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Autumn 2 Diary Dates - Year 3 - Year 4 - Year 5 - Year 6
Online Safety - Dinner Menu - School News - Sports News - Book Shop
Inspirational Person - Attendance - Sports Awards - Outside Achievements
We are expecting our annual Travelling Book Fair visit during the week of 24th-27th November - just in time for Christmas! In addition to some exciting and entertaining new book titles suitable for children from age 6 to 12, there are also great stocking fillers and Christmas gifts in the Stationery Box. During the week, the children will have a chance to browse the Book Fair. Parents are able to attend the Fair with their children after school (until 3.45pm) from Monday to Thursday. We look forward to seeing you.
Autumn 2 Term Diary Dates
November
- Monday 10th - Parent Council Meeting 4.30pm - 5.30pm
- Newsies rehearsal
- Tuesday 11th - Flu Immunisations
- Wednesday 12th - Year 5 Book Look 3.30 - 3.45pm
- Year 4 Dodgeball Competition
- Thursday 13th - Coastal Schools (4SW)
- Year 6 Basketball Competition
- General Knowledge Quiz Club Area Heats
- Boccia event for selected children in Years 4, 5 & 6
- Friday 14th - Children in Need: non-uniform
- Year 5/6 Boys' Football
- Monday 17th - Friday 21st - Year 6 Test Week
- Tuesday 18th - Year 5 Performance to Parents @ 2.15pm - 5N and 5A
- Wednesday 19th - Year 6 - Young Shakespeare - Macbeth
- Year 4 Book Look 3.30 - 3.45pm
- Year 6 Dodgeball Competition
- Thursday 20th - Year 5 Performance to Parents @ 2.15pm - 5G and 5F
- Year 5/6 Boys' Football vs Chalkwell
- Monday 24th - Wednesday 3rd - Assessment Weeks for Years 3 - 5
- Monday 24th - Friday 28th - Book Fair
- Monday 24th - Coastal Schools (4C)
- Wednesday 26th - Year 3 Book Look 3.30 - 3.45pm
- Goalball Competition
- Friday 28th - Non-Uniform Day - Christmas Fayre donations
- Saturday 29th - Christmas Fayre
December
- Tuesday 2nd - Flu Immunisation mop-up
- Year 3 Presentation to Parents @ 2.15pm - 3M and 3H
- Wednesday 3rd - Year 3 Christmas Decoration Morning
- Thursday 4th - Year 5 Christmas Decoration Morning
- Santa Dash
- Year 3 Presentation to Parents @ 2.15pm - 3T and 3L
- Friday 5th - Christmas Decorations Years 4 and 6 - times TBC
- Kurling Competition
- Boccia Competition
- Year 6 Santa Netball
- Monday 8th - Rehearsal at St Margaret's AM
- Tuesday 9th - Coastal Schools (4B)
- Christmas Carol Service @ 7pm
- Wednesday 10th - Handball Competition (Year 6)
- Christmas lunch
- Friday 12th - Christmas Gift Sale
- Thursday 18th - Festive non-uniform
- Friday 19th - INSET DAY
- Monday 22nd - Friday 2nd January - Christmas Break
Year 3
It has been a very successful first week back after the half term break. The children came back rested and ready to learn. Please can we take this opportunity to remind you that the children must come to school dressed for the weather now that it is getting colder. We aim to still go out at break and lunch times even in the rain, so waterproof coats are an essential at this time of year. Our English lessons have seen the introduction of our new layered reading text, Ug-Boy Genius Of The Stone Age, by Raymond Briggs. The children enjoyed the illustrations and comic style layout of this book. They have begun to plan a diary entry in character as Dugs, Ug’s mother. The children will be exploring her feelings and frustrations next week. Maths has seen a focus on times tables this week with the children learning lots of methods and games to help them to learn their multiplication facts. It would be wonderful if you could support them with this at home by playing some of these games that the children will be able to teach you, such as ‘FizzBuzz’. They have been exploring arrays and their uses as a visual representation when multiplying and dividing. This week in science lessons we became geologists for our new topic on rocks. We explored the differences in appearance of our samples, thinking about how hard/soft, rough/smooth, light/heavy, shiny/dull/sparkly they were. We thought about how different types of rock could be used and where we might see them as we walk around the area or whether we might see some in our houses. We had a detailed look at the structure of our rocks with magnifying glasses and we had great fun testing them to find out whether they are porous or not. Connected Curriculum learning has been focused on researching and comparing Palaeolithic and Neolithic homes. The children identified the features of the different homes and how they changed over time. The nomadic hunter gatherers needed shelters that were easily packed up and easy to assemble whereas the Iron Age farmers were able to build more sturdy, longer lasting homes as they were now staying in one place. We wish you all a very relaxing weekend and if you are enjoying any of the many fireworks displays, please take care and ensure the children enjoy them from a safe distance.
