Good afternoon,

This week has been equally as busy and fun as we enjoyed our annual Small School's Week. This was an opportunity for us to come together as a uniquely small school and enjoy so many exciting  enrichment experiences as a whole school. We have had cooking, games on the Penfold and had a wonderful time at the whole school forest school as well as our trip as a school to Bekonscot Model Village and Railway. It was lovely to have such positive comments whilst we were there about the the excellent behaviour and manners of our children. Further down in the newsletter, you will see pictures of this weeks events.

On Thursday, we had our transition morning where the children spent time in their newly named classes:

• EYFS - Hedgehogs 

• Y1/2 - Squirrels 

• Y3/4 - Badgers 

• Y5/6 - Owls 

As you may be aware, the Department for Education recently annouced the delay to releasing the End of Key Stage 2 SATs results from 7th July to 16th July. In light of this news, our end of year reports will now be sent out on Friday 17th July to allow time for us to ensure the results are included in reports and all information is shared at the same time. 

Have a lovely weekend. 

Kind regards,

Mr M. Beach

Headteacher

📩Communication sent out this week

• Heat/Weather updates 

• Class names & Staffing update

• Uniform & Appearance Policy (effective from September)

🗓️Things happening next week:

• Wednesday-  New Early Years children visiting for Stay & Play and Welcome Meeting for Parents/Carers

• Friday- Y6 Leavers Trip to Chessington  & End of Year Reports sent out

Whole school attendance this week: 92%

Overall attendance so far this year: 95%

All absences must be reported to the school either by leaving an absence message (Option 1) or emailing Mrs Redman (Office and Pastoral Manager) via absence@greatgaddesden.herts.sch.uk

For appointments, we ask where possible that these are not during the school day. If this is not avoidable, please kindly share the relevant information for this appointment in order for us to be able to authorise this.

Please note: in line with the statutory guidance from the Department for Education which is reflected in our attendance policy, we are unable to authorise term time holiday. For safeguarding reasons, we must be notified in advance in writing if you plan to take your child out during term time.

Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-improve-school-attendance 

From September 2026, the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals (FSM) will be changing. From the start of the new school year, all parents/carers who are in receipt of Universal Credit will be eligible for Free School Meals, regardless of the amount received.

Applying takes around 5 minutes, and you will need your National Insurance number. Applications can be made using the following link: Free school meals and other benefits | Hertfordshire County Council

There is no requirement for pupils who are already receiving Free School Meals to re-apply (unless your child is in currently in Year 2). Applications for the new school year can be made from 3rd June. We encourage you to apply even if you have previously been told you were not eligible. Not only will your child receive a hot, nutritious meal at lunchtime, but the school could also receive additional funding to support pupils.

If you require any further information or support with your application, please contact the office.

Afternoon Tea & Games on the Penfold

Whole School Forest School

We enjoyed the beautiful views as we walked up to the woods.

When we arrived, we took part in a range of activities kindly organised by Mrs De  including:

• Den building

• Harpazome

• Whittling

• Natual sculpture building

• Puppet Theatre

• Knot tying & friendship bracelets

• Building a bug hotel

• Scavenger hunt

Whole School Trip to Bekonscot Model Village & Railway

On Wednesday, we enjoyed our trip to Bekonscot which included a workshop for each class, a train ride and endless exploring of the model village. A great day was had by all!

Thank you to all of FOGGS for organising a lovely party.

Next week, we are on Week 4 of the Summer Menu.

Outside Achievements

Well done to Margot for being awarded a trophy in ballet!

Albie has been working really hard on his swimming skills and was awarded Level 1!

Jack took part in his first dance competition and was awarded a trophy!

Awards we are working towards

House Points