Dear parents and carers,
This week, Year 5 have enjoyed a fantastic trip to London, packed with exciting experiences and lots of learning along the way. Mrs Cook has been keeping us updated throughout the week, sharing how well the children have been getting on. It has been wonderful to see new friendships forming with children from across the trust, and we know these are memories they will treasure for a long time to come. A huge thank you to Mrs Cook for giving up her time to support the children on this incredible trip. Please do keep an eye on Facebook for further updates regarding collection times from High Bickington.
School Review Visit
On Wednesday, we were pleased to welcome Mr Polak, Mr Harts and our Chair of Trustees into school for a review visit. During the morning, they spent time visiting classrooms across the school, observing learning in Geography and History, talking with pupils about their work, and looking through books. They were able to see first-hand how engaged the children were and how proud they felt of their learning. The visit was a valuable opportunity to celebrate the many positive things happening across our school. We are incredibly proud of the children for their excellent behaviour, hard work and enthusiasm when sharing their learning, and we would also like to thank the staff for their continued efforts in showcasing our school so well.
Times tables Rockstars day
Last week, we had a fantastic time celebrating Times Tables Rockstar Day, with our school full of rockstars enjoying a range of fun activities focused on multiplication. We were blown away by the creativity and effort that went into the costumes — choosing the best-dressed rockstar in each class was no easy task! During Monday’s assembly, Charlotte, Ayda, Daniel and Nancy were proudly awarded prizes and certificates for their brilliant efforts. Secure timetable knowledge is a key part of mathematical learning, and it was lovely to see children confidently showing off their skills and enjoying friendly ‘battles’ with classmates across the school.
Safer Internet Day – 10th February
On Tuesday, we will be focusing on online safety as part of Safer Internet Day. As digital technology continues to play an increasing role in children’s lives, it is vital that we help them develop the skills and understanding needed to stay safe when online.
Throughout the day, children will be taking part in age-appropriate activities and discussions about using the internet responsibly. We will be talking about things such as being kind online, protecting personal information, knowing what to do if something makes them feel worried or uncomfortable, and understanding that not everything they see online is true.
As parents and carers, you play a hugely important role in supporting these messages at home. Simple actions such as talking regularly with your child about what they do online, encouraging them to ask for help if they are unsure about something, and setting clear boundaries around screen time can make a big difference. It can also be helpful to explore apps, games and websites together so you understand what your child is using and enjoying.
Further guidance, including practical tips and resources for families, can be found here:
https://share.google/5htzHrurWQnLtFOHK
By working together, we can help our children build confidence, resilience and good habits that will support them as they grow up in an increasingly digital world. Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
Nursery and Reception
Next week, our Reception and Nursery Forest School session will take place on Monday morning (9th February) instead of its usual day. Later in the week, on Thursday afternoon, the children will enjoy a fun and creative session celebrating Chinese New Year, with opportunities to take part in dance, art and other exciting creative activities. We’re really looking forward to sharing these special experiences with the children!
Mental Health Awareness Week
Next week, we will be focusing on Mental Health across the school. Mrs McKenna has shared a range of enjoyable and age-appropriate activities for classes, all designed to help children understand how to look after their mental health and wellbeing. Our school leadership teams will also be leading sessions, sharing simple and positive ways we can all support our mental health.
To help mark the week, we invite everyone to wear something yellow on Friday 13th February. This could be a pair of yellow socks or even a full yellow outfit — whatever you have! We’re really looking forward to a bright and positive end to the week. 💛
Book and Biscuit Session
Just to remind our parents that our next Book and Biscuit session will take place on Monday 9th February from 2:45-3:30pm. This will be an opportunity for the children to share what they have been learning in science this term. We look forward to seeing you all.
Clubs – next half-term
After half-term, Year 6 will begin their SATs preparation, with Booster Club starting on Wednesday 25th February. We will also be running a Times Tables Booster group for Year 4 children, and parents are invited to sign up via Arbor.
A big thank you to the staff who are generously giving up their time to run these sessions and provide extra support for our children — it is very much appreciated.
Arbor – outstanding accounts
We kindly ask that any outstanding balances for lunches, breakfast club and after-school clubs are cleared on Arbor before half-term. Thank you for your support with this.
Looking ahead, our new wrap-around breakfast and after-school care sessions for next half-term will be available to pre-book from next week. Further details will be shared shortly, and we appreciate your continued support.
Village Hall Car park
Please can we remind all parents and children not to walk on, or play on the grass verges around the Village Hall Car Park to prevent damage to the dafodills and spring bulbs. Thank you for your cooperation.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend,
Mrs Hopkins
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