Fine Dining!

It was great to see so many children enjoying the experience of being able to dine at the Top Table this week after being recognised by their teachers for completing all their tasks set to be done in their own time. A very responsible approach to their own learning. I hope to see many more in the coming weeks, because it looks like they enjoyed themselves. 

My Tag-Rugby coaching started in earnest this week and despite getting some soggy feet from the long grass, the pupils did really well for the first session. However, there are lots of things to work on in order to be ready for the up-and-coming tournament. Be good to see more than one girl attending too, as it is a mixed session leading to that mixed tournament. Remember there are only four sessions and you can return to any clubs that pupils are already signed up to, once the tournament is over. I seriously encourage pupils to diversify their skillset. 

Good to see all the teachers this week for their pupil progress meetings. Lots of important plans in place to help develop pupils' learning and attainment further. The pupils are very lucky to have such dedicated staff teaching them. 

I was also able to see the first Year 3 swimming session this week. I was really pleased how brave everyone who took part was and I can only reinforce the importance of learning this life skill. The teacher we have is excellent and our staff are so supportive with all abilities of children by getting in the pool themselves and helping the children improve. The synchronised swimming team of Ms. Forder and Mrs. Tuddenham get top marks from me. 

I have put out a reminder that class water bottles should contain water only. This is due to more and more of them being filled with sugary squashes and/or fizzy drinks. Obviously, if there is a medical requirement where a child must have other fluids instead of water this is acceptable, but not liking the taste of water, which has no taste, is not a medical need. Pupils are allowed to have fruit juice or squash in their lunches, just not in the classrooms. Therefore, now is the time to work with us to train our pupils to drink more water. This is far healthier and enables them to be more effectively hydrated improving both concentration and behaviour throughout the day. This can be achieved with parents and staff persevering and being committed to change. Try offering the child a small reward for drinking most or all of it at the end of the day. If your child enjoys cold drinks, almost fill the water bottle and put it in the freezer overnight. The water will stay cold as it melts at school the next day. Teachers are also happy to reward children who show efforts in drinking their water via Dojo points. 

Next week, we have our Ofsted Readiness Appraisal helping us to make any further improvements before we get the real call. It is another opportunity for our staff and our pupils to practise highlighting all that we do well and what we have in place to make our school even better.  Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly.

On Friday 19th January, we have Mandarin sessions for the children in each class to participate in as part of a language taster day. I am sure this will be challenging, but enjoyable nonetheless. 

Have a great weekend everyone!