Wednesday 26th August 2026 

Dear Families,  

I hope that you have all enjoyed a happy and restful summer break. I am really looking forward to the new academic year and to welcoming children and families back to Dunalley.  I’m also pleased to welcome those joining our school for the first time. Whether you are returning to Dunalley or your child is beginning their journey with us in Nursery, Pre-school, Reception or one of our older year groups, we will support everyone to quickly settle into the new school year and enjoy being part of our community. 

I am sorry to have missed the final few days of last term as a close family member became seriously ill and unexpectedly required hospital care. I was very grateful for the kind messages I received and to my colleagues for ensuring that the school year ended so positively in my absence. Thankfully, this situation is now much improved, and I am very much looking forward to being back at Dunalley and to the year ahead. 

Ahead of our return, I thought it would be helpful to share a few updates and reminders to help everyone prepare for the start of the new school year. I appreciate that returning to school after a long break, particularly with the changes that inevitably come with a new academic year, can sometimes feel a little daunting. I hope that the accompanying information answers the questions you may have and helps everyone feel ready for the days and months ahead. 

As well as providing information that relates to our return to school, you will find links to the school calendar that already lists events that have been confirmed for the year ahead. I am keen to share these with you at this early stage, as we appreciate how busy family life can be and how challenging it can sometimes be to juggle work, home and other commitments.  

If there is anything I haven't covered in the following pages, or if you would like further information or clarification, I will be available in school between 12 noon and 3pm on Friday. Please feel free to phone or pop into the main reception for a chat. Alternatively, you can email familysupport@dunalley.gloucs.sch.uk and I will get back to you as soon as I can. 

Kind regards, 

Alison Godfrey 
Headteacher