PE Days
3T
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
3H
- Indoor PE - Wednesday
- Outdoor PE - Friday
3L
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
3M
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Friday
Swimming
- 3H - Monday
- 3L – Tuesday
- 3T – Wednesday
- 3M – Wednesday
Letters sent home this week
- Whole School - Christmas Decoration Arrangements - 03.11.2025
- Whole School - Children in Need - 24.10.2025
Year 4
It has been lovely to welcome the children back after their well-earned break. We look forward to what we are sure will be a very hard-working half term. In English, we have continued with our unit on poetry where we have studied the structure and layout of cinquains, comparing these to kennings. Using their prior knowledge of word classes and syllables, the children have written a range of cinquains and kennings based on a range of subjects including animals, fireworks and Ancient Egypt. The children have embraced a new topic in maths where the focus has been on fractions. They have added and subtracted fractions with the same denominator, with some groups extending beyond one whole. Some children have also used their prior knowledge of division to calculate fractions of amounts and have used this skill to solve problems. Using various resources, the children have also been able to calculate equivalent fractions. As artists, the children chose authentic colours and appropriate techniques to apply paint to their canopic jars. We will add the finer details in due course. The children have also used a variety of sources to find out about pyramids and their structure. They applied their mathematical knowledge to calculate the perimeter of the pyramid bases.
Reminders:
- 4SW have Coastal Schools on the morning of Thursday 13th November. Please make sure your child brings a suitable coat.
PE Days
4B
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
4E
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Tuesday
4SW
- Indoor PE - Wednesday
- Outdoor PE - Tuesday
4C
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
Swimming
- 4B - Monday
- 4SW - Monday
- 4C - Wednesday
- 4E - Friday
Letters sent home this week
- Whole School - Christmas Decoration Arrangements - 03.11.2025
- Whole School - Children in Need - 24.10.2025
Year 5
Another busy and exciting week has rocketed past and it seems unbelievable that the weekend is almost here. It was great to see the children well-refreshed and enthusiastic to resume their learning journeys. Alongside our busy curriculum lessons, we have found time to practise our upcoming assembly presentation all about the Anglo-Saxons. The children are honing their singing and dramatic skills, and we are very much looking forward to performing for you in two weeks. Regarding costumes for the performances, we would like the children to wear their outfits from our Anglo-Saxon day in September. This should be neutral colours, a tunic/top and trousers or a dress. For those who may need additional items, class teachers will speak to them. Please could these costumes be in school, in a named bag, by Monday 10th November. In English lessons, we have begun a new unit of journalistic writing. Using events from our layered reading text, The Firework Maker’s Daughter as inspiration, the children have begun to plan a newspaper article about the disappearance of a main character from the story. Building on their knowledge from Year 4, they identified relevant facts and opinions to write direct speech, producing a bank to be used in future lessons. Reviewing and building upon their knowledge of fractions, the children began the week practising reading and writing decimals as fractions. They also used their knowledge of place value to compare and order numbers with up to 3 decimal places. They ended the week reviewing their understanding of Roman Numerals, completing tasks using these in calculations. After setting up their looms before half term, the children have started their weaving project in earnest. After practising weaving with wool, they have begun to add strips of fabric to create shapes and images into their artwork. Some children have also challenged themselves to use more difficult types of materials and wools to create exciting effects. The children were very excited to begin badminton lessons during our indoor PE slots. Practising different types of shots and honing their skills was both entertaining and instructional and we could have some future champions in our midst! The future could be golden!!
PE Days
5G
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Monday
5A
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Wednesday
5N
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Wednesday
5F
- Indoor PE - Thursday
- Outdoor PE - Monday
Swimming
- 5N – Tuesday
- 5F – Tuesday
- 5G – Thursday
- 5A – Thursday
Letters sent home this week
- Whole School - Christmas Decoration Arrangements - 03.11.2025a
- Whole School - Children in Need - 24.10.2025
Year 6
Unsurprisingly, Year 6 have enjoyed another busy and engaging week of learning across the curriculum, having returned from their half-term break.
In English, they applied their understanding of formal writing techniques to craft excerpts from the biography of Otto the teddy bear, linking their writing to their historical knowledge of the Second World War. This provided an excellent opportunity to combine narrative precision with empathy and historical awareness.
