Principal's Message
As we approach the end of the term, I am pleased to present our final newsletter of 2025. I would like to extend our gratitude to all parents for your support throughout this term.
This year, we have celebrated Christmas in style. I would like to commend the children in the EYFS and Key Stage 1 for their outstanding performances in the nativity plays. Additionally, the children in Key Stage 2 who sang beautifully at the carol concert whilst also showcasing their talent for playing a range of musical instruments.
I would also like to express my appreciation to our kitchen team for providing a delicious Christmas dinner on Wednesday, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Furthermore, I extend my thanks to Mrs Rawling and the PTA for organising this year’s Christmas Fair, which was a resounding success.
A special thank you goes to Reverend Nicky and Reverend Vicky for hosting us at the Church on Thursday for our Christmas assembly.
Today we have said goodbye to Mr Dix and Mrs Hodgkiss who are sadly leaving. We would like to extend our thanks for all of their handwork while here at Marden and wish them the best for their new adventures.
Finally, I wish you all a wonderful time with your family and friends over the festive break. We look forward to welcoming you back on Tuesday, 6th January.
Mrs H Penning
Monday 5th January 2026 - Staff INSET Day (No pupils)
Wednesday 14th January 2026 - EYFS Bedgebury Trip
Wednesday 14th January 2026 - Year 5 Library Visit
Wednesday 14th January 2026 - PTA AGM 7.30pm at the Vestry Hall
Monday 19th January - Friday 23rd January 2026 - Year 6 Aylmerton Residential Trip
Thursday 22nd January 2026 - Year 3 Natural History Museum Trip
Friday 30th January 2026 - Year 1 Church Visit
Thursday 12th February 2026 9:00am - Year 2 Open Class Assembly
Thursday 12th February 2026 - PTA Valentine's Disco
Friday 13th February 2026 - Staff INSET Day (No pupils)
Office Messages
AI-driven toys are becoming increasingly common, offering children personalised interactions that can feel surprisingly lifelike. This guide unpacks how these toys listen, learn, and respond – and what that means for privacy, security, and healthy development. From data collection to the subtle influence of artificial voices, it highlights why adults may need to look more closely at the tech inside modern playthings.
It also explores how features such as constant connectivity, engagement-boosting rewards, and behaviour-shaping responses can affect children’s play habits. Alongside outlining the risks, the guide shares calm, practical advice to help parents and educators set boundaries, check permissions, and balance AI toys with offline experiences, ensuring AI remains a support for real-world interactions, not a substitute for them.