Newsletter 4 - Autumn Term
25th September 2025
Embedded Files
-Our calendar-
-Attendance-
Year 3 - 98.2%
Year 4 - 97.5%
Year 5- 97.7%
Year 6 - 95.8%
-Don't forget-
Parent Consultation booking opens on Arbor at 7:45 on Friday 26th September
Year 5 & 6 families Hollyfield talk - 8:45am on Friday 26th September (SASM hall)
- This Week -
Y3 - Butser Farm
On Tuesday, Year 3 visited Butser Farm as part of their Stone Age studies, enjoying an exciting hands-on experience that brought history to life. Pupils explored ancient farming techniques, learned how early humans built structures, and even took part in their own archeological dig! The trip sparked curiosity and excitement, helping children connect classroom learning with real-life experiences, and returned to school inspired and full of stories to share.
Introducing...Doodle Kid
One of the joys of being a headteacher is receiving letters or notes from pupils. It was fantastic to see an inspired artist leave this message on my desk last week. I have invited the 'Doodle Kid' to make a doodle to fit an item in the newsletter each week - I wonder if you can spot this week's doodle?
-Mr Gates
Y4 - Roman Week
Year 4 had an action-packed week participating in a 'Romans in Schools' workshop, diving straight into life in ancient Rome! Pupils experienced what it was like to be Roman soldiers, learning about battle formations, armour and weapons, and even tried their hand at Roman-style crafts and games. The workshop brought their history lessons to life, giving them a hands-on understanding of Roman daily life, culture and achievements. Everyone left buzzing with excitement, full of fascinating facts and eager to share what they had learned back in the classroom. Throughout the week, pupils have been dressing as Romans and completing Roman-themed maths, English and art lessons.
Congratulations, Arthur!
Arthur was part of the Guildford City Swimming team which claimed victory at the Junior Arena League National Final last Saturday, making the team UK champions. For Arthur to be part of this team he has demonstrated hard work and dedication to training which he has put in throughout the years at the club. You can find out more about the team's success here: https://www.gcsc.co.uk/champions-guildford-city-swimming-club-triumphs-at-junior-arena-league-national-final/
Family Hub this week - Relational practice
This Friday at 8:45am after drop-off, we’ll be holding our next Family Hub session, hosted by Mrs Crowther and Miss Woodward. We will be looking at how to support children with challenging behaviour.
Please meet us in the playground after drop-off, and we’ll head in together. We look forward to seeing lots of you there!
To help plan for these events, please express your interest here via this link:
https://forms.gle/mZgqnU6SMXSrHkRw6
For those also attending the Year 6 Hollyfield talk at the same time, we can still share the slides with you. Please complete the above GoogleForm to request this.
Parent Consultations - bookings open on Friday 26th September
School will close early at 2.20pm on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd October to facilitate our parent consultations from 3.00pm - 6.00pm which will be face to face, giving parents and carers the opportunity to meet their child’s class teacher in person, as well as look at their child’s books.
For parents/carers in 4R, consultations will take place on Tuesday 14th October and Monday 20th October 3:30-6:30pm.
You will be able to book a 10 minute, in person appointment with your child’s class teacher. This is a pastoral appointment to discuss how your child is settling into their new year group.
Bookings will open via Arbor at 7.45am on Friday 26th September 2025.
Information about changes to club timings during the parent consultations can be found below:
- Repeat notices -
Join the SASM Parent-Teacher (AGM) Association Annual General Meeting - Friday 24th October
We warmly invite all families to join us for our Joint PTA Annual General Meeting on Friday 24th October at 8:45am, meeting in the playground straight after school drop-off.
Our PTA plays a vital role in supporting school life – as a result of PTA funding, families are not charged for any day educational visits. From Y3's visit to Butser Farm to Y6 shelter building, our PTA funds so many opportunities for our pupils. The core events our PTA run include: SASM WinterFestivities, hot chocolate and lolly sales and the SASM SummerFest.
The AGM is the perfect chance to hear about the impact of the PTA over the past year, share ideas, and look ahead to exciting plans for the future.
We have been so fortunate to have a number of parents, carers and friends who are able to help during our events. However, we are also encouraging parents and carers to consider standing for a role on the PTA committee. Being part of the core committee is a fantastic way to bring new ideas, make a difference and ensure that every child benefits from the work of the PTA.
