Jump to a section...
Autumn 1 Diary Dates - Year 3 - Year 4 - Year 5 - Year 6 - Arbor - Online Safety
Food Tasting - Art Club - Dinner Menu - Sports News - Book Shop
Inspirational Person - Attendance - Sports Awards - House Points - Achievements
Autumn 1 Diary Dates
October
- Monday 13th - Individual and Sibling Photos
- Newsies Jr Auditions Year 6
- Year 6 Netball Fixture
- Tuesday 14th - Individual and Sibling Photos
- Wednesday 15th - Cross Country Competition
- Newsies Workshop - Year 4
- Thursday 16th - Year 6 Netball Fixture
- Year 5/6 Boys' Football Fixture
- Friday 17th - Harvest Collection for Southend Foodbank
- Year 5/6 Girls Football Competition
- Monday 20th - Coastal Schools (4E)
- Newsies Jr Auditions Year 4
- Tuesday 21st - Learning Conferences
- Wednesday 22nd -Newsies Workshop - Year 3
- Year 3 Visit to Barleylands
- Thursday 23rd - Learning Conferences
- Monday 27th - Friday 31st - Half Term
Year 3
This week saw a rather exciting art lesson that the children thoroughly enjoyed. Continuing our work on stone age cave paintings, we used natural materials to create our own pigments - just like people from the past. Everyday items such as beetroot and cumin were used to try and make colour and our paintbrushes were replaced with leaves, sticks and feathers from our trip to the woods. We also learnt about the changing methods that stone age people used to collect food and how they moved from being hunter-gatherers to farmers who domesticated animals and planted seeds.
In maths, we have been learning all about money. We have practised converting between pounds and pence, adding different amounts to calculate totals and even learning how to give the correct change - an important skill in the real world.
English has been a continuation of our 'brilliant book' all about Mary Anning. We spent time thinking of questions we would like to ask her to help us write a diary entry for when she discovered the Ichthyosaurus.
Unfortunately, we are still experiencing technical difficulties with Showbie so please check Spelling Shed if you are unsure about your child's spellings for this week.
PE Days
3T
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Friday
3H
- Indoor PE - Wednesday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
3L
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Friday
3M
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
Swimming
- 3H - Monday
- 3L – Tuesday
- 3T – Wednesday
- 3M – Wednesday
Letters sent home this week
Year 4
We have, once again, come to the end of a very busy week where the children have been working diligently.
In English, there has been a continued focus on information texts. The children examined the layout of a selection of texts and how they appeal to the reader. They have learnt how to consider the reader’s needs when planning and writing their pieces. The children have also focused on extending their notes into full sentences using conjunctions and a variety of sentence structures to make their writing more engaging. Finally, they have been redrafting their texts to ensure their work is both accurate and purposeful.
As mathematicians, the children have used a variety of methods to calculate the perimeter of squares, rectangles and rectilinear shapes. There have also been opportunities to reinforce times tables knowledge, where a range of games have been played to help the children to recall these facts more fluently and accurately.
In science, the results of the ‘Eggsperiment’ were revealed with some interesting findings, allowing the children to form conclusions based on their observations. They also suggested improvements to the test and some children generated questions to investigate further.
As creative artists, the children completed their designs and began to make their own canopic jar with clay, using a particular step-by-step method. It was great to see the children’s creativity in motion. We look forward to completing the canopic jars next week.
This week, 4C and 4B enjoyed their first experience of Coastal Schools where they became beach detectives for the morning. As always, great fun was had by all.
PE Days
4B
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Tuesday
4E
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
4SW
- Indoor PE - Wednesday
- Outdoor PE - Thursday
4C
- Indoor PE - Monday
- Outdoor PE - Tuesday
Swimming
- 4B - Monday
- 4SW - Monday
- 4C - Wednesday
- 4E - Friday
Letters sent home this week
Year 5
This week, we started our first poetry unit of the year in English lessons. The children have studied two very different poems: one featuring a strong rhyming and rhythmic scheme, while the other demonstrated free verse with fewer constraints on the writer and reader. We identified examples of figurative language and discussed how adding different suffixes changes the class of a word. We also reviewed our understanding of concrete and abstract nouns, locating examples from within the poems. We considered how poets explore a theme through descriptive phrases and language. The children illustrated what a moment in the poem might have looked like to the reader with amazing creativity.
