I watched a great programme at the weekend: the Countryfile edition of Children in Need. 

Countryfile has been encouraging people to raise money by rambling. The programme focused on young people who have been helped by Children in Need by taking them on walks to beautiful places and sharing their stories. It was very inspiring and positive, and gave me a real sense of some of the good things that are being achieved.

Autumn is one of my daughter's favourite seasons.  She loves the oncoming cold, the feeling of heading into 'hibernation', of being able to wrap up in her favourite clothes and curl up with a good book.  Certainly, some of the chefs I watch on tv love it too; the bringing in of the harvest and the preparation of jams, pickles and other goodies.

This week, and into next, the school has a focus on anti-bullying.  Dr Essex is approaching this with gusto, strongly supported by all the staff.  I thought I would like to share with you some parts of what the boys have learnt about.  Bullying has been identified as one of the top three threats to society in the coming years.

A positive attitude can make such a difference. You can see it at work in the classroom, the sports field, the kitchen at home, and at work.  A positive attitude is not about pretending problems don't exist, but rather one's response heading into them. It is about making the most of something, being grateful, and knowing there is hope on the other side.

Mental health awareness is such a hot topic at the moment!  Lockdownhas provided a need and an opportunity to consider how vital it is to look after our health, for youngsters especially. The test always comes when things are tough - and for some of us, things are pretty tough right now. enter an introduction for your blog post here.

Keeping in touch with people is really important. If you can’t catch up face-to-face, why not give them a call, text them or chat online?  Putting a note through the neighbour's door can only be a good thing, not just now, but any time.  I hope that in the coming months we rediscover how important it is to be sociable. Bear in mind that vulnerable people often lack contact with others and can feel alone.  Let’s all look after each other and remember what is important.