AUCTION OF PROMISES - TONIGHT!
We have some additional, exciting 'Lots' that will be up for Auction tonight, these include
· A football signed by Swindon Town FC
· Christmas present wrapping
· Children’s cookery lessons
· A week in a luxury converted barn in Cornwall for 6
A limited number of tickets will be on sale on the door from 7.00pmAuction starts at 7.45pm.
FAREWELL
On Monday we will be saying 'goodbye' to Veronika (4A). Veronika's family are moving back to the Czech Republic and they will leave behind many friends at Newbridge. Our very best wishes go with Veronika, her brother Dominik and the family. They made a difference at Newbridge.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 26/11/07:
Tuesday 27/11/07
Girls' football vs WASPS (home)
Thursday 29/11/07
Advent Concert – Bath Abbey - 4.30 – 5.30pm
Football vs Bathampton (Away)
Friday 30/11/07
6S Assembly – 2.45pm
Christmas decs up!
Saturday 01/12/07
Christmas Shopping Crèche run by staff - 9.00 – 12.15. Tickets at Auction of Promises.
SUNDAY FUN FACTORY
Real Life Puppets presents NO ROOM AT THE STABLE. The Christmas story retold in song, dance and drama. For under 8’s only and their families on Sunday 2nd December at Emmanuel Church, Apsley Road from 4.00 – 5.30pm. Everything Free!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Ruby, Alfie
Years 1 and 2
Lydia, Mimi, Olly, William, Cara, Katie
Years 3 and 4
Olivia, Elijah, Harry, Lilley
Years 5 and 6
Jasmin, Ella, Emma, Soumia, Emily, Misha
PPA Music
Georgia
PPA Drama
Charlie, Hannah
PPA PE
Tom, Elliot
HOCKEY REPORT
Well done to all those children who braved the terrible weather conditions on Sunday and played very good hockey. Mrs Bartlett was incredibly proud and pleased by everyone’s efforts. Not one child moaned about the weather and gave 100% in all four games.
Thank you to those parents who stayed and supported all the children, cheering them on whilst attempting to keep their umbrellas up! Both the children and Mrs Bartlett really appreciated it. Well done everyone.
I look forward to seeing you all at our next match on 10th February.
(' big well done to all the boys and girls, Mrs Bartlett and our parents who braved monsoon conditions to participate. It is great to see hockey taking off at Newbridge.' Mr Croker)
DECK THE HALLS
Come along on Friday 30th November from 7.00pm to help decorate the school halls for Christmas. Coffee and mince pies will be available. Please let your class rep know if you can make it (no children please.) Thank you.
CHRISTMAS DINNER - Thursday 6th December
If your child normally has dinners, there is no need to specifically order a meal.
If your child normally has sandwiches, you will need to order and pay for the Christmas dinner by Tuesday 27th November to enable the kitchen to order the supplies on the 29th November. Orders must be in an envelope with your child’s name, class and ‘Christmas Dinner’ on the front. Thank you.
Please note that no orders can be taken after Tuesday 27th November.
NPSA CHRISTMAS FAIR - Thursday 6th Dec 5.00 -7.00pm
Hot on the heels of what promises to be an outstanding Auction of Promises, the Christmas Fair quickly approaches. Along with many traditional Christmas Fair favourites, there will be more games/activities for the children this year, along with a great selection of outside traders. We know that NPS families have been asked to do/give a great deal over the past year with the exceptionally successful ReNewbridge campaign, so asking for yet more donations of goods and time for the Christmas Fair is asking a lot. We promise to give you a ‘breather’ after this one (honest).
SO, the following is a list of what each year will be asked to contribute (we will let you know closer to the date as to where to bring it all):
· Year 3 and Reception – Sweetie jars
· Years 1 and 4 – Cakes, glorious cakes
· Years 2 and 5 – Chocolate for the chocolate tombola
· Year 6 – Nearly new (or unused) toys in good condition
(Please only give items suitable for children aged 4+. No books please)
In addition to all of that business, any Cuddly Toys in good condition for the Adopt-a-Teddy stall would be greatly appreciated.
AND, MUFTI DAY ON THE DAY OF THE FAIR – PLEASE BRING A TOMBOLA PRIZE
Like last year, the fair will be spread over the upper and lower school sites. A map will be distributed the week of the fair so as to help plan your evening. It is anticipated that negotiating buggies and people up the wooded path will be a challenge, so please KEEP TO THE LEFT!
