NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.13

HEAD'S VIEW
Christmas is almost upon us and I would like to start the final newsletter of term with an excerpt from my termly report to governors:

'…..my overriding memory of terms 1 and 2 will be the fantastic efforts on the parts of so many who want the very best for Newbridge and the children. Day in, day out, the staff do their absolute best for the children, for the school and for each other. Our parents support the school in so many ways and have we seen any better example of that than the Auction of Promises and the Christmas Fair? I cannot speak highly enough of Biggs, our building contractors, who continue to go beyond the call of duty and are rapidly becoming Newbridge members of staff! Then there are the numerous individuals whether they be staff, parents, governors or friends of the school – so many examples of people who have gone the extra mile for the benefit of our children. We are indebted to them all. But of course we are here for the children and it is the girls and boys of Newbridge Primary School who make each and every day special.'

There have been many highlights this term and so many in the past fortnight alone! Watching the Willow class assembly, listening to the choir sing on its mini tour of Bath and being present at the Lower School’s excellent performances of 'Babushka' have all in their own way brought home to me the meaning and importance of Christmas. There are two families I hope have an extra special Christmas, as they are leaving us at the end of this term to start new chapters in their lives. Jacob (2S) leaves us to move to the North East while Arthur (4A) and Henry (1HO) are moving to Weymouth. Arthur and Henry's Mum, Sara, has also worked at the school as an SMSA and has helped us out on numerous occasions. We will miss them all and our very best wishes go with them for the future.

On a personal note I would like to thank all the staff for their exceptional commitment and care for the children. I come to the end of my first year at Newbridge and they have had to deal with a huge amount of change in a quickly developing school. They have done so with great humour and zest. They deserve a really good break!

At that point I would like to wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas. See you on Thursday 3rd January fully recharged and raring to go!

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 17/12/07
Tuesday 18/12/07
pm Lower School Christmas parties
4.30 – 6.00 Year 3 & 4 Disco
6.30 – 8.00 Year 5 & 6 Disco
Wednesday 19/12/07
Last day of term 2
Thursday 3/1/08
First day of term 3

YEAR 4 SWIMMING
Swimming lessons for 4A have finished for this year. 4P will resume swimming lessons on Wednesday 9th January 2008.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'

Foundation Stage
Joe, Andrea
Years 1 and 2
Izzy, Finn, Eleanor, Poppy, Maddie
Years 3 and 4
Annie, Ella, Edward, Tom
Years 5 and 6
George, Alex, Julian, Matthew, Hannah, Callum
PPA Music
Darcy

PPA Drama
Harvey, Lily, Soumia
PPA PE
Francesca, Joseph, Keira

DRUMMING CLUB – YEARS 1 AND 2
Children who have been attending Drumming Club this term will be performing in the New Year. Dates to follow. New slips to sign up for Drumming Club next term will be sent out today. Please return by the end of term – 19/12/07.

PLEASE NOTE
4 scooters have been left at the lower school. If they are not claimed by the end of this term, next Wednesday 12/12/07, they will be taken to a charity shop.

NEWBRIDGE CHOIR TOUR
Newbridge Primary School Choir had their own tour around Bath in the last 2 weeks! It started with the Bath Abbey and ended up with Newbridge Towers. Here is how it all went.

First of all it was the Bath abbey, an event that lots of schools take part in. It was on the night that the Christmas lights go on, the market starts and Christmas begins! The choir sang a new (and improved!) version of Away in a Manger. It was a great night, Mrs Boyle, Miss Amies and Mr Croker were all very proud!

The Christmas Fair! - This was one of the best bits of our mini tour. We stood in the entrance so that everyone could hear our voices! We sang some of the worlds most famous carols which included Little Donkey and Jingle Bells.

The RUH was our next stop. It was on the 10th December 2007 and we sang in front of an amazing audience in the cafeteria. Erin introduced us and we started to sing, even Big Ted joined in. We also raised a lot of money for the premature baby unit. Once we'd finished at the RUH the Year 5 and 6 members of the choir went off to Newbridge Towers to sing to the people of Bath that needed help over Christmas (most of which were Mrs Sellick's family!). Miss Amies said she was very proud and she had a little tear in her eye. It was lovely to see them all join in and Mr Croker said we had "made their Christmas."

We would like to thank Miss Amies, Mrs Boyle, Mr Croker, Mrs Houston and Mrs Sellick for supporting us throughout the events. Don’t forget to come to our next stop, the Christmas concert!!!
By Georgia and Eloise.
('A brilliant Report, Georgia and Eloise, which also sums up the choir! Congratulations to every member of the choir and Miss Amies too.' Mr Croker)

RENEWBRIDGE EVIDENCE
There are still photographs etc coming in so the deadline will be extended to early next term. PLEASE provide us with some kind of evidence of any ReNewbridge activity your child or your family has been involved in. Once the book is made that's it!

GREEN CLUB
Please could you save your old Christmas cards and any scraps of ribbon for Green Club. Many thanks.

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PARTY

Just a reminder this will take place on Tuesday 18th December. Children can wear suitable party clothes all day. Please let your child's teacher know if your child has any food allergies. Thank you.

STAMPS
Please save your used stamps to help support the RSPB Save the Albatross Campaign. Please hand them to your class teacher. Thank you.

NPSA NEWS
THANK YOU to all those who battled the foul weather to come and support our school at the Christmas Fair last Thursday.
After six months of tremendous giving, the NPS community still managed to raise over £2000 that night. From the Tombola Queens in the morning to the grafters in the kitchen (Mrs Rixon and the Blunos' especially) and all those setting up and running stalls on the evening - THANK YOU - you all deserve Certificates of Excellence. (' …..at least! A huge thank you to everyone who put in a very long shift to ensure an excellent event. It is very much appreciated.' Mr Croker)
From all at the NPSA, a very Happy Holiday season to everyone.

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.12

CERTIFICATES OF EXCELLENCE – NOVEMBER
At the end of every month each class teacher has a very difficult decision to face. They have to choose the one person from their class to receive a Certificate of Excellence. The person they choose has to consistently be the best that he or she can be. That could be in effort and attitude, achievement, behaviour or citizenship. Sometimes it can be very difficult deciding as all of the children at Newbridge seem to work so hard and behave so well!

The people with their names up here this month deserve congratulating. It is not easy to be awarded a Certificate of Excellence and they have done extremely well.

