Issue 28

Year 5C is taking multiplication by storm – and not just with worksheets! These creative learners are constructing their own learning aids using LEGO!

The class embarked on a project to design multiplication flashcards with a twist. Using LEGO bricks, they constructed arrays to represent multiplication problems. For example, some students created a grid with 11 rows of 8 studs each, visually demonstrating 11 x 8 = 88.

But the fun didn't stop there! These innovative flashcards are double-sided. On the back, students wrote the answer in a "digital style display," replicating the format of calculators. Alternatively, they cleverly concealed the answers under a LEGO lid, creating a self-checking tool.

This engaging activity not only reinforces multiplication facts but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Year 5C is proving that learning can be fun and interactive!

We challenge our Chandlings Prep community: Can YOU create your own revision tools for multiplication and division facts? Think outside the box (or should we say, LEGO box!) and share your ideas with us!

In addition (!) How Many Maths Words Can You Find in this article!

31 talented young performers from Chandlings Prep returned home this week after a successful showing at the renowned Cheltenham Festival. This year's participation marks the school's fourth consecutive year at the Festival, the oldest of Cheltenham's famed arts festivals.

The Festival boasts over 300 classes across Music, Drama, and Dance, attracting over 1,000 children in the Speech & Drama section alone. Chandlings Prep students rose to this competitive environment with dedication and talent, showcasing their skills in various categories.

A Spotlight on Endeavour and Excellence

A special shout-out goes to Katherine S, who received the highly prestigious Junior Championship Award! This coveted award recognises the best verse speaker from Year 6 and under, placing Katherine at the top of a pool of 265 participants. Joining her in the spotlight was Rosie Trietline, securing a commendable third place in the same category, further solidifying Chandlings Prep's strong showing in Verse Speaking.

Adding to the celebration, Chandlings Prep students brought home a remarkable haul of accolades! Amongst the 31 participants, they received 6 trophies, 6 gold awards, 14 silver medals, and 12 bronze medals across a diverse range of disciplines. These included impressive performances in musical theatre, acting, film making, and verse speaking. The school's Year 5 and 6 choral club further distinguished itself by winning the coveted trophy for junior choral speaking.

Beyond the Awards: Confidence and Growth

While awards are a source of pride, Chandlings Prep emphasises the holistic benefits of participation. Rebecca Vines, Chandlings LAMDA teacher said, “the most important thing for me is seeing them walk purposefully up on to the stage in a room full of strangers, and present with integrity, discipline and self-confidence. Treating triumph and disaster just the same is perhaps the most vital lesson learned by inviting such public critique, and is such a valuable experience to grapple with at a young age.”

Chandlings Prep celebrates not just the awards earned at the Cheltenham Festival, but also the journey of its students. Their participation exemplifies the school's core values – a commitment to fostering a love for the arts and nurturing a spirit of adventure and endeavour.

Years 1, 2 and 4 did themselves proud at their informal concerts in front of class mates, staff and parents! These budding virtuosos showcased their talents on piano, cello, drums, trumpet, LAMDA and even the double bass!

The informal concerts are an amazing way to build confidence and celebrate the dedication and hard work of our budding performers.  At Chandlings Prep, we champion endeavour, and these concerts are a true testament to that spirit!

This term, Year 4 at Chandlings Prep embarked on a thrilling adventure, journeying back in time to explore the magnificent Warwick Castle.

The morning was packed with exploration. Children learnt about the powerful trebuchet, a medieval siege weapon, and even witnessed it in action! Wandering through the Time Tower, they delved deeper into the rich history of Warwick Castle.

But the adventure didn't stop there! Lunchtime brought a unique challenge – enjoying a picnic lunch while keeping a watchful eye on the skies. The awe-inspiring bird of prey display showcased magnificent eagles and other birds of prey.

Next came a test of courage! Year 4 bravely ascended the steep steps of Caesar's Tower, a towering structure roughly the height of 10 double-decker buses! From the top, they were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Their day concluded with a fascinating demonstration by a skilled Bowman, who unveiled the secrets of medieval archery, the equipment used, and the techniques employed by these skilled warriors.

Year 4's trip to Warwick Castle perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure that Chandlings Prep champions. Their enthusiasm for history and thirst for knowledge shone brightly throughout the day. Not only did they gain valuable historical insights, but they also displayed excellent behaviour, acting as true ambassadors for Chandlings Prep.