To get us in the Christmas spirit, the School Choir will be kicking off the festivities – do please give them your support.
More info to come ……………….Thank You!
Friday, 23 November 2007
Monday, 19 November 2007
NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.09
HEAD'S VIEW
Today saw our first house event as a primary school. Every girl, boy and member of staff (except myself and Mrs Kennaugh) now belong to one of the four houses. We see this as a valuable way of promoting the sense of being part of a team with representation across the whole school. In addition, the events we plan will concentrate on key skills and attitudes such as collaboration, flexibility and bringing out the best in others. Today the children within their houses have been working in groups of four (typically Reception, Year 2, Year 4, Year 6 or Year 1, Year 3, Year 5, Year 6) to produce a collage of their house bird within a limited time. All of the entries will then be displayed in giant house collages at the end of the afternoon for all of us to admire. I write this before the event so fingers crossed! There has been a slight amendment to the house names. After not inconsiderable discussion, reference to a number of twitchers' manuals and enhanced knowledge on the part of many of us, the names are now Eagles, Falcons, Ospreys and Owls. It was agreed that kestrels, our original choice, were of the same family as falcons and that ospreys who are the only members of their family (an individual lot) would be a suitable replacement. I hope there are no kestrels out there who feel too offended. Our children will have been informed of their houses shortly before the house event.
Another first is coming up on Monday with the new extended school hall opening for business and our very first whole school assembly. Our builders (Biggs), who have been exceptional, have been working overtime to ensure we can gather at 9.15am. For those of you who have seen the new hall, I know you are as delighted as we are with the outcome. It is a fabulous space which will allow for a huge range of activity in years to come. We are not yet there with the ReNewbridge extras such as the multi media system, staging, lights and so on but they are well on their way. If you would like to come and see the hall, I am available at 3pm on both Monday and Tuesday to give you a guided tour!
The link building is now rising before our eyes. Due to budgetary constraints, we have had to make amendments to the original plans. The overall size of the building has been reduced and the proposal to use straw bales in the walls has had to be set aside. Unfortunately, such technology is still of considerable expense. What I am certain about is that come the end of April we will have a school environment to be proud of and one which will help us move forward as a school with great ambition.
PARENT SUPPORT IN YEAR 3
We have been delighted with the level of support offered by the Year 3 parents this year. The number of volunteers for both reading and the recent trip to Roman Baths has been incredible. We are so grateful for your support and can assure you that your help is appreciated and having an impact on your children’s learning. We would like to say a big thank you to Sally MacDonell for all her time, skill and effort in creating the fantastic Roman coins which are now on display in the lower school hall. The Year 3 team.
('This echoes our parental support throughout the school. Your help in so many ways makes a difference. We could not do it without you!' Mr Croker)
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 19/11/07:
Wednesday 21/11/07 - Girls football match vs WASPS (tbc)
Thursday 22/11/07 - 1HO Assembly – 2.45pm
Friday 23/11/07 - 6B Assembly – 2.45
Auction of Promises – 7.00pm
NEWBRIDGES CHESS MATCH AGAINST KING EDWARDS
On Friday the 9th of November Newbridge chess team played King Edwards chess team in a chess match. At 3:15, after school, Newbridge chess team went to the blue room and found out our board numbers (best first). After that we went on the coach to King Edwards to play our matches. When we were there we were shown where to sit and what their rules were. Then we played our chess match, the first game counted towards the score but you could play a friendly after if you wanted. At the end we heard the score - it was 25 and a half to King Edwards and 14 and a half to Newbridge. Thank you to Mr Croker for teaching and supporting us and the parent helpers who came along and those who offered.
By Sydney and Liam.
('Over 40 players from Newbridge taking part and they all did amazingly well against a very strong chess-playing school ………… my old place.!I felt very proud of the girls and boys on both sides of the board.' Mr Croker)
AUCTION OF PROMISES - 23rd November 7.00pm (for 7.45pm)
Upper School Hall
Licensed bar and snacks
Don’t forget to buy your tickets for the auction – they are selling fast.
