A thought for Our Families & Friends Abroad

We want to share a thought for our families who have family members and friends abroad in countries like Jamaica and the Philippines who have recently been affected by powerful storms. These hurricanes and typhoons have caused huge amounts of damage to homes, schools, and roads, making life very difficult for people. It is a time when the whole world can show how much we care. We are sending all our kindest thoughts to our community who may have lost loved ones, as well as everyone recovering from these events and we remember how important it is to look out for each other and help those in need, even if they live very far away.

Kind regards,

Warner Stainbank

Food Collection: 

If you wish to bring in food donations, we will pass all donations onto charities supporting the families of the countries affected. 

Helping Children Understand a Terminal Diagnosis

If someone in the family has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, it’s natural to want to protect your child from emotional pain. However, children are often more aware than we realise. They may pick up on sadness, stress, or changes at home—even if they haven’t been told directly.

Children cope best when they are:

• Told the truth in a way they can understand
  Given time to ask questions
  Reassured that it’s okay to talk about their feelings

How Can Parents/Carers Help?

Use clear, honest, and age-appropriate language.
Avoid euphemisms like “gone to sleep” or “really poorly,” which can confuse children.
Use gentle but clear terms like: “Grandad has an illness that the doctors can’t cure. He’s being looked after, and we don’t know how long he will live.”  Let them ask questions, Children may ask the same questions repeatedly or in unexpected ways. This is a normal part of processing.

• Acknowledge emotions
  Let them know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, scared, or even numb.
  Try phrases like: “It’s okay to feel upset or not know what to feel. I’m here for you.”

 Offer reassurance Remind them that they are loved, they will be looked after, and their routines (like school, home life, and friends) will continue.  Don’t hide your own emotions Showing your feelings helps children feel safe to show theirs. You might say: “I’m feeling sad too, and that’s okay. We can feel this together.”

Sometimes we could all do with someone to talk to. If you would like to meet Helen Thorp for a confidential and non-judgemental chat about you, your child, or any other worries, they are available on Wednesdays from 9-10am. You can call/text 07429654584 or email helen@schoolscounsellingpartnership.co.uk

NHS - National Child Measurement Programme

This term, our school will be participating in the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP). The programme helps monitor children’s health across the country by measuring the height and weight of children in Reception and Year 6 to assess growth and trends in childhood health. In the coming days, letters will be sent home to parents of children in the relevant year groups with more detailed information. The measurements will be taken by trained healthcare professionals in a respectful and confidential manner. Once complete, you’ll receive your child’s results, along with advice on any next steps if necessary. Your child’s privacy will be maintained throughout. We encourage participation in this important programme, which supports healthier lifestyles for our children. Thank you for your support! 

Birch Class - Music 🎶

Children were learning to play the Xylophone in class this week, using the white board and teachers instructions the children got  the rhythm quickly which also learning to read musical notes. 

Positive Noticing day 🥰

You may have noticed your child came home with a green tag yesterday,  on Thursday we celebrated positivity throughout the school.

Children were asked to write or draw (for younger children) something positive about a fellow student. Even the staff got involved. It was lovely to see 

children and adults being given compliments that don't always get said out loud. There were lots of happy smiles in school. 

These are all small steps that help our pupils feel that they belong and are noticed. We will be spending some time during the day thinking about the power of positive noticing. It is simple, practical, and highly effective. Being positively noticed by others builds self-esteem, supports behaviour and promotes good mental health. Some of these quotes will stay with your child for a lifetime. 

Dates for your diary - events coming up soon 

10th November 2025 - Anti-Bullying Week  
11th November 2025 - Remembrance day assembly in school - Poppies available to buy in school
11th November 2025 - Heights and weights - Reception and Year 6 - all day in school 
12th November 2025 -  Parent Workshop with Helen Thorpe at 9am
12th November 2025 - Parent/Pupil Consultations 3.45pm to 6.45pm  
13th November 2025 - Parent/Pupil Consultations 3.45pm to 6.45pm
19th November 2025 - School Photo day - all day in school
21th November 2025 - International Event day - Bring a traditional dish and share. Afternoon.