It has been such a busy week filled with sports day, meeting new teachers and ladybirds!
Thank you for coming out in your droves on Monday to support sports day. It was looking like we couldn’t go ahead for a while, but we are so glad that we did. The sun came out and enabled the children, and hopefully parents, to have a fun morning at Belfairs. A special mention goes to those brave souls who volunteered for the parents' races. Your commitment and determination was phenomenal!
The children met their new teachers on Thursday and we welcomed our new Year 3 children over from the Infants. I hope that the new format of sharing the class teachers ahead of time helped the children to prepare for the day. I understand that decisions will never be universally liked, but in general the feedback has been positive. I also hope that any nerves will dissipate and that the children will have a fantastic year in their new classes.
I would also like to extend a huge thank you for your generosity in supporting our recent sponsor day. In addition to all the fun that was had during the sponsor day itself, over £6000 was raised for Havens Hospices which will support all the important work that Havens do.
We have our open evening on Tuesday 15th between 5pm and 7pm. Classrooms will be open, allowing you to see your child's work; the Portico Art and DT festival will be on display in our Upper School Hall; there will be a variety of sporting and musical events on the playground and our French cafe will be open in the kitchen selling a variety of treats.
I hope to see lots of you then.
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Summer 2 Diary Dates - Year 3 - Year 4 - Year 5 - Year 6 - Online Safety
General News - Summer Term Inspirational Person - Dinner Menu
Attendance - Sports Awards - House Points - Achievements - Parent Council
Summer 2 Diary Dates
July
Please note that there will be no After School Club on Tuesday 15th July due to Open Evening . There will also be no After School Club on the last day of term (Wednesday 23rd July).
- Monday 14th - Friday 18th - Fun Swim Week
- Tuesday 15th - Open Evening 5pm - 7pm - no After School Club
- Friday 18th - Annual School Reports
- Monday 21st - Year 6 Swimming Gala
- Tuesday 22nd - Year 6 Leavers' performance to parents - 2pm
- Wednesday 23rd - Last day of term - no After School Club
Year 3
It has been a wonderfully busy and exciting week in Year 3, with a wide range of activities keeping everyone engaged and enthusiastic. From Sports Day and Speed Stacks to meeting their new teachers, the children have embraced every opportunity with great energy and maturity, showing just how much they have grown over the year. A particular highlight was enjoying a special lunch outdoors with friends after Sports Day, which added to the sense of celebration!
In English, the children have been busy writing persuasive letters to our local MP, David Burton-Sampson, raising awareness about plastic pollution in and around Leigh-on-Sea.
Inspired by our layered reading text, This Morning I Met a Whale, the children wrote thoughtful letters using a range of persuasive devices, including emotive language, rhetorical questions, and carefully chosen conjunctions. They also supported their arguments with facts, demonstrating both their writing skills and their commitment to environmental issues.
In maths, the children have been consolidating their understanding of money, focusing on adding and subtracting amounts and calculating change. They also enjoyed playing engaging dice games that put their times tables knowledge to the test.
In science, our exploration of light has continued, with the children developing their understanding of how light changes and how it affects the world around us.
During Connected Curriculum lessons, the children have been learning about the fascinating history of Leigh-on-Sea, particularly how its coastal location shaped its past. They explored the role of smuggling and contraband; explored historical sources, and briefly investigated ‘taxation’. To bring their learning to life, they created realistic ‘wanted’ posters for smugglers.
Sports Day was a great success, and we were incredibly proud of the children's participation and sportsmanship. It was heartwarming to see them not only cheering on their house teams within their own year group but also encouraging children from other year groups.
The children also thoroughly enjoyed their Speed Stacks session, where they had the chance to learn new skills, take part in mini competitions, and challenge themselves to beat their personal bests.
The children have worked incredibly hard throughout the week. We are very much looking forward to the final weeks of term as we continue to celebrate their achievements before a well-deserved summer break!
Swimming
- 3M - Tuesday
- 3S - Wednesday
- 3H - Monday
- 3T - Wednesday
PE
- 3M - Wednesday - Indoor PE - Friday - Outdoor PE
- 3S - Tuesday - Indoor PE - Thursday - Outdoor PE
- 3H - Tuesday - Indoor PE - Friday - Outdoor PE
- 3T - Monday - Indoor PE - Thursday - Outdoor PE
Year 4
This week, the children have participated in a range of exciting activities which have enhanced their understanding across the different subjects.
In our English lessons, the children were thoroughly engaged in completing their persuasive speeches FOR or AGAINST animals in zoos. They utilised notes from our prior discussions, which included relevant points from both perspectives. This led to a debate environment where they actively participated and expressed their different points of view.
Our Layered Reading lessons have involved drama activities where the children have imagined what it was like to be in the trenches during World War 1. This exciting activity allowed the children to empathise with one of the characters from the story.
