Term 3 2526 Herbert Morrison Newsletter Issue 64 Thursday 12th February 2026
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we reach the end of Term 3, we would like to thank our whole school community for a positive and productive term. Our theme this term has been courage, and it has been wonderful to see children showing bravery in so many ways — trying new learning, building friendships, speaking up, and persevering when things feel challenging. Courage is not always loud; often it is the quiet determination to keep going, and we are proud of how our pupils demonstrate this every day.
This term also included important learning linked to Safer Internet Day, where children explored how to stay safe online, including discussions around the growing use of AI and digital tools. Some parents have asked about setting up controls and guidance to help keep children safe online — and we are glad you asked. Supporting children to use technology safely is something we can only do successfully together. You will find helpful guidance and resources in our Online Safety Special Edition Newsletter.
Looking ahead, we are excited for the start of Term 4, and key dates are shared to help you plan ahead and make sure you do not miss out on any events.
A highlight coming soon is World Book Day, when children are invited to dress up as their favourite book character. Parents are very welcome to join in too — we always love seeing families getting involved, and a whole family of Where’s Wally characters never fails to make us smile!
As we break for the holidays, we wish all families a peaceful and restful half term. We also extend warm wishes to those in our community who will soon be observing Ramadan, wishing them a peaceful and blessed month.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
Kind regards,
Mrs Peake
Headteacher
Watch this video
Some parents have asked about setting up controls to KEEP CHILDREN SAFE online - we are glad you asked - remember to check ALL devices that children use - here is a very useful guide - https://www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/
A fantastic open morning focused on AI and internet safety! Building essential skills from the start. Click through the pictures to see what each class have been doing to stay safe online and understand AI.
Look at all of Year 1’s amazing report writing all about water! We’ve been reading a non-fiction text about water and using everything we’ve learned to inform you about this important resource. From how dirty water ends up in the sewers to how water is cleaned and made safe to drink from our taps, Year 1 have become real water experts!
Click to see more
The nursery class has been bursting with creativity, drawing inspiration from the Three Little Pigs! Their painting skills are blossoming, they even mixed their own colours to make a lovely pink. They have taken on the challenge of building a cozy home for a pig. The class rose to the occasion, showcasing fantastic teamwork and problem-solving skills! #problem-solving #creativethinking
Year 5 had a Cultural Foodie Day and it was fantastic to be able to taste so many different flavours and also make some delicious foods from around the world! Thank you to everyone who made the day so special - we loved every bite!
Fantastic creative well-being focused art session in the hall today. Thank you to @art4spacecommunity #wellbeing #parentworkshop
CLICK to see all of the pictures
Year 5 had a fantastic discussion, sharing and exchanging their ideas and opinions about what we should - and shouldn’t - use AI for. Thoughtful conversations, great teamwork and some brilliant critical thinking! 🤗
These children have been recognised for their incredible effort and excellence! They will receive a golden certificate, a big round of applause during the celebration assembly, and a coveted spot in the prestigious Gold Book. Well done to all our shining stars!
We are so proud of you!!
YN - Maya, Ella- Mae and Reece
YR - Ashwati, Amiyah-Reece and Hal
Y1 - John and Montazar
Y2 - Scarlet and Remy
Y3 - Leo M and Vivienne
Y4 - Kyronne and Sewar
Y5 - for showing courage and determination during their class assembly rehearsals
Y6 - Anna and Ridwan
Last week, Year 5 impressed us all with their fantastic assembly all about the River Thames. Pupils shared a wealth of fascinating facts and showcased the excellent research they have been doing, confidently teaching us about the river’s history, geography and importance to London today.
A huge well done to Year 5 for such an informative and engaging performance — we were very proud of your knowledge and confidence! 👏
Your latest MATHS TOP TIP
You asked for regular ideas to help with Maths at home - and our newsletter is riddled with them!
Follow this link to find out about how you can support your child with everyday maths.
This widget has been added to the homepage of the website - please click and use to report a child's absence. Thank you.
Attendance so far this term is 94.7%
A Reminder About Appointments and Holidays
We kindly ask that, wherever possible, parents arrange medical or personal appointments for their children outside of school hours. There are only 190 school days in the year, but a generous 175 non-school days available for holidays, family time, and events. By keeping appointments to these non-school days, we can work together to make sure every child enjoys the very best attendance and learning opportunities. Thank you for your support!
