Issue 27

Dear Parents

Welcome to this edition of Fort-knightly News, where we capture the vibrant tapestry of events and activities unfolding within our school and beyond. In this edition we see Reception set sail on a pirate adventure, Year 6 travel from blackout to blitz and Year 3 navigate their way around the grounds. As we delve into this fortnight’s highlights, I'm reminded of a poignant quote: "A picture is worth a thousand words." Indeed, within each snapshot of school life lies a myriad of stories waiting to be told.

Reminiscent of wartime, one of our extra-curricular activities this term is knitting, which has proved to be very popular! We have embarked on a project inspired by the idea that small hands can make a big difference. Together, we are knitting blankets for the babies in the neonatal care unit of our local hospital supporting our chosen charity SSNAP.

We would love the wider Chandlings community to get involved with this initiative. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a novice, your contribution, whether big or small, will help us spread warmth and comfort to those who need it most. You can find out more by clicking here.

With best wishes

Fiona Love
Deputy Head Academic

Ahoy Maties! Reception Sets Sail on a Pirate Adventure!

Get ready to raise the Jolly Roger! Reception kicked off the term with a swashbuckling adventure, perfectly embodying Chandlings Prep's commitment to championing childhood and innovation.

Their adventure started with crafting personalised treasure chests. Gems, buttons, and pirate treasures adorned their creations, making each one unique. Even pirates embrace technology! Using PurpleMash, the young buccaneers explored interactive puzzles and created mash cams. Lunch was a feast fit for a pirate captain! Children "snuck" through a treasure cove, past sleeping parrots and tangled vines, emerging onto an ocean of blue tablecloths leading to a pirate banquet. Skull goblets and themed cakes fueled their imaginations and their tummies!

No pirate journey is complete without a treasure hunt! Each class deciphered clues, following a trail across the playground with their treasure chests in tow. These clues led them to puzzle pieces that, when combined, revealed a magnificent image of a treasure chest - a symbol of their teamwork and endeavour. From crafting personalised keepsakes to mastering digital tools and embarking on an epic quest, Reception's pirate day was a celebration of learning and imagination. The children captured their adventures in writing and their enthusiasm and descriptive language left us incredibly impressed!

This immersive experience is a testament to how we bring learning to life. By blending imagination with the foundations of endeavour, innovation and adventure, Reception's pirate day created an opportunity for exploration, teamwork, and of course, a healthy dose of pirate spirit!

From Blackout to Blitz: Year 6 enjoy immersive WW2 experience

Year 6 at Chandlings Prep took a trip through history on WW2 Day! This exciting, cross-curricular event brought history to life through creative projects, code-breaking activities, and even wartime performances.

Students donned handmade gas mask boxes (a Maths project!) and learned about rationing in English, inspired by "When the Sky Falls." Science tackled blackouts with a light-blocking experiment, while Maths cracked codes like Bletchley Park. The children also headed up to the gardens and planted their own beans ("Dig for Victory"!)

The afternoon featured dramatic performances inspired by wartime photos, followed by a celebratory VE Day tea party with music! Students even learned classic tunes like "A Long Way to Tipperary."

This immersive experience is a prime example of Chandlings Prep's innovative approach to learning, making history fun and engaging for all.

Have a read of Josh and Wilf's accounts of the day to find out even more.

Year 3 go exploring with compasses

Year 3 at Chandlings Prep set sail on a mathematical adventure! Their current maths topic is directions, and they're putting their knowledge to the test in a way that's both fun and educational.

Forget textbooks – these intrepid explorers are navigating their way around the school grounds using nothing but compasses! By deciphering cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) and plotting courses to different destinations, they're not only mastering abstract concepts but also developing their spatial reasoning skills in a hands-on way.

This exciting activity highlights our commitment to innovative learning. Year 3 students are proving that maths can be a real adventure, filled with discovery and navigational fun!

Marmalade Masterclass: Year 2 Spreads the Word on Sandwich Making!

Year 2 at Chandlings Prep took their love of literature and a healthy dose of creativity to the classroom! Inspired by Michel Bond's Paddington Bear stories, they have been busy crafting mouthwatering masterpieces – marmalade sandwiches, of course!

But this isn't your average lunchtime activity. Year 2 has been delving into the exciting world of instructional writing, all thanks to Paddington's penchant for these sticky treats. By learning the art of clear and concise instructions, they've penned their own step-by-step guides on how to prepare the perfect marmalade sandwich.

From "putting the marmalade on the bread" to "putting the slices together and smushing them around!” they have meticulously detailed every step of the process.

The best part? Putting their creations to the test! After sharing their instructions, the children enjoyed a delicious marmalade feast, no doubt channelling their inner Paddington as they savoured each bite.

This innovative lesson perfectly exemplifies Chandlings Prep's commitment to engaging and interdisciplinary learning. By combining a beloved story with practical writing skills, Year 2 not only honed their literacy skills but also discovered the joy of creating something delicious – a win-win for both their minds and taste buds!

Chandlings Prep Young Golfers Shine at Frilford Heath

Young golfers from Chandlings Prep enjoyed a successful outing at the prestigious Frilford Heath Golf Club, participating in both Senior and Junior competitions.

Over two days, fifteen talented young athletes showcased their skills on the challenging course, demonstrating their dedication and sportsmanship. Even Thursday's rain couldn't dampen their spirits, as they embraced the competition with enthusiasm.

Congratulations to Emile (5C) and Zayn (4U) who emerged victorious as the overall winners! A special shout-out goes to all participants, particularly those who tackled the course for the first time.

The event's success wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of Mr. Clarke, who organised this for our golfers. We also extend our gratitude to the supportive parents who cheered on their children throughout the competition.