Year Group Hampers
Thank you for all the offers of items for the hampers. Please could you bring all the items in to school between Monday 19th and Wednesday 20th November and hand them to your class teacher. The hampers for each year are as follows -
Reception - Children's art & craft
Year 1 – New baby
Year 2 – Children's Christmas
Year 3 – Fairtrade
Year 4 – Indian food
Year 5 – Christmas
Year 6 – Ladies pamper yourself
Thank you all for your help.
Jo Stevenson
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Bonnie, Jack
Years 1 and 2
Poppy, Maddi, Ruby, Emily, Henry, Hannah, Harvey, Faisal, Jadek
Years 3 and 4
Cassidy, Thomas, Beth, Amy
Years 5 and 6
Guy, Oliver, Rashane, Joe, Lucas, Joseph
PPA Music
Maddie, Matthew
PPA Drama
Ralph, Sinead, Jack
PPA PE
Abigail, William, Sophie
SCHOOL DINNERS
Please note that school dinners or packed lunches must be taken on a weekly basis. It is not possible to change during the week.
Thank you.
BLUEBELLES
We are a creative arts support group for women who have had or are suffering from Postnatal Illness and we are looking for volunteers to help with the following:
Childcare – Can you give 2 hours per month?
Artists/Craftworkers – Do you have a hobby that you could demonstrate?
If you can help, or would like to find out more, then please contact Dawn Worthington via Elm Class
TEACHING ASSISTANT VACANCY
Teaching Assistant - Level 3, Grade O for 19.30hrs per week required to support a reception child with severe speech and language delay and poor fine motor co-ordination difficulties.
A qualification in British Sign Language is essential as signing is the pupil’s initial form of communication.
Support will include working one to one with the child as well as small groups to promote peer signing. There will also be opportunities to support the whole class and staff to encourage a signing environment.
If interested, please contact the School Office.
CHRISTMAS CARDS
Don't buy your Christmas Cards yet – each class is in the process of making their own – they will be on sale shortly.
RENEWBRIDGE
All the evidence from the ReNewbridge appeal needs to be in school as soon as possible as we are putting together an official record in the form of a book.
SHOPPERS CRECHE
Staff will be running a shopping crèche at Saturday 1st December from 9.30 – 12.15. £5.00 per place. Places will be limited and you will be able to sign up initially at the Auction of Promises. All the money raised will go towards the ReNewbridge Appeal.
Today saw our first house event as a primary school. Every girl, boy and member of staff (except myself and Mrs Kennaugh) now belong to one of the four houses. We see this as a valuable way of promoting the sense of being part of a team with representation across the whole school. In addition, the events we plan will concentrate on key skills and attitudes such as collaboration, flexibility and bringing out the best in others. Today the children within their houses have been working in groups of four (typically Reception, Year 2, Year 4, Year 6 or Year 1, Year 3, Year 5, Year 6) to produce a collage of their house bird within a limited time. All of the entries will then be displayed in giant house collages at the end of the afternoon for all of us to admire. I write this before the event so fingers crossed! There has been a slight amendment to the house names. After not inconsiderable discussion, reference to a number of twitchers' manuals and enhanced knowledge on the part of many of us, the names are now Eagles, Falcons, Ospreys and Owls. It was agreed that kestrels, our original choice, were of the same family as falcons and that ospreys who are the only members of their family (an individual lot) would be a suitable replacement. I hope there are no kestrels out there who feel too offended. Our children will have been informed of their houses shortly before the house event.
Another first is coming up on Monday with the new extended school hall opening for business and our very first whole school assembly. Our builders (Biggs), who have been exceptional, have been working overtime to ensure we can gather at 9.15am. For those of you who have seen the new hall, I know you are as delighted as we are with the outcome. It is a fabulous space which will allow for a huge range of activity in years to come. We are not yet there with the ReNewbridge extras such as the multi media system, staging, lights and so on but they are well on their way. If you would like to come and see the hall, I am available at 3pm on both Monday and Tuesday to give you a guided tour!
The link building is now rising before our eyes. Due to budgetary constraints, we have had to make amendments to the original plans. The overall size of the building has been reduced and the proposal to use straw bales in the walls has had to be set aside. Unfortunately, such technology is still of considerable expense. What I am certain about is that come the end of April we will have a school environment to be proud of and one which will help us move forward as a school with great ambition.