Exciting Author Visit – Dermot O’Leary at SASM, with a film crew!
Last week, we shared that, SASM will be welcoming TV presenter and bestselling children’s author Dermot O’Leary on Wednesday 1st October. Dermot will also be bringing a film crew with him, who will be capturing pupils asking Dermot questions. Only pupils with parent/carer consent will be filmed - please access the 'Trips' section of your Arbor portal to give consent for your child to be filmed as part of the event.
All year groups will enjoy an inspiring talk from Dermot about his much-loved books, followed by the chance to ask him questions. Dermot will also be introducing his brand-new adventure in the Toto the Ninja Cat series: Toto the Ninja Cat and the Pirate Treasure Hunt.
To celebrate, Regency Bookshop is offering Dermot’s latest title – along with his other books – at an exclusive SASM-only discount (not available directly through the shop). Please look out for an email with details on how to pre-order.
Important: All pre-orders must be submitted by Thursday 18th September.
We can’t wait for this special day of reading and inspiration!
Smartphones
Pupils are not be permitted to bring a phone to school unless families have attended Smartphone Awareness Training. If your child brings in a smartphone, we will ask for it to be collected from the office by an adult.
The aim of the training is to explain the school's approach and some emerging concerns about smartphone use for young people and to provide key tips about how to keep your child safe online. The training video will run in the Science Lab at key school events and your first opportunity to view this will be at the Parent Consulation Evenings in October, where the training will be on shown on a loop in the Lab. The flowchart below explains the process:
SASM has been working with parent representatives from the Smartphone Free Childhood Movement. You may wish to sign the SASM Parent/Carer Smartphone Pledge , where 135 families have pledged to not give their children a smartphone until at least they are in Year 9.
-Community opportunities-
'Helping children with....' Webinars for parents 2025-2026
Achieving for Children’s Mental Health Support Teams are delivering a series of webinars for parents of primary-aged children. The ‘Helping Children with …’ series of webinars will cover a range of common difficulties experienced by children and will aim to share evidence-based strategies to help parents and carers support their children with these difficulties. We have included a list of webinars on offer over the coming months. Click here to book your place
Copy of 2025_26 - Helping children series flier.docx
Supporting Our Families
Supporting Our Families
We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That is why we are pleased to be able to offer our families support in partnership with Kingston Foodbank.
Kingston Foodbank provide three days’ nutritionally-balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to them in crisis. They are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.
Foodbank clients bring their vouchers to a foodbank centre where they can be redeemed for three days of emergency food. Volunteers meet clients over a warm drink or free hot meal, and are able to signpost people to other agencies that may able to them solve the longer-term problems.
Vouchers can be issued any day and at any time during the school week. These can be either printed or sent to you electronically via your mobile phone. This is a confidential service and vouchers are only allocated by Mrs Miller - School Community Worker.
Our nearest food collection points are listed below - please note the opening times.
Monday (6.00pm - 7.00pm)
Surbiton New Life Baptist Church
1 Balaclava Road
Surbiton
KT6 5PW
Tuesday and Friday (11.00am - 12.30pm)
Kingston Everyday Church
46 Union St, Kingston upon Thames
KT1 1RP
What is HENRY?
What is HENRY?
What is HENRY? HENRY is a UK charity working to give children a healthy, happy childhood so they thrive now and in the future. There are loads of useful ideas and resources for parents on the HENRY website.
Is the HENRY programme for me? The HENRY programme can help everyone with a primary-school aged child. Every parent who joins learns something new and useful. If you have at least one child of primary school age and can answer yes to any of the questions below then HENRY is for you...
Would you like to feel more confident as a parent?
Would you like support and ideas for helping your family be healthier?
Do you wish your child would eat a wider range of foods or more fruit and vegetables?
Would you like to reduce mealtime stress?
Would you like your children or family to be more active more often?
Are you interested in some ideas to get children away from screens?
Free School Meals
Free School Meals
If your child is eligible for free school meals but you prefer to provide them with packed lunches, it's still important to register. By doing so, the school receives additional funding called Pupil Premium which helps support your child in other ways.
