Weekly Update-Friday 22nd May
☀️What a joy it has been to finally welcome some sunshine as we head into the half term break! The brighter mornings and warmer afternoons have lifted everyone’s spirits, and the children have loved being able to spend more time outdoors. Long may this lovely weather continue—it certainly makes playtimes, outdoor learning, and journeys to and from school that little bit brighter for everyone.
☀️Year R Learning
This week, our Reception (Year R) children enjoyed a super games afternoon with their parents and carers. It was truly heartwarming to see so many happy faces as children proudly shared their learning through play. There was excellent turn-taking, teamwork, and encouragement—such a lovely example of our school values in action. Thank you to everyone who came along and made it so special.
🎬Year 2 Learning
Year 2 have been incredibly busy filming their scripts, and we simply cannot wait to see the finished results! Their confidence and creativity are shining through.
Their knowledge of animals has become truly impressive, and it has been fantastic to see how their scientific understanding has developed. The children’s ability to sort and classify has become much more refined as they gather new information and apply their learning thoughtfully.
🔤 Year 1 Phonics
Year 1 have been working very hard on their phonics, and teachers have been amazed at the progress being made. The children are becoming more confident with their sounds and are applying these skills brilliantly to their reading.
It has been especially lovely to see the growing independence—many children are now tackling books with enthusiasm and pride, which is such an important step in their learning journey.
🚸Safety Notice
A gentle reminder to all families: please do not ride bikes or scooters past the blue gate during drop-off and pick-up times to help avoid accidents and collisions.
We have also had a report of a parent nearly being knocked off their feet by a child cycling into the turning circle. These are very busy times of day, so we kindly ask everyone to take extra care and be mindful of those around them. Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.
📊Govenor Body Meeting
At our Governing Body Meeting last night, we ratified the budget for the coming year. Governors praised the team for our determination to ensure every penny counts and for the careful planning behind our expenditure.
They asked thoughtful and robust questions, which is an important part of ensuring strong financial management. We will revisit and review spending at the mid-year point in October.
Parenting Tips and Help
Have you ever repeated yourself over and over, without your child listening? We have started a new page for parenting tip videos, which you can dip into and watch. We will update the page regularly, and hopefully it will be a great help. Please click here to watch:
https://www.bwis.org.uk/helpful-tips-for-parenting/
🧠Staff Training-Sensory Development
This morning, all teaching staff took part in inspiring sensory training led by the fantastic Marie Mullins from the Hampshire SEND Support Team.
Marie praised the staff for their enthusiasm and engagement. We have updated our knowledge of schemas, identical play, and sensory activities, and have already begun preparing resources ready for the final half term. We are really looking forward to putting this into practice when we return in June.
🗓️ INSET Days 2026–2027
We have agreed the INSET days for next academic year. Mr Campbell and I worked closely together to ensure dates align:
- Tuesday 1st September 2026
- Friday 23rd October 2026
- Monday 4th January 2027
- Monday 22nd February 2027
- Monday 7th June 2027
🌼After such a busy and productive half term, we wish you all a restful and happy Whitsun break. We hope you are able to enjoy some time together as a family—hopefully with plenty more sunshine!
We look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready for the final part of the school year.
With warm wishes
Mrs Riches
Headteacher