In maths, Year 6 developed their understanding of measures, including mass, capacity, volume, and length. They explored strategies for converting between units and applied these skills within a variety of problem-solving contexts.
In science, pupils investigated light sources, addressing common misconceptions and exploring how light travels in straight lines. They examined how this enables us to see objects and how the properties of materials affect how light is transmitted or reflected.
Our Connected Curriculum learning this week was enriched by our visit to the Imperial War Museum, Duxford – see the separate article for more details.
PE Days
6D
- Indoor - Wednesday
- Outdoor - Monday
6K
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Tuesday
6W
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Tuesday
6S
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Monday
Swimming
- 6D - Thursday
- 6S - Friday
- 6K - Friday
- 6W - Friday
Letters sent home this week
Online Safety
Bullying continues to affect far too many children, both in and out of school – but adults can play a crucial role in helping young people speak up and support one another. This week’s guide is packed with practical strategies to foster confidence, kindness, and connection in the face of unkind behaviour. From encouraging inclusivity to spotting signs of distress, the guide highlights how small, everyday actions by young people and the adults around them can make a big difference. With tips on nurturing empathy, teaching allyship and validating children’s experiences, it’s a timely reminder that empowering young voices is key to positive change.
Dinner Menu
Week 1
Monday - Homemade Creamy Cheese and Vegetable Pasta Bake with Garlic Bread - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise) - Granary Baguette with Tuna Mayonnaise - Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Fruit Cocktail Tuesday - Pork Sausage Toad in the Hole - Vegan Sausage Toad in the Hole - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise) saute Potates, Carrots, Beans and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Iced Finger Wednesday - Homemade Mild Chicken Curry - Homemade Mild Chickepea and Vegetable Curry - Granary Baguette with Cheese - Rice, Mini Naan and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Apple Crumble with Custard Thursday - Homemade Beef Cottage Pie - Homemade Quorn and Vegetable Cottage Pie - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans Cheese or Tuna Mayonniase) - Carrots, Peas and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Banana Cake Friday - 100% Fish Fingers - Vegetable Fingers - Wholemeal Wrap with Salmon and Sweetcorn - Potato Wedges, Baked Beans and Salad Bar - Fresh fruit, Yoghurt or Fruity Jelly
School News
Year 6 Visit to the Imperial War Museum Duxford
This week, Year 6 enjoyed an inspiring and memorable trip to the Imperial War Museum Duxford, perfectly complementing their recent history learning on the Second World War. From the moment they stepped onto the airfield, the children were captivated by the vast collection of aircraft, vehicles and artefacts that brought their classroom learning vividly to life. A particular highlight was visiting the Operations Room, used during the Battle of Britain, where pupils gained a fascinating insight into how vital intelligence and communication helped defend the skies during one of Britain’s most critical moments. They were equally enthralled by the chance to step inside Concorde, marvelling at its remarkable design and learning about its role in aviation history. Throughout the day, volunteers at the museum generously shared their expertise and many wonderful stories, enriching the experience and helping pupils connect personally with the events and people of the past. The children’s curiosity, respect and enthusiasm shone throughout the visit, and we would like to extend a huge thank you to the parent helpers who supported us on this unforgettable trip.
Team Challenge
Today, our whole school came together for the first Team Challenge of the year! The afternoon began with children moving around the school to collaborate with different teachers and peers in their house teams. This was a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and strengthen the sense of teamwork and belonging within each house. Then, the challenge was revealed: unlock the golden box! Working together, teams tackled a series of activities inspired by our Golden Values, integrity, responsibility, and empathy. From crosswords to code-cracking and more, the school was buzzing with energy as pupils put their problem-solving skills to the test. Once every task was completed accurately, the teams earned the keys to unlock the padlock and reveal the golden prizes. What an incredible first challenge, full of collaboration, determination and fun!
More photos will be on our website on Monday.
Sports News
Year 6 Basketball Competition
The West Leigh basketball team competed at the Southend basketball competition on Wednesday. The team have been learning the rules of basketball and developing their ability since September. They worked relentlessly in all of their matches to achieve the best results possible. There were many compliments from the Southend Scorpions basketball coaches who helped lead the event. Well done team! West Leigh 4-2 Heycroft West Leigh 2-6 Greenways West Leigh 0-6 Hamstel
Year 5/6 Boys' Football v Fairways
West Leigh kicked off their football league campaign in style on Thursday! The whole squad travelled to Fairways where a friendly match and league match took place. West Leigh were victorious in both matches with a 6-1 win in the friendly and a 13-1 win in the league match. In both matches, the children demonstrated great teamwork and intensity in order to overcome their opponents. Next up in the league is a visit to Our Lady of Lourdes in December...
