News - 6th June 2024

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to the final half term of the academic year, and it is wonderful to see some sunshine brightening our days. The Summer 2 term has started with a creative flair, as we celebrated Art Week. Each class had the opportunity to visit local artist John Worth in his art studio and work on a shared piece of art with Cordelia Hampton-John. We are immensely grateful to John and Cordelia for generously sharing their time, talents, and expertise with our children. The pupils have thoroughly enjoyed this enriching experience. A special thank you to Mrs Lawrence for organising and coordinating the week's events.

I had the privilege of joining Year 3 on their trip to Jack Salway's magnificent garden, which provided the perfect inspiration for their artwork. We eagerly anticipate seeing all the finished pieces showcasing the children's creativity and artistic talent. Jack’s garden will be open to the public on Sunday 18th August from 1pm-4pm. Tickets can be booked through: www.pth.org.uk/event/open-garden-chiddingfold.

In addition to the artistic endeavours, all staff members participated in SEND training, enhancing our skills in working with and supporting pupils with ADHD. This professional development opportunity reinforces our commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all our students.

Year 5 and 6 students recently participated in the Primary Engineer competition, tasked with answering the thought-provoking question, "If you were an engineer, what would you do?" Their entries were truly remarkable, with many achieving distinctions. Notably, Maisy and Wilf from Year 5, and Poppy and Harriet from Year 6 have been shortlisted for the final round of judging.

Congratulations to these budding engineers! Their achievements fill us with pride and inspire us to nurture the innovative minds of our future generations.

As we look ahead, there are several exciting events on the horizon. This Sunday, we invite you to join us in celebrating the village fete, where the children's art pieces will be proudly displayed in the Church Room. Additionally, Year 4 will showcase their maypole dancing skills on the village green in the afternoon, a delightful performance you won't want to miss.

Next week, Year 6 embarks on their residential trip to Chidham, where they will engage in a week filled with water sports and fun. We hope the sunny weather continues to grace their adventure.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Best wishes
Mrs Buckley, Headteacher

LOST PROPERTY
Please ensure that all clothing that comes into school is clearly named to avoid items being lost. Items that are not claimed will go into the clothing bank. Please also check the school uniform that is brought home belongs to your child.

SCO PAY
Please review Scopay for any outstanding payments due for school trips for this term. Please ensure that Scopay is updated by midday on Wednesdays for lunch choices for the following week.

CLASS PHOTOS

Class photos will be sent home today. Please check your child’s school bag.

If your child is in KS1 or Reception: Your child will be taking part in their activities from 10:15 until 11:45. You may also stay to have your picnic with them on the field until 1pm.

If your child is in KS2: The field events start at 9am. You are more than welcome to watch this, but we find that most parents don't, as it is a very quick event of throwing a ball or performing a jump.

If you would like to attend the school picnic, please arrive at 11:45. The KS2 activities start at 1-3pm.

SPORTS DAY PICNIC
The children will be taken to meet their parents/friends or will sit with school staff to eat.

Children who have selected to bring in their own packed lunch can bring this into school in the morning.

Children who have selected a school packed lunch will be provided with their pre-selected packed lunch at the picnic.

Parents can, of course, bring extra snacks for their children. Please make sure that you are supervising your children during this time and do not allow them to use the sports equipment ready for the events, go in the ditch or use the public playground. (no glass bottles, fizzy drinks or any food containing nuts please).

After eating, all the children will return to the school for registration before the afternoon activities commence.

St. Mary’s School Vision

Reflecting virtues of Mary, our vision is for everyone to be inspired to blossom and grow, fulfilling their potential in all aspects of life. By exploring the Christian values of wisdom, hope, respect and community, our pupils understand the importance of being respectful, resilient social advocates, building a better world.