EYFS

Over the past few weeks in EYFS, we have been focusing on developing the children's Physical Development through a range of engaging activities.

For gross motor development, the children have enjoyed climbing, digging in the mud kitchen, and creating their own obstacle courses, helping to build strength, balance, coordination, and confidence.

To support fine motor development, the children have been using a variety of tools, including spoons, paintbrushes, and pouring equipment. These activities encourage control, precision, and hand strength, as well as developing important skills such as crossing the midline, which supports both physical development and early writing skills.

Key Stage 1

On Wednesday, as part of their Science topic on habitats, Year 2 had an amazing experience meeting a variety of rainforest creatures with Kieran from Zoolab.

The children enjoyed learning about five fascinating animals and were even brave enough to hold some of them. They met a Giant African Snail, an Australian Tree Frog, a Hissing Cockroach, a Mexican Flame-Legged Tarantula and a Farmyard Corn Snake.

Kieran explained the different habitats the animals come from and shared lots of interesting facts about each one. The children were amazed to learn that Giant African Snails have around 10,000 teeth on their tongues! They also discovered that cockroaches can survive in almost all habitats and can withstand extreme conditions, including fire and ice.

One of the most surprising facts was about the Australian Tree Frog. As tree frogs have no teeth, their eyeballs roll backwards to help push food down into their stomachs before returning to their normal position!

The visit was a fantastic hands-on learning experience and helped bring our habitats topic to life.

Lower Key Stage 2

Year 3 Science

This week in Science, Year 3 became nutrition experts as they explored different food groups and discovered how each on helps our bodies stay healthy. The children learned about carbohydrates, proteins, dairy, fruits and vegetables, and fats, discussing the important role each food group plays in providing energy, supporting growth, and keeping us healthy.  The children enjoyed sharing what they eat for their dinners and discussed whether their meals include a balanced range of food groups. They then worked brilliantly to sort a range of foods into the correct categories, demonstrating excellent teamwork and understanding! 

Upper Key Stage 2

Year 6 Crack the code at Bletchley Park

Our Year 6 pupils recently enjoyed an unforgettable visit to Bletchley Park, the home of Britain's famous Second World War codebreakers. It was a fascinating day filled with history, mystery and problem-solving, bringing our learning about World War II to life.

During the visit, the children took part in an exciting codebreaking workshop where they worked together to solve secret messages. Before beginning, they were required to sign a 'secrecy agreement', just as the men and women working at Bletchley Park did during the war. This helped the children appreciate the immense responsibility and secrecy involved in the vital work carried out at the site.

Pupils also learned how the successful cracking of German codes provided crucial intelligence to the Allied forces. Through interactive displays and presentations, they discovered how information gathered at Bletchley Park played a significant part in helping British and Allied troops prepare for the D-Day landings and storm the beaches of Normandy.

One of the highlights of the day was exploring the magnificent mansion at the heart of Bletchley Park. Children learned that many new recruits were first brought here and introduced to the secret work taking place on the site. They discovered the strict rules workers had to follow and the importance of never discussing their work, even with family members.

As we explored the grounds, pupils walked along the same paths and roads once used daily by some of Britain's most remarkable thinkers, mathematicians, linguists and codebreakers. It was inspiring to stand in the very place where people from all walks of life came together to help change the course of history.

The children were fascinated by the original wartime buildings, the famous huts where codebreaking took place and the stories of individuals whose work remained secret for many years after the war ended. They were particularly interested to learn about the determination, teamwork and resilience shown by those working at Bletchley Park under immense pressure.

We are incredibly proud of the children and would like to thank everyone who helped make this memorable experience possible.

Lego Workshop

This week, children across the school took part in our exciting LEGO workshops, where they worked collaboratively to tackle a range of creative and problem-solving challenges. The sessions encouraged pupils to think critically, communicate effectively and persevere when faced with new tasks. The workshops formed part of a whole-school programme of LEGO activities taking place over several days.

It was wonderful to see the children showing such enthusiasm as they designed, built and tested their creations. They demonstrated fantastic teamwork, resilience and creativity, while developing important STEM skills in a fun and engaging way. The workshops also provided opportunities for children to share ideas, learn from one another and celebrate each other's successes.

The children thoroughly enjoyed the workshops and were incredibly proud of what they achieved.

