Issue 41

A few weeks back, our corridors were buzzing with excitement as the children turned detectives in a gripping school-wide "Who Did It"! Someone had stolen Mrs Bott's ice lollies and we left it up to our budding investigators to crack the case.

Eight suspects. One thief. A crime scene cordoned off with tape. Mysterious clues scattered throughout. From Monday onwards, each class threw themselves into solving the mystery, examining evidence, discussing alibis, and using their best detective skills to narrow down the list of possible culprits. The children showed incredible teamwork, logical thinking, and above all, boundless enthusiasm!

Finally, at Friday’s assembly, the moment of truth arrived. Using a process of elimination and careful analysis, the children uncovered the truth...

The thief was MR FOSTER!

Mr Foster's punishment was no puddings for a week! We’re also pleased to report that no hard feelings remain. It was all in good fun, and the whole school had a brilliant time getting involved in the mystery.

A huge well done to all of our investigators. Who knows what crime might strike next?

What a way to end the year for our Performing Arts ensembles and Artists! 

With 26 different performances and 15 exhibitions, children, parents and staff were treated to a veritable smorgasbord of events. 

From singing to dancing, acting to orchestra, ballet to sculpture trails, hanging mobiles to theatre, and much much more, there was something for everyone. Highlights included the opening song which involved every pupil from Years 1 to 6, singing their heart to a live band in 'I Just Can't Wait to be King', and acrobatic dance numbers on the lawn by the Senior Modern Dance troupe. 

A fantastic afternoon had by all. Thank you to all the parents that came to support the children. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a day of fun! The event was a fantastic success, with an incredible variety of food, drinks, and activities for all ages. 

Parents and staff enjoyed fresh, gourmet wood-fired pizzas from The Pizza Post, delicious artisan Punjabi vegan samosas from Pindy’s Samosas, and refreshing drinks including PIMM’S and Prosecco from Gees Mobile Bar. PATCH kept everyone cool and caffeinated with ice creams, teas, and coffees.

The entertainment was in full swing with bouncy castles, a “Beat The Goalie” challenge, an exciting gymnastics display and competition by Ms Poppy’s, an inflatable obstacle course, pedal go-karts, and roller races, all provided by Ultimate Activity.

A huge thank you to everyone who supported the raffle, which raised an impressive £680! With over £1,000 worth of prizes donated, your generosity truly made a difference.

Thank you to PATCH and all of our other current parents for giving myself and Ms Cook a wonderful send off. We’re so grateful to all who helped make the day such a wonderful success! 

After reading extracts from Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian and When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle, the children in Year 6 wrote their own stories based on the experiences of WWII evacuees. 

Their writing showed great empathy for the thousands of children who travelled far from home to seek safety in the countryside during the war.

To bring their stories to life, the children published them in beautifully crafted, handmade pop-up books. 

Each one featured detailed artwork depicting 1940s kitchen scenes, complete with blackout windows, gas masks, and wireless radios. The project combined historical understanding with creativity and imagination, giving the children a meaningful insight into what life might have been like for young evacuees during wartime Britain.

On Monday 9 June, the Lantern Hall was transformed into a gallery of wonders as each child presented their very own mini museum. The children were invited to bring in a small collection of items that mattered to them and prepare a short speech to share with the class.

From Pokémon cards, football stickers, and soft toys to garden birds, Ancient Egyptian artefacts, and handmade crafts, even coal! Each museum offered a fascinating insight into what excites and inspires our young learners. Some children shared personal stories behind their objects, while others impressed us with their knowledge and research.

The highlight of the activity was hearing each child speak so clearly and confidently to the class. Every one-minute presentation was met with applause and the children enjoyed visiting each other's museum afterwards. It was wonderful to see such genuine interest, active listening, and encouragement across the room.

Not only was this a brilliant way to practise speaking and listening skills, but it also allowed the children to celebrate their individuality and passions. It was a joy to watch them take ownership of their learning in such a creative and personal way.