LOWER SCHOOL UPPER SCHOOL
Elm – Luka
Willow – Joel
1H – Phoebe
1HO – Daisy
2GB – Lydia
2RB – Naomi
2S – Ella
3C - Hannah
3H – Kate
4A – Chloe
4P – Raphaela
5C – Ashley
5D – Liam
5W – Paige
6B – Adnan
6N – Max
6S – Darcy

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY W/B 10/12/07
Monday 10/12/07 Lower School Dress Rehearsal – 9.45am
Choir singing at RUH and Newbridge Towers Elderly People’s Home
Tuesday 11/12/07 – Lower School Nativity – 9.30am
Wednesday 12/12/07 Lower School Nativity – 9.30am
Thursday 13/12/07 Lower School Nativity at Emmanuel Church (alternative cast) – 9.30am
Upper School Concert – 7.00pm
Friday 14/12/07 Upper School Concert – 9.30am

FAREWELL
Today we have to say goodbye to our Norland Nannies, Francesca Pyke and Sarah Overall.
They have been really fantastic to have in the classes and the lower school and we are all going to miss them. We wish them good luck for the rest of their training.

LAST CLUBS TODAY!
Please note that extra-curricular clubs finish today (7/12/07) for this term.

YEAR 4 VISIT - BUDDY THE DOG
On Wednesday 14th November the whole of Year 4 went to the bottom playground to see a demonstration of dog handling. PC Williams, the dog handler, brought his dog Buddy to show the children how Buddy finds dangerous pieces of equipment.
Pieces of a gun were hidden around the playground and Buddy easily returned them. When Buddy finds something he is trained to stand still and not touch it and wait for PC Williams. PC Williams then showed how Buddy was rewarded with his favourite toy, a tennis ball, for finding pieces of equipment.
Harry from 4P said, "It was amazing how the dog smelt the gun parts out."
Overall it was a fantastic lesson on dog handling and everyone really enjoyed it.
By Jack and Jake.


DINNER MONEY
Unfortunately we have to announce that the price of school dinners will rise after Christmas to £1.85 per day. These prices are set by the B&NES Catering Service and they apply across all schools in the authority.
All dinners must be taken on a weekly basis. The cost of dinners will be £9.25 per week. Please send the money in on a Monday morning, in an envelope with your child’s name and class on it. All cheques to be made payable to B&NES please.
Dinner money for the coming term is as follows:

Jan 21 days at £1.85 = £38.85
Feb 16 days at £1.85 = £29.60
March 21 days at £1.85 = £38.85
April 12 days at £1.70 = £22.20
£129.50

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Lotties, Lucy
Years 1 and 2
Sam, Tanea
Callum, Eva, Tom
Years 3 and 4
Tommy Lee, Jed
Angus, Sophia
Years 5 and 6
Joda, Molly, Isabella, Callum, Zoe, Georgia
PPA Music
Wilson
PPA Drama
Lily, Isaac
PPA PE
Lawrie, Lucy

DISCOS
Tuesday 18th December
Years 3 and 4: 4.30 – 6.00pm
Years 5, 6 and 7: 6.30 – 8.00pm
Cost: £1.50
If anyone is in touch with the Year 7s please could you let them know that we would love to see them back for the disco.

PRIMARY MATHS CHALLENGE
A huge congratulations to everyone who took part in the Primary Maths Challenge on 19th November. The positive attitude of everyone involved was absolutely amazing and everyone should feel very proud of themselves.

Well Done to -
Year 5
Guy, George, Thea, Ava, Elliot, Emily, Finlay, Emma, Amelia, Joe, Harriet, Harrison, Helen, Isaac, Jacob, Jacob, Jay, Isabella, Jasmin, Joda, Mark, Max, Rosie, Sherilyn, Sydney, Tom, Will, Matthew, Joe.
Year 6
James, Ben, Joe, Ellie, Simeon, Jacob, Erin, William, Sammy, Emilie, Callum, Ben, Chloe, Frances, Lucas, Lydia, Emily, Caroline, Lucy, Georgia, Fynn, Ella, Emily, Eloise, Caleb, Sophie, Annabelle, Cassius, Georgia, Matthew, Jody.

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.11

HEAD'S VIEW
The ReNewbridge campaign officially came to an end on Friday night with the Auction of Promises ……… and what an end it was! Stephen Brook, our guest auctioneer, led proceedings in the new hall which was decorated to surpass even the Pump Rooms for grandeur and the large number attending then showed their generosity. In short, the auction raised £7300 for ReNewbridge with the bar and ticket sales still being counted. I speak for all at Newbridge when I say how much this is appreciated. Our deepest gratitude goes to all those who attended on the night, all those who donated lots and the following parents who made the event happen:
Emma & Pete Harvey
Judy Groves & Neil Leslie
Lucy & Rob Hanney
Ally & Mike Richardson
Ann & Simon Thomas
Jo & James Stevenson
Lesley Waters
Emma Pickard
Pauline Sparrow
Sophie Penny
Stephanie Massey
Sharon Alcock
Tracey Lynch
Paulo Baigent & Susie Wright
I sincerely hope I have not sinned by omission here – please tell me if that is the case. A special mention must go to Lucy Hanney who pulled everything together and ensured a fantastic night. So that is just about it for ReNewbridge; we have raised in the region of £32 500 which easily surpassed our target total of £25 000. This is a phenomenal effort on the part of many, many people. We are holding the celebration of this venture when the link building is completed and the fair weather (fingers crossed) will allow us to use the whole site to accommodate what will be hundreds of people. That will be our ReNewbridge "thank you" – details at a later date. At the end of this term I will be sending off all our ReNewbridge evidence to have a special book(s) made for future generations to look at. Please do not forget to send a photo or some record of your son's, daughter's or family's exploits if we do not already have this. If you are not sure please come in and check.

Please note that we have had to change the dates of one or two of our end of term events. The events and dates are as follows:

Church services will not now be held at St John’s on Monday and Tuesday 17th & 18th December
Monday 10th December at 9.45am – Lower school dress rehearsal
Tuesday 11th December at 9.30am – Lower school nativity
Wednesday 12th December at 9.30am – Lower school nativity
Thursday 13th December at 9.30am – Lower School nativity at Emmanuel Church

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 2/12/07:
Wednesday 5/12/07
Year 3 Tennis Festival 1.00 – 3.00pm at Oldfield School
Willow Assembly – 2.45pm
Thursday 6/12/07
Christmas Dinner
Christmas Fair – 5.00 – 7.00pm

TRAVEL QUESTIONNAIRE
Thank you to all the parents and carers who completed the travel questionnaire. The School Council have collated the results and we are currently looking into how we can improve safe access to school. We will keep you informed.
('Thank you once again for your response and our gratitude as well to the Year 6 school councillors who collated the results and presented their findings most impressively.' Mr Croker)

CLASS 2GB - LOST!
Since September 2007 the following items have gone missing from our class:
A piece of Uluru (Ayres Rock)
A Russian doll (lost a fortnight ago)
Our green and yellow toilet bands!
If anyone finds these items, please return them to 2GB as soon as possible. The first two are dearly missed and belong to children in the class. If things continue to go missing from class, the children will no longer be able to bring items to school. This would be a shame as they really enhance our topic work.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
SHOEBOX APPEALA very BIG thank you to everyone who gave to this appeal. We collected a wonderful total of 84 boxes. Some of these are already on their way to the Ukraine and some will be going to Romania shortly, where they will be gratefully received by very deserving
children.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING CRECHE
Owing to insufficient demand we will be unable to run the shoppers crèche on Saturday 1st December. Thank you to the parents who did sign up.