Antibullying Week

Anti‑Bullying Week will take place from 16th to 20th November, and this year’s theme — Break the Silence — encourages pupils to speak up, support one another, and help make our school a kinder, safer community. We’ll begin the week with Odd Sock Day on Monday 16th November, celebrating individuality and reminding everyone that differences should be respected. Throughout the week, pupils will take part in activities and discussions designed to promote confidence, empathy, and positive relationships. 

Nut free school

We’d like to remind everyone that our school is nut-free to help keep all of our children safe and healthy. Even if no one in your family has allergies, please remember that products containing nuts, such as pesto, Nutella, and Kinder Bueno shouldn’t be brought to school.

Thank you so much for taking the time to check lunch boxes and snacks. Your care and support make such a big difference in keeping our school a safe place for everyone. 

Attendance procedures

Attendance 

If your child is ill and will not be attending school, please contact the school office on 01442 264 324 before 09.00 to give the reason for this. It is especially important to notify us if the condition is one which might be transmissible to other children. We follow guidance issued by the Health Protection Agency and ask that you keep your child at home for 48 hours after their last bout of sickness or diarrhea. 

Late Arrival

If you arrive after 8:45, please come to the school office with your child. We’ll get them signed in and make sure their lunch order is taken for the day.

We know mornings can be busy, but arriving on time helps your child start the day calmly and not miss out on learning. 

Leave of absence

At Belswains Primary School authorisation for leave of absence from school for in term time is considered on an individual basis and will only be granted in exceptional circumstances and it must also meet the following conditions:

• A request is made at least three weeks in advance of the leave to the Headteacher by the Parent and must be made on the ‘Leave Of Absence Request Form’ which is available from the school office or school website

• The leave does not take place during the first 2 weeks of the school year.

• For children in Y6, the leave does not take place during SATs or the 4 weeks prior to the start of SATs (SATs take place during May. Exact dates are published to parents at the start of the school year).  

Calling All Parents and Carers- Share Your Career Story!

We would love to invite parents and carers from children in Key Stage 2 to come into school and talk with our children about their careers. Hearing first-hand experiences helps bring learning to life, broadens horizons, and inspires pupils to think about the many different paths they might take in the future.

Whether you work in an office, run your own business, have a hands-on trade, or volunteer in your community, every story is valuable. You don’t need a formal presentation- just a willingness to chat about what you do, how you got there, and what a typical day looks like.

If you are interested in taking part, please get in touch with the school office. We are happy to be flexible with times and formats, whether that’s a short classroom talk, a Q&A session, or bringing in tools or examples from your work.

Thank you for helping us inspire the next generation!

PSHE: Learning about Benedict's Law

As part of their PSHE learning this term, children took part in lessons exploring Benedict’s Law and the importance of allergy awareness and safety. Benedict’s Law was introduced following the tragic death of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who suffered a severe allergic reaction at school. The law aims to improve allergy safety in schools by ensuring that staff and pupils understand how to prevent, recognise and respond to allergic reactions. 

During the lessons, pupils learned about different types of allergies, the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, and how they can help to keep their friends safe by showing understanding and consideration. They discussed the importance of reading labels, not sharing food, respecting Individual Healthcare Plans, and knowing what to do if someone needs help. The children showed great maturity during discussions and developed a deeper understanding of how everyone can play a part in creating a safe and inclusive school environment for all.

Writer and Maths Star of the week

Congratulations to all the pupils who received a certificate in assembly, your teachers have noticed that your work in English and maths lessons has been outstanding!

Writer of the Week

Key Stage 1: Jiyana (Year 1 Goldcrests) and Nellie (Year 2 Swifts)

Lower Key Stage 2: Thomas (Year 3 Redwings) and Finn (Year 4 Nightingales)

Upper Key Stage 2: Muhammed Farhaan (Year 6 Falcons) and Emily (Year 6 Red Kites)

Maths Star of the Week

Key Stage 1: Olive (Year 1 Firecrests) and Aliza (Year 2 Starlings)

Lower Key Stage 2: Blake (Year 4 Owls) and Ro (Year 3 Redwings)

Upper Key Stage 2: Anika (Year 5 Hawks) and Harley (Year 5 Eagles)

Community and Family Information