We are now halfway through the academic year! We hope all of our parents and families had a wonderful half-term break and are ready for the next 6 months, working together to achieve the very best for our children. 

We would like to wish all of our families observing Ramadan and Lent this next few weeks a very blessed and peaceful month.

Thank you to all parents who came along to our Learning Together Day. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet the teachers and talk about the progress children have made so far this year and what next! The parent survey was overwhelming positive and supporting the work we do in school. Together we really can make a difference to our children's lives.

our EYFS and Key Stage 1 children were treated to a very special visit from the Animal Man, who arrived with an exciting collection of creatures for the children to meet. There was a beautiful owl, a cuddly honeybear, a spider, a snake, and even a rather impressive looking frog.

The children were absolutely captivated as they learned fascinating facts about each animal, from what they eat to how they behave in the wild. They also had the chance to ask lots of questions and even touch some of the animals—an experience that sparked plenty of wide‑eyed wonder!

At our school, we talk a lot about the power of reading—and that’s because it truly makes a difference. Reading at home, even for just a few minutes each day, helps children grow their vocabulary, strengthen their imagination, and build confidence in every subject. Most importantly, it creates a special moment of calm and connection in busy family lives.

You don’t need special books or lots of time to make reading part of your routine. Little and often is best. Five to ten minutes before bed, while waiting for dinner, or curled up on the sofa at the weekend can make a huge impact. Children also love hearing stories read aloud, even when they’re capable readers themselves—it models fluency and helps them hear language in a natural, enjoyable way.

Here are a few simple ideas to help at home:

• Make reading a habit: Pick a regular time each day. A cosy routine helps children look forward to it.
• Let them choose: Comics, recipe books, magazines, football facts—if they’re reading, it counts!
• Talk about the story: Ask gentle questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Which character is your favourite?”
• Show that reading matters: Let your child see you reading too—even a newspaper or shopping list sends the message that reading is useful and enjoyable.
• Celebrate progress: Praise your child for effort, curiosity, and sticking with a tricky word.

Based on the weather so far this evening and further heavy snow forecast overnight, school will be closed to staff and pupils on Friday 9th January 2026. We fully anticipate reopening on Monday 12th January 2026. 

Remote learning opportunities for Friday 9th January 2026...

Reading - Collins E-Books, Reading Plus, reading the book project book received before Christmas.

Writing - In your notebooks received for Christmas write a recount of your snowy day!

Maths - TT Rockstars, Numbots,

PSHE - with your family enjoy time in the snow! 

Build a snowman what shapes did you use? How did you decorate your snowman?

Make a snow angel in the snow!

Can you spot any wildlife out in the cold weather?

Track Animal Prints: Look for paw prints in the snow and guess which animals left them.

Go for a snowy walk (if safe to do so) with your family.

Make a Snow Maze: Shovel paths to create a maze and challenge friends to navigate through it.

Take a snowy photo of your day to share in school on Monday.

Play board games with your family.