Once you have registered for free school meals and we have received confirmation that you are eligible, your child will then be able to attend an enrichment club after school free of charge, as well as one session at our after school club. They will also qualify for the Holiday Activity and Food Programme, this is also known as FUEL (which stands for ‘Feed Ur Everyday Lives’) This programme offers free places at holiday clubs during the Easter, summer and Christmas breaks.
Children can enjoy 4 sessions during Easter, 16 sessions over the summer and 4 in winter, with lunch provided at the club. There are lots of clubs and activities to choose from across a range of dates, time and locations. Some activities include: cycling; film-making; yoga; technology and coding; skateboarding; art and crafts; cooking; indoor climbing; and lots of sports such as cricket, football, netball and rugby.
If you think you may be eligible and would like further information please contact the office and ask for Mrs Miller, our School Community Worker.
Additional Funding for low-income households
The Department of Work and Pensions has made additional funding available for low-income households in Kingston who meet the criteria and are struggling to afford food, fuel, utility bills and other essentials. The expectation is that the fund should be used to support households in the most need; particularly those who may not be eligible for other government cost-of-living support. For more details click here.
If your household has received help through any of the previous rounds of the Household Support Fund, we may not be able to issue any further funding.
However, we may be able to provide you with information about other support
available so please email: householdsupportfund@kingston.gov.uk
Activities and Opportunities
Skylarks is an independent charity that are expanding their outreach. We recommend parents and carers of pupils on the SEND register to sign up with the charity to stay up-to-date on a range of fun activities and opportunities. For more details and to register, please click here.
Together Thursdays
What are Together Thursdays sessions? These sessions deliver opportunities to socialise and gain new skills, self confidence and make friends.
All activities are free, all refreshments and lunch are free, community larder with free food supplies. Conversations, fun and social interactions are free. Visiting Together Thursdays is free.
Achieiving for Children, Kingsnympton Youth and Community Centre,
Kingsnympton Park, Kingston KT2 7RP
Thursdays, 10am to 2pm
Drop in Term time only.
Kingston Young Carers' Project
Who is a young carer? A young carer is someone aged 18 or under who helps to look after someone at home who needs extra support or care. This may be a sibling, parent/carer or other relative that lives at home with you.
We have a team dedicated to supporting the needs of young carers (aged 5-18), with a wealth of experience and expertise in issues which affect their lives. We provide:
information and advice, including 1-to-1 support
opportunities to meet other young carers
fun activities, outings and breaks away from home
regular drop ins
awareness raising of the needs of young carers, particularly in schools
advocacy and whole family support
quarterly newsletter
If you would like to know more information, please contact the School office and ask to speak to Mrs. Miller - School Community Worker.
-Repeat Notices-
Safer Schools App
Safer Schools App
Safer Schools App
We would encourage all parents/carers to download the Safer Schools app for free push notifications about online safety and helpful advice. You can download the app using the instructions here.
Worried about a child?
Worried about a child?
Do you have concerns about a child?
Adults - you can contact the Single Point of Access to request support, or to report a concern about a child or young person. Click here to make a referral. You can also call for advice. Opening hours: From 8.00am to 5.15pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8.00am to 5.00pm on Friday - call 020 8547 5008 (Out of hours, phone 020 8770 5000). If you think a child or young person is in immediate danger call 999. Referrals are not limited to safeguarding. The Single Point of Access acts as a signposting service to other services, including mental health. Matt Gates is our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Children with SEND
Children with SEND
How to support children with SEND
Please follow this link for further information and support. For Kingston & Richmond the number is:0800 028 8000
Winter Care
Winter Care
Winter Care
With flu and norovirus cases on the rise, here are some simple steps to help keep your child healthy this winter.
1. Teach good hygiene habits: Encourage children to wash their hands regularly and use a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes to stop the spread of germs.
2. Know when to keep your child at home: Children can still attend school with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough, but should stay home if they have a high temperature, diarrhea and vomiting. Read NHS guidance to help you decide. Click here to read more.
-School Reminders-
Healthy School Snacks
For our break time snack, we ensure pupils only have fresh fruit or a savoury snack which is full of goodness and will keep pupils full until lunch!
