Hello everyone!

It’s getting very Christmassy – today, we have enjoyed the dress rehearsal of the Reception & KS1 Christmas performance. It’s wonderful! I can’t wait for you to see it next week.

Year 3 residential  It was super to hear all about what Year 3 got up to at Leeson House. They thoroughly enjoyed themselves and learned a huge amount. They were keen to tell me all about it on Monday. Thank you to all the staff who made this trip possible.

Term Talk  We’re very proud of our bespoke Southill Primary curriculum – Bright Futures. Our new Deputy Headteacher, Matt, is our Bright Futures curriculum leader. In January he will launch a new update for families to help keep track of everything the children are learning at school with details about how you can support them at home. These will be sent out to you in the first week of Spring term.

New technology  Matt has been busy ordering and setting up some new technology for the children. We have lots of new chromebooks and tablets. When I show families around on our Friday morning tours, they are always very impressed with the amount of technology children are using in their daily learning. We encourage children to use technology in their learning because it enhances their engagement, fosters creativity, and develops essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking and digital literacy.

Staffing updates 

• Our new Year 1 teacher, Melanie, starts after Christmas. She will be working on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday alongside Mrs Clark who will continue to work Thursday and Friday.
• I’m pleased to let you know that Hannah who has been teaching in Year 1 will be staying on with us for the rest of the year and will be teaching in Year 6 full time. We are sad that Hayley is leaving us and wish her all the very best for her future.
• Laura Howe, our student teacher in Year 3, begins her 9 week placement in another school in January. We know she will be brilliant. They’re lucky to have her. We are looking forward to having her back later on in the spring term.

Fundraising events

• Last weekend, we had lots of festive fun making Christmas wreaths with Mrs Sharpe. Thank you to everyone who came along or who bought one from Karen afterwards. We made £257!
• Last night, Dan organised the spectacular Southill’s Got Talent show. It was truly a memorable evening and we raised another £278!

All money raised will go towards our Music Studio project.

Trainers  Lately, we have noticed lots of children wearing trainers with their uniform which is not in line with our uniform policy unless it is PE day. Please ensure you make the class teacher aware if children can’t wear their school shoes for any reason. Thanks for your support with this.

Wishing you all a lovely weekend

Caroline