PARENT SUPPORT IN YEAR 3
We have been delighted with the level of support offered by the Year 3 parents this year. The number of volunteers for both reading and the recent trip to Roman Baths has been incredible. We are so grateful for your support and can assure you that your help is appreciated and having an impact on your children’s learning. We would like to say a big thank you to Sally MacDonell for all her time, skill and effort in creating the fantastic Roman coins which are now on display in the lower school hall. The Year 3 team.
('This echoes our parental support throughout the school. Your help in so many ways makes a difference. We could not do it without you!' Mr Croker)
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 19/11/07:
Wednesday 21/11/07 - Girls football match vs WASPS (tbc)
Thursday 22/11/07 - 1HO Assembly – 2.45pm
Friday 23/11/07 - 6B Assembly – 2.45
Auction of Promises – 7.00pm
NEWBRIDGES CHESS MATCH AGAINST KING EDWARDS
On Friday the 9th of November Newbridge chess team played King Edwards chess team in a chess match. At 3:15, after school, Newbridge chess team went to the blue room and found out our board numbers (best first). After that we went on the coach to King Edwards to play our matches. When we were there we were shown where to sit and what their rules were. Then we played our chess match, the first game counted towards the score but you could play a friendly after if you wanted. At the end we heard the score - it was 25 and a half to King Edwards and 14 and a half to Newbridge. Thank you to Mr Croker for teaching and supporting us and the parent helpers who came along and those who offered.
By Sydney and Liam.
('Over 40 players from Newbridge taking part and they all did amazingly well against a very strong chess-playing school ………… my old place.!I felt very proud of the girls and boys on both sides of the board.' Mr Croker)
AUCTION OF PROMISES - 23rd November 7.00pm (for 7.45pm)
Upper School Hall
Licensed bar and snacks
Don’t forget to buy your tickets for the auction – they are selling fast.
Year Group Hampers
Thank you for all the offers of items for the hampers. Please could you bring all the items in to school between Monday 19th and Wednesday 20th November and hand them to your class teacher. The hampers for each year are as follows -
Reception - Children's art & craft
Year 1 – New baby
Year 2 – Children's Christmas
Year 3 – Fairtrade
Year 4 – Indian food
Year 5 – Christmas
Year 6 – Ladies pamper yourself
Thank you all for your help.
Jo Stevenson
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Bonnie, Jack
Years 1 and 2
Poppy, Maddi, Ruby, Emily, Henry, Hannah, Harvey, Faisal, Jadek
Years 3 and 4
Cassidy, Thomas, Beth, Amy
Years 5 and 6
Guy, Oliver, Rashane, Joe, Lucas, Joseph
PPA Music
Maddie, Matthew
PPA Drama
Ralph, Sinead, Jack
PPA PE
Abigail, William, Sophie
SCHOOL DINNERS
Please note that school dinners or packed lunches must be taken on a weekly basis. It is not possible to change during the week.
Thank you.
BLUEBELLES
We are a creative arts support group for women who have had or are suffering from Postnatal Illness and we are looking for volunteers to help with the following:
Childcare – Can you give 2 hours per month?
Artists/Craftworkers – Do you have a hobby that you could demonstrate?
If you can help, or would like to find out more, then please contact Dawn Worthington via Elm Class
TEACHING ASSISTANT VACANCY
Teaching Assistant - Level 3, Grade O for 19.30hrs per week required to support a reception child with severe speech and language delay and poor fine motor co-ordination difficulties.
A qualification in British Sign Language is essential as signing is the pupil’s initial form of communication.
Support will include working one to one with the child as well as small groups to promote peer signing. There will also be opportunities to support the whole class and staff to encourage a signing environment.
If interested, please contact the School Office.
CHRISTMAS CARDS
Don't buy your Christmas Cards yet – each class is in the process of making their own – they will be on sale shortly.
RENEWBRIDGE
All the evidence from the ReNewbridge appeal needs to be in school as soon as possible as we are putting together an official record in the form of a book.
SHOPPERS CRECHE
Staff will be running a shopping crèche at Saturday 1st December from 9.30 – 12.15. £5.00 per place. Places will be limited and you will be able to sign up initially at the Auction of Promises. All the money raised will go towards the ReNewbridge Appeal.
