It has been another positive and productive week across the school, with classrooms full of enthusiasm, resilience and purposeful learning. The children have continued to approach their lessons with curiosity and determination, and it has been wonderful to see the progress being made across all year groups.

Our Year 6 pupils have been especially focused this week as they prepare for their End of Key Stage 2 assessments, which begin next week and run from Monday to Thursday. We are incredibly proud of the effort, maturity and perseverance they have shown throughout this process. Whilst we want the children to do their very best, we also want them to remember that SATs do not define who they are. We are proud of them for the people they have become: the talented athletes, artists and musicians; those who speak more than one language; the children who show compassion and care for others; the comedians who bring joy to those around them; and the individuals who continue to show resilience, even when things feel difficult. Every child brings something unique and valuable to our school community, and that is something truly worth celebrating.

It has also been a fantastic week of enrichment opportunities across the school. Year 2 thoroughly enjoyed their visit to Wilderness Park, where they embraced the opportunity to explore the outdoors and connect with nature through hands-on learning experiences. Some of our Year 5 pupils attended a STEM event in Chelmsford and represented the school brilliantly, demonstrating excellent teamwork, curiosity and enthusiasm throughout the day. We were also incredibly proud of our choir, who performed during worship this week with confidence and joy, sharing their talents beautifully with the school community.

During Collective Worship this week, we reflected on the importance of responding well to our mistakes and recognising that everyone gets things wrong sometimes. We explored the story of Peter and how, despite making mistakes and letting Jesus down, he was met with forgiveness, encouragement and the opportunity for a fresh start. The children thought carefully about how we can learn from our mistakes rather than allowing them to define us, and how showing honesty, resilience and courage helps us to grow. It was a powerful reminder that we are all continually learning, and that kindness, forgiveness and second chances are important parts of our school community.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible FOSM team, whose ongoing dedication and fundraising efforts, alongside a generous contribution from Anglian Water, have helped create a wonderful new play area for our children to enjoy during break and lunchtime. This exciting addition will provide children with even more opportunities for imaginative play, collaboration and enjoyment. The playground will officially be opened by the FOSM today after school.

This week’s special pupil recognition goes to Rosie L in Reception. Rosie takes exceptional pride in all of her work, and her handwriting is truly outstanding. Alongside this, she is a thoughtful and caring friend who consistently shows kindness and consideration to those around her. Rosie, we are so proud of the wonderful example you set each day - well done.

Chapter 4 of The Mottlesnatch has now been shared, and we encourage all children to take part. Each completed entry earns five house points and contributes towards the House Cup competition.

Dates and Notices
Monday 11th – Thursday 14th May – SATs Week
Friday 15th May – FOSM Movie Night
Tuesday 19th May – SEND Coffee Morning
Friday 22nd May – School closed – INSET Day
Monday 25th May – Friday 29th May – Half Term

As another busy week draws to a close, we hope you have the chance to enjoy some quality family time and recharge for the week ahead. Thank you for your continued encouragement, support and partnership - it makes such a difference to the children and to our wider school community.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9

Kind regards,
Mrs Louisa Sillett
Head of School