Caring, learning and achieving together - Gofalu, dysgu a chyflawnu gyda'n gilydd

Newsletter - 26th March 2015


26th March 2015
This term has, again, been choc-a-bloc full of activity for the children!

Willow Class visited Temple Baptist to find out about Easter, whilst Foundation Phase shared their Mothers’ Day gifts in a special celebration held at school.  There were many tears shed when the children were sharing their ‘I love my Mam’ writing!!  Our Welsh Week was extremely successful, especially in chairing our very first ‘Bard of the Eisteddfod’.  Our Science Week certainly caused a ‘buzz’ around the school – the children have had a wide range of experiences, from visiting scientists delivering assemblies and workshops, representatives from the University of South Wales, Techniquest as school, ‘STEM’ ambassadors and, of course, lots of science in class.  We even experienced the Solar Eclipse! Children in Key Stage 2 also benefitted from visiting Pontypridd Museum, where they created their own ‘Magical Creatures’ from K’nex. 

Sycamore Class
As you are aware, Mr Carter has been unwell throughout most of this half term.  Despite our best efforts, we were not able to secure consistent supply cover.  Over the last two weeks, the class has been covered by Miss Papworth-Morgan who has ensured the children’s learning continues well  – as well as working on reading and spelling tests.  We all wish Mr Carter a speedy recovery.

Parents’ Evening
Parents’ Evening was a little different this year, with all staff being available in the hall.  This has appeared to work well, with a positive atmosphere throughout the two evenings.  There was a fantastic turnout, and it was lovely to see so many of you taking such an interest in your child’s education.  Thank you also for completing the questionnaires – the responses can be seen on the reverse of this letter.

Dinner Money
Please note: the cost of school lunches will be increasing to £2.40 per lunch after Easter.  This needs to be paid to the school either through the electronic systems or by sending the money in on each Monday morning.  It is essential that this is paid on time each week.

Attendance and 100% Days
I am thrilled to report that there has been a marked increase in the number of children achieving 100% attendance over the term since Christmas.   In December, 43 children received this recognition – this has increased to 108 children this term.  Many thanks to families for supporting us in working towards the challenging targets set by the local Authority.

Well done to all the children in Ash class (100% attendance winners again!)– and again, thanks to all families for supporting this.  Look out for our next 100% days after Easter!!!

School Photographer
Unfortunately the photographer’s camera did not work properly on Thursday!!  We are awaiting a new date and will let you know as soon as possible,
 
Consideration of our Neighbours
You may have noticed that the PCSO and traffic enforcement officers have been monitoring parking outside the school, both at the back of the school, and at the front.   This is as a result of comments from our neighbours, as well as concerns raised by parents.  The gates at the front of the school are locked at 8.30 am to ensure safety for children attending school for 9.00am.  Please ensure you park carefully and consider the safety of children at all times. 
 
 27th Mar              last day before Easter Break – please ensure your children attend right up to the last day

13th April              Children return to school on the Monday

16th April               Theatre Group at school

22nd April               PC Thomas – “I didn’t think” – Yr5

4th May                  No school – Bank Holiday

6-7th May               Estyn Revisit

6th May                  PC Thomas–“Who, What, where”? - Yr2

7th May                  Election Day – school will remain open

22nd May                Last Day before half term

1st June                   INSET Day

2nd June                 Children return after half term

16th June               6pm - Meeting for new Year 3 parents

17th June               Year 6 – 13 children – cycling proficiency

17th June               PC Thomas – “It’s your choice” – Yr 6

24th June               Year 6 – 13 children – cycling proficiency

22-25th June         Transition for pupils moving to Ponty High

29th June                                RCT Music festival

1st and 2nd July      “Lion King” performed by KS2–at Hawthorn High School

3rd July                    Provisional date for PTA BBQ

9th July                    Provisional date for Sports’ Day

17th July                 Last Day of term.

**Welsh Government tests for Years 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 will be between 5th May and 12th May 2015.  Please avoid any absences during this time*
 
Remember to check out our Moodle and Blog to keep up to date with activities in school.

Nursery Provision
At this time, RCT is planning on introducing part time provision for Nursery pupils (mornings from the term following their 3rd birthday), and then full time at the beginning of the term following their 4th birthday.   Please note that I believe there is a legal challenge being introduced by some parents’ groups – I will keep you as up-to-date with this process as I am able.

We still have a number of Microsoft Office codes available for those families who wish to use this free offer.  Just send your email address to school and we can forward the details to you.

I hope you all have an enjoyable Easter break, and we look forward to seeing the children back in school on the 13th April 2015.  Remember to check out our Moodle and Blog to find out our winners of Seren yr Wythnos / Star of the Week as well as keep up-to-date with school activities.

Yours

Mrs Loveridge