CHRISTMAS FAIR
We would like donations of unwanted tinsel, Christmas wrapping paper, tissue paper and shiny paper. There will be a box in the spare classroom marked 'craft stall donations'.

PLEASE NOTE – Willow class assembly has been changed from Thursday 6th December to Wednesday 5th December at 2.45pm. Thanks.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING STARS OF THE WEEK
Foundation Stage
Michael, Issy
Years 1 and 2
Saul, Grace, Brandon, Ellie, Elizabeth
Years 3 and 4
Elle, Freya, Max, Alex
Years 5 and 6
Wilson, Josie, Jacob, Bradley, Ibtihaj
PPA Music
Ben Hawker
PPA Drama
Theo, Grace
PPA PE
Kalli, Joe

FOOTBALL REPORT - NEWBRIDGE PRIMARY V WIDCOMBE JUNIOR
On 22nd November Newbridge football team faced off against Widcombe Junior school in a friendly match. The game kicked off with Newbridge pressuring the Widcombe goal. With a corner coming in Max jumped through the Widcombe defence only to head the ball just over the bar. After some good play a decent ball was played through to Ben who teed the ball up for Joe as he volleyed the ball high which made the Widcombe keeper pull out a great save, pushing the ball over the bar. Finally the goal came for Newbridge. With some good play, Max passed the ball to Ben who slotted it past the keeper into the middle of the goal to make it 1-0 to the mighty Newbridge. At the end of the first half it was 1-1. The second half kicked off with the Newbridge defence keeping strong at the back. However, a long ball was played over the Newbridge defence into Widcombe’s striker who forced Samuel to pull out a fantastic save. With another bit of great play from Newbridge a ball was played through to Joe who hit a stunning left foot strike which sailed into the roof of the net to make it 2-1 to Newbridge. Newbridge had a couple of chances but couldn’t find anyone to slot it into the net. Newbridge were able to hold on to a 2-1 victory.
We would like to thank Miss Newton for refereeing and Mr Cumpson for coaching us and everyone else who came along to support us. By Joe and Matthew.

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS EVENTS
We are looking forward to you joining us in our celebratory performance, either on Tuesday 11th December or Wednesday 12th December. The Year 2 children (alternative casting to the school performance) will be performing a nativity at Emmanuel Church on Thursday 13th December at 9.30am.
Please bring any pre-school children to watch the dress rehearsal on Monday 10th December. To be fair to all the young children who are performing, it would be appreciated if they were not brought to the other performances.
The children will be having their Christmas party on Tuesday 18th December. We would welcome a voluntary contribution of £1.00 to be sent in an envelope labelled ‘Party’, by Friday 14th December.

NPSA CHRISTMAS FAIR - Thursday 6th Dec 5.00-7.00pm
FAQ Sheet
Where do I take this mountain of stuff we have been asked to bring in? As from Monday 3rd, please drop the following items off in the spare classroom (lower school): CUDDLY TOYS (for Adopt-a-Teddy), CHOCOLATE TOMBOLA (Years 2 and 5), SWEETIE JARS (Reception and Year 3 – cups handed out today and Monday), NEARLY NEW OR UNUSED TOYS suitable for 4+ (Year 6).
On the day of the fair please bring: CAKES (Years 1 and 4) to the children’s kitchen in the lower assembly hall and TOMBOLA donations (all children wearing mufti that day) to the spare classroom. There will be clearly marked boxes/areas in which to place items.

What kind of fun can we expect and how much will it cost me? There are many games to play from the Velcro Bullseye game to the Lucky Dip, Treasure Hunt and more. Santa’s Grotto (with present) returns as well as a Christmas Craft Room for festive decorations and card making. If that isn’t enough you can buy Glowsticks or try your luck at one of the Tombolas, as well as the chance to score some fine raffle prizes. Most things will cost between 20p and £1 (games 20p or 3 for 50p). There is also going to be a large and diverse selection of outside traders so you can do some Christmas shopping.

What about the food? This year the food will be served in the lower school hall with a child’s meal deal for £1.50 and adults costing £2.50. Pizza and jacket potatoes with beans and cheese will be available as well as mince pies, mulled juice and other drinks.

Can I help? Oh, yes please. We still need more people to help run stalls on the night. All those who have already kindly offered their help will receive a notice of where to go and when – a timetable will also be posted in the Blue Room next week, as well as several postings around the lower school. If there is a gap you can fill, PLEASE write your name in or let your class rep know or drop a note in the NPSA tray in reception. Thank you.

Where is everything happening on the night? A map will be sent home with your children next Wednesday. Maps will be posted around the site as well.

PLEASE COME AND SUPPORT YOUR SCHOOL AND HAVE A FUN FAMILY NIGHT OUT

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.10

AUCTION OF PROMISES - TONIGHT!
We have some additional, exciting 'Lots' that will be up for Auction tonight, these include
· A football signed by Swindon Town FC
· Christmas present wrapping
· Children’s cookery lessons
· A week in a luxury converted barn in Cornwall for 6
A limited number of tickets will be on sale on the door from 7.00pmAuction starts at 7.45pm.

FAREWELL
On Monday we will be saying 'goodbye' to Veronika (4A). Veronika's family are moving back to the Czech Republic and they will leave behind many friends at Newbridge. Our very best wishes go with Veronika, her brother Dominik and the family. They made a difference at Newbridge.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 26/11/07:
Tuesday 27/11/07
Girls' football vs WASPS (home)
Thursday 29/11/07
Advent Concert – Bath Abbey - 4.30 – 5.30pm
Football vs Bathampton (Away)
Friday 30/11/07
6S Assembly – 2.45pm
Christmas decs up!
Saturday 01/12/07
Christmas Shopping Crèche run by staff - 9.00 – 12.15. Tickets at Auction of Promises.

SUNDAY FUN FACTORY
Real Life Puppets presents NO ROOM AT THE STABLE. The Christmas story retold in song, dance and drama. For under 8’s only and their families on Sunday 2nd December at Emmanuel Church, Apsley Road from 4.00 – 5.30pm. Everything Free!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Ruby, Alfie
Years 1 and 2
Lydia, Mimi, Olly, William, Cara, Katie
Years 3 and 4
Olivia, Elijah, Harry, Lilley
Years 5 and 6
Jasmin, Ella, Emma, Soumia, Emily, Misha
PPA Music
Georgia
PPA Drama
Charlie, Hannah
PPA PE
Tom, Elliot

HOCKEY REPORT
Well done to all those children who braved the terrible weather conditions on Sunday and played very good hockey. Mrs Bartlett was incredibly proud and pleased by everyone’s efforts. Not one child moaned about the weather and gave 100% in all four games.
Thank you to those parents who stayed and supported all the children, cheering them on whilst attempting to keep their umbrellas up! Both the children and Mrs Bartlett really appreciated it. Well done everyone.
I look forward to seeing you all at our next match on 10th February.
(' big well done to all the boys and girls, Mrs Bartlett and our parents who braved monsoon conditions to participate. It is great to see hockey taking off at Newbridge.' Mr Croker)

DECK THE HALLS
Come along on Friday 30th November from 7.00pm to help decorate the school halls for Christmas. Coffee and mince pies will be available. Please let your class rep know if you can make it (no children please.) Thank you.

