiasm for History, her generous commitment to her students and the warmth of her good humour will be greatly missed. This is a very sad day for the whole school community.
Students in the Upper School have been told of this sad news by their form tutors this morning and those who are on the Carnegie Hall trip were informed last night, New York time.
As a small, caring community we understand that Ms. Watson's passing will touch us all and that the children will react to this news in different ways. We have therefore made arrangements for the school pastoral team, including a member of staff with bereavement training who will be available to support students in the Upper School throughout the school day. Space will be available for any students who need to take some time out from their lessons, either to have a quiet space or to have someone to talk to. There will also be an opportunity to make contributions to a book of remembrance.
Plans are underway for a memorial event and we will provide you with more information about this as it comes to hand. We will also pass on information about the wishes of Ms Watson's family regarding condolences as they become available.
If you would like some assistance in helping your child with their feelings during this period please find below links to two websites that provide helpful information about bereavement.
Sincerely
Alison Cobbin
Head of School
http://www.cruse.org.uk
https://www.griefencounter.org.uk
