New Head brings a samba beat to Bradleys Both Primary School

Barry Rogers, who is a talented musician, was headteacher of East Claydon Primary School in Buckinghamshire, and had an eventful first day in his new role as Bradley headteacher.

“I took delivery of a new mobile classroom,” said Mr Rogers. “It was delivered on a flat-bed lorry in three pieces and they craned it in.”

The classroom, which replaces an older outdoor building that was “falling apart”, will be ready for the reception and year one children to move into on May 16.

“This is something special for our school and it gives our children the opportunity to have the best facilities possible,” added Mr Rogers.

He is also looking forward to celebrating the school’s centenary with a garden party on June 21.

“The children have been learning about the centenary in their history lessons,” said Mr Rogers.

And he revealed were several other special activities planned for the garden party. An artist will to unveil a special mosaic and all pupils will perform a samba music demonstration for visitors, led by Mr Rogers, who along with playing the piano, guitar, ukulele and drums, will help children learn more about the samba, a Brazilian dance and musical genre.

“It’s built around rhythms,” said Mr Rogers. “I can’t wait to see 136 children playing instruments and making the samba sound!”

In connection with the centenary, Mr Rogers is also keen to invite people who have been associated with the school to come in and share their experiences with the pupils.

“Children learn so much better from context, so any stories or photos that people could share would be welcome. It would be lovely to talk about how things have changed over the years.”

Mr Rogers also wants to develop the school, which received a ‘requires improvement’ grade from Ofsted after a visit in December.

“There is a lot of goodwill and love for this school,” he said. “I’m here to make sure the children have the best opportunities we can provide.”