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Plat Douet School Newsletter

Friday 1st May 2026

Welcome to the Summer Term!

Dear Parents & Carers, As we begin the summer term, there is so much for our children and families to look forward to – longer days, improving weather and an exciting half‑term ahead filled with learning, play and special events. With the sunshine returning, our OPAL playtimes are really coming into their own and we are always grateful for any donations to help enrich outdoor play, such as loose parts, tyres, crates or outdoor resources. Please keep us in mind if you are having a clear‑out at home. As always, thank you for your continued support and involvement – we look forward to a happy, active and successful term together. Best wishes, Debbie Maindonald Acting Headteacher

Deaf Awareness Week -

4th to 10th May

Deaf Awareness Week is an annual event in May raising awareness about deafness and celebrating British deaf culture, community, and history. This year’s theme is a “Right to Understand - Together, We Break Barriers”. It is a chance to recognise both the experiences of children, young people and also colleagues who are deaf or have hearing loss and to reflect on the barriers they face every day in the classroom setting. Everyday communication can create invisible barriers – but small, simple actions we can make together can make The Difference

Fundraiser - Dress as your favourite character - Friday 22nd May

We will be holding a dress down day on Friday 22nd May. Children may come to school in either non-uniform or as a character from a book or a film, (no football kits please). We are raising funds to go towards our Christmas Extravaganza in December for items such as costumes and technical equipment. Yes we really did say Christmas!!!

Crabbe 2026

What an unforgettable week for Year 5! Each class returned from their Crabbe residential buzzing with excitement after days filled with adventure, laughter and lots of fun. I felt genuinely privileged to join the trip and see just how much fun they were having. My personal highlight was the campfire — hot chocolate in hand, a perfectly roasted marshmallow, and everyone singing campfire songs together. It was one of those moments that reminds you why these experiences matter so much, and I’m sure they all slept very well on their return home.   A massive thank‑you to the brilliant staff team who gave their time to make the residential possible. A very special mention must go to our campfire extraordinaire, Mr Hutchings, who supported the trip for all four days and helped make those evening campfire moments truly magical. We are also incredibly grateful to Miss Williams, Mrs Johnson and Miss Troy for their organising, and to all other staff who supported both during the day and overnight — their commitment and care ensured the children had a safe, memorable and joy‑filled experience.   I couldn’t be prouder of the wonderful young people our Year 5 pupils are growing into, and I am already very much looking forward to the upcoming Year 4 residential to St Aubin’s Fort, where I’m sure we will have just as much fun.   Miss Achler   Acting Deputy Head

E-Safety Support for Parents - Useful Websites

Keeping children safe online can feel overwhelming, but there are some excellent, trusted websites that offer clear advice, guides and support for families. NSPCC (including Net Aware) Offers up-to-date information about apps, games and social media platforms. Their Net Aware section helps parents understand what children are using and any associated risks. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/ Childnet A fantastic resource with simple guides, videos and practical tips for keeping children safe online. Great for parents of primary-aged children. https://www.childnet.com Internet Matters One of the most parent-friendly sites, with step-by-step guides, parental control instructions and age-specific advice. https://www.internetmatters.org CEOP Run by the National Crime Agency, this site is essential for reporting serious online concerns. It also has advice for parents and children. https://www.ceop.police.uk ThinkUKnow Linked to CEOP, this site provides engaging resources and advice tailored to different age groups. https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk

Suncream & Hats!!

With summer approaching, can you please ensure that your child comes to school everyday with a labelled hat, suncream applied and a water bottle that can be refilled as necessary. Thank you for your cooperation.

Term Dates

4th May 2026 - Bank Holiday - School Closed

11th May 2026 - Photographer in for Whole School Photo

18th - 20th May 2026 - Year 4 St Aubin's Fort Residential Trip

18th - 21st May 2026 - Year 6 SATs Week

22nd May 2026 - Dress Down Day Fundraiser

25th - 29th May 2026 - Summer Half Term Break

15th - 19th June 2026 - Year 6 Guernsey Residential Trip

26th June 2026 - Cake Sale Fundraiser

29th June - 3rd July 2026 - Nursery to Y6 Parent Consultations Week

2nd - 3rd July 2026 - Primary - Secondary Transition Days

7th July 2026 - EYFS Sports Day (am) & KS1 Sports Day (pm)

8th July 2026 - Key Stage 2 Sports Day

17th July 2026 - Y6 Leavers Assembly

17th July 2026 - Last Day of Summer Term