Headteacher Message

Hello all,

I hope you have all managed to stay warm in these sub arctic temperatures.  An exaggeration, I know, but I have to say my daily cycle to school has been decidedly fresh.  

I have some great news to share with you.  The deadline for Reception choices ended on Monday and as a school, we received 29 first choice applications.  This means, for the first time since I have been here, we will more than likely have a waiting list at Darell School.  The whole school community has worked extremely hard to make Darell the school of choice in the locality and as a staff team we are very proud of how the school is now viewed.  It has been a team effort.  Parents, governor's, staff, visitors, pupils and more have spread the word about this wonderful school.  We know we are not perfect and will always be on a journey, but the news on Monday did make the staff team extremely happy.  What we are good at is nurturing your children, ensuring that they know we care and celebrating their successes.  We are a happy school and happy children learn.  Thank you to each and every one of you who have championed this school and entrusted your children into our care.  It is the success of a community, not just a school. 

Great news part 2.  My stint as a receptionist is sadly coming to an end, and we have employed a receptionist who will begin after half-term.  It was a strong field, and we really feel that we have the right person for the job.  We are awaiting the return of references etc and as soon as we can, will let you know who it is.  

I have an important reminder for some of you.  Next week we are holding Maths Mastery parent workshops after drop off for parents in Reception, Year 1 and 2

• Tuesday 24th - Reception
• Wednesday 25th - Year 1
• Thursday 26th - Year 2

 They will all be in the hall from 9 - 10am.

I would really recommend that you attend if you can. You will get the opportunity to work alongside your child (they will lead!!) and you will get a greater understanding of the Maths curriculum for your child. 

In the meantime, have a lovely weekend with your families and see you next week.

Joe Porter 

Communications Sent Home

• Individual - Outstanding balance reminders
• Individual - Swimming Gala Invitation

The Reading Corner

Welcome to our weekly section of the newsletter all about reading. Every week, we will share a question (or two) with you about the book your child is reading in school. Please use these questions to help you find out a little more about what your child has been reading in school and continue to develop their love of reading.

Wonder - In 'Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?' how does big bear help little bear go to sleep? (lifts him up and cuddles him and takes him outside to look at the moon so he isn't scared of the dark).

Peake - What was the most surprising thing that got stuck in the tree? Why was it surprising?

Weir - What do you think the evil step mother will do to plan her revenge on Snow White?

Thunberg - How do you think Omar should deal with his bad dreams? What advice would you give to him?

Darwin - In ‘Mama Miti’ How did Wangari Maathai help the women who saw her with the problems they had?

Attenborough - Is the Kingdom of Yaroslav a friendly place? Which of the characters might turn out to help the girls and who should they beware of?

Parks - What were Lucy and Mr Tumnus’s first impressions of each other?

Stars of the Week!

Early Years Star of the Week

Wonder Class

Ibrahim - for making great progress! For good listening, good talking, for joining in at carpet time and for trying really hard in phonics.

KS1 Star of the Week

Peake Class

Myah - for her fantastic sounding and blending in our group reading sessions. Well done, Myah!

Weir Class

Maksim - for being an aspirational and responsible learner, Maksim always puts 100% effort into everything.

Walker Class

Emily - for responding to adults questions during snack time and sensory circuit to explain what she wants. Well done Emily!  

KS2 Star of the Week

Newton Class

Jessica - for  a fantastic week in Newton & for her enthusiastic approach to her learning. Well done Jessica!

Thunberg Class

Lena - for the super progress she has made in phonics and writing.                    Well done, Lena!

Darwin Class

Anthony - for aspiring to improve his handwriting. Well Done and keep it up!

Attenborough Class

Judi - for her enjoyment in all lessons, being a great partner and taking responsibility for her learning.

Parks Class

Juliette - for consistently working hard across the curriculum. Well done!

Rashford Class

Leon - for his resilience in his learning and for always being a kind, reliable and supportive friend. Well done Leon!