Hope for a successful Trinity term

The start of the Trinity Term is always met with a unique mix of anticipation and resolve. As the final term of the academic year, it carries with it the weight of progression—students working toward promotion, graduation, and examination success; teachers pushing to consolidate learning and prepare young minds for the next stage of their academic journeys.

As the term begins, we acknowledge that not all schools are able to reopen their doors as planned. The Ministry of Educational Transformation has confirmed that Ellerton Primary and Princess Margaret Secondary will remain closed temporarily due to environmental concerns—specifically, evidence of rodent activity that requires both structural repairs and thorough cleaning before the schools can safely reopen.

While the news may be frustrating for the affected school communities, the ministry’s approach reflects a welcome prioritisation of health and safety over convenience. It is a reminder that a high-quality education begins with safe, dignified learning spaces—and that interruptions, when properly managed, can often prevent greater disruption later.

Health and safety cannot be compromised, and it is reassuring that the authorities are choosing to resolve these issues comprehensively rather than opting for a patchwork solution that could risk further fallout down the line.

We trust that the ministry will continue to keep parents, students, and educators updated regularly—a necessary step to ensure confidence and transparency in the process, and that every effort will be made to support continued learning—whether through remote lessons, temporary relocation, or other means—while the physical campuses remain closed.

Beyond the early setbacks, however, there is much to be hopeful about.

Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman has started his tenure with visible energy and an inclusive approach, having met with teacher unions, student councils, and educators from all zones. His recognition of the sacrifices made by teachers is timely and well-placed. On the eve of the start of the term, he expressed a strong commitment to supporting educators, highlighting plans for improved teacher recognition, greater administrative efficiency, and continued investment in the school system.

Teachers are the backbone of the school system, and when they are empowered, students benefit. If the Trinity Term is to be a success, it will depend as much on the morale and motivation of our teachers as on the performance of our students.

Let us also remember the indispensable role of parents and guardians. Education does not begin and end at the school gate—it is a partnership, and during this promotion term, students will need all the encouragement and structure they can get at home. Collaboration between home and school is not only helpful; it is essential. When teachers and parents work together, children thrive.

This term is also a time for focus. For Class Four and Fifth Form students, it represents the culmination of years of hard work—a lead-up to examinations that may shape their next steps. For younger students, it is a time to consolidate learning, build confidence, and prepare for promotion. Disruptions, like school closures or personal distractions, can weigh heavily, but they need not derail progress. With the right support and determination, students can finish strong.

As the Trinity Term begins, let us rally behind our teachers. Let us take encouragement from the resolve of our educators who, despite the many challenges they face, continue to show up and give their best to our nation’s children.

Let us motivate our students. Let us support our school leaders and trust in the process of improvement.

And above all, let us keep the faith that despite a bumpy start for some, the weeks ahead will be marked by progress, achievement, and the quiet victories that happen every day in classrooms across our island.

We wish all teachers, students, and school communities a productive and positive term ahead.