Friday, 9 November 2007
NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.08
HEAD'S VIEW
This is the first newsletter after the half term break and an opportunity to welcome back Mr Cumpson after his odyssey to Australia and New Zealand. His family had an unforgettable experience and he returns to us as fresh as a daisy and raring to go! This is also a chance to express my gratitude to Mrs Walsh who taught Mr Cumpson's class while he was away and gave the children in 5C a fantastic start to the year.
There are now copies of the Ofsted Inspection Report available in school or, alternatively, you can access the report on www.ofsted.gov.uk You will be glad to know that there are no surprises. The inspection team were only assessing us on life after September 2006 and as a newly formed primary school. They took no account of the two separate schools and their many strengths and successes. To this end, they agreed with us that we can be no more than satisfactory at this stage in most areas because structures and systems are being put in place which will bear fruit further down the road. The areas they highlighted for development we had already identified and were incorporated in the outline development plan sent out to you in the summer. Of the many positives, the children's personal development and well-being was highlighted with comments such as the 'spiritual, moral, social and cultural provision is strong' and 'good attention is given to encouraging top quality behaviour and this ensures pupils are polite, courteous and safe young people'. One of our parents commented: 'My children do seem to be having the time of their lives. The teachers are helpful and enthusiastic; there are lots of opportunities/events both inside and out of the classroom.' (Please find attached a statutory letter sent by the inspectors to the children.)
To my mind this inspection has come at a good time. It confirms we are very much on the right track and my view that this team of people will move Newbridge Primary School on to great things.
Some Bits And Pieces….
BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.
Please note that clubs will not now be cancelled due to bad weather. Alternative/indoor activities will be arranged for the children and the club will end at the designated time.
After a meeting with the School Council it has been agreed that packed lunch children in the Upper School can bring bottled water if they so wish. Water will still be available in the dining hall. Other drinks are not permitted.
Please note that next week's Sex Education information evening has been postponed. Details of a new date out shortly.
We are a little concerned about the number of toilet breaks during lesson time, particularly among the older children. We would like to reduce this and would appreciate it if parents & carers could inform the class teacher of any medical reasons or conditions necessitating toilet use above the norm. Thank you.
Congratulations to James (4A) on winning the Bath Firework Poster competition for his age group.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 12/11/07:
All week – COMMUNITY WEEK
12/11/07 Year 3 to Roman Baths am
13/11/07 NPSA Meeting 7.30pm
15/11/07 Sex Ed. info meeting for parents (POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE)
PRIMARY MATHS CHALLENGE
A group of budding mathematicians from Years 5 and 6 will take part in the highly acclaimed Primary Maths Challenge on Monday 19th November 2007. The National Challenge, where more than 97,000 pupils from 2,570 schools will take part, will see Newbridge pupils tackle a selection of 30 complex maths problems in just 45 minutes. The Mathematical Association (who run the Maths Challenge) will invite any high scoring children to compete in the National finals during February 2008. The enthusiasm and excitement from the children on hearing about the challenge was absolutely phenomenal.
"I'm definitely going for it!" responded pupil Guy.
Best of luck to everyone involved.
YEAR 4 NEWSPAPER DAY
On Friday 12th October Year 4 held a fantastic Newspaper day in the Blue Room and the new ICT Suite. To make this day memorable the children dressed up as journalists. In the morning we had a conference with our Editor – Chloe and our two Deputy Editors – Oscar and James.
We enjoyed everything on the day. The hardest jobs were Illustrators, Photographers, Editors and Deputy Editors. The most annoying part was the printer, because Charlie made it print about 115 copies! Natasha and Martha were having a hard time as everyone was giving their work in and they didn’t know what to do with it. The people who made the Newspaper also had a hard job and it was really hard to make the deadline.
When 4A spoke about the experience in Assembly they had to do it on their own because Chloe, the Editor, wasn’t there to tell them what to do!Thank you to all the teachers who helped us make the Newspaper and Tom’s mum, Sharon.
By Lily and Rebecca – 4P.
('A great experience. The Blue Room & ICT suite really felt like the offices of a major newspaper, with the hustle and bustle, and pressure of deadlines. This is a very impressive team with a great future ahead of them! Well done and thank you to the Year 4 staff and Mrs Alcock too.' Mr Croker)
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Miya, Lucy, Abigail, Leon
Years 3 and 4
Archie, Kate, Olivia, Natasha
Years 5 and 6
Helen, Rosie, Bryony, Max, Aaron
PPA Music
Adnan
PPA Art
Tom, Georgia
PPA PE
Charlotte, Callum
AUCTION OF PROMISES – FRIDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Promise deadline has been extended to Tuesday 13th November.
