Horsenden Primary School
Horsenden Primary School
Message from the Headteacher
With twinkling decorations now brightening our corridors and halls, the countdown to Christmas has truly begun at Horsenden. Nativity rehearsals are gathering pace and filling the school with music and excitement. This week, our Reading Ambassadors enjoyed an engaging and informative visit to the British Library, while Early Years were thrilled by a spectacular falconry visit linked to their Owl Babies learning. This morning, 5D treated us to an outstanding assembly, confidently teaching us more about relationships, science and history.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the adults in school who plan and deliver these rich and varied learning experiences for our children. The time, care and effort that go into making these opportunities possible is truly appreciated. We wish all our families a very lovely and restful weekend.
See the bottom of the 'Updates' page for more details about upcoming diary events!
5D Class Sharing Assembly
This morning, Class 5D treated us to a wonderfully creative and informative sharing assembly, delivered in the style of a live news broadcast. Different groups of children took on the role of news presenters, confidently reporting on what they have been learning across the curriculum.
Their articles covered a wide range of exciting learning, including History, where they explored the impact of British rule in India; Science, where they shared their knowledge of the solar system; and PSHE, where they spoke thoughtfully about relationships. Every group presented clearly, with impressive confidence and enthusiasm, showing just how much they have learned this term.
Well done to all of 5D for such an entertaining, informative and professional performance — we are very proud of you!
EYFS Falconry Experience
Our Nursery and Reception children had a very exciting visit from a falconry expert this week! They met three incredible birds: a tiny Pygmy Falcon, a striking White-Faced Owl, and a colourful Blue-Winged Kookaburra.
The children learned all about the birds’ feathers, beaks, habitats and special adaptations. They listened carefully and were fascinated by the amazing facts they discovered.
The highlight of the day was that many children had the chance to gently hold one of the birds. This hands-on experience helped them feel proud and confident, and they thoroughly enjoyed meeting these wonderful creatures up close.
It was a fun, memorable and enriching learning experience for everyone!
Reading Champions At The British Library
Our Reading Champions enjoyed a fantastic visit to the British Library this week! They explored the Secret Maps exhibition, where they discovered how maps have been used throughout history to communicate hidden messages, reveal new places and record powerful stories. The children were fascinated by the intricate designs, clues and symbols carefully hidden within the maps.
They then visited the Sir John Ritblat Gallery, home to some of the world’s greatest literary treasures. Here, the Reading Champions saw remarkable historical documents, including works connected to famous authors, explorers and scientists. A real highlight was seeing George III’s extraordinary book collection, beautifully preserved and displayed behind towering glass cases.
They were also amazed by one of the largest atlases ever created- The Klencke Atlas- which is so enormous it was taller than all of us!
Even severe delays on the Piccadilly line didn’t dampen their enthusiasm- the Reading Champions simply took out their books and enjoyed a story on the train!
It was a truly inspiring and enriching visit that celebrated curiosity, history and the joy of reading.
Don't forget to order your child's Festive Christmas Lunch being served on Thursday 11th December 2025. This is always a lovely occasion, and we hope as many children as possible will join in. Children can choose a traditional Christmas meal or a vegetarian alternative, with festive desserts included. The meal is free of charge.
To help our kitchen team prepare, please complete the correct online form by Sunday 30th November 2025—either the
Special Diet Form for ISS-approved diets.
Complete one form per child, please.
If your child prefers to bring a packed lunch, they can also join in the fun by decorating their lunch boxes.
We look forward to a joyful celebration!
We’re excited to share that our new Arbor Parent App is nearly ready! Next week, we’ll send full details about what the app offers, when you can download it, and which features will go live first.
To get everything set up smoothly, please make sure we have your current email address and mobile number. If it has changed, email us at admin@horsenden.ealing.sch.uk with your child’s name and class.
We’re aiming to launch the week of 8th December, with features including trip payments, push notifications, in-app messages and attendance information.
We hope the app will make school communication easier and give parents quick, convenient access to important information.
We are still seeing cars stopping on the double yellow lines outside both entrances. This is not allowed and creates a dangerous situation for our pupils, families and staff. Keeping our children safe must always come first.
Please be reminded to park considerately and safely when dropping off and collecting children.
We kindly ask everyone to follow traffic rules and be mindful of our neighbours when parking.
Thank you to all families who consistently park safely and considerately — your support makes a real difference to our school community.
or visit our website at: https://www.horsenden.ealing.sch.uk/