CHRISTMAS DINNER - Thursday 6th December
If your child normally has dinners, there is no need to specifically order a meal.
If your child normally has sandwiches, you will need to order and pay for the Christmas dinner by Tuesday 27th November to enable the kitchen to order the supplies on the 29th November. Orders must be in an envelope with your child’s name, class and ‘Christmas Dinner’ on the front. Thank you.
Please note that no orders can be taken after Tuesday 27th November.

NPSA CHRISTMAS FAIR - Thursday 6th Dec 5.00 -7.00pm
Hot on the heels of what promises to be an outstanding Auction of Promises, the Christmas Fair quickly approaches. Along with many traditional Christmas Fair favourites, there will be more games/activities for the children this year, along with a great selection of outside traders. We know that NPS families have been asked to do/give a great deal over the past year with the exceptionally successful ReNewbridge campaign, so asking for yet more donations of goods and time for the Christmas Fair is asking a lot. We promise to give you a ‘breather’ after this one (honest).
SO, the following is a list of what each year will be asked to contribute (we will let you know closer to the date as to where to bring it all):

· Year 3 and Reception – Sweetie jars
· Years 1 and 4 – Cakes, glorious cakes
· Years 2 and 5 – Chocolate for the chocolate tombola
· Year 6 – Nearly new (or unused) toys in good condition
(Please only give items suitable for children aged 4+. No books please)

In addition to all of that business, any Cuddly Toys in good condition for the Adopt-a-Teddy stall would be greatly appreciated.
AND, MUFTI DAY ON THE DAY OF THE FAIR – PLEASE BRING A TOMBOLA PRIZE

Like last year, the fair will be spread over the upper and lower school sites. A map will be distributed the week of the fair so as to help plan your evening. It is anticipated that negotiating buggies and people up the wooded path will be a challenge, so please KEEP TO THE LEFT!

To get us in the Christmas spirit, the School Choir will be kicking off the festivities – do please give them your support.
More info to come ……………….Thank You!

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.09

HEAD'S VIEW
Today saw our first house event as a primary school. Every girl, boy and member of staff (except myself and Mrs Kennaugh) now belong to one of the four houses. We see this as a valuable way of promoting the sense of being part of a team with representation across the whole school. In addition, the events we plan will concentrate on key skills and attitudes such as collaboration, flexibility and bringing out the best in others. Today the children within their houses have been working in groups of four (typically Reception, Year 2, Year 4, Year 6 or Year 1, Year 3, Year 5, Year 6) to produce a collage of their house bird within a limited time. All of the entries will then be displayed in giant house collages at the end of the afternoon for all of us to admire. I write this before the event so fingers crossed! There has been a slight amendment to the house names. After not inconsiderable discussion, reference to a number of twitchers' manuals and enhanced knowledge on the part of many of us, the names are now Eagles, Falcons, Ospreys and Owls. It was agreed that kestrels, our original choice, were of the same family as falcons and that ospreys who are the only members of their family (an individual lot) would be a suitable replacement. I hope there are no kestrels out there who feel too offended. Our children will have been informed of their houses shortly before the house event.

Another first is coming up on Monday with the new extended school hall opening for business and our very first whole school assembly. Our builders (Biggs), who have been exceptional, have been working overtime to ensure we can gather at 9.15am. For those of you who have seen the new hall, I know you are as delighted as we are with the outcome. It is a fabulous space which will allow for a huge range of activity in years to come. We are not yet there with the ReNewbridge extras such as the multi media system, staging, lights and so on but they are well on their way. If you would like to come and see the hall, I am available at 3pm on both Monday and Tuesday to give you a guided tour!

The link building is now rising before our eyes. Due to budgetary constraints, we have had to make amendments to the original plans. The overall size of the building has been reduced and the proposal to use straw bales in the walls has had to be set aside. Unfortunately, such technology is still of considerable expense. What I am certain about is that come the end of April we will have a school environment to be proud of and one which will help us move forward as a school with great ambition.

PARENT SUPPORT IN YEAR 3
We have been delighted with the level of support offered by the Year 3 parents this year. The number of volunteers for both reading and the recent trip to Roman Baths has been incredible. We are so grateful for your support and can assure you that your help is appreciated and having an impact on your children’s learning. We would like to say a big thank you to Sally MacDonell for all her time, skill and effort in creating the fantastic Roman coins which are now on display in the lower school hall. The Year 3 team.
('This echoes our parental support throughout the school. Your help in so many ways makes a difference. We could not do it without you!' Mr Croker)

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 19/11/07:
Wednesday 21/11/07 - Girls football match vs WASPS (tbc)
Thursday 22/11/07 - 1HO Assembly – 2.45pm
Friday 23/11/07 - 6B Assembly – 2.45
Auction of Promises – 7.00pm

NEWBRIDGES CHESS MATCH AGAINST KING EDWARDS
On Friday the 9th of November Newbridge chess team played King Edwards chess team in a chess match. At 3:15, after school, Newbridge chess team went to the blue room and found out our board numbers (best first). After that we went on the coach to King Edwards to play our matches. When we were there we were shown where to sit and what their rules were. Then we played our chess match, the first game counted towards the score but you could play a friendly after if you wanted. At the end we heard the score - it was 25 and a half to King Edwards and 14 and a half to Newbridge. Thank you to Mr Croker for teaching and supporting us and the parent helpers who came along and those who offered.
By Sydney and Liam.
('Over 40 players from Newbridge taking part and they all did amazingly well against a very strong chess-playing school ………… my old place.!I felt very proud of the girls and boys on both sides of the board.' Mr Croker)

AUCTION OF PROMISES - 23rd November 7.00pm (for 7.45pm)
Upper School Hall
Licensed bar and snacks
Don’t forget to buy your tickets for the auction – they are selling fast.
Year Group Hampers
Thank you for all the offers of items for the hampers. Please could you bring all the items in to school between Monday 19th and Wednesday 20th November and hand them to your class teacher. The hampers for each year are as follows -
Reception - Children's art & craft
Year 1 – New baby
Year 2 – Children's Christmas
Year 3 – Fairtrade
Year 4 – Indian food
Year 5 – Christmas
Year 6 – Ladies pamper yourself
Thank you all for your help.
Jo Stevenson

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Foundation Stage
Bonnie, Jack
Years 1 and 2
Poppy, Maddi, Ruby, Emily, Henry, Hannah, Harvey, Faisal, Jadek
Years 3 and 4
Cassidy, Thomas, Beth, Amy
Years 5 and 6
Guy, Oliver, Rashane, Joe, Lucas, Joseph
PPA Music
Maddie, Matthew
PPA Drama
Ralph, Sinead, Jack
PPA PE
Abigail, William, Sophie

SCHOOL DINNERS
Please note that school dinners or packed lunches must be taken on a weekly basis. It is not possible to change during the week.
Thank you.

