School News
CLASSROOMS are always busy and exciting places, but with the noise of the
incubator humming in the corner, Class 1 and the whole school (including the
adults) were agog with anticipation as they awaited the arrival of the new
members: Fluffy, Humpty and Little Dan. Whilst all the chicks actually chose a
quieter time to hatch completely, the chipping process and subsequent tapping
of the shell was addictive to watch. Close observations were made and the new
arrivals all caused quite a stir.
Of course, Mrs Jackson had arranged all this so that the children had first hand experience of new life. The eggs were turned regularly and once hatched the chicks were weighed and measured with a variety of objects. They now return regularly from their home in Reach so that the records and observations can continue.
New life also featured in Class 2 where the growing of Paper Whites allowed the children and parents to be involved in daily measurements of their plants. Not only were flowers painted and written about, data was collected and graphs made. Their sweet perfume gave the classroom a welcome scent and the in the last week of term dried petals were used to add colour, texture and fragrance to hand made paper.
Other events last half term included our recycling focus which featured a visit from the County's recycling bus. Older children learnt about rocks and fossils as well a sources and sustainability. Younger children worked with reclaimed packaging to make simple vehicles. The school is already recycling some paper and card, but is now acting as a point of collection for old mobile phones and used ink cartridges; do drop these into the school. Class 4's survey found that the school is still throwing away too much paper and in a bid to earn our Green Flag from Eco-Schools will be thinking about further initiatives to increase recycling.
Class 3's assembly on talking partners gave insight into the way their learning has been helped by children having the chance to discuss, reason and explain ideas or methods prior to their recording. The amount of chatter has increased, but in a very productive way!
Many children took part in Mencap's Spellathon; as well as raising over £400.00 for this charity all of a sudden spelling was... interesting. The lights were dimmed, the spot light was on and finalists took part in our own version of Hard Spell (check out the BBC website for more information or to test your own spelling). Well done to all involved.
This coming term is always a busy one; the Maypole has been dusted down for a new set of children to enjoy traditional dancing. Other events include class trips, our book fair as well as next year's reception children visiting on a regular basis. Year 5 are involved in a Circle Schools' dance project and as well as our sports' week there are other area tournaments for football and tennis.
We are collecting Tesco's vouchers with the aim to obtain 10,000 for an additional digital camera. Sainsbury's vouchers are also being collected for new playground equipment and a springboard for gym. Do save your tokens and drop them into the boxes outside the office.