A huge thank you to families for supporting this project, whether helping to gather objects, practise speeches, or simply sharing your enthusiasm. It made all the difference. We hope you enjoy the photos of our mini museums and feel just as proud of the children as we do!

Our Reception children recently enjoyed a truly unforgettable day out at Cotswold Wildlife Park - and what a day it was! With sun hats on, water bottles filled, and plenty of sun cream applied, the excitement was palpable as everyone boarded the coach, ready for a fun-filled adventure in the sunshine.

The children were so excited from the moment they arrived. From marvelling at the towering giraffes to giggling at the cheeky penguins, every corner of the park brought them joy. 

A particular highlight for many was the magical train ride around the park - a real treat that brought much delight and huge smiles as it chugged past enclosures and through leafy surroundings. It was the perfect chance to take in the sights while giving little legs a well-earned rest.

The glorious weather made it an ideal day for an outdoor picnic, where everyone sat together and enjoyed lunch in the sunshine. The day was filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of exploring.

By the end of the trip, there were tired feet, happy hearts, and big smiles all round! It was a wonderful day packed with special memories.

A few weeks ago, Mademoiselle Pasquini arranged that the lucky children in Pre-Prep got to tuck into a delicious spread of French breakfast favourites - croissants, pains au chocolat, and baguettes galore!

They had so much fun practising their please and thank you's (in French!) and confidently asking for their favourite tasty treat.

Lots of happy faces (chocolate smeared, of course), full tummies, and very polite little voices. Berets were perched on little heads, and the French flag flew proudly as the children embraced the spirit of France for the morning.

In Year 4 History, the pupils have been learning about castles during the Middle Ages. 

They considered how castles have changed and stayed the same; studying the different features of motte and Bailey castles and concentric castles. 

To further develop their understanding they went on a trip to Warwick Castle and were then set a holiday project to create their very own model of a castle. 

Pupils were encouraged to be creative with the resources they used and to also demonstrate their understanding of the topic by labelling their model and being historically accurate.  

The results were absolutely incredible! 

The Year 2's recently embarked on a journey through time, transforming the Lantern Hall into a bustling Victorian hospital! As part of their exciting topic on Significant Women in History, they became Florence Nightingale's dedicated helpers.

Fully immersed in the Victorian era, Year 2 actively participated in a variety of engaging activities. They displayed their creativity by crafting pill boxes and candle holders, destined to be sold and raise crucial funds for the hospital - just like Florence Nightingale did! Their detective skills were put to the test as they transformed into "super sleuths," uncovering the rightful owners of lost luggage belonging to important figures accompanying Florence to Scutari.

The afternoon saw a flurry of activity as they took on various roles within the hospital. From injured soldiers and nursing staff to doctors and hardworking medical orderlies, the children brought the Victorian hospital to life! Kitchen staff whipped up meals, gardeners tended to the grounds, and laundry workers ensured everything was clean and hygienic.

Through this immersive experience, Year 2 gained a deeper understanding of Florence Nightingale's remarkable contributions to healthcare. They not only learned about her life and achievements but also developed valuable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and empathy. They were fully engaged throughout the whole experience and had a lot of fun too.

Bravo Year 6!

‘Star Gamers and the Lost World’ tells the story of seven children sucked into a new computer game, not yet ready to be launched but pushed forward by a greedy boss. As the group work together to solve the codes and complete the levels, their hard work is threatened by the Glitch and his mean group of malfunctions.

Written by our Head of Drama, Mrs Belcher, with music by our Head of Music, Mrs Sharp, this new work was based around the performers’ ideas a year ago during brainstorming. With levels such as throwing fruit into a bubbling volcano, a car chase through a derelict city, and a fearsome pirate duel at sea, the show is packed with action and adventure. 

Majot thanks to Mrs Martin, Head of Art, for the brilliant props and set too, as well as Ms Belcher for the puppets.