📢 Illness Reminder 📢
If your child is unwell at school, we will call you to collect them. Please ensure we have your up-to-date contact details.
Please remember to inform the school of your child's absence each day; even if the school knows they are home due to vomiting - this is to update school if new symptoms develop. The best way to do this is via Studybugs.
Currently, 69% of parents are using Studybugs—if you’re among the 31% who haven’t signed up yet, please do so as soon as possible!
Please download the STUDY BUGS app and support us in raising our attendance %.
Overall we are at 95.1% for this academic year. With your help we aim to maintain this to the end of the year. Please download the STUDY BUGS app and support us in raising our attendance %.
Please help your child achieve by ensuring they are in school when they are well enough to be here.
Medical Appointment Documentation
Please ensure all appointments are made outside of school hours.
To help us accurately record absences, please email a copy of any medical appointment texts or appointment cards to the school office for confirmation when your child(ren) is absent for health-related reasons. This ensures their attendance records are kept up-to-date.
When making appointments please ask your doctors for a medical slip or appointment text to give to school.
Thank you for your cooperation and support.
Miss Nathalie can be contacted on 0207 720 3439 or via email on admin@herbertmorrison.lambeth.sch.uk
Miss Nathalie works with us 3 mornings a week.
Please note that all letters are available on the school website under NEWS - LATEST LETTER
Term 3 Dates to Note in Your Diary
Friday 13th February PTA Valentines Bake Sale
● Last day of Term 3: Friday 13th February, 3:30pm finish.
Term 4 Diary Dates to Note in Your Diary
Thu 26 Feb – Year 2 Monument trip - LETTER SENT
FRI 27 Feb - YEAR 4 CLASS ASSEMBLY - parents/carers invited
Week 2 – Test assessment week
Thu 5 Mar – World Book Day Open Morning parents/carers invited - LETTER SENT
Fri 6 Mar - YEAR 3 CLASS ASSEMBLY - parents/carers invited
Week 3 – Science Week - whole school event
Fri 13 Mar – Science Day (Curiosity) - whole school event
Fri 13 Mar - Science Evening for Years 5+6 - LETTER TO BE SENT
Tue 17 Mar – Wed 18 Mar – Bikeability (Years 3–5) - LETTER SENT
Wed 18 Mar – Year 1 Horniman Museum trip - LETTER TO BE SENT
Thu 19 Mar – Parents’ Evening SCHOOL CLOSES AT 2PM - LETTER TO BE SENT
Fri 20 Mar – INSET Day (school closed to pupils)
Mon 23 Mar – Fri 27 Mar – Bikeability (Years 5–6) - LETTER SENT
Wed 25 Mar – Choir Southbank trip - LETTER SENT
Fri 27 Mar – Own clothes day; End of term SCHOOL CLOSES AT 2PM
2 WEEK DIARY
Check if clubs are on, trips are coming up, events are happening - get excited about the many events for the next 2 weeks.
THERE ARE NO CHANGES TO PE FOR TERM 4.
Please ensure your child comes into school wearing the full PE kit on their PE day.
Year 5 will need their swimming kit; including a swim hat and goggles EVERY TUESDAY.
Trips off site - PLEASE ENSURE CHILDREN HAVE A WATERPROOF COAT INCASE IT IS RAINING FOR THE JOURNEY THERE OR BACK.
Water bottles must not be kept in the book bag to prevent book damage.
Trainers must ONLY be worn with PE kits and not with school uniform. Please support our school uniform policy. Thank you.
To drop off or collect your child please call the JAGs bell by the front door inside the school gate or call 07570 377 689
Discover a fun-filled daily schedule at Junior Adventures Group Breakfast & After School Clubs!
How Parents Book
Bookings follow a regular weekly pattern (e.g., every Monday), secured for the full school year.
This system is similar to the existing instalment plan model that many families are familiar with.
We are making this change to:
Support demand management where waiting lists are common
Ensure fair access for families looking to secure consistent care
Enable earlier, more accurate staffing and programming plans
Rise then Shine
Rise then Shine Breakfast Club IS BACK from 7.30am on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
The FREE school Breakfast Club is still available for all pupils ( Reception Class to Year 6) from 8.30am.
This will be from 7.30am - please book now!