BLUEBELLES
We are a creative arts support group for women who have had or are suffering from Postnatal Illness and we are looking for volunteers to help with the following:
Childcare – Can you give 2 hours per month?
Artists/Craftworkers – Do you have a hobby that you could demonstrate?
If you can help, or would like to find out more, then please contact Dawn Worthington via Elm Class

TEACHING ASSISTANT VACANCY
Teaching Assistant - Level 3, Grade O for 19.30hrs per week required to support a reception child with severe speech and language delay and poor fine motor co-ordination difficulties.
A qualification in British Sign Language is essential as signing is the pupil’s initial form of communication.
Support will include working one to one with the child as well as small groups to promote peer signing. There will also be opportunities to support the whole class and staff to encourage a signing environment.
If interested, please contact the School Office.

CHRISTMAS CARDS
Don't buy your Christmas Cards yet – each class is in the process of making their own – they will be on sale shortly.

RENEWBRIDGE
All the evidence from the ReNewbridge appeal needs to be in school as soon as possible as we are putting together an official record in the form of a book.

SHOPPERS CRECHE
Staff will be running a shopping crèche at Saturday 1st December from 9.30 – 12.15. £5.00 per place. Places will be limited and you will be able to sign up initially at the Auction of Promises. All the money raised will go towards the ReNewbridge Appeal.

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.08

HEAD'S VIEW
This is the first newsletter after the half term break and an opportunity to welcome back Mr Cumpson after his odyssey to Australia and New Zealand. His family had an unforgettable experience and he returns to us as fresh as a daisy and raring to go! This is also a chance to express my gratitude to Mrs Walsh who taught Mr Cumpson's class while he was away and gave the children in 5C a fantastic start to the year.

There are now copies of the Ofsted Inspection Report available in school or, alternatively, you can access the report on www.ofsted.gov.uk You will be glad to know that there are no surprises. The inspection team were only assessing us on life after September 2006 and as a newly formed primary school. They took no account of the two separate schools and their many strengths and successes. To this end, they agreed with us that we can be no more than satisfactory at this stage in most areas because structures and systems are being put in place which will bear fruit further down the road. The areas they highlighted for development we had already identified and were incorporated in the outline development plan sent out to you in the summer. Of the many positives, the children's personal development and well-being was highlighted with comments such as the 'spiritual, moral, social and cultural provision is strong' and 'good attention is given to encouraging top quality behaviour and this ensures pupils are polite, courteous and safe young people'. One of our parents commented: 'My children do seem to be having the time of their lives. The teachers are helpful and enthusiastic; there are lots of opportunities/events both inside and out of the classroom.' (Please find attached a statutory letter sent by the inspectors to the children.)

To my mind this inspection has come at a good time. It confirms we are very much on the right track and my view that this team of people will move Newbridge Primary School on to great things.

Some Bits And Pieces….
BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.
Please note that clubs will not now be cancelled due to bad weather. Alternative/indoor activities will be arranged for the children and the club will end at the designated time.
After a meeting with the School Council it has been agreed that packed lunch children in the Upper School can bring bottled water if they so wish. Water will still be available in the dining hall. Other drinks are not permitted.
Please note that next week's Sex Education information evening has been postponed. Details of a new date out shortly.
We are a little concerned about the number of toilet breaks during lesson time, particularly among the older children. We would like to reduce this and would appreciate it if parents & carers could inform the class teacher of any medical reasons or conditions necessitating toilet use above the norm. Thank you.
Congratulations to James (4A) on winning the Bath Firework Poster competition for his age group.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 12/11/07:
All week – COMMUNITY WEEK
12/11/07 Year 3 to Roman Baths am
13/11/07 NPSA Meeting 7.30pm
15/11/07 Sex Ed. info meeting for parents (POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE)

PRIMARY MATHS CHALLENGE
A group of budding mathematicians from Years 5 and 6 will take part in the highly acclaimed Primary Maths Challenge on Monday 19th November 2007. The National Challenge, where more than 97,000 pupils from 2,570 schools will take part, will see Newbridge pupils tackle a selection of 30 complex maths problems in just 45 minutes. The Mathematical Association (who run the Maths Challenge) will invite any high scoring children to compete in the National finals during February 2008. The enthusiasm and excitement from the children on hearing about the challenge was absolutely phenomenal.
"I'm definitely going for it!" responded pupil Guy.
Best of luck to everyone involved.

YEAR 4 NEWSPAPER DAY
On Friday 12th October Year 4 held a fantastic Newspaper day in the Blue Room and the new ICT Suite. To make this day memorable the children dressed up as journalists. In the morning we had a conference with our Editor – Chloe and our two Deputy Editors – Oscar and James.
We enjoyed everything on the day. The hardest jobs were Illustrators, Photographers, Editors and Deputy Editors. The most annoying part was the printer, because Charlie made it print about 115 copies! Natasha and Martha were having a hard time as everyone was giving their work in and they didn’t know what to do with it. The people who made the Newspaper also had a hard job and it was really hard to make the deadline.
When 4A spoke about the experience in Assembly they had to do it on their own because Chloe, the Editor, wasn’t there to tell them what to do!Thank you to all the teachers who helped us make the Newspaper and Tom’s mum, Sharon.
By Lily and Rebecca – 4P.
('A great experience. The Blue Room & ICT suite really felt like the offices of a major newspaper, with the hustle and bustle, and pressure of deadlines. This is a very impressive team with a great future ahead of them! Well done and thank you to the Year 4 staff and Mrs Alcock too.' Mr Croker)

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Miya, Lucy, Abigail, Leon
Years 3 and 4
Archie, Kate, Olivia, Natasha
Years 5 and 6
Helen, Rosie, Bryony, Max, Aaron
PPA Music
Adnan
PPA Art
Tom, Georgia
PPA PE
Charlotte, Callum

AUCTION OF PROMISES – FRIDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Promise deadline has been extended to Tuesday 13th November.
The latest exciting promises made this week include -
* Chauffeur for 4 for one night
* Sunday lunch for 6 in your home
* Wine tasting evening with a wine expert
* Rugby coaching by ex Bath and England player
* Greek lessons
* Professional pianist in your home

To make a promise –
Ø Put the details onto paper and return to school
Ø Email – lucy.hanney@virgin.net
Ø Telephone Lucy on 333389

