We have now reached the end of week five of our Autumn Term. This week our focus has been on kindness and strength. We began by looking at the Bible story of David and Saul, which reminds us that true strength is shown not in power or winning, but in choosing kindness and self-control, even when it is difficult. 

On Thursday, we marked the beginning of Black History Month with an opening celebration, exploring why we celebrate this and some of the background to how it began. 

Next week our theme will be Living Humbly, and we will visit the church on Thursday for a special service reflecting on this value. A verse that will guide us is:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Philippians 2:3

This verse reminds us that humility is not about thinking less of ourselves, but about thinking of ourselves less — making room for others through kindness, listening and service.

At this stage of the term, children (and staff!) often begin to feel the pace of school life. Research into school wellbeing suggests that around the fifth or sixth week, energy can dip as the initial excitement of September fades and the longer rhythms of routine settle in. It’s a normal part of the school cycle, and one we can support our children through by encouraging healthy routines: plenty of rest, outdoor play, reading for pleasure and space to talk about their day.

A few reminders on school uniform:

• Shirts should be worn as part of our daily uniform, with ties for all children.

• Air-text tops are for PE only and should be white.

• School sweatshirts are optional for PE, while jumpers and cardigans are part of the main uniform.

We have a growing collection of unnamed jumpers and cardigans around school. Please make sure your child’s clothing is named clearly, and that they know where to find their name label. Some children only have their surname written inside, which they don’t always recognise, so please do show them so they can identify their own clothing. 

I am also delighted to share some exciting news with you. The Times has recently published its list of top primary schools across the country and St. Michael’s has been placed 118th out of more than 20,000 schools nationally. This is an incredible reflection of the hard work of our children, the dedication of our staff and the support we receive from you as parents and carers.

While league tables never tell the whole story of a school, it is encouraging to see the love of learning and the commitment of our school community recognised in this way. Most importantly, it reminds us that when we work together, we can achieve amazing things for the children in our care.

Thank you for all the little ways you support your children and the school – together we are helping them grow in kindness, strength and humility.

With every blessing for a lovely weekend, 

Mrs Harris 

Headteacher

We are so grateful for all our wonderful reading volunteers.. of the two and four legged variety.

We love seeing our Pets As Therapy dog here in school, sitting gently with the children in our lovely library each week.

Next Week's Worship Focus:

Living Humbly:

Spiritual Question:

"What does humlity teach us about leadership and love?"