After School Clubs
JAG’s After School Clubs, called Stay And Play, offer fun, happy and safe places for children to play freely across age groups and take part in structured activities such as arts and crafts and active play. Providing an energising end to the school day, children can join group activities, enjoy a healthy snack, or chill out with toys and games that are all set up and ready for them to enjoy.
Find out more by clicking here - Click here to register and book
Try your new Stay And Play Club for free at Herbert Morrison Primary School!
Book your child's space now and claim a free session using code: TRYHERBERT
If you do have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to call the friendly JAG team on 0333 577 1533 or drop them an email at hello@junioradventuresgroup.co.uk.
The question of the week is -
What can we do if we feel worried but want to try something new?
We discuss the values and question of the week in assembly. Discuss these with your child at home.
The value of the week is: COURAGE
CLICK here for lots of practical information about setting up controls for your devices - KEEP CHILDREN SAFE online - https://www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/
Artificial intelligence is becoming a familiar part of young people’s online experiences, with a myriad of school tools and entertainment platforms in use. This #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks down what AI really is, helping adults explain it clearly and realistically so children don’t overestimate its abilities or trust it unquestioningly. It explores how AI systems work, where they appear online, and why understanding them matters.
The guide also highlights key online safety considerations, including misinformation, data privacy, bias and over-reliance on AI tools. With practical advice on setting boundaries, choosing age-appropriate platforms and encouraging ethical, creative use, it empowers parents and educators to build digital literacy while keeping children safe, curious and critically engaged.
SPECIAL DIETRY REQUIREMENTS
If your child has an allergy please scan this code and ensure that you complete the new caters online information. We have passed over the information we have and it is all going digital now. Please feel free to speak to a member of staff if you need any support with this.
All allergy referals must be accompanied by medical evidence.
Thank you.
The lunch menus are on a 3 week rota -Yum! All meat dishes are offered as halal and non-halal options.
Please note that on the rare occasion there may be a slight change on offer - this is usually due to delivery delays.
LEARNING AT HOME - TEACH YOUR CHILD ABOUT MONEY - HANDLE IT, COUNT IT, WORK OUT THE CHANGE. MONOPOLY AND PLAYING SHOPS IS GREAT FUN!
More information and a weekly update of these low cost suggestions can be found on the Oval Learning Cluster Website - Families Page. Our School works in Partnership with the Oval Learning Cluster.
YEARS 3-6 ONLY
On Tuesday 31st March, Wednesday 1st April and Thursday 2nd April, the Surrey Cricket Foundation (the charitable arm of Surrey County Cricket Club) will be hosting our Vauxhall Loop holiday activities camp.
Children will take part in 3 days of sporting activities, along with other social activities such as drama and arts and crafts. Should you wish to declare your interest in taking part, please fill in the form below via the link.
Please note:
- Filling in the form is an expression of interest only.
Filling in the form does not guarantee your child’s place on this activity camp.
- Parents will need to drop off and pick up their children from the designated location each day
- Please be sure your child is able to take part in all 3 days of the activities before
signing up
- The activities camp will take place around the Kia Oval
- Exact details of timings and locations will be provided closer to the time and when your place has been confirmed.
SIGN UP LINK
Extra-curricular activities are a vital part of school life, supporting pupils’ confidence, wellbeing and personal development. We value the importance of a broad and balanced education that helps pupils thrive beyond the classroom.
Through our extra-curricular offer, pupils are able to:
Explore interests and talents beyond the curriculum
Build key life skills such as teamwork, leadership and resilience
Strengthen wellbeing through sport, creativity and positive experiences
Develop character and confidence to support future success
We are proud to offer a wide range of opportunities that enrich learning and support the whole child.
CALLING YEAR 4 PARENTS - World Heart Beat Music Club is offered for Wednesdays 3.30-4.30pm - see the letter on the school website and check your inbox for more details - SIGN UP QUICK VIA MCAS ONLY £3 PER SESSION
For information on how to sign up to Terms 3 and 4 Clubs at HM see the clubs letter on the website.
Please note that club payments are non-refundable. If your child is not behaving in the club they may lose their place. Thank you for your support.
Please support the PTA to support the school with this easy and helpful fundraising tip - https://www.herbertmorrisonprimaryschool.co.uk/PTA-Fundraising/