In mathematics, we adopted a differentiated approach tailored to meet the needs of our learners. Some children concentrated on mastering formal division techniques, while others investigated the concept of factors and engaging in activities that required them to multiply several numbers together. Some learners tackled multi-step problems that involved the application of all four operations, thereby reinforcing their problem-solving skills.
Our science curriculum took an interactive twist this week as the children embarked on a walk in the local area to collect and classify living organisms based on their characteristics. This hands-on experience not only deepened their understanding of biodiversity but also enabled them to observe and appreciate the natural world around them. Thank you to the parents who joined us on this walk, as their assistance greatly enriched the experience for all involved.
In our Connected Curriculum sessions, the children completed their imaginative fairground rides. Each group tested their creations using electrical circuits to drive the motors, allowing the rides to spin and function as intended. This practical application effectively linked the children’s knowledge of electricity, providing them with a meaningful context to develop their creativity and technical skills.
Swimming
- 4B - Monday
- 4E - Friday
- 4SW - Monday
- 4C - Wednesday
PE
- 4B - Wednesday - Indoor PE - Thursday - Outdoor PE
- 4E - Monday - Indoor PE - Tuesday - Outdoor PE
- 4SW - Friday - Indoor PE - Tuesday - Outdoor PE
- 4C - Monday - Indoor PE - Thursday - Outdoor PE
Year 5
5G and 5L thoroughly enjoyed our trip to IndiRock in Southend. As always, they were brilliantly behaved and listened carefully to the instructions given by the staff to ensure their safety and enjoyment. Even when not climbing, they participated patiently in the holding tasks, creating an Olympic Mega Event which had to include some element of climbing. We are convinced that even the most experienced and fittest athletes would have been hard-pressed to live up to our children’s expectations of what is possible. It also appears we could have some future climbing Olympians from the way so many of them scrambled, with such confidence, up vertical walls and navigated a wide variety of obstacles!
Our Connected Curriculum lessons this week have seen the children apply prior learning from Year 4. In preparation for their cooking task, they consolidated their knowledge of good hygiene practices and safe preparation of food in a kitchen. They have also considered how to safely store ingredients in a fridge and freezer, including for how long and where different types of foods should be placed. Finally, they reviewed and adapted a recipe for a savoury dish containing chocolate that will be prepared next week.
Cooking has been on the curriculum for a second time this week, but this time in science. The children have made shortbread, using it to evaluate irreversible changes in matter including different forms of chemical reactions. They also enjoyed sampling the product of their learning!
We are almost at the end of our new layered reading text Dragon Mountain, but the main characters are still facing many challenges. The children were asked to consider why the authors have included multiple problems leading up to the main dilemma of the story. From a list, they identified which problems the characters had truly faced and which were false. The children had to provide a justified reason as to why the authors chose to use multiple problems and challenges in the story, and the effect this had on the reader.
Swimming
- 5K - Tuesday
- 5F - Thursday
- 5L - Tuesday
- 5G - Thursday
PE
- 5K - Friday - Indoor PE - Wednesday - Outdoor PE
- 5F- Friday - Indoor PE - Wednesday - Outdoor PE
- 5L - Thursday - Indoor PE - Monday - Outdoor PE
- 5G - Tuesday - Indoor PE - Monday- Outdoor PE
Year 6
It’s been another productive and lively week in Year 6, with pupils continuing to demonstrate creativity, confidence and curiosity across the curriculum. In English, they have been enjoying and performing a wider selection of poems by Benjamin Zephaniah. Their enthusiasm for his rhythmic, expressive style has led to some fantastic and confident performances, as well as thoughtful reflections on his themes.
Rehearsals for the Leavers’ Assembly have continued with even more fun and laughter. Scenes are beginning to come together, and the overall performance is really taking shape. The pupils are working hard, supporting one another, and many are stepping out of their comfort zones to take creative risks as performers. It promises to be an unforgettable celebration of their time at West Leigh.
As artists, pupils have been introduced to Op Art and the work of Bridget Riley. They studied Movement in Squares and explored the techniques used to create visual illusions. Inspired by Riley’s approach, they produced their own striking pieces of optical art, demonstrating great focus and precision.
In Connected Curriculum, 6P and 6A had their turn using Lego Wedo kits (with 6W completing this last week and 6D set to take part next week). Pupils constructed mechanisms designed to create movement, and were then challenged to apply this learning by mimicking the movement of animals they had designed earlier in the year. Their inventive designs and technical skills were impressive, and many found new ways to bring their ideas to life.