The latest exciting promises made this week include -
* Chauffeur for 4 for one night
* Sunday lunch for 6 in your home
* Wine tasting evening with a wine expert
* Rugby coaching by ex Bath and England player
* Greek lessons
* Professional pianist in your home
To make a promise –
Ø Put the details onto paper and return to school
Ø Email – lucy.hanney@virgin.net
Ø Telephone Lucy on 333389
Don't forget you can also contribute to your Year Group's Hamper –
· Reception – Children’s Art and Craft
· Year 1 – New Baby
· Year 2 – Children's Christmas
· Year 3 – Fairtrade
· Year 4 – Indian Food
· Year 5 – Christmas
· Year 6 – Ladies Pamper Yourselves
YEAR 5 GREEK DAY REPORT
On Tuesday 6th November, Year 5 had a Greek day. We all looked a little silly that morning … we all dressed up in Greek costumes!
We started the day with a Greek lady who taught us a few words of her native language. Then we split up into groups and went off to do different subjects such as cookery, sewing, creating a newspaper, Olympics, Greek writing and pots.
Greek Writing
Greek writing was difficult for some people because the alphabet didn't have all the letters we have in our alphabet. We wrote a word or our names on a rough sheet of paper and then we wrote it out neatly on a second sheet. We also used quill pens so it was even harder. Next we did the pots. Mr Cumpson smashed some pots into broken pieces so that it looked like they had been dug out of the ground and we then we painted them and let them dry.
Olympics
In the Ancient Greek Olympics women would wrestle and men would throw javelins, discus, jump and run. So we had a go at all we could, for our Ancient Greek Olympics. Of course we couldn’t really wrestle, but had fun looking like a wrestler. We did discus and javelin and ran around the picnic benches twice in two minutes and jumped over four sets of bean bags. We earned up to five points for one challenge, and at the end of the day the team that won were awarded a gold medal each. Our winning city state was Sparta, and the person who earned the most points out of the year group was Alex who earned 25 points!!
Cooking
On Monday, groups of six went out to cook and made some yummy spinach and feta cheese samoas . On Tuesday we made sweet pitta bread and ordinary pitta bread. It was yummy!
Sewing
In Sewing we were making patterns with pieces of canvas. We had lots of brightly coloured thread. We sewed through the holes in the canvas and made patterns. We were very pleased with our patterns when we had finished.
Newspaper
All of Year five made their own Greek newspaper. We researched what happened in Greek times and put it in a news paper. When we were finished the paper looked great.
We would like to thank Mrs Hanney, Mrs Callan, Mrs Aldridge and Mrs Tovey for all their help with our Greek Day.
By Emma, Joda, Thea, Isabella, Katherine and Grace.
('A great day and what a privilege it was to be surrounded by so many gods, goddesses, heroes and heroines. Even Zeus turned up! I am sure our children will always remember the day and I would like to thank all the staff, parents and children for making learning come alive.' Mr Croker)
BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.
FOUND – Red Newbridge coat left behind at Prior Park (not named). Please contact the office.
REMINDER –
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal. Any contributions for this need to be in school by Tuesday 13th November, at the latest. Many thanks.
This is the first newsletter after the half term break and an opportunity to welcome back Mr Cumpson after his odyssey to Australia and New Zealand. His family had an unforgettable experience and he returns to us as fresh as a daisy and raring to go! This is also a chance to express my gratitude to Mrs Walsh who taught Mr Cumpson's class while he was away and gave the children in 5C a fantastic start to the year.
There are now copies of the Ofsted Inspection Report available in school or, alternatively, you can access the report on www.ofsted.gov.uk You will be glad to know that there are no surprises. The inspection team were only assessing us on life after September 2006 and as a newly formed primary school. They took no account of the two separate schools and their many strengths and successes. To this end, they agreed with us that we can be no more than satisfactory at this stage in most areas because structures and systems are being put in place which will bear fruit further down the road. The areas they highlighted for development we had already identified and were incorporated in the outline development plan sent out to you in the summer. Of the many positives, the children's personal development and well-being was highlighted with comments such as the 'spiritual, moral, social and cultural provision is strong' and 'good attention is given to encouraging top quality behaviour and this ensures pupils are polite, courteous and safe young people'. One of our parents commented: 'My children do seem to be having the time of their lives. The teachers are helpful and enthusiastic; there are lots of opportunities/events both inside and out of the classroom.' (Please find attached a statutory letter sent by the inspectors to the children.)