In maths lessons, we have finally reached our first fraction unit. We began the week reviewing equivalent fractions before converting mixed numbers and improper fractions. Applying knowledge from previous lessons, we reviewed how to add and subtract fractions (converting where necessary) and finished the week comparing and ordering fractions whose denominators are all multiples of the same number.
Connected Curriculum lessons have allowed the children to work collaboratively. Using prepared texts and information, the children were grouped to research the life of either Anglo-Saxon men, women or children, taking clear notes. These were used to create a group fact file, including the differences between men, women and children in Saxon England compared to these groups today. We also reviewed the Anglo-Saxon hierarchy and created a pyramid to demonstrate this clearly.
Year 5 will be producing woven landscapes in art and design as part of our Warrior and Wayfarer’s Connected Curriculum topic. We would like the children to experience weaving with a wide variety of different media. If you have any pieces of thin fabric (cotton, polyester, t-shirt, fine jersey, linen etc) or old pieces of clean clothing or bed-linen you no longer need, could we ask that you send some in with the children. We will be ripping/cutting it into strips for weaving. Earthy colours (browns/terracotta), greens, blues, whites, greys, yellows, and oranges would be particularly useful. Many thanks in advance.
PE Days
5G
- Indoor PE - Tuesday
- Outdoor PE - Wednesday
5A
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Monday
5N
- Indoor PE - Friday
- Outdoor PE - Monday
5F
- Indoor PE - Thursday
- Outdoor PE - Wednesday
Swimming
- 5N – Tuesday
- 5F – Tuesday
- 5G – Thursday
- 5A – Thursday
Letters sent home this week
Year 6
In science, pupils explored how to plan an effective investigation. They considered the importance of identifying and controlling variables, as well as using precise scientific language. This work linked directly to an investigation on electricity that will be carried out next week.
In Connected Curriculum, pupils refined their World War II-inspired artwork by further developing their understanding of linear perspective. They applied orthogonal lines with accuracy and used careful observation skills, adding tonal detail to enhance depth and realism in their drawings.
In English, pupils thoroughly enjoyed studying the classic poem, The Highwayman. They explored the historical context, investigated new vocabulary, and tracked the relationships and motives of the characters. Their understanding was enriched by learning more about Dick Turpin from a local perspective, supported by an entertaining Horrible Histories song!
In maths, pupils continued their work on fractions, calculating with both proper and mixed numbers to add and subtract effectively. They applied these skills to a range of problem-solving activities. As part of their ongoing homework, we ask that pupils continue to complete at least three minutes per day on TT Rock Stars to strengthen their fluency and confidence with number facts, which will also support their work with fractions.
PE Days
6D
- Indoor - Wednesday
- Outdoor - Tuesday
6K
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Monday
6W
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Monday
6S
- Indoor - Thursday
- Outdoor - Tuesday
Swimming
- 6D - Thursday
- 6S - Friday
- 6K - Friday
- 6W - Friday
Letters sent home this week
Online Safety
When children and young people experience traumatic or difficult life events, their emotional world can be shaken, and the impact may show up in their behaviour, mood, or relationships. Whether it’s bereavement, a family breakdown or witnessing something distressing, the support of trusted adults can be key in helping them feel safe again. This week's guide looks at how to create a nurturing environment to help young people process difficult feelings.
It also shares clear, actionable strategies to promote recovery – from building emotional literacy and creating a predictable routine to recognising signs that further help may be needed. Sensitive language, patience, and presence all play a part in empowering children to move forward at their own pace. With the right support, they can rebuild a sense of security and resilience.
