What’s On – Friday 14th May

Dear Parents

It is so nice to see some warmer weather! At the time of writing our classes are doing their bit for school funds by taking part in the Mini Marathon. We've already received some incredibly generous donations, thank you so much to all the family and friends who have sponsored the children. Thanks too to WISPA for organising the event and Miss Grant for sourcing a water bottle and a lovely sticker for every child!

This week we've also had great fun riding large toy animals around the school - take a look at our picture gallery to see the photos. Thank you to Mrs Scott-Simons for organising this, the children have loved it (and the staff too!).

I've received a few queries about Parents' Evening this term. We will offer telephone appointments with the class teachers alongside the publication of the children's annual reports in July. This gives parents a chance to discuss their child’s progress further if they wish to, at a time when teachers will have the most current assessments for discussion. Please remember that you can contact the school at any time if you need to speak to your child's teacher. 

The school is still expected to limit social interaction as much as we can to avoid transmission of COVID and we sent you a letter from Essex County Council on Wednesday. We are aiming to give the children as many experiences as possible, for example the horse riding this week and an owl experience later this term. Our plans for further events remain tentative until we know whether restrictions on numbers are in fact lifted on June 21st. After extensive discussion with the governors we think it best not to have a whole school sports day this year, but we will have a year or class based event so the children do not miss out, which we hope parents will be able to attend. Until we receive further advice from the government, I would not want to publish dates which may be subject to change.

One of our Foxes children broke her wrist in a scooter accident last Saturday. The family have asked us to share with you her doctor's assessment that her helmet protected her from much worse injuries. We see a number of children riding bikes and scooters without helmets, so please consider how a helmet can protect your child. She is doing very well and hopes to be back soon!

Can I remind you again that if your child has a new persistent cough or a temperature, the household must isolate and arrange a full PCR test. I know how difficult this is, but we still have to safeguard against Covid. A test may mean a day away from school and work for a family, but a positive case means 10 days of isolation for everyone within a bubble. All Essex Headteachers had a meeting with the Director of Public Health which reiterated our need to continue to follow the guidance. 

Have a lovely weekend.

Warm regards

Helen Castell