We have added Ilam photos here
Swimming
- All Classes - Friday
PE
- 6D - Wednesday - Indoor PE - Monday - Outdoor PE
- 6A - Thursday - Indoor PE - Tuesday - Outdoor PE
- 6P - Thursday - Indoor PE - Monday - Outdoor PE
- 6W - Thursday - Indoor PE - Tuesday- Outdoor PE
Online Safety
AI isn’t just transforming the way we learn and work - it’s also reshaping the tactics scammers use online. From generating convincing phishing emails to fabricating influencer videos, criminals are using AI to make their scams more convincing than ever. Young people, who often embrace new tech quickly, can be especially vulnerable.
This guide highlights several AI-enabled dangers – including deepfake audio and video impersonations and fake job offers – and explains how to spot and report them. With clear tips for verifying content, thinking critically, and using trusted platforms, it’s essential reading for parents to help young people stay one step ahead of the scammers.
General News
Quiz Club Triumph at National Finals!
On Friday 4th July, our General Knowledge Quiz Club team proudly represented the school at the National Finals of the General Knowledge Quiz Club Championships. After successfully navigating their way through the heat stages—competing against hundreds of schools from across the country—the team earned their place at the prestigious Oxford University, where the final showdown took place.
Facing their toughest competition yet, the boys rose to the occasion with confidence and determination. Their weeks of dedicated preparation paid off as they climbed the leaderboard, reaching joint first place at one point. Although a couple of tricky questions nudged them into second place overall, their achievement remains nothing short of outstanding.
The team should be incredibly proud of their performance, teamwork, and perseverance. Competing at such a renowned venue and finishing as national runners-up is a remarkable accomplishment—one we’re sure they’ll remember for years to come!
Year 3 Danbury 2025
On Thursday 3rd July, 112 Year 3 children arrived at school with a mass of suitcases and were full of excitement ready for their two day residential at Danbury.
During their visit, many children conquered the knee wobbling heights of the aerial trekking, some learnt the art of lighting fires in bush-craft and some zoomed along the zip wire. As the evening drew in, we gathered on the field for our evening activities, where the children competed in their activity groups in a number of mini games. By the end of the evening and a busy day of activities, the children (and some of the staff) were ready for their beds. They settled into their tents full of excitement for the next day and eventually the camp was quiet.
Waking early with the sunrise on Friday morning, the children enjoyed a hearty breakfast before beginning more adventurous activities. Some worked on their accuracy and maths during an archery session whilst others developed their team-work skills on the obstacle course.
During their two days at Danbury, all 112 children showed great determination, acceptance of adventure and great improvement with team-work. We were extremely proud to see them thrive in the outdoors, tackle their fears and improve on every attempt with every challenge they faced, especially on the high activities. It was also encouraging to see the children build friendships among their peers.
Year 3 Alternative Visits
The children had an exciting couple of days of activities last week. They started off with a fantastic session led by Louise Hill from Healing House By The Sea. This included paired yoga, sound bathing, meditation and breathing techniques. In the kitchen, the children made up their own packed lunches which were taken to the park. The children enjoyed their picnics and playing on the equipment. In the afternoon, they created some beautiful personalised charm bracelets and baked some delicious fairy cakes.
Friday morning saw a glorious sunny start with a scenic walk up to Hadleigh Castle. The children explored the ruins and took in the views of the River Thames. It was then time to enter the farm where they were able to feed the animals and experience animal handling. The children held rats, rabbits, a tortoise and hens. They learnt about the animals' diets and their unique adaptations. The afternoon left time for a play in the grounds of the farm and an ice cream sat admiring the views in the sunshine. All the children behaved impeccably and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The Art Trail
Last weekend, some of the amazing artwork from each year group was on display at St. Pierre’s School as part of Leigh Art Trail. It was brilliant to see so many pupils and their families there trying to spot their masterpieces! It was a lovely atmosphere and felt great to be able to showcase a selection of the creativity from across the school with members of the public. Some of our entrants were even recognised as ‘Budding Artists’.
We are so proud of the level of artistry and artistic progress here at West Leigh and are looking forward to seeing further examples on display as part of the upcoming West Leigh Open Evening and Portico Art and Design Festival.
Dinner Menu
Week 3
Monday - Homemade Macaroni Cheese with Garlic Bread - Jacket Potato with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise - Granary Baguette with Cheese - Sweetcorn, Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt and Fruity Jam Doughnuts
Tuesday - Sausage in a Roll - Quorn Sausage in a Roll - Jacket Potato with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise - Vegetable Rice, Carrots and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Jelly
Wednesday - Roast Gamon with Gravy - Roast Quorn with Gravy - Granary Baguette with Tuna Mayonnaise - Roast Potatoes, Yorkshire Pudding, Mixed Vegetable and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Fruity Shortbread
Thursday - Homemade Beef Spaghetti Bolognaise - Homemade Quorn Spaghetti Bolognaise - Jacket Potato with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise - Broccoli and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt and Sprinkle Cake
Friday - Chicken Burger in a Bun with optional Salad and Mayonnaise - Vegetable Burger in a Bun with optional Salad and Mayonnaise - Wholemeal Wrap with Salmon and Sweetcorn - Potato Wedges, Sweetcorn, Homemade Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh fruit, Yoghurt or Ice Cream
Don't forget to check out our new online bookshop here.
