Issue 42

On Monday the 9th September, Year 2 had a marvellous morning 'up, up and away'! 

The day will filled with joy, curiosity and wonder. The children played parachute games and thought about how a hot air balloon works. In their English lessons they made hot air balloons, thought about places they would one day like to visit and their own wish for the future. 

As a year group they all enjoyed a walk to the avenue of trees, blew bubbles and watched them float up, up and away! 

The children had a fantastic time launching our new dinosaur topic! 

Dressed as brave explorers, they followed dinosaur footprints around the school grounds. These led them to an exciting discovery - a nest filled with dinosaur eggs!

Back in the classroom, the children became fossil hunters, carefully chipping away at clay to reveal hidden fossils. 

It was a brilliant start to the topic, sparking lots of curiosity and excitement for the weeks ahead.

The children in Reception have enjoyed being outside in the sunshine around the school. 

Whether playing in the Lavender Courtyard or out and about in the grounds lots of fun has been had. 

This included a wonderful visit to our oak tree with Mr Foster; they have spoken about the leaves and the acorns as well as the changes that will happen during the different seasons. 

The children were then treated to a lovely story under the trees. Outdoor learning is a firm favourite in Reception! 

Year 3 have been stepping back in time to study the Romans! 

They became archaeologists, carefully brushing away sand to uncover hidden treasures. 

The children were also very excited to discover Roman mosaic tiles, part of a Roman urn and some Roman coins. 

They then discussed what these artefacts might have been used for in Roman times, showing great curiosity and imagination. The children then went on to learn about Roman mosaics and had a go at creating their own mosaic designs.

We captured some fantastic photos of their discoveries in action, which really brought history to life!

Mr Foster, Head of Outdoor Learning, and some of our gardening club students picked some incredible vegetables from our wonderful (and clearly nutritious) school garden. 

They harvested GIANT pumpkins, courgettes, potatoes, corn on the cob, onions and sunflowers. 

The pumpkins are big enough to make Cinderella’s carriage jealous! Our talented catering team will be including these veggies in our lunchtime meals soon.

 Homegrown, healthy and full of deliciousness.

Year 5 enjoyed a fantastic three days on their Land and Wave residential trip. It was filled with excitement, teamwork, and plenty of outdoor fun. 

Spirits were high on Day 1 as students stepped into the role of Robin Hood, honing their archery skills and learning how to make fire using ferro rods. The day ended with a wonderful evening of songs and laughter around the campfire. A truly perfect ending to a brilliant first day.

Day 2 began with dramatic thunder and lightning, but our resilient students weren’t deterred. Their determination was soon rewarded with sunshine and clear skies, setting the scene for an unforgettable day on the Swanage coastline. The children had a brilliant time catching waves and enjoying well-earned ice creams in the sun.

Day 3 took a historical turn as Year 5 explored the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle. Surrounded by stunning views and centuries of history, the children enjoyed learning more about this remarkable National Trust site.

It was an incredible few days and a trip that all Year 5 will remember for years to come!

The Year 6 Science curriculum is designed to prepare the children for their transition to secondary school. 

It revisits key concepts, builds on their knowledge, and helps develop their scientific exploration skills. At the start of the academic year, the Year 6 students had the chance to use a variety of lab equipment that they’ll come across in their next school. This includes the ever-popular and exciting Bunsen Burners. 

This topic is always a favourite, as the children learn how to light and use a Bunsen burner safely before earning their Bunsen burner licence.

The School Council is up and running for this academic year and we had a great first meeting last Friday. We have a pupil representative for every class in years 3-6, known as 'class reps', and we get together every Friday afternoon. 

Our voices matter and, in the School Council, we enjoy discussing different ideas for the school and sharing our opinions about the things that are important to us.

 Our reps for this half of the academic year (until February) are Myra, Dottie, Sebbie, Asher, Noah, Locke, Gracie and Wilf. Welcome to the School Council. We can already tell it's going to be a great year. 

At the moment, we are busy organising a vote to choose a name for the new sensory room. Later this term, we will join forces with the Charity and Wellbeing ambassadors to begin planning for this year's talent show 'Chandlings' Got Talent for Charity' 2025.

We can't wait - watch this space!