Prepare to tumble down the rabbit hole! Year 6 at Chandlings Prep recently transported audiences to a fantastical realm with their spellbinding performance of "Wonderland," an original production written and produced by our very own Kate Belcher, Head of Drama.

This captivating adaptation of Lewis Carroll's timeless tale presented a unique twist – seven phenomenal Year 6 girls shared the role of Alice! Each brought their own interpretation to this iconic character, weaving a rich tapestry of personalities and emotions.

The production was a sensory feast, bursting with energy. Original songs, including The Caucus Race, All Alone in Wonderland (a moving Grade 4 musical theatre piece), and the foot-tapping Lobster Quadrille, had the audience thoroughly engaged.

There was a new slant on characters, like the eccentric French chef with his pepper-heavy recipes which added delightful humour to the familiar world of Wonderland. Of course, no trip to Wonderland would be complete without the iconic Mad Hatter, the formidable Queen of Hearts, and the ever-present (and occasionally disappearing) Cheshire Cat.

Year 6's performance was a masterclass in storytelling. Beautiful solos punctuated the play, showcasing the childrens’ remarkable vocal talents. The production flowed seamlessly, a testament to the meticulous direction and acting.

Our youngest children in Nursery watched the dress rehearsal and were totally captivated, a well-deserved recognition of the exceptional talent on display. Huge congratulations go to the entire Year 6 cast, the dedicated musicians Ms. Sharp, Ms. Cebuleski, and Ms. Bownds, Mrs Martin for creating magnificent scenery and of course the mastermind behind it all – Mrs. Belcher. 

Seeing these 10 and 11-year-olds deliver such a polished and captivating performance is a true testament to the dedication and talent nurtured at Chandlings Prep. It was an unforgettable journey down the rabbit hole, leaving audiences eager for the next theatrical adventure from Chandlings Prep!

Year 2 at Chandlings Prep wrapped up their English topic all about the beloved Paddington Bear, with a Teddy Bears' Picnic fit for a bear himself!

This immersive experience wasn't just about fun and games (though there were plenty of those too!). Throughout the term, Year 2 embarked on a journey with Paddington, learning valuable skills along the way.

• Proper Nouns: They mastered the art of identifying proper nouns, ensuring their writing was clear and precise.

• Sensory Exploration: Describing settings came alive as they painted pictures with their words.

• Poetic Pursuits: They crafted their own rhyming poems

• Storytelling Savvy: They explored narrative structures, planning and writing their own unique Paddington-inspired stories.

• Marmalade Masterclass: Inspired by Paddington's love of marmalade, they tackled the art of instruction writing, outlining the steps to create the perfect marmalade sandwich.

• Letter Writing Extravaganza: Formal and informal letters expanding their communication skills.

With all this hard work under their belts, a celebratory Teddy Bears' Picnic was well deserved! Year 2 welcomed a special guest – Paddington himself! – for an afternoon filled with laughter, delicious treats, and a screening of the Paddington movie.

This immersive experience exemplifies Chandlings Prep's innovative approach to learning. By bringing literature to life, we spark a love for reading and inspire Year 2 to embrace their own creativity and storytelling talents. Year 2's Paddington adventure may have come to an end, but the lessons learned and the love for reading will continue!

On Sunday 19th May, many wonderful Chandlings children, parents and staff donned their trainers in order to take part in the Blenheim Fun Run. Children and adults took part in either a 1 mile or a 7km run through the beautiful parklands, all to raise money for our chosen charity, SSNAP. The atmosphere was wonderful and the sun shone all morning. The Chandlings community raised an incredible £1773! Thank you so much to all those who participated, supported and donated.  

This half term the focus has been on the Chandlings Prep value - sharing. But here, learning goes beyond textbooks – it's about fostering a community built on kindness and collaboration.

The Chandlings Prep children have embraced this concept in several different ways which have been shared on the Values Blackboard.

• Rory, the Bookmark Buddy: Inspired by a love of reading, Rory created a bookmark for each classmate.

• Benjamin, the Digital Champion: Recognising the power of knowledge sharing, Benjamin stepped up to share his digital learning expertise with classmates, fostering understanding and teamwork.

• Oliver, the Musical Maestro: In the spirit of musical collaboration, Oliver generously shared his chromebook in music class, ensuring everyone could participate and contribute.

These are just a few examples of how Chandlings Prep children are putting the value of sharing into action. School life here extends beyond academic achievement. We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals who understand the importance of empathy, generosity, and supporting one another.