Dear Parents/Carers,
As we come to the end of another school year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the past twelve months.
This year has been filled with learning, growth, and memorable moments for all our children. From exciting class projects and educational trips to sporting achievements and school performances, our pupils continue to develop resilience, curiosity, and kindness. It has been a joy to watch them develop both academically and personally.
I’d also like to express my gratitude to our dedicated staff team, who work tirelessly to create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for every child. Their commitment and passion make a real difference to the lives of our pupils. We have some staff moving on to pastures new at the end of the year- we wish Mrs Oduntan, Miss Ali, Mrs Ramadan and Mrs Eiffe good luck as they continue their teaching careers elsewhere. We also thank Miss Cutler, who has been working with Beech class this year, as she moves to a new school in September.
I'd like to reserve a special note of thanks for to Jean , our much-loved school crossing guard, as she retires after 36 years of dedicated service across Richmond Infant School and Burnt Oak Primary. Every morning and afternoon, rain or shine, she has greeted children and families with a smile, keeping everyone safe as they crossed the road. Her warmth and commitment have made her a cherished part of our school community, and she will be greatly missed. We wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.
On a personal note, I finish my term as Interim Head Teacher at the end of the school year, after twenty years working in Medway, I am returning to continue my career in Ireland. It has been an honour and a privilege to lead this school community, even for a short period. I leave knowing that the school is in capable hands and will continue to thrive in the years ahead under Mr Wignall's leadership.
To our Year 6 pupils moving on to secondary school: we are immensely proud of all you have achieved during your time here. We know you will carry forward the values and skills you’ve gained, and we wish you every success in the next stage of your education.
To all families, whether you’re returning in September or moving on to new adventures, thank you for being part of our school community this year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back after a restful and enjoyable summer break.
Wishing you all a happy and safe summer holiday.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Murphy
As the school year draws to a close, we bid a fond farewell to our Headteacher, Mr Murphy. Though his time at Burnt Oak has been relatively short, his impact has been truly profound. With unwavering dedication, a clear vision, and a genuine passion for education, Mr Murphy has helped shape a positive and inspiring environment for both staff and students alike.
We are incredibly grateful for the energy, care, and leadership he has brought to our school community. His presence will be greatly missed, but his contributions will continue to resonate long after his departure.
As Mr Murphy returns to Ireland to begin a new chapter, we extend our heartfelt thanks and wish him every success and happiness in the future. Go n-éirí an bóthar leat, Mr Murphy – the road rise to meet you!
Mr Geary and all at Burnt Oak
Well done to all of the students at Kikumon Martial Art School as we complete another grading at Burnt Oak Primary. We are saying a massive congratulations to Kai for achieving your black belt and to all the other pupils who succeeded at thier grading. A huge shout out to our 2 students of the month, Jessica and Arthur, who always go above and beyond in every class.
Have an amazing summer!
As part of Bastille Day, Burnt Oak Primary School took part in different activities. Some of the school took part in a virtual school trip to Paris! In EYFS, the children learnt about planes and pilots. They took their passports with them and then landed in Paris ready to discover the Eiffel tower! Children also tried different French food, such as brioche and French apple tart!
Our fabulous dance team performed at Chatham Carnival. The theme was films and games so they transformed into 'revolting children' from Matilda. We had a huge, kind and supportive audience that cheered the children on. We are incredibly proud of their hard work in learning the dance on some very hot Friday afternoons! Miss King is hoping to lead a dance team again in September where the first performance will be to be part of an event that welcomes Santa himself to the Pentagon. IF you fancy joining, keep your eyes peeled in September!
Visit www.place2be.org.uk/family to learn more about these free resources from Place2Be.
Place2Be, our in-school mental health support service, has a variety of resources to help you support your child's wellbeing.
Their Parenting Smart website offers free practical advice on a range of topics including bullying, the transition to secondary/high school, meltdowns, and sleep difficulties. Visit Place2Be: Parenting Smart: Articles to read more.
Place2Be's Parenting Smart - Online Course is a free, 6-week course designed to support parents and carers of primary-age children in their parenting journey. The next Parenting Smart course is due to begin on 23rd September 2025. Register by 16th September 2025. Click on the following link for further information: Place2Be's Parenting Smart - Online Course
If you have any questions or would like more advice, please contact Andrea at Andrea.Brotherston@place2be.org
Please name all of your child's clothing and belongings that they bring to school.
Dark green sweatshirt/fleece/cardigan;
White or yellow polo shirt, shirt or blouse;
Grey trousers, skirt or pinafore dress;
Black flat shoes (not trainers).
PE Kit
Plain white ir yellow T-shirt;
Dark green or black shorts;
Black plimsolls (lace up plimsolls may not be used for apparatus);
Sturdy, flexible soled trainers for outside games (KS2 only);
Black jogging bottoms or tracksuit for outside games on cooler days;
Swimming trunks (brief style not shorts) or one piece costume (KS2 only);
Draw string bag to keep all PE kit in.
Key Dates- Term 1:
1st September- Staff development day
2nd September- First day of term
17th October- End of term