Don't forget you can also contribute to your Year Group's Hamper –
· Reception – Children’s Art and Craft
· Year 1 – New Baby
· Year 2 – Children's Christmas
· Year 3 – Fairtrade
· Year 4 – Indian Food
· Year 5 – Christmas
· Year 6 – Ladies Pamper Yourselves

YEAR 5 GREEK DAY REPORT
On Tuesday 6th November, Year 5 had a Greek day. We all looked a little silly that morning … we all dressed up in Greek costumes!
We started the day with a Greek lady who taught us a few words of her native language. Then we split up into groups and went off to do different subjects such as cookery, sewing, creating a newspaper, Olympics, Greek writing and pots.
Greek Writing
Greek writing was difficult for some people because the alphabet didn't have all the letters we have in our alphabet. We wrote a word or our names on a rough sheet of paper and then we wrote it out neatly on a second sheet. We also used quill pens so it was even harder. Next we did the pots. Mr Cumpson smashed some pots into broken pieces so that it looked like they had been dug out of the ground and we then we painted them and let them dry.
Olympics
In the Ancient Greek Olympics women would wrestle and men would throw javelins, discus, jump and run. So we had a go at all we could, for our Ancient Greek Olympics. Of course we couldn’t really wrestle, but had fun looking like a wrestler. We did discus and javelin and ran around the picnic benches twice in two minutes and jumped over four sets of bean bags. We earned up to five points for one challenge, and at the end of the day the team that won were awarded a gold medal each. Our winning city state was Sparta, and the person who earned the most points out of the year group was Alex who earned 25 points!!
Cooking
On Monday, groups of six went out to cook and made some yummy spinach and feta cheese samoas . On Tuesday we made sweet pitta bread and ordinary pitta bread. It was yummy!
Sewing
In Sewing we were making patterns with pieces of canvas. We had lots of brightly coloured thread. We sewed through the holes in the canvas and made patterns. We were very pleased with our patterns when we had finished.
Newspaper
All of Year five made their own Greek newspaper. We researched what happened in Greek times and put it in a news paper. When we were finished the paper looked great.

We would like to thank Mrs Hanney, Mrs Callan, Mrs Aldridge and Mrs Tovey for all their help with our Greek Day.
By Emma, Joda, Thea, Isabella, Katherine and Grace.
('A great day and what a privilege it was to be surrounded by so many gods, goddesses, heroes and heroines. Even Zeus turned up! I am sure our children will always remember the day and I would like to thank all the staff, parents and children for making learning come alive.' Mr Croker)

BOOK FAIR
Thanks to everyone who supported the book fair – it was a great success.

FOUND – Red Newbridge coat left behind at Prior Park (not named). Please contact the office.

REMINDER –
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal. Any contributions for this need to be in school by Tuesday 13th November, at the latest. Many thanks.

Isle of Wight Meeting

Dear Parents/Carers

ISLE OF WIGHT 2008 YEAR 6 FIELD TRIP

We are organising a 5 day Field Study Trip for Year 6 children to St. Rhadagunds Conference Centre in St. Lawrence near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight.

The trip will take place from Monday 2^nd June to Friday 6th June 2008 and will cost in the region of £200.

There will be a meeting in the School Hall on Thursday 8^th November at 7.00pm. The purpose of the meeting is to tell you more about the Centre, what activities we plan to do whilst on the island and the benefits for your child.

Could you please sign and return the slip below and return it to your child's teacher as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely

Mrs G Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher

Community Week Letter

Dear Parents/Carers

I am writing to ask if you are able, in any way, to help support our school curriculum.

During the week commencing 12^th November we are holding our Community Week. Some of you may remember that this was held in the former junior school two years ago and proved very successful. The aim of the week is to help our children to understand their place in their local community and to help forge links with our community.

In order to structure the week we will be focusing on key outcomes of the 'Every Child Matters' agenda.

Monday - Health and Well-being in the community
Tuesday - Keeping safe in the community
Wednesday - Enjoyment and Achievement in the community
Thursday - Contribution to the community

We do hope that if you run a local business, work locally or have an interest in a field that may fall into one of the above categories, you will be able to visit school on one of these days and share the nature of your work and its place in the community with some of the children. It could be the case that the children could prepare questions prior to your visit.

Any support that you would be able to offer the school would be greatly appreciated. I am sure that the experience will prove mutually beneficial and rewarding.

As we will need to plan the week carefully and make contact with you again if you are able to assist, we would appreciate a prompt response.

With many thanks for your consideration of this matter. We hope to hear from you soon.

Yours sincerely

Mrs G Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.07

HEAD'S VIEW
It is hard to believe that half term is here and just thirty four school days ago we were returning to school with a summer glow and an exciting year in front of us. I would like to congratulate all the staff, children and parents for coping so well with the many changes, building disruption and an inspection thrown into the mix. Not a single grumble has come my way, which bears testimony to your understanding or my declining levels of hearing!

We are looking forward to the new hall opening in the week beginning 19th November and the library part of the Learning Resource Centre opening in January 2008. The library is a huge project and we are indebted to Mrs Le Butt and a team of parents who are giving up every Thursday until Christmas, carrying out the massive task of checking every single book in the school, as well as preparing to set up a library which will place books at the very heart of our school. The ICT part of the Learning Resource Centre is now up and running, and being used by classes across the school.

I suspect you may be wondering about the ReNewbridge funds and what is happening. Believe me spending is the fun part of fund raising! As stated at the very beginning of the venture these are our priorities for use of the ReNewbridge funds and we are now starting to spend these funds, as well as the additional £20000 SEED funding, on the following:
Furnishing the new library
Substantial investment in new books for the library and across the school
New and extensive mobile staging that can be used in both lower and upper school halls
Stage lighting for assemblies and plays
Multi media system for the new hall
Outdoor classroom
Adventure / fitness trail
Laptop computers sufficient for whole class use

At last we are able to go ahead with the Link Building. Work starts in earnest over half term and life will be tricky for a while in terms of access. Once again I will have to ask for everyone’s understanding. It would take too long here to explain all the details but instead we will be out on the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday after half term at the beginning and end of school to show you what is what. However, with perfect timing, the path around the school is going to be tarmac surfaced over half term making it much easier for buggies etc. The expected completion date for the link building is 25th April 2008. At that point I wish you all a happy and relaxing half term.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY w/b 29/10/07
Wednesday 31/10/07 - First day of Term 2
Thursday 01/11/07 - Individual photographs
Reception parents meeting – Blue Room 2.40pm
Friday 02/11/07 - Years 1 and 6 Cake Sale

HEALTHY EATING
One of our aims is to encourage our children to lead healthy lives through promoting healthy eating in school. Therefore, we ask for your support in providing only fruit and vegetables as a mid-morning snack for Key Stage 2 children. Also, from now on every child who has a packed lunch will be provided with water. Please do not send any other drink to school. Thank you.

SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS
Individual photographs will be taken on Thursday 1st November in school. Don't forget your hair brush and your sunny smile!

