Dear Parents,

 

I have had such a wonderful week spending time in each classroom. On Monday morning Mrs Dodds and I carried out an English learning walk and on Thursday I spent time in Chaffinch and in a Music lesson.  It was fantastic to see the engagement, learning and behaviour of children throughout the school.  Learning was focused and creative and the consistency and progression is great to see.  Our new Reception children are so happy and settled; Mrs Gan even had them writing simple notation in Music!

We were very lucky that the weather on Tuesday enabled us to have our Harvest service at church.  The readers read beautifully and the children enjoyed giving their gifts; thank you for your generosity. 

On Thursday 10th October it was National Mental Health Day.  We  use the term 'mental health' with the children just as we so commonly talk about our physical health.  We do a lot to support the children; some of this is through PSHE, RE, mindfulness activities, yoga, massage, relaxation and nurture.  We are very fortunate to have Kate Meads as our family support worker; she is happy to meet with you on a Monday afternoon and will help in any way she can.  In school Mrs Beakhouse has allocated nurture time to carry out activities with children and offer guidance and advice.  It also has to be mentioned that Bingo and Caramel, our guinea pigs, provide wonderful nurture to us all!  There is so much in the media surrounding staff wellbeing in schools; as governors we are committed to caring for all staff.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff for their hard work and dedication and thank you for the appreciation you show, it makes an enormous difference.

This afternoon the boys had a home football match against Crazies Hill Primary School and won a fantastic 7-0.  Barnaby, Jude and Jasper all scored and Harry scored 4, well done Boys.  We are looking forward to the netball and football tournament next week for Year 5s at Luckley House, I wish them luck!

Wishing you all a lovely weekend.  Please remember the Finchampstead Shopping Evening is at 7.30pm until 9.30pm this evening at the Memorial hall and also to fill the bags 2 school bags ready for collection next week.

Jacquie Vanstone