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