21st October 2022

Dear Parents and Carers

It has been a fantastic term, children have made good progress, been engaged in exciting learning and been on a variety of trips supporting learning outside the classroom.  Years 1 and 2 participated in a workshop with Mary Seacole, bringing history to life.  Year 3 went on a boat trip around London, Year 4 to London Zoo, and Year 5 to the Science Museum.  I have to say our children in Nursery and Reception have enjoyed hours of fun and learning exploring the forest school and outdoor areas.
Year 6 had plans to attend an exhibition on the Windrush but unfortunately had to reschedule for next term, so they will have this and other trips to look forward to.
We are fortunate to have extensive grounds to promote outdoor learning.  Our Apiary of 8 beehives on site has been amazing, thanks to Sue who looks after all the hives.  She has kindly donated jars of honey which will be on sale next term. A fantastic learning opportunity for children.

Our Heritage celebrations

One of the highlights has been the fashion show on Wednesday, when children and adults had a chance to wear national costumes to celebrate ‘Our Heritage’ Black History Month is always an important event in our school calendar and curriculum. This term we have been able to celebrate all the different cultures we have in our school community.   It was lovely to share a meal together last week and sample a range of delicious food from around the world. Thank you for supporting us with this.

Show Racism the Red Card  & Crazy Hair day

We should be very proud of our children for the way they engage in current affairs, not only by participating in important events like this, but more because of the meaningful discussions they have around topics like racism and respecting everyone’s right to being an individual.
As a Catholic School we nurture our children to live out Gospel values of love, tolerance, respect and forgiveness. Our children are encouraged to be critical thinkers who challenge injustice and celebrate differences.
Crazy Hair day was a chance for children to be creative, whilst recognising that we are unique individuals, unique and each have a talent to celebrate.

Class Assemblies

This term Class E, Year 6 and 5S have led assemblies on the theme of significant people who have made a big contribution to our lives. Some of these included Michelle Obama, Ada Lovelace, Serena Williams, Nelson Mandela and some famous scientists and mathematicians. It was touching to hear children speak about members of their family who were also an inspiration to them. Well done children.

Parent Teacher Meetings

The meetings were well attended and I hope you found it useful to look through your child’s work and discuss their progress with the Class Teacher. Please do arrange a mutually convenient time to meet if you were unable to attend the previous meetings
I am sure you are all looking forward to half term and hopefully to spending some time together as a family. We would like the children to continue reading regularly over the break and try to visit the Library.

House Team Competitions

Thank you to all the staff who are leading on house teams competitions. Please see the attached poster with details of one competition. The deadline is Friday, 4th November, so get planning. Do click on the flyer below for information and follow the YouTube link: Step Inside Your Story with Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho and author Rose Robbins – YouTube
Details are also on your child’s Google Classroom.
House Team Challenge – Autumn Term

PTA Donations

The PTA have generously donated £500 towards the purchase of new books to celebrate Black History and diversity in our community. This will be shared equally between the Infant and Junior Schools. My thanks to them for all their hard work and continuing to do an amazing job. Do please support them, by taking an active part in the PTA.

Parent Governor Position

Thank you to everyone who took the trouble to vote and I am pleased to inform you that the successful candidate receiving the most votes is Mr Dave Navarro.
I would like to thank Ms Majekodunmi, Ms Peli, Mrs Ferreres and Ms Sowemimo for standing for this position and being committed to the school.
I wish you a happy half term and look forward to seeing you on the 31st October 2022.
Mrs Fernandes
Headteacher

This week’s photo montage

Important dates for your diary

Diary dates
31.10.22 – Last day for Y6 applications to Secondary Schools
01.11.22 – All Saints Day
01.11.22 – Y4 trip to West Norwood Library
02.11.22 – Fireworks evening
02.11.22 – Talk on Autism – (Autistic Society) – School Library 9.00a.m.
03.11.22 – Y5/Y6 Football Match (away)
04.11.22 – 5E Assembly (parents/carers welcome) – 9.15 a.m.
09.11.22 – Nasal flue spray
10.11.22 – 3T Class Assembly (parent/carers welcome) – 9.15 a.m.
11.11.22 – Remembrance Day assemblies (school only)
12.11.22 – Saturday Open day for new parents 9.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.
14.11.22 – 18.11.22 – ANTI BULLYING WEEK
14.11.22 – Class H visit to West Norwood Library
15.11.22 – Pupil Wellbeing workshops (R-Y3)
15.11.22 – Y5 Cinema Trip
15.11.22 – Class P visit to West Norwood Library
16.11.22 – Pupil Wellbeing workshop (Y4-Y6)
16.11.22 – Y3 trip to the Cinema
17.11.22 – 2J Class assembly (parents/carers welcome) 9.15 a.m.
17.11.22 – Y6 trip to the Cinema
17.11.22 – KS2 Cross country at John Fisher (Cross country team) – parents/carers welcome
17.11.22 – Y4 trip to the Cinema
18.11.22 – Y4 Class assembly (parents/carers welcome) 9.15 a.m.
21.11.22 – MATHS WEEK
21.11.22 – 2J visit to West Norwood Library
22.11.22 – 1E visit to West Norwood Library
23.11.22 – School Open morning for new parents 10.00 – 11.30 a.m.
24.11.22 – Class 1E/2O Assembly (parents/carers welcome) 9.15 a.m.
24.11.22 – Reception & Y6 Height & weight check
24.11.22 – Class 1E/2O Class Assembly (parents/carers welcome) 9.15 a.m.
24.11.22 – Y5/Y6 Football maths (away)
25.11.22 – 3S Class Assembly (parents/carers welcome) 9.15 a.m.
28.11.22 – INSET DAY STAFF TRAINING (School closed to pupils)
29.11.22 – 3T visit to West Norwood Library

December
06.12.22 – Y6 Natural History Museum
07.12.22 – KS1 Nativity Play 9.15 a.m. & 2.15 p.m.
09.12.22 – Magician performance (funded by the PTA)
09.12.22 – Christmas music concert 5.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m.
12.12.22 – KS2 Christmas Carol Service 1.45 p.m.
13.12.22 – EYFS Nativity 9.15 a.m. & 2.15 p.m.
14.12.22 – Christmas dinner & Christmas Jumper day
15.12.22 – Y3 Trip to the Pantomime (Fairfield Halls)
16.12.22 – END OF TERM – SCHOOL FINISHES AT 1.30 P.M.

TERM BEGINS ON WEDNESDAY, 4TH JANUARY 2023 AT 8.45 A.M.