Latest News
Posted on: 8/12/2023A Message From Mrs Crocker
This term has been incredibly busy and there is so much to celebrate.
We have worked together as a school, as part of the Redstart Learning Partnership - with pupils, staff, families, and the Teaching and Learning Committee being incredibly supportive, which has got us through some challenges this half term.
In some ways it is the end of an era as we move forwards as part of the ACE Academy for Character and Excellence, but we take with us a strong network of friendship, collaboration and a sense of excitement for the new growth ahead
I have been greatly impressed by the pupils' hard work and determination this term. As a result, their books show increased knowledge, understanding and high expectations.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our parents, carers and families for your continued support and encouragement this term.
Being mindful of the less than ideal circumstances some families around the world find themselves in, this poem resonated with me.
The poem is by Donna Ashworth – Joy Chose you:
Joy does not arrive with a fanfare,
on a red carpet strewn with the flowers of a perfect life.
Joy sneaks in, as you pour a cup of coffee,
watching the sun hit your favourite tree, just right.
And you usher joy away,
because you are not ready for it.
Your house is not as it must be,
for such a distinguished guest.
But joy cares nothing for your messy home,
or your bank-balance,
or your waistline, you see.
Joy is supposed to slither through the cracks of your imperfect life,
that’s how joy works.
You cannot invite her, you can only be ready when she appears.
And hug her with meaning,
because in this very moment,
joy chose you.
As we prepare for the festive season, do take the time to find those moments
Finally, we would like to wish all of you celebrating Christmas a very ‘Merry Christmas’ and to wish all our families a peaceful, happy and healthy time over the festive period.
Posted on: 23/06/2023A message from Joanne Crocker
It is hard to believe that we now only have a month left in this academic year, but in keeping with our mantra, "Every second counts," we will be maximising all the learning opportunities for the children so it is very important they are in school right up until the last day.
We have had several successful trips taking place over the last month,with a focus on black history and the Windrush celebrations. The children as always were fantastic ambassadors for the school but even more pleasing were the comments from the general public about the behaviour and manners of the children. We are so proud of our school and the support you give us as parents makes all the difference.
We have had some excellent news in the form of a successful CIF bid of nearly £250,000 to update our heating system The existing oil-fired boiler is being replaced with a VRF and multi-split air conditioning system to remove the use of fossil fuels in favour of a carbon-friendly alternative. The new system will provide heating and cooling into the main school building and significantly reduce running costs and energy bills. Removing the large panel radiators, pipework and boxing will also free up additional classroom space for pupils whilst also removing hazards such as leaks and scalding.
We have also applied for and achieved a generous STEM grant from Hinkley Point, which we have used to place a large interactive screen in the library to create another learning space for all the children.
On a sadder note, we will be losing some members of staff at the end of term. Sharena Dinham is leaving us to take up a new role in Family Support Services, Louise Bale is leaving us to undertake training in order to further her career and Abby Newman is off to explore the world of opportunities and spend more time with her family. We wish them all every happiness in their new ventures.
We are delighted to welcome Julie Bulgin to the KS1 team, who will be sharing the teaching role with Gemma Evans. Julie is an experienced KS1 teacher, who has worked in a variety of early years roles. We are looking to make further appointments in the next few weeks and we will keep you updated as this happens.