Headteacher's apology to parents over Feast Day

A HEADTEACHER who clashed with the church and the town mayor when she broke the town's longest running tradition has backed down.

Jackie Steele infuriated many in the St Just community by breaking the custom of giving school children Feast Monday off school.

However, following an article in The Cornishman on Thursday, Miss Steele has written a letter of apology to all parents.

It reads: "I am writing to apologise that our focus on teaching and learning at Cape Cornwall School, whilst leading to positive change in the school as demonstrated by our recent OFSTED inspection, has allowed us to have overlook the importance of Feast Day to the local community."

The head teacher who took over the school in January, is giving parents the option of either allowing their child to receive learning and education in school or attending Feast Day.

"If you decide that you wish your child to continue their learning in school on Feast Day, they will be able to take part in our Feast Day assembly and free lunch," she said.

The 14th century Feast Monday has long been held as a family event; the school has always closed and St Just school children have always taken part.

Miss Steele told The Cornishman she was sorry that her decision had upset so many in the community.

* Cape Cornwall School's recent OFSTED report recognised that the school is "improving rapidly".

It stated: "Pupils say they find the school more interesting and their spiritual, moral and social development is good, as shown by their improved behaviour and good attitudes to learning."

See Thursday's Cornishman for the report.