Dear Parents and Carers, 

I can't believe how quickly we have come to the end of the first half term; it has gone by so quickly yet so much has been achieved! This week Mr Rogers our CEO from Chiltern Learning Trust and Nicola Covington, Director of Standards came to visit our Year 5 and 6 classes. They were extremely impressed with the level of challenge and support for the children and our consistently high expectations; a huge well done to the staff and children for demonstrating such fantastic learning each and every day. 

Last week I absolutely loved watching Hawks class assembly! It was a fantastic showcase of their learning so far this year; thank you to all of our families that managed to attend. 

A huge thank you to our parents who attended the 'Stop, drop and read' session yesterday afternoon. The children were delighted to invite you into school to read with them or to them. Reading to your child or alongside your child is such a special part of them growing up and it's a fantastic way to connect with your child to strengthen bonds and relationships as well as develop skills and a love for reading. If you were unable to make this session then our next one will take place in the spring term, dates are available on our diary. 

Thank you to all of our parents and careers who attended our learning review meetings this week. These initial meetings are designed to inform you on how your child has settled into their new classes. Maths and English learning review meetings will take place at the start of the Spring term with your child's Maths and English teacher. Please see further opportunities on our diary dates throughout the year where we will inform you of your child's progress. 

We have continued to provide enrichment opportunities across the school, also known as 'magic moments'. Last week the children were highly engaged and excited to watch some of their teachers pretend to be trees in a live experiment organised in assembly by Mrs True. Mrs True always has an incredible way of imparting scientific knowledge to our children and this assembly was no different where they learnt about the importance of trees in our battle against climate change. Subsequently the school then enjoyed lots of planting activities; we are looking forward to being able to provide food for our guinea pigs! Last week Key Stage One visited Whipsnade Zoo linked to their science and art learning and learnt about the role of a zoo keeper through an assembly also delivered by Whipsnade. Thank you to all of our parents and carers who accompanied us on the trip, we would not be able to provide these opportunities without you. Yesterday Key Stage One experienced another 'magic moment'- Victorian day! They thoroughly enjoyed experiencing a re-enactment of what life would have been like for children at school during the Victorian period. Thank you for ensuring your child was dressed up and looked the part.

Finally, I'd like to finish this half term with thanks to the children and staff. This half term has got off to a great start and that is all down to the amazing work that the staff do day in and out to support the children to be the best they can be! The children are an absolute delight to work with. One more week to go!! Please make sure they rest over the half term and spend time with loved ones. 

Mrs Romina Lang

Headteacher