Dear Families,

I hope this newsletter finds you well. We are continuing to have a fantastic term during this Jubilee year, and I would like to take this opportunity to share some highlights and upcoming events with you.

We are incredibly proud of our pupils for their enthusiasm and dedication to learning. This term, our Year 5 and 6 have been taking part in challenging learning in RE focussed on the Transfiguration, exploring the wonders of scripture and linking to their lives today. The quality and their depth of knowledge is very impressive. Meanwhile, pupils in Lower Key Stage 2 have been getting creative with drama and art, producing some wonderful drama based on Luke's scripture and also making their very own stunning Class Rosary. Photo attached! EYFS and KS1 are working hard every day with a particular focus on their phonic skills, reading and handwriting - we are all so impressed with the effort and resilience they are showing. Please keep reading with your child every day - it really does unlock access to the whole curriculum!

OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) during lunchtime continues to develop and I am           incredibly appreciative of the parents support and suggestions for future developments. The children are provided with rich daily opportunities to play outside but in addition to this offer the school lunchtime does include the children having access to the school chapel, school library and lunchtime club - which are all currently held inside the building. In addition we welcome children having the option to wear waterproof overalls or their own clothes during the lunch break - particularly if you believe this would support them in their play.    

Upcoming Events

Opening of Our School Prayer Garden: On Friday 14th February families who have        donated towards the creation of our school prayer garden are invited to attend an official opening of this beautiful space within our school site. The Chapel Champions along with the School Choir will lead the service and we are delighted to welcome Fr Richard and Mrs Tracey Sessions to join the school family during the afternoon. We look forward to every child being able to access this space from Term 4 onwards.

Safer Internet Day: Tuesday 25th February will be celebrated during the school day with the theme “Too good to be true”?  How can we learn to protect ourselves and others from scams online.

Year 4 SKERN Residential: Children in Year 4 will depart on the morning of Friday 28th   February and return to school on the afternoon of  Sunday 2nd March after a fun packed weekend.

Parents’ Evening: Taking place on Tuesday March 11th and Thursday March 20th from 3.30pm - 6.00pm. This is a great opportunity to discuss your child’s progress with their teacher. Further information will provided with booking online at the beginning of Term 4.

World Book Day: Thursday 6th March, this will be a fun packed day focussed on the love of reading and children are invited to come to school dressed as their favourite book character. Please encourage your child to start thinking about their favourite characters from the books they love. More details to follow.

Feast Day Mass: Friday 7^th March at 9.15am celebrated in the St John the Baptist Parish Church - all welcome! 

Reminders

Please ensure your child arrives at school on time every day - school gates open at 8.30am and close at 8.45am

School uniform must be worn daily; if you need assistance, please contact the office.

A huge thank you to all parents and carers for your continued support. Your involvement in our school community is invaluable, and we appreciate everything you do to support your child’s learning. Particular thank you to the Parent Representatives who dedicate their own time to work in partnership with the school and strengthen our wonderful community. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Warm regards,

Mrs K O'Rourke