Inspirational Person - Boyan Slat
This half term's inspirational person is Boyan Slat. At the age of 16, he noticed the awful pollution in the ocean and invented The Ocean Cleanup - a machine that removes plastic from the ocean without harming wildlife. He embodies our Golden Values of empathy, responsibility and integrity, especially through his care for the creatures living in the ocean.
Well done to those children who entered the last Showbie challenge - some of their wonderful entries are shown below. This half term's challenge is to design your own invention for helping the ocean - we look forward to seeing the children's creations!
Sports Awards
Most improved in Sport and PE: Ella Beasley (4SW) for improved running and jumping demonstrated in her sportshall athletics PE lesson, achieving the best ‘five strides’ score in her class!
Sports Performer: Archie Hall (6S) for an incredible long jump with a score of 2.3m — the best since West Leigh records began!
Outside Achievement
Sporting Success for William Garland!
During the half-term break, William Garland (4E) had an unforgettable experience at the Southend United vs Brackley Town match, where he was selected to take part in the Crossbar Challenge.
William impressed the crowd by hitting the bar twice out of five shots, earning plenty of cheers and attention from the fans! His fantastic performance even led to an invitation to appear on a podcast, where he talked about his experience.
As a special reward, Southend United have invited William to visit the club again soon to meet all the players. Well done, William, what an amazing achievement! ⚽👏
Fantastic Diving Achievement for Sienna!
Congratulations to Sienna, who represented Southend Dive Club at the Leeds White Rose Diving Competition in Group E, competing against 28 other divers.
She performed 12 dives across different heights and achieved a new personal best, scoring an impressive 9, 9, and 8 for her back dive tuck. After placing 5th in the preliminaries, Sienna showed great focus and determination in the final, earning a bronze medal, just half a point off 2nd place!
Training four times a week for a total of 10 hours, Sienna’s hard work and commitment really paid off. Well done, Sienna, we’re all so proud of you! 🏅👏
Exceptional Performance at National Diving Pathway Event
Another Sienna from our school community, this time in Year 6, achieved an exceptional set of results at the Talent Games England diving pathway selection over the weekend. Competing against 25 athletes, she placed first in the gym assessment, third in the pool round, and secured an impressive second place overall. Her performance demonstrates remarkable dedication, focus, and resilience. We are extremely proud of her commitment to her sport and congratulate her on this outstanding achievement.
Spring 1 Term Diary Dates
January
- Monday 4th - Children return to school
- Wednesday 7th - Year 5/6 Sports Hall Athletics Competition
- Thursday 8th - Year 3/4 Sports Hall Athletics Competiton
- Tuesday 13th - Year 3 and 4 RSE Meeting (via Teams)
- Wednesday 14th - Sitting Volleyball Competition
- Thursday 15th - Year 5 RSE Meeting (via Teams)
- Tuesday 20th - Year 6 RSE Meeting (via Teams)
- Wednesday 21st - year 6 Book Look
- Young Voices at the O2
- Friday 23rd - Year 3/4 Boys Football Competition
- Wednesday 28th - Year 5 Book Look
- Friday 30th - Year 6 Hockey Competition
February
- Monday 2nd - Children from Year 5/6 visit ENO
- Wednesday 4th - Year 4 Book Look
- Essex Tag Rugby Finals
- Friday 6th - Team Challenge
- Monday 9th - School Council visit to House of Parliament
- Maths Quiz Club Area Heat
- Year 6 Netball A team fixture
- Tuesday 10th - Safer Internet Day
- Wednesday 11th - Year 3 Book Look
- Thursday 12th - Year 6 Netball B team fixture
- Monday 16th - Friday 20th - Half Term
Credits:
Created with images by mnirat - "Closeup Colorful drawing pins on Calendar page with date." • ImageFlow - "Kid boy with phone, cybersecurity hologram and padlock circuit" • ercan senkaya - "full lunch service station" • LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS - "wooden blocks with news lettering on pile of print newspapers" • Kaspars Grinvalds - "Tablet with sports news website on stack of newspapers. All contents are made up." • Dusan Petkovic - "Adorable curious caucasian little girl with eyeglasses standing in bookstore and reading interesting book. All around are books on shelves." • Win Nondakowit - "Kid hand with trophy cup" • AungMyo - "Silhouette of happy children standing with raised hands on the mountain at the sunset time." • 78art - "PTAの文字と色鉛筆" • mnirat - "Closeup Colorful drawing pins on Calendar page with date."