This was an important week for year 6 pupils starting secondary school in September – and their parents and carers – as they received offers of a school place. We are delighted the number of our pupils receiving their first three preferred schools remains above the London average, at 91%. This also builds on last year’s outcomes. We know our parents and carers trust our schools to deliver the best possible education and I wish our students all the best for September. Find out more.

Business leaders together

I was pleased to launch the first meeting of the Mayor’s Croydon Business Network, on Wednesday. This network will enable business leaders to work together to share insights, address key challenges, and contribute to shaping our economic future. It will provide input into critical policies and initiatives that impact our borough’s business community.

It was also a privilege to speak at the South East Chamber of Commerce event this week and to meet members of the wider business community.

Fostering Week

Becoming a foster carer can be hugely rewarding and can transform the lives of both children and young people and their carers – but we currently have an acute shortage of carers. We held our borough’s first-ever Fostering Week where residents could speak to social workers and current foster carers to find out what is involved. Thank you to everyone who took part and to our foster carers who do an amazing job. Events continue this weekend – find out more.

Covid-19 Day of Reflection

Sunday is the national Day of Reflection for the Covid-19 pandemic. On Thursday, the community gathered at Braithwaite Hall to honour those we lost and recognise those who worked tirelessly to support Croydon during the pandemic. From NHS and care workers to teachers, police officers, volunteers, and Council staff – so many stepped up to face immense challenges. Whilst the scars of the pandemic remain, so does the strength of our community. As we move forward, we must keep making sure that no one is left behind and that the lessons we learned shape a stronger, more resilient Croydon.

150 years of education

Croydon High School celebrated 150 years of providing education to girls. The school, which was founded in 1874, welcomed HRH the Duchess of Gloucester on Friday for the special day. I was honoured to be among the guests and to hear a performance by year 5 and 6 pupils, who sang a specially composed song reflecting the school’s core values of ‘aspiration, empowerment, pride and kindness’. Congratulations!

Finally, happy Ghana Independence Day to Croydon’s Ghanaian community. We raised the Ghanaian flag outside the town hall on Thursday to mark the day.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon