Dear Parents and Carers,
A huge thank you to everyone who came along to our learning conferences this week—it was great to have the opportunity to share all the fantastic progress happening across the school. We appreciate your time and support. The children have certainly worked hard this half term and can now enjoy a well-earned break – as can the staff. We look forward to seeing you back on Monday 3rd November.
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Autumn 2 Diary Dates - Year 3 - Year 4 - Year 5 - Year 6 - Competition -
Online Safety - Food Tasting - Dinner Menu - School News - Sports News
Book Shop - Inspirational Person - Attendance - Sports Awards - House Points
Autumn 2 Term Diary Dates
November
- Monday 3rd - Newsies Jr Auditions Year 3
- Tuesday 4th - Year 6 visit to IWM Duxford
- Wednesday 5th - Year 6 Basketball Competition
- Year 6 Book Look 3.30 - 3.45pm
- Thursday 6th - Year 5/6 Football vs Fairways
- Friday 7th - Team Challenge
- Year 4 Disco
- Monday 10th - Parent Council Meeting 4.30pm - 5.30pm
- 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
- 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
- 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)
- Friday 12th - Christmas Gift Sale
- Friday 19th - INSET DAY
- Monday 22nd - Friday 2nd January - Christmas Break
Year 3
It has been an extremely busy and exciting week in Year 3 with the highlight being our trip to Barleylands Farm on Wednesday. We began the visit with an introduction into Stone Age cookery from the Neolithic period. The children ground einkorn wheat into flour using traditional and modern methods. They went onto make a dough and bake their bread which they were able to enjoy once we were back at school. Next up was chopping fruits and vegetables to create a traditional stew; the children enjoyed trying out the flavours and the mixture of sweet and savoury items.
After fuelling up on lunch, we were taken to our next activities. First up was a rather bumpy tractor ride around the farm, with a quick stop to feed the goats and sheep. We then entered the poly tunnel which provided an opportunity to look at the fruits and vegetables growing inside and learn about the methods used by the gatherers of the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic Age. The last stop was an insight into the traditional farming methods and implements used by our Neolithic ancestors; we were able to view the Highland cows descended from Aurochs.
It was a very enjoyable trip to enhance the children's learning and we would like to extend our thanks to the adult helpers who accompanied us, enabling this fantastic experience to go ahead.
In English lessons, the children have been working hard on their comprehension skills. They developed their inference and deduction skills through a deepening knowledge of our layered reading text, Stone Age Boy. They were able to make judgements about the characters' emotions through their behaviour described in the text and through picture clues. They also wrote in role as Stone Age Boy to recount his most memorable experiences through his adventure back in time.
Maths has been all about mastering the use of formal addition and subtraction methods. The children also used the inverse to check the accuracy of their answers. They have shown a very good understanding of fact triangles and are applying this knowledge to their calculations.
As historians, the children have learnt about the religious beliefs of our pre-historic ancestors. They learnt about animism and how they believed all natural things, including plants, animals, rocks and rivers, had a distinct spiritual essence or soul. They went on to draw worship discs, incorporating pictures of important natural elements, justifying their choices using quotes from the song, Colours Of The Wind.
It has been wonderful to meet so many of you at the learning conferences this week and we would like to thank you for taking this opportunity to strengthen our partnership and your role in supporting us with your child’s progress.
Over the half term, there will be no spellings to learn but we would appreciate it if you could encourage your child to learn their lines for our upcoming presentation which will take place next half term. The lines can be found in your child's Communication Book.
As we come to the end of this first half term, we would like to thank you for all your support in helping your children to settle into the Junior School. We feel they have made a fantastic start and we are really looking forward to seeing what they can achieve over the coming year. Enjoy a restful break with your families.
Reminders:
- Please note that outdoor PE days will change next half term. Details can be found below; in your child's Communication Book and on our school website using the following link: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/year-3
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
Year 4
We have reached the end of a very busy half term and have had an incredibly hard-working week.
In English, the focus has been on poetry. The children have studied the features and structure of kennings by studying word classes. Using animals of their choice and what they have learnt about the Ancient Egyptians, they applied their learning to write kennings of their own.
As mathematicians, the focus has been on multiplication and division. Applying their times tables knowledge, some groups derived factors from given products and created fact families from given products. Using their division recall, some children have also revised formal methods of division using evidence. Some children also applied this skill to solve a range of division problems.
As historians, the children explored the ancient Egyptian process of mummification using text and images. They learned how bodies were dried with natron, wrapped in linen, and placed in decorated coffins for the afterlife. They went on to write their own reports to share what they had learned.
Reminders:
- Please note that outdoor PE days will change next half term. Details can be found below; in your child's Communication Book and on our school website using the following link: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/year4
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
Year 5
Year 5 has had a fantastic start to the year, filled with fun, learning, and new adventures. It’s been lovely to see the classes settling in so well and new friendships forming. As we head into the break, both pupils and staff are ready for a well-earned rest.
Thank you to all the parents who attended our recent conferences. It was a pleasure to share the children’s achievements and discuss how we can continue to support their progress together.
This week, we’ve begun rehearsals for our upcoming presentation, which will showcase learning from our connected curriculum topic, Warriors and Wayfarers. Pupils from both classes are collaborating to create an engaging and informative performance, and we’re looking forward to sharing it with you soon.
In science lessons, Year 5 has been exploring air resistance through hands-on investigations. They designed and made parachutes, planned different types of scientific enquiries and learnt to identify and control variables. The children thoroughly enjoyed testing their parachutes and recording their results, which they presented in graph form to show their findings clearly.
Maths lessons have involved reviewing past learning and allowed the children to consolidate and improve their understanding of topics such as formal calculation methods and fractions. We have also practised a wide range of arithmetical skills through various methods, including games and quizzes.
Building on their introduction to paper weaving, the children have now progressed onto threading cardboard looms and creating woven backgrounds using wool and fabric strips. It’s been inspiring to see their creativity flourish and their resilience shine as they tackled challenges along the way. A lovely sense of teamwork has developed, with more confident weavers supporting their peers. Many children have shown great improvement as they continue to refine their skills.
Reminders:
- Please note that outdoor PE days will change next half term. Details can be found below; in your child's Communication Book and on our school website using the following link: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/year-5
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
Year 6
In English, pupils were introduced to a fascinating autobiography about a teddy bear who experienced the Second World War. Through this, they explored the structure and style of autobiographical and biographical writing, preparing to apply these skills after half term when they compose a formal biography of the teddy bear, Otto.
In science, pupils reflected on their growing understanding of electricity, learning about parallel and series circuits and how the flow of electricity can produce different outcomes for components.
In history, pupils analysed the most significant events leading to the end of the Second World War, justifying their opinions in a lively and thoughtful debate. In art, they completed their linear perspective pieces, adding tone and depth through refined shading techniques.
In RE, pupils reviewed the major beliefs of Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism, considering how faith can influence personal values and commitments.
Reminders: Please note that outdoor PE days will change next half term. Details can be found below; in your child's Communication Book and on our school website using the following link: https://www.westleighjunior.co.uk/year6
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
Canvas Competition
You may have noticed our wonderful canvases around the school in the style of Keith Haring. These encompass the skills and attributes that the children gain during their time at West leigh - they are what make us so special!
However - we think that we are missing some key canvases and we would love to add a piece of art to represent each of our Golden Values to hang proudly in reception.
These should be in the style of Keith Haring but can be presented simply - we just need to see the idea for how the value will be represented.
Our canvases will be titled:
- We show...empathy
- We show...integrity
- We show...responsibility
If your child wishes to submit a design, please hand these in to Mrs London by Monday 10th November. Children can submit an entry for one of the values, or for all three!
Online Safety
Fortnite continues to reign supreme in the gaming world, drawing in millions of players with its bold graphics, fast-paced action and constant stream of new content. This guide looks at the latest developments in the game – such as themed updates, crossover characters and limited-edition cosmetics – and what they mean for young players and the adults who support them.
It also unpacks some of the key online safety risks associated with Fortnite. With in-game purchases, cross-platform communication and regular seasonal updates creating an ‘always on’ experience, it’s vital that trusted adults understand how to help children and young people enjoy the game without being exposed to unnecessary risks.
Food Tasting Group
If your child is a fussy eater or has a negative relationship with food, they can join a food tasting group, due to start after half term. The aim of the group is to introduce children to a variety of foods and build their confidence to try new things. The sessions will run until February half term and in January parents will be invited in to cook with their children and explore recipes using some of the foods we have tasted.
Please register your interest with Mrs Atkin via the school office and she will be in touch with more details.
Dinner Menu
Week 3
Monday - Homemade Macaroni Cheese with Garlic Bread - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise) - Wholemeal Wrap with Tuna Mayonnaise - Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt and Raspberry Mousse
Tuesday - Pork Meatballs in Tomato Gravy - Vegan Meatballs - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise) - Rice, Sweetcorn, Peas and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Chocolate Cherry Cake
Wednesday - Chicken Nuggets - Vegetable Nuggets - Granary Baguette with Cheese - Curly Fries, Spaghetti Hoops and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt or Cornflake Cake
Thursday - Homemade Beef Spaghetti Bolognaise - Homemade Quorn Spaghetti Bolognaise - Jacket Potato (with Baked Beans, Cheese or Tuna Mayonnaise) - Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh Fruit, Yoghurt and Fruit Biscuit
Friday - Cheese and Tomato Pizza with Tortilla Chips - Vegan Pizza with Torilla Chips - Wholemeal Wrap with Salmon and Sweetcorn - Homemade Coleslaw and Salad Bar - Fresh fruit, Yoghurt or Fruity Jelly
School News
Year 5 Pupils Raise Money for Charity
A group of thoughtful Year 5 pupils recently organised their own charity sale in support of One Love - a charity helping members of the homeless community. Motivated to make a difference, the girls created handmade bookmarks and trinkets, and generously donated toys and books from home to sell.
They set up their stall after school on Thursday and were thrilled by the enthusiastic response. By the end of the day, they had raised an impressive £64 for the charity. A huge well done to the girls for their initiative, creativity, and compassion!
Sports News
Year 5/6 Girls' Football
Congratulations to the West Leigh Year 5/6 girls’ football team who competed in the Southend competition on Friday. They fought brilliantly in their twelve matches, only losing two of them and conceding just two goals across the whole day! Their determination, resilience and support for each other was a joy to watch. The team finished in 4th place and are already determined to go one step further next year. We think you should be incredibly proud, girls!
Table Tennis Essex Finals
Congratulations to the boys’ table tennis team for achieving 3rd place at the Essex Finals Competition on 14th October.
The team made the long journey to BATTS Norman Booth Centre, in Harlow.
Arriving in good time the boys were able to practise their skills and acclimatise to the sports arena. The team participated against nine schools from across the county. The competition was organised in a ‘round robin’ format, meaning that the boys played eight matches in very quick succession. The children from West Leigh competed with determination and skill. By the end of the competition, the boys had won 6 matches and lost 2. They were delighted to be rewarded with bronze medals.
Throughout the morning, our pupils displayed excellent manners and sportsmanship and were great ambassadors for the school. On a number of occasions, staff from other schools noticed and commented upon their exemplary behaviour.
Inspirational Person - Rebecca Young
For our first inspirational person of the year, we have found out about the amazing work of Rebecca Young. At just 11 years old, she designed a solar powered heated blanket that could be used by homeless people in the winter. We discussed the fact that age is not a barrier to having impact in the world. She demonstrated our golden value of empathy by putting herself into the shoes of homeless people; she thought about their difficulties and came up with a practical way to help. Rebecca has been awarded Times magazine's Girl of the Year Award.
Our Showbie challenge is to select one of the other Time magazine winners and create a poster to showcase their achievements and describe how they represent our Golden Values. Please upload entries to the Inspirational Person folder on Showbie, or put named posters on Mrs London's desk. There are prizes available for entering!
The girls to choose from are listed below:
- Rutendo Shadaya, 17, an advocate for young authors in New Zealand
- Coco Yoshizawa, 15, an Olympic gold-medalist in Japan
- Valerie Chiu, 15, a global science educator in China
- Zoé Clauzure, 15, an anti-bullying campaigner in France
- Clara Proksch, 12, a scientist prioritizing child safety in Germany
- Ivanna Richards, 17, a racing driver breaking stereotypes in Mexico
- Kornelia Wieczorek, 17, a biotech innovator in Poland
- Defne Özcan, 17, a trailblazing pilot in Turkey
- Naomi S. DeBerry, 12, an organ donation advocate and children's book author in the United States
School Admissions
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" • ROHE Creative Studio - "A young boy leans on the table, refusing to eat his vegetables and drink orange juice, displaying boredom and reluctance.,Perfect for illustrating picky eating habits in children." • 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."