Having a long weekend is always great but I spent most of the working week asking what day it was.
The week started on a high when Mrs Thompson took a large squad of children to the Culm Valley Learning Community (CVLC) Cross Country Meet at Killerton. Our children enjoy running and many attend the meets at Uffculme and Stockland but this competition was the first at this venue. Returning as winners the new shiny trophy has pride of place in what has become our 'trophy room'. Well done all.
All lunch time and after-school clubs are now in full swing and well attended by the children. The activities available during the half term holidays have been sent out as a hard copy but if it hasn't got home yet you can access it on the website on the newsletter page.
Kentisbeare Children's Orchestra (KCO) is always looking for new potential so children who have enjoyed learning violin here's your chance. Leaflets for the KCO are available at school.
The holiday clubs are co-ordinated by the CVLC and sometimes events will be held in Kentisbeare itself but a wide range of activities are on offer across the valley. Thanks go to Lisa Battern our 'Extended Schools Co-ordinator.'
We are buzzing with ideas at the moment as we make plans for developing further our Outdoor Learning area. We are planning to replace the garage (where furniture goes to die!) with a purposeful Outdoor Classroom (posh shed) and a poly tunnel to enable us to continue growing produce throughout the year. This will complement our small allotment at the Wyndham Arms which we remain extremely grateful for. On Friday Mrs P, Mr Hardy and myself went to visit Bradley Barton School to see their fabulous grounds and Outdoor Classroom. Thank you to Margaret (who co-ordinates the work there) for giving us a tour, sharing her planning and totally inspiring us to do more. As part of these plans Mrs P has been busily applying for grants to help fund 'our dreams.'
With regard to grant applications we are always looking for extra funding to enrich our curriculum plans. Unfortunately applications take a long time to complete and everyone is so busy already. If there is someone in our community who thinks they may be able to help here we would be very appreciative. Just get in touch.
Still on the theme of supporting the school any parents who would like to offer their time to listen to children read or support art/craft/environmental activities are very welcome. If you can help please talk with the class teacher or contact the office. You don't necessarily have to currently have a child at the school and we would particularly welcome any 'senior citizens' from our community. However any volunteers will be expected to have a police check (CRB)but we can organise this for you.
Lots to think about and a great week. Test next week (SATs) so highlight of the week will probably be breakfast club and Friday 3.30pm!
Tracey Hailey