House Points
Achievements
Congratulations to Neriah (Year 4) for proudly representing Essex U11s B and emerging as champions at the Inter County Basketball Tournament held last weekend at The University of Essex. A fantastic achievement—well done, Neriah!
Sienna from Year 5 has just returned after her first International diving competition in Croatia - her first time diving in an outdoor pool. She dived against 21 girls from different countries and did amazingly well to place 3rd on platform, 9th on 1m and 10th on 3m.
A wonderful message received from shop owners in our local community:
Hi there,
We are a local comic + bookstore on the London Road. We have been open for two years, and we've been having more and more of your kids in every week.
We just wanted to drop a quick line to the Head and all the teaching staff to say, that ALL of the boys and girls we have in from West Leigh have displayed exemplary behaviour both in the shop and outside. They are polite and friendly at all times, with us, with the other customers and with each other. It is a pleasure to see, and they are a credit to your school.
It's great to see young kids reading for their own pleasure (and surely ANY time away from screens is time well spent these days) but to have a crowd of such well behaved enthusiastic and trustworthy kids in the shop is a real gift.
Parent Council
The full list of councillors, along with their email addresses if you wish to contact them, can be found on our school website. The minutes from our meetings are also published on this page, which can be found using the following link: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/parent-council
A reminder that answers to many of the previously discussed items at parent council can be found on the 'hot topics' section of our website: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/hot-topics
This includes subjects such as lost property, lunchtime arrangements, clubs and much more.
We still have vacancies in 4C and 6P - if you are able to spare an evening each term to represent your class, it would be of great benefit to the school. Our meetings are held at 4.30pm and councillors are able to use our After School Club, free of charge to assist with child care during the meeting. Please contact Mrs London if you are able to volunteer.
Community News
We've created a dedicated space on our website to share flyers for local events and community support. Click the link below to explore what's happening in our area.
Autumn 1 Term Diary Dates
September
- Monday 1st - INSET Day
- Monday 8th - Swimming restarts
- Year 5/6 Cross Country Trials
- Monday 15th - Year 3/4 Cross Country Trials
- Wednesday 17th - Friday 19th - Year 5 Residential
- Wednesday 17th - Year 6 Height & Weight Check
- Year 6 Boys Table Tennis Competition AM
- Year 6 Girls Table Tennis Competition PM
- Tuesday 23rd - Wednesday 24th - Year 5 Walk It training
- Friday 26th - Southend Cross Country Competition
October
- Thursday 2nd - Friday 3rd - Show Racism the Red Card workshops
- Monday 6th - Year 6 Curriculum meeting
- Tuesday 7th - Year 4 Curriculum meeting
- Wednesday 8th - Year 6 TAG Rugby Competition
- Year 5 Curriculum meeting
- Thursday 9th - Year 3 Curriculum meeting
- Wednesday 15th - Cross Country Competition
- Friday 17th - Year 5/6 Girls Football Competition
- Tuesday 21st - Learning Conferences
- Thursday 23rd - Learning Conferences
- Monday 27th - Friday 31st - Half Term
November
- Wednesday 5th - Year 6 Basketball Competition
- Year 6 Book Look
- Friday 7th - Team Challenge
- Monday 10th - Resilience Workshop (select Year 6 children)
- Tuesday 11th - Flu Immunisations
- General Knowledge Quiz Club Area Heat
- Wednesday 12th - Year 5 Book Look
- Year 4 Dodgeball Competition
- Friday 14th - Children in Need
- Year 5/6 Boys' Football
- Monday 17th - Friday 21st - Year 6 Test Week
- Wednesday 19th - Year 6 - Young Shakespeare Macbeth
- Year 4 Book Look
- Year 6 Dodgeball Competition
- Monday 24th - Friday 28th - Book Fair
- Wednesday 26th - Year 3 Book Look
December
- Tuesday 2nd - Flu Immunisation mock up
- Wednesday 3rd - Year 5 Christmas Decoration Morning
- Thursday 4th - Year 3 Christmas Decoration Morning
- Tuesday 9th - Christmas Carol Service
- Friday 19th - INSET DAY
- Monday 22nd - Friday 2nd January - Christmas Break
Credits:
Created with images by Christy Thompson - "make a date" • Pixel-Shot - "Female hands with newspapers on color background" • Kaspars Grinvalds - "Tablet with sports news website on stack of newspapers. All contents are made up." • Win Nondakowit - "Kid hand with trophy cup" • Brian Jackson - "Calendar appointment"