To my mind this inspection has come at a good time. It confirms we are very much on the right track and my view that this team of people will move Newbridge Primary School on to great things.
Some Bits And Pieces….
BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.
Please note that clubs will not now be cancelled due to bad weather. Alternative/indoor activities will be arranged for the children and the club will end at the designated time.
After a meeting with the School Council it has been agreed that packed lunch children in the Upper School can bring bottled water if they so wish. Water will still be available in the dining hall. Other drinks are not permitted.
Please note that next week's Sex Education information evening has been postponed. Details of a new date out shortly.
We are a little concerned about the number of toilet breaks during lesson time, particularly among the older children. We would like to reduce this and would appreciate it if parents & carers could inform the class teacher of any medical reasons or conditions necessitating toilet use above the norm. Thank you.
Congratulations to James (4A) on winning the Bath Firework Poster competition for his age group.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 12/11/07:
All week – COMMUNITY WEEK
12/11/07 Year 3 to Roman Baths am
13/11/07 NPSA Meeting 7.30pm
15/11/07 Sex Ed. info meeting for parents (POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE)
PRIMARY MATHS CHALLENGE
A group of budding mathematicians from Years 5 and 6 will take part in the highly acclaimed Primary Maths Challenge on Monday 19th November 2007. The National Challenge, where more than 97,000 pupils from 2,570 schools will take part, will see Newbridge pupils tackle a selection of 30 complex maths problems in just 45 minutes. The Mathematical Association (who run the Maths Challenge) will invite any high scoring children to compete in the National finals during February 2008. The enthusiasm and excitement from the children on hearing about the challenge was absolutely phenomenal.
"I'm definitely going for it!" responded pupil Guy.
Best of luck to everyone involved.
YEAR 4 NEWSPAPER DAY
On Friday 12th October Year 4 held a fantastic Newspaper day in the Blue Room and the new ICT Suite. To make this day memorable the children dressed up as journalists. In the morning we had a conference with our Editor – Chloe and our two Deputy Editors – Oscar and James.
We enjoyed everything on the day. The hardest jobs were Illustrators, Photographers, Editors and Deputy Editors. The most annoying part was the printer, because Charlie made it print about 115 copies! Natasha and Martha were having a hard time as everyone was giving their work in and they didn’t know what to do with it. The people who made the Newspaper also had a hard job and it was really hard to make the deadline.
When 4A spoke about the experience in Assembly they had to do it on their own because Chloe, the Editor, wasn’t there to tell them what to do!Thank you to all the teachers who helped us make the Newspaper and Tom’s mum, Sharon.
By Lily and Rebecca – 4P.
('A great experience. The Blue Room & ICT suite really felt like the offices of a major newspaper, with the hustle and bustle, and pressure of deadlines. This is a very impressive team with a great future ahead of them! Well done and thank you to the Year 4 staff and Mrs Alcock too.' Mr Croker)
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Miya, Lucy, Abigail, Leon
Years 3 and 4
Archie, Kate, Olivia, Natasha
Years 5 and 6
Helen, Rosie, Bryony, Max, Aaron
PPA Music
Adnan
PPA Art
Tom, Georgia
PPA PE
Charlotte, Callum
AUCTION OF PROMISES – FRIDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Promise deadline has been extended to Tuesday 13th November.
The latest exciting promises made this week include -
* Chauffeur for 4 for one night
* Sunday lunch for 6 in your home
* Wine tasting evening with a wine expert
* Rugby coaching by ex Bath and England player
* Greek lessons
* Professional pianist in your home
To make a promise –
Ø Put the details onto paper and return to school
Ø Email – lucy.hanney@virgin.net
Ø Telephone Lucy on 333389
Don't forget you can also contribute to your Year Group's Hamper –
· Reception – Children’s Art and Craft
· Year 1 – New Baby
· Year 2 – Children's Christmas
· Year 3 – Fairtrade
· Year 4 – Indian Food
· Year 5 – Christmas
· Year 6 – Ladies Pamper Yourselves
YEAR 5 GREEK DAY REPORT
On Tuesday 6th November, Year 5 had a Greek day. We all looked a little silly that morning … we all dressed up in Greek costumes!
