Dear Parents,

I would like to begin my update by thanking you for your support following the decision to close last Friday. This is always a difficult decision but having driven into school the decision was much easier to reach; the short journey was not a nice experience and not one I wanted others to have to make. Following on from this, we had ten of us clearing the front carpark on Sunday so that we could safely open on Monday. Thank you to everyone who has helped us last week and this week.

This week has been busy with SATS meetings for parents in Years two and six which were both well attended. If you need any further information to support your child at home, please come and see us.

The staff are working hard to continue the development of our English and Maths provision. Mrs Wirth led our staff meeting on Maths and it is exciting to see the impact of the changes we have made. Mrs Dodds led staff training yesterday based around Talk4Writing; our collaborative work is allowing us to implement changes quickly yet strategically. This week Mrs Martinez took a group of Chaffinch children to an Eagle House Spelling Challenge; they had a great time and did very well. We are planning further enrichment opportunities for both English and Maths, one being World Book Day. On Thursday 7th March we welcome the children to dress up as a book character of their choice, please be as creative as you can!

After our Collective Worship on Tuesday Reverend Julie spent some time in Rosefinch and Bullfinch to discuss her role within the Parish. The children had lots of questions and it was great to give them the opportunity to ask the questions first hand; thank you Reverend Julie.

It was fantastic to have such a big audience for our children's Internet Safety Assembly. It was a pleasure to see the children sharing their learning on such an important issue. Afterwards I met with a group of parents to discuss the issues in greater depth. I will share notes from the discussion soon. Please can I remind you that Mrs Dodds has a relevant book which is available for parents to borrow and we would recommend it.

Sadly next week we will be saying goodbye to Miss Donna Gray. She has worked as a Lunchtime Controller and also in Chaffinch. She has been a wonderful asset to our school and has worked with such dedication and care. We are very sorry to see her leave but wish her every happiness in the future.

Finally I wish to remind you of Bags2School, the collection date is the 15th February. FOFSA have met this week and are working hard on behalf of our school so all support is gratefully received.

Have a lovely weekend

Jacquie Vanstone