Issue 25

World Book Week got off to a poetic start at Chandlings Prep with the inaugural Poetry Festival. This celebration of language and verse saw children from Nursery all the way up to Year 6 immersed in the world of poems.

Nursery and Reception classes launched the festival with delightful group recitals. As the children got older, the focus shifted to individual performances. Each student tackled the challenge of learning a poem by heart, then bravely presented it before their classmates. From the antics of Roald Dahl's "The Crocodile" to the pestering child in Allan Ahlberg's "Please Mrs Butler," the poems covered a wide range of emotions and styles.

The festival culminated in a special recital for parents, children, and staff. Each class sent their champion poet, the student who delivered the most captivating performance. With a mix of nervous energy and pure enthusiasm, the children recited their chosen poems, captivating the audience with their love of language.

Whether it was the rhythmic beats of Michael Rosen's "Welly Boots" or the food concoctions in Jude Simpson's "Crisps with Custard," the poems transported everyone on a journey of imagination.

The Chandlings Prep Inaugural Poetry Festival was a resounding success. It not only tested the children's memory and performance skills, but also fostered a love of language and appreciation for the power of poetry. We can't wait to see what poems next year's festival brings!

A big thank you to the incredible author and illustrator, Helen and Thomas Docherty! Their "Snatchabook" illustration and storytelling workshops ignited a spark of creativity in our Nursery to Year 4 students. The Year 3 and 4 children even had the privilege of performing their book "Abracazebra" to them on stage, thanks to Mrs. Belcher's brilliant adaptation for our Year 3 and Year 4 play! Their visit was a truly magical experience for all. 

Our talented Year 1 and Year 2 children took to the stage last week with enthusiasm, showcasing their musical and performance skills. From percussion to keyboard, ballet to choral speaking, it was a feast for the senses!

Percussion and keyboard clubs set the tempo with 'Another One Bites the Dust' and 'Frère Jacques'.

The Year 1 and 2 choir captivated us with four beautiful pieces, including the funny 'Tall Story' and the timeless 'Give a Little Whistle'.

Ballet dancers gracefully twirled across the stage, adding a touch of elegance to the afternoon

Choral speaking brought a dragon to life, engaging both young and old alike.

And who could forget the hilarious performance by Music Theatre Club with 'What Shall We Do' by Katherine Freeman!

The concert reached its crescendo with the Year 1 and Year 2 choir's rendition of the humorous 'Dingle Dangle Scarecrow' and the lively traditional West Indian song, 'Tinga Layo!'

A huge round of applause to all the performers, teachers, and staff involved in making this event such a resounding success.

Reception buzzed with excitement as they hosted their Mummies for a special afternoon tea! The celebration kicked off with a heartwarming (or even tear jerking!)song from the children, followed by the presentation of homemade treasures - beautiful cards, decorated placemats, and delicious cookies adorned with sprinkles. Over a yummy tea, laughter and love filled the air, making it a truly special Mother's Day treat!

Year 3 & 4 at Chandlings Prep brought the wonderful children's book, "Abracazebra," to life with a world-premiere play!  The play, brilliantly adapted by our very own Mrs. Belcher, tells the tale of Yawnalot's transformation from sleepy town, entertained by boat-buildling goats, to a magical place with the arrival of zebras. 

Their world is suddenly taken over with magic, colour and a newfound zest for life. The Goats, not happy about being usurped, run the Zebras out of town, until they realise their actions have made the rest of the town miserable. All of Yawnalot work together to fetch the Zebras back and the magic is restored! 

Not only did the children work extra hard to put on this truly magical spectacle but they were able to perform it to the authors of the original story, Helen and Thomas Docherty, who visited Chandlings to watch the show and provide workshops to the children. Amazing!