Stephanie Mander – 2025 Letter to Parents Cancelling Easter Celebrations at Norwood Primary School

The letter sent by headteacher Stephanie Mander to parents in March 2025.

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the spring season, I would like to inform you about an important update regarding our school’s traditional Easter celebrations.

After careful consideration and discussions with our school community, we have decided not to hold the Easter Bonnet Parade or the Easter Service this year. This decision has been made in the spirit of inclusivity and respect for the diverse religious beliefs, represented within our school community.

Our school is committed to fostering an environment where every child feels valued and respected, regardless of their religious background. By not holding specific religious celebrations, we aim to create a more inclusive atmosphere that honours and respects the beliefs of all our children and their families.

We understand that this change may be disappointing for some, especially those who have cherished these traditions over the years. However, we believe that this decision aligns with our values of inclusivity and respect for diversity. We are exploring alternative ways to celebrate the season in future years, that will be inclusive of all children and reflect the rich cultural diversity of our community.

One of the ways we will be celebrating inclusivity is by taking part in Refugee Week which occurs in June, as well as beginning our journey to become an accredited School of Sanctuary. Watch this space! In the meantime, we look forward to seeing many of you at the Music Festival in a couple of weeks.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we make this transition. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

Thank you for your continued support.