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.
Art Club
This week, Art Club members explored the beauty of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) as inspiration for their artwork. Children created imaginative ‘windows’ overlooking the luminous skies, using chalk pastels to craft vibrant backgrounds. To complete their pieces, they added starry details with splattered paint or metallic pens. They definitely captured the shimmering magic of the night sky!
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
Sports News
Tag Rugby Competition
On Wednesday this week, twelve Year 6 children entered the Mixed Tag Rugby competition at Southend Rugby Club.
With some excellent results in our group in the morning, we went through as group winners, beating Bournes Green 6-3, Thorpe Hall 5-2 and Prince Avenue 4-2.
After lunch, we had some very close games: 4-4 draw against Fairways, 6-6 draw against Our Lady of Lourdes and a win against Earls Hall.
We then played Prince Avenue again in the semifinals, winning 7-3.
Into the final against Our Lady of Lourdes again with some excellent tagging from both teams, we were unfortunately beaten 7-4, to finish with the silver medal. We will continue on to the Essex finals early next year.
The children should all be very proud of the way they played today, improving after every game and showing not only some great individual performances but overall a brilliant team effort. Well done to all involved.
Girls' Football Essex Cup
On Monday 6th October, the Year 5/6 girls' football team played in the Essex Cup against Doddinghurst C of E School in Brentwood. The team worked incredibly hard from the start, utilising their defending skills and making great tackles to clear the ball from the area. At half time, we were down 1-2 but the team kept their heads up and morale high, helping to improve their attacking chances.
In the second half, the team made some fantastic tackles to win the ball and advance up the pitch, taking shots at the goal therefore bringing the game back to 3-3. The team continued to work tirelessly right to the end of the match, with great determination. However, in the closing five minutes, Doddinghurst got the counter attack, catching our defenders off guard. The final result was 3-6 to Doddinghurst.
The team showed off their fantastic teamwork and improved their play throughout the match, mixing up their tactics to try different approaches to find a way through. They never lacked confidence and put their all into the match and can be immensely proud of their performance.
Girls' Emerging Football
On Friday 3rd October, our girls’ football 2nd team played in the SPSSA Emerging Girls Football Tournament at Len Forge. They played fourteen matches across the day, with each match lasting six minutes one way.
For most of the team, this was their first time playing competitive football and the first time the team had played together against other schools. During the first few games, the team were finding their feet and getting used to the wet and windy conditions in the morning. Our defenders and keepers were kept incredibly busy in all our matches with both keepers making some unbelievable saves. The team didn’t have a lot of success however, as the day went on and the more they played, their determination grew stronger to help them draw a number of games and win a match in the afternoon.
The whole team worked hard and demonstrated great improvement throughout the day, continuing to gain confidence and develop their team work in every match. They thoroughly enjoyed a day of playing competitive football, finishing each match with a smile on their faces and eager to play another game.
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
House Points
Achievements
Success at the MTU Competition!
A huge congratulations to Ronni and Ada from 4B for their fantastic achievements at the Majorette and Twirling Union (MTU) competition on Sunday, 5th October. Both girls took part in two events each for their age range and impressed the judges with their confidence and skill. Ada performed brilliantly, placing 5th in Pom and an outstanding 2nd in Flag. Ronni, who only began twirling in June, did an amazing job in her first competition—achieving 6th place in Pom and earning a Certificate of Merit in Flag. Well done, Ronni and Ada.
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.
Donate preloved items if you wish or just come for a browse! You might find some treasures. Even Christmas gifts! There will also be cakes for sale and a raffle.
Doctors without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières is a humanitarian organisation that provides medical aid in crisis situations around the world.
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
- Monday 10th - Parent Council Meeting
- 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
- 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
- Monday 24th - Wednesday 3rd - Assessment Weeks for Years 3 - 5
- Monday 24th - Friday 28th - Book Fair
- 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
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" • 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."