No doubt I am not the only parent who has been comforting a frightened and confused child, moving through every emotion from disbelief and shock, to disappointment and profound sadness.

When I asked my daughter to list all the things that made her choose to go to St Felix, she talked about how much she liked the caring, friendly atmosphere; the teachers; the opportunities for music and drama; exciting school trips; the friends who would go with her, and the new ones she would make.

Of course, there was talk about the facilities in school, and the spacious well laid-out building, but this was only a small part of a very long list.

When I pointed out that even without the physical building, all the other things her on her list remained, her emotions moved towards hope and determination.

True to the spirit of St Felix, she is already talking with her friends about how hard they are going to work, and how much they will help their teachers through the coming months.

As a member of staff, I have the added insight that this determination to move forward positively is shared throughout our school community.

I feel very privileged to be part of such a dedicated and professional team, and to have taught so many lovely children at the school over the years.

I am looking forward to seeing the current pupils of St Felix, standing proudly in their red uniforms, ready to do all those things we do best: work hard, learn, be creative, support each other and have fun.

Our building may be destroyed but our spirit is good and strong.

Melanie Davies

St Felix Middle School

Newmarket