2nd February 2026

This half term seems to be flying by and we are about to enter our last week together before the half term break.  Despite the odd bug here and there, children have done very well overall to  remain enthusiastic about coming into school to learn and play with each other.  
 

As you have seen on our main school newsletter, we are saying a very sad farewell to Rachel Smith on Wednesday.  Rachel is a much loved and valued member of our Early Years Hub and has worked here for many years.  In fact, she even attended school here as a child herself!  I know that she will be sorely missed by children and staff, but we wish her all the very best.  
 

You  might have also noticed the amount of rain we have had over the last week!  A nuisance or great for puddle jumping?   You decide, but I know what many of our children will say!  We have still managed lots of outdoor play as we always do in any weather.  We have been kindly donated some toys for both our indoor and outdoor area by Mr Chris Park, our co-chair of governors.  These have included a ride-in car and a little kitchen, which the children are really enjoying playing with.

Maple have continued with their theme around the traditional nursery rhyme, Miss Polly had a Dolly and  very good at joining in with the the words and actions with gusto!  Children have been practicing their cutting skills and how to carry scissors safely.   Maple are liking the balance of spending some time with the older children in Elm, as well as having time just with each other, allowing relationships to thrive and blossom.  
 

In Elm, children have enjoyed reading, 'Aliens Love Underpants', which I'm sure you can imagine has provoked a few cheeky laughs!  Much of the continuous provision and activities have been based around this book, including even pegging pants on a mini washing line to help develop their fine motor skills.

This week, Holly and Elm are going to be visiting the church together one afternoon to learn more about baptism and identify the key symbols that are involved, such as the font and holy water.  Hopefully Father Naz will be joining us too and will be able to show the children how these things are put into action.  
 

See you tomorrow for our last week! :)

Maple and Elm’s PE session.

Elm’s Friday PE session with Holly Class.