We started the day with a Greek lady who taught us a few words of her native language. Then we split up into groups and went off to do different subjects such as cookery, sewing, creating a newspaper, Olympics, Greek writing and pots.
Greek Writing
Greek writing was difficult for some people because the alphabet didn't have all the letters we have in our alphabet. We wrote a word or our names on a rough sheet of paper and then we wrote it out neatly on a second sheet. We also used quill pens so it was even harder. Next we did the pots. Mr Cumpson smashed some pots into broken pieces so that it looked like they had been dug out of the ground and we then we painted them and let them dry.
Olympics
In the Ancient Greek Olympics women would wrestle and men would throw javelins, discus, jump and run. So we had a go at all we could, for our Ancient Greek Olympics. Of course we couldn’t really wrestle, but had fun looking like a wrestler. We did discus and javelin and ran around the picnic benches twice in two minutes and jumped over four sets of bean bags. We earned up to five points for one challenge, and at the end of the day the team that won were awarded a gold medal each. Our winning city state was Sparta, and the person who earned the most points out of the year group was Alex who earned 25 points!!
Cooking
On Monday, groups of six went out to cook and made some yummy spinach and feta cheese samoas . On Tuesday we made sweet pitta bread and ordinary pitta bread. It was yummy!
Sewing
In Sewing we were making patterns with pieces of canvas. We had lots of brightly coloured thread. We sewed through the holes in the canvas and made patterns. We were very pleased with our patterns when we had finished.
Newspaper
All of Year five made their own Greek newspaper. We researched what happened in Greek times and put it in a news paper. When we were finished the paper looked great.
We would like to thank Mrs Hanney, Mrs Callan, Mrs Aldridge and Mrs Tovey for all their help with our Greek Day.
By Emma, Joda, Thea, Isabella, Katherine and Grace.
('A great day and what a privilege it was to be surrounded by so many gods, goddesses, heroes and heroines. Even Zeus turned up! I am sure our children will always remember the day and I would like to thank all the staff, parents and children for making learning come alive.' Mr Croker)
BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.
FOUND – Red Newbridge coat left behind at Prior Park (not named). Please contact the office.
REMINDER –
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal. Any contributions for this need to be in school by Tuesday 13th November, at the latest. Many thanks.
Friday, 2 November 2007
Isle of Wight Meeting
Dear Parents/Carers
ISLE OF WIGHT 2008 YEAR 6 FIELD TRIP
We are organising a 5 day Field Study Trip for Year 6 children to St. Rhadagunds Conference Centre in St. Lawrence near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight.
The trip will take place from Monday 2nd June to Friday 6th June 2008 and will cost in the region of £200.
There will be a meeting in the School Hall on Thursday 8th November at 7.00pm. The purpose of the meeting is to tell you more about the Centre, what activities we plan to do whilst on the island and the benefits for your child.
Could you please sign and return the slip below and return it to your child's teacher as soon as possible.
Yours sincerely
Mrs G Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher
Community Week Letter
Dear Parents/Carers
I am writing to ask if you are able, in any way, to help support our school curriculum.
During the week commencing 12th November we are holding our Community Week. Some of you may remember that this was held in the former junior school two years ago and proved very successful. The aim of the week is to help our children to understand their place in their local community and to help forge links with our community.
In order to structure the week we will be focusing on key outcomes of the 'Every Child Matters' agenda.
Monday - Health and Well-being in the community
Tuesday - Keeping safe in the community
Wednesday - Enjoyment and Achievement in the community
Thursday - Contribution to the community
We do hope that if you run a local business, work locally or have an interest in a field that may fall into one of the above categories, you will be able to visit school on one of these days and share the nature of your work and its place in the community with some of the children. It could be the case that the children could prepare questions prior to your visit.
Any support that you would be able to offer the school would be greatly appreciated. I am sure that the experience will prove mutually beneficial and rewarding.
As we will need to plan the week carefully and make contact with you again if you are able to assist, we would appreciate a prompt response.
With many thanks for your consideration of this matter. We hope to hear from you soon.
Yours sincerely
Mrs G Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)