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April 2026 newsletter

Richmond Primary Academy

We hope you all had a lovely easter break

REMINDER: This is a very short term. There are only 17 more days. Please try and send your child into school everyday! If you're unsure if they are well enough, send them in and we will call you if we feel they are too unwell to be here.

Spotlight on safeguarding

A message from miss johnson

As we approach SATs Week 2026, our Y6 pupils have been working incredibly hard in preparation for the assessments. In class, they have been revising key skills, building confidence, and showing great determination in their learning. SATs will take place during the week beginning 11th May Monday-Thursday, and we aim to ensure that all children feel supported, calm, and ready to do their best.

We kindly ask families to help by ensuring children get plenty of rest, arrive at school on time, and feel encouraged throughout the week. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our pupils for this important milestone.

SATs week: Monday 11th - Thursday 14th May

SEND update - change & transition

Children and young people can experience worries and emotional challenges for many reasons, including changes at school, friendships, family circumstances or increased pressure especially with exams or upcoming transition. Knowing how to support your child can make a real difference.

What to Look Out For

Every child is different, but you may notice:

  • Changes in mood, behaviour or sleep
  • Increased worries, tearfulness or irritability
  • Avoidance of school or activities they usually enjoy
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches or tummy aches

How You Can Help at Home

  • Talk openly – encourage your child to share how they are feeling, and listen without judgement
  • Offer reassurance – remind them that feelings change
  • Keep routines – predictable routines help children feel safe and secure
  • Model coping strategies – relaxation, problem‑solving and taking breaks can all help

Transition

Transition can bring excitement as well as uncertainty for children and young people. We are committed to ensure transitions are as positive and successful as possible. After the May half term, staff will be supporting pupils by:

  • Talking through upcoming changes and supporting children moving in those key points such as EYFS to Year 1
  • Offering opportunities to visit new classrooms or meet new staff
  • Using visual supports, timetables and routines where helpful

We know that every child experiences transition differently. If your child has additional needs or you feel they may need extra support during this time, please contact us so we can plan together. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/tags/zh4wy9q/starting-secondary-school/1

More support: If you need more support or advice then please look at YoungMinds as a starting point. YoungMinds is a UK‑based charity dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people. They provide trusted information, practical advice and emotional support to help young people feel understood and less alone. YoungMinds also offers a Parent Helpline, providing free and confidential advice to parents and carers who are worried about a child or young person’s mental health. How Parents Can Help With Secondary School Transition | YoungMinds