20 April 2018

Dear Parents

I think everyone enjoyed the Easter break and the children and staff have come back refreshed and ready for the Summer term. As always it has been a very busy week but particularly in Year 1 as they have become the proud guardians of five baby ducklings. The incubator, containing five eggs, arrived on Monday and over the course of this week Fluffy, Lily, Daniel, Mittens and Eleanor have all hatched. They are absolutely gorgeous although I am led to believe quite mischievous . It is a lovely opportunity for the children to learn first hand about life cycles and growth. The children are able to gently handle the chicks and observe their natural instincts developing their understanding of nature and care for the world we live in. Of course the rest of the school have been frequent visitors to the Year 1 classroom as well. It is an exciting and enjoyable experience and I am sure on Monday the children will be amazed to see how the chicks have grown over the weekend.

This week was particularly busy for Year 3 as yesterday they became 'Time Travellers' at Chedworth Roman Villa. This was an exciting 'hands on' learning experience for the children as they handled real Roman artefacts , created medicine bags and explored the mosaic floors, baths and hypocaust system . The Chedworth staff and Year 3 staff all commented that their enthusiasm, interest and behaviour was exemplary .

On Wednesday evening the fourth First Holy Communion preparatory meeting for parents was held at school. Parental attendance at these meetings is an essential element of the children's preparation. The next meeting will be held Tuesday 8 May at 6.30 at St Wulstan's Church. If you are unable to attend this please contact Fr Richard or Mrs Edwards as this is a crucial meeting. Thank you to the parents who are supporting the children as they take this big step in their journey of faith. As the children now progress through their sacramental preparation it is important that they attend weekend Mass. The children are encouraged to sit on the front pews so they have a clear view of the actions, words and rituals of the Mass which greatly helps their understanding. If you have any queries regarding First Holy Communion please contact Fr Richard, Mrs Edwards , Mrs Portman or Mrs James.

Finally, it would seem warmer weather has arrived. A reminder for every child to bring a school water bottle in for rehydration throughout the day in class, bottles can be purchased from the school office (£1.50). We are unable to apply suncream so please ensure children have it applied before leaving home. Red sunhats or caps may be worn during break and lunchbreaks. Thank you to all the parents who have adhered to our uniform policy regarding extreme hair cuts and appropriate summer wear. It would appear some shops are selling gingham shorts /culottes which are not part of our uniform only gingham dresses please. Thank you for your support.

This week we heard of great swimming success by one of our Year 5 pupils, Erin. Erin travelled to Stoke for the COSACSS two day swimming meet. She was the only 9 yr old representing Wyre Forest competing against many other teams around the West Midlands. Erin won 2 medals, a silver and a bronze and achieved five personal bests. Well done Erin.

A reminder that Kidderminster Harriers Football Club recommences this coming Monday 23 April. If you would like your child to continue or start at the club payment details are on Parentpay. Key dates have been added to the calendar on the school website so please check them regularly for any updates. Hopefully the sun is here to stay and everyone has an enjoyable weekend in the sunshine.

KE Savage