Nursery have been busy exploring families by creating their own pebble family pictures. In maths, the children have been learning about full and empty, as well as comparing groups using more and fewer. They created eye-colour charts to help collect and sort information and enjoyed painting activities. The children have also been learning how to care for themselves and others, including exploring healthy eating by making fun wrap faces.

Willow Class

Willow Class enjoyed acting out a play inspired by Gigantosaurus, bringing the story to life through drama and imagination. In art, they created pieces using natural objects they had collected outdoors. Year 1 children welcomed firefighters into school and learned about their important role in the community. In science, the class investigated and identified different leaves found around the school grounds.

Birch Class

Birch Class stepped back in time through art, creating their own cave paintings inspired by prehistoric artwork. In RE, they have been learning about Judaism and exploring key beliefs and traditions. Science lessons focused on revisiting and consolidating previous learning, while in geography the children have been naming the continents and learning about the human and physical features found in each one.

Maple Class

Maple Class have been researching gorillas as part of their work on non-fiction texts, developing their reading and information-gathering skills. In maths, they have been comparing and ordering numbers, building confidence with place value. Their science learning has focused on electricity, exploring the properties of electrical insulators and conductors through practical investigations.

Oak Class

Oak Class have been developing their persuasive writing skills by writing formal letters in English. In art, they have studied the work of illustrator and printmaker Claire Harrup, using her work as inspiration for their own creations. In history, the children have researched one of the seven major Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and produced informative posters to showcase their learning.

Congratulations to our newly appointed House Captains, who were voted for by their peers last week. Thank you to all those who put themselves forward. We are also in the process of electing our new School Councillors and will be sharing the results with you next week.

I am looking forward to welcoming parents and carers to our Parent Consultation Evenings on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th October. Booking information will be sent out next week. These meetings are an important opportunity for us to share how your child has settled into the new school year, celebrate their achievements so far and discuss their targets and next steps for learning.

I would also like to share some staffing news. Today is Mrs Davies’ last day before she begins her maternity leave. I know you will all join me in wishing her every happiness and excitement as she prepares for the arrival of her baby.

Following a rigorous recruitment process, I am delighted to announce that Miss Zoe Chesterman will be teaching in Mrs Davies’ absence. Many of you will already know Miss Chesterman through her role as a member of our support staff team and as a parent within our school community. Her existing relationships with the children and understanding of school life will help ensure a smooth transition. Miss Chesterman will continue to work within the support staff team from Monday to Wednesday and will teach the class on Thursdays and Fridays.

We are also delighted that Mrs Gairy is back in Willow Class – we have all missed her and the children were so pleased to see her.  A huge thank you to Mrs Rigby who has taught in Mrs Gairy’s absence and the whole Willow Class team who have worked so hard to give the children a wonderful start to the school year.

We are also excited to welcome two new members of support staff to our team. Miss Willoughby joins us in Key Stage 2, while Mrs Lockwood will be working across EYFS and Key Stage 1. We are very pleased to have them as part of our school family and know they will make a positive contribution to the children’s learning and development.

Finally, please remember to check the diary dates section and upcoming communications so that you don’t miss any important events over the coming weeks.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I hope you and your families have a lovely weekend, and I look forward to seeing everyone again on Monday.

With best wishes,

Mrs Mavin