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOX APPEAL
As in previous years we are again supporting this charity. For those of you who have not been involved before, this is an appeal run by a Christian organisation called Samaritans Purse. The completed boxes are given unconditionally – to very needy children in the developing world, some of whom will never before have received any gifts. If you would like to take part in this, the enclosed leaflet explains the details of how to prepare and fill your shoebox, then return them to school before the 13th November. If you would like to know any more details please speak to Mrs Teresa Bateman – TA in the lower school.

STOP PRESS!!
Don't buy your Christmas cards just yet as again this year we will be producing School Christmas cards. Each class will have their own design, with every child's design used. Watch this space!

DINNER MONEY
All dinners must be taken on a weekly basis. The cost of dinners is £8.50 per week. Please send the money in on a Monday morning, in an envelope with your child’s name and class on it. All cheques to be made payable to B&NES please.
Dinner money for the coming term is as follows:

Oct 1 day @ £1.70 = £ 1.70
Nov 22 days @ £1.70 = £37.40
Dec 13 days @ £1.70 = £22.10
TOTAL - £61.20

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Hugo, Sophie
Coco, Kirstie, Jacob
Years 3 and 4
George, Alice
Oscar, Chloe
Years 5 and 6
Isaac, Matthew, Max
Katie, Joe, Aliyah
PPA Music
James, Sammy
PPA Art
Poppy, Abi, Jay
PPA PE
Beatrice, Ella, Megananne

NPSA CHRISTMAS FAIR
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, THE DATE OF THE CHRISTMAS FAYRE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO THURSDAY 6TH DECEMBER FROM 5.00 -7.00PM.

CAKE SALE!!
Don't forget, there is a cake sale on Friday 2nd November (first Friday after half term). The cakes will be generously provided by families of children in years 1 and 6 and all proceeds go towards ReNewbridge. The sale will take place in the spare classroom after school. For those parents/carers of children in years 1 and 6, please bring your cakes in on Friday morning to the spare classroom in the lower school. Helpers are still needed from year 6 and class 1HO on the day ~ please put a note in the NPSA tray in reception or see Jackie Ainsworth if you can help. Thank you.

SUNDAY FUN FACTORY
Bouncy castle, worship and tea. For under 8s and their families on Sunday November 4th at Emmanuel Church in Apsley Road from 4.00 – 5.30pm. Everything is free!!

TED'S BIG DAY OUT
Well done to all the children and staff who took part in Ted's Big Day Out and brought their teddies to school. We raised £390 for the Royal United Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in particular. Thank you so much. (Once again, a fantastic response).

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.06

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Each day just before we start lunch in the Dining Hall, we would like one of our older children to read out a brief 'Thought for the Day' to help everyone think about other people and matters.
We would like the ideas to come from the children so we are asking our girls and boys to have a think about this at home and then present them on A4 paper, either word processed, or in your best handwriting and decorated. Please include your name.
All entries will be kept in a special folder in the Dining Hall.

FOOTBALL MATCH REPORT
On Tuesday 9th October the girls' football team played Southdown. Newbridge got off to a good start with good chances. Then Southdown conceded a penalty, which Frances missed, but she smashed the rebound in. Then Romany kicked the ball and it rebounded off a Southdown player and went in. Then Ellie blasted two in to make the score 4 – 0.
In the second half I put one away and Tish slotted another in. Sydney took a penalty but unfortunately the keeper tipped it over the bar. Ellie scored two more and then Southdown conceded another penalty. This time Keira took it and slotted it between the keepers legs. The match ended with a final score of 9 – 0 to Newbridge.
We would like to thank Miss Newton and Miss Donnelly for coaching and supporting us. By Franny, Ellie and Keira.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Wednesday 17/10/09 – Book Fair
Thursday 18/10/09 – Elm Assembly – 2.45pm
Parents' Evening
Saturday 20/10/09 – Year 5/6 Football Tournament

PLEASE NOTE
If you child is suffering from sickness and diarrhoea it is imperative that they do not return to school until 48 hours after the last bout. Many thanks for your co-operation in this matter.

WANTED
The Green Club is in need of a supply of manure. If you can help please contact Miss Simpson or Miss Barratt. Thank you.

YEAR 6 FRENCH BREAKFAST
Year 6 will be having 'Le Petit Dejeuner' on Friday 19th October from 9.10 – 10.55am.
Any confident French speaking adults are invited to join the fun! Please let Miss Simpson know if you can join us.
If anyone has a set of Boules that we could borrow for the morning, please see Miss Simpson. Thank you.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Summayyah, Adam
Cameron, Harry, Isaac
Years 3 and 4
Samuel, Molly
Louis, Harry
Years 5 and 6
Ellie, Jeorgia, Joe
Iona, Eloise, Callum
PPA Music
Martha, Ashley
PPA Art
Elizabeth, Thomas,Yasmin
PPA PE
Katrina, Ross, Joe

TRAVEL PLAN QUESTIONNAIRE
We realise that you have had rather a lot of questionnaires recently but we are asking for your help once more. This will be the last for a while!
One of the conditions behind our planning approval for the new building on site is the need for an updated travel plan. In addition, we all have an interest in making sure that the journey to and from school is as risk-free and as healthy as possible. To this end your assistance in completing and returning the attached questionnaire by next Friday 19th October is greatly appreciated.

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT BUS TRAVEL TO SCHOOL?
Did you know that many of the buses that our secondary school children take to and from school are:
Overcrowded?
Unreliable?
Slow?
Overpriced?
This may not be an issue that affects your family yet, but it will do before too long! If you are concerned about it, please join our campaign. It's quick and easy to do and it will make a real difference – the more support we have, the more effective we can be.
Background
A group of parents is trying to get permanent, positive solutions to the problems facing our children as they travel to and from school by bus.
Following a meeting held at Ralph Allen School on 1st October 2007 with First Buses, BANES officers and councillors, Don Foster MP, parents and school students - which led to some temporary improvements to the hardest hit routes plus a commitment from First to undertake reviews on pricing - we are now planning what to do next in order to get some positive and permanent changes. The news that BANES has just been granted over £50 million to improve transport in the city gives us a real opportunity to lobby for our children to be taken into consideration as part of the spending process.

Our 1st action is to collect a list of everybody who is concerned about this issue:
a.So that we can see how many people are concerned: the more support we have, the more notice BANES and First Buses are likely to take.
b.So that we can let you know what our next action will be.

What you can do?
1. Join our campaign.
All you need to do at this stage is register your concern by joining our online campaign group on Facebook.

There are two ways of doing this:
a. Join direct by visiting:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5333043278
b. Ask us to send you an invitation to join the Facebook group by sending your email address to:
bathschoolbus@googlemail.com
The online group will be a quick, easy and cheap way for us to keep everyone up-to-date with what’s going on and to ask you to do something if there’s an action planned: eg sign a petition, contact your councillor etc.