Whilst our team makes every effort to check and speak to pupils about snacks, our healthy approach places trust in parents and carers working with us to ensure this takes place.
Examples of permitted snacks include:
Fresh fruit and vegetables
Plain rice cakes
Plain breadsticks
Pure fruit, such as 'Yo-Yo Bears'
Plain crackers
Ryvita crackers
Bagels
Cream cheese
Marmite
Hummus
Babybels/Cheese triangles
Examples of snacks not permitted are:
Cereal bars
Cakes, biscuits or sweets
'Lunchbox' chocolate bars
Crisips
'Belvita' biscuits or 'Go Ahead' Bars
PE Kit
School PE kit to be worn only on PE days.
Red PE sweatshirt with the school logo
OR
Plain red PE sweatshirt with NO visible branding.
White t-shirt with the school logo
OR
Plain White t-shirt with NO visible branding.
Red Shorts
Plain black jogging/tracksuit bottoms with NO visible branding.
White or Grey Socks
Black Trainers. NO football studded shoes.
PE Days
3B - Thursday (indoor and outdoor)
3H - Wednesday (indoor), Friday (outdoor)
3N - Tuesday (indoor and outdoor)
4M - Wednesday (indoor), Thursday (outdoor)
4R - Tuesday (indoor and outdoor)
4S - Monday (indoor and outdoor)
5J- Thursday (outdoor), Friday (indoor)
5L - Wednesday (outdoor), Friday (indoor)
5S - Monday (indoor and outdoor)
6G - Wednesday (indoor and outdoor)
6M - Thursday (indoor and outdoor)
6MC - Tuesday (outdoor), Friday (indoor)
Pupil Premium Grants
All pupils at SASM are entitled to receive a free school lunch. To enable your child to access this, you must book your child's lunch via ParentPay.com.
If you were previously eligible for means tested free school meals or are in receipt of any of the following benefits...
income support
income-based job seeker's allowance
income-related employment and support allowance
the guarantee element of state pension credit
support under part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
child tax credit (but not working tax credit) and have an annual income of less than £16,190
working tax credit run-on – paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for working tax credit
Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)
...your child maybe eligible for a Pupil Premium Grant. This will gives your child access to:
This gives your child access to:
A free after school club every half term
A free 'stay and play' session in our Wrap Around Care each week
A free place at Breakfast Club every day
A discount on school residential visits
... and much more!
Please contact the school office if you have any issues with activating an account.
Lost Property
Please remember to label your child’s uniform, lunch box and water bottle. All named lost property will be returned to your child by the next school day. Unlabelled property will be kept for one week only in the school office.
Please send a water bottle with your child
It's important to ensure that our pupils stay hydrated throughout the day. Please remember to send your child to school with a water bottle. To avoid any mix-ups, kindly label the bottle with your child's name. Thank you.
Parking outside SASM
If you are driving to drop your children off or pick them up from school, please park considerately on the surrounding roads. Please don't park over driveways or over the zig zag lines. This helps keep everyone safe.
Whilst the school is not responsible for enforcing street parking, we have advised our local community to report all instances of poor parking or behaviour to the police.
Uniform donations warmly welcomed!
If your child has outgrown their school uniform over the summer break (including shoes, plimsolls or trainers) and they are still in good condition, please consider donating them to our uniform shop. You can drop off any unwanted school uniform or shoes at the office.
Thank you for your continued support and generosity.
No toys in school please!
No toys in school please!
We would like to remind parents and carers that pupils are not permitted to bring their own toys or collectables into school. Not only do toys provide a distraction from pupils' learning, there is a potential for personal items to be misplaced. Please be aware that any lost toys, collectible cards or other play items are beyond the responsibility of the school.
No jewellery in school please!
No jewellery in school please!
Children can wear watches to school but the wearing of jewellery and earrings of all types is not permitted on safety grounds. Any child wearing earrings to school will be asked to remove them. If they are unable to remove them, they will be required to stay inside during break and lunch times and will not be able to participate in any PE or physical activities.
No smart watches in school please!
No smart watches in school please!
Fitness trackers without smart watch capability are permitted but St Andrew’s and St Mark’s accept no responsibility for the loss or damage of these items. Smart watches, including iWatches, are not permitted due to their messaging capabilities.
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