2. Spread the word.
Although it started there, this campaign – like the issue - isn’t limited to Ralph Allen. Parents at other secondary schools are equally concerned, so please tell your friends and neighbours about our campaign and ask them to join in.

3. Tell us if you have particular skills that you’d be prepared to use for the campaign. Please contact us, putting "Skills in the subject line, at:
bathschoolbus@googlemail.com

Thank you for your support.
Susie Wright Newbridge Primary School & Ralph Allen School parent

NPSA NEWS
Following the last meeting of the Newbridge Primary School Association (NPSA) on Monday 24th September 2007, we can now confirm the list of officers and class reps for 07/08. An enormous thank you goes out to outgoing officers from last year, Ally Richardson, Anna Whitson and Jonathan Whitehead. Stephanie Massie has thankfully agreed to continue in her role as Treasurer – one big job with all the ReNewbridge monies flowing in – thank you Stephanie for all your hard work.
As you can see we are still in need of Class Reps for 1HO, 4P, 6B, 6N, 6S. If you are interested in this important role and would like to know what it involves, please drop a note with your name and contact number in the NPSA tray at the Main Reception. You can share the job with another person if you like. Your school needs you!
The 2007/2008 NPSA committee is made up of the following people:
Chair - Jackie Ainsworth
Vice Chair - Sarah Webb
Secretary - Jo Stevenson
Treasurer - Stephanie Massie
Class Representatives
Willow - Lucy Hanney and Theresa Weston
Elm - Tracey Fielding and Emma Pickard
1HO - ?
1H - Cabi Grosvenor
2S - Amanda Vowles
2RB- Pauline Sparrow
2GB - Julie Tolley
3C - Anna Whitson
3H - Lesley Waters
4P - ?
4A- Sarah Lyne
5D - Jo Stevenson
5W - Anne Thomas
5C - Ally Richardson
6B, 6N and 6S - ?

NPSA Upcoming Events
Auction of Promises - Friday 23rd November - look out for further info on this cracking fundraising event in upcoming newsletters.
Christmas Fair - Friday 7th December. This annual event takes place all around the school campus and is a firm favourite for the children as well as an important fundraiser. This will run from 5-7pm with numerous stalls and entertainment. We need helpers! The more stalls we can run, the more fun we have, the more money we raise! If you can spare some time, even if it is just half an hour, please fill in the form below and return to your class rep (listed above) - if your class hasn't got a rep yet, please hand it to the class teacher and it will be collected. There will be a Christmas Fair planning meeting next Monday 15th October at 8pm at the Boathouse pub. Your company and contribution would be greatly appreciated.
Cake Sales - These happen every term on a given Friday and are run by parents from 2 different years - the first one for this year is on Friday 2nd November and will be managed by Years 1 and 6. All parents/carers from those years will be asked to donate cakes to be sold and there will be help needed on the day to shift the goodies.

NEXT NPSA MEETING
TUESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER AT 7:30PM IN THE BLUE ROOM. If you haven't been to a meeting before, please come along – your thoughts and ideas are always welcomed - and we will supply wine and nibbles and a laugh or two.

Reception Classes Letter

Dear Parents/Carers

We hope your child has enjoyed their first few weeks at school. It has been a very exciting week with both groups meeting for the first time.

We will be holding an informal meeting on Thursday 1^st November at 2.30pm in the Blue Room on the Upper School site to give you further information on the Foundation Stage.

We have enclosed an information pack of support materials which we will discuss further at the meeting. We hope you find these useful. If you have any queries about the pack there will be an opportunity to ask questions at the meeting.

As we move forward in the induction process we would like your support with the following points:

• Cloakrooms
  We have noticed that the cloakrooms are very hectic and crowded in the mornings. It would really help the children if you could say goodbye to your child, and encourage them to be independent by organising their belongings themselves. As space is tight we would appreciate it if each child is accompanied by only 1 adult. Thank you for your help with this, it will make mornings much more enjoyable for the children.
  
• Reading Books
  The children have really enjoyed sharing books at home and we have appreciated your comments in the Reading Record Books. We will be changing reading books on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. However please feel free to come into class at the end of the school day to change books yourself if you wish to change on other days. If your child is ready to change their book and you have written a short comment or indicated that you have read the book, please remind your child to put it in the basket in the cloakroom. Reading Record books need to remain in book bags on Tuesdays and Thursdays so that staff can write in them if necessary.
  
• Raincoats
  As we go outside in all weathers your child will need to wear or bring a suitable raincoat. You may wish to buy one of the school’s reversible fleecy jackets or alternatively have a cagoule-type jacket which you can keep in your child’s book bag.
  
• Names
  Can you please ensure that all school clothing, shoes and equipment are clearly named. We have already found unnamed items which have been put in lost property as with so many identical items it is impossible to know who things belong to. Can you also check drinks bottles regularly as the names do get washed off. Naming the lid is also useful so children can identify their bottle quickly.
• Hair
  Please can we remind you that for health and safety reasons (head lice!!) long hair should be tied back at all times.
• Illness
  If your child is unwell please ensure they are fully recovered before returning to school. In the case of sickness and diarrhoea children can return to school 48 hours after they stop being ill. We would really appreciate your support with this as it is extremely easy for an outbreak to affect the class.

We hope your child enjoys the rest of the term and we look forward to seeing you at the meeting next term.

Mrs Margaret Harrison and Ms Di Rhodes
Reception Class Teachers

Parents'/Carers' Evening Letter

Dear Parents/Carers

Parents'/Carers' Evening is being held on Thursday 11^th and Thursday 18^th October 2007. We ask that you attend on one of these evenings to meet your child’s new teacher and to discuss how well your child has settled at the start of the school year.

All parents/carers are welcome to visit their child's classroom and look at their child's work prior to the consultation. Consultations will then take place, at the time you have signed up for, in either the Lower School Hall or the Blue Room/Resource Centre in the Upper School, depending on where your child's classroom is situated. There will be a waiting area inside the Lower School main entrance for parents and in the Blue Room.

Mrs Skinner (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) will be available on both evenings and will be based in Mrs Kennaugh's office in the lower school.

This time we are asking that parents sign up for their preferred slot. In this case, class lists and timings will be displayed in the Blue Room on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week for you to access. Thank you for your help in this matter.

We look forward to seeing you.

Yours sincerely

Gill Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher

Kilve Court Letter

Dear Parents/Carers

Following tonight’s meeting where we have outlined the Year 5 visit to Kilve Court and the activities we intend to do, we are now inviting applications for the trip. Two groups will participate in the trip being held between 25^th and 29^th
February 2008.

Brief details of this visit are as follows:

• Two and a half days based at the Kilve Court Centre, Kilve, Somerset.

• The cost of the trip will be £95 exclusive of children’s personal spending money (more details of this at the final meeting in February).
  

We plan to use this as an ACTIVITY WEEK. The two and a half days that the children are in school will be used to prepare for the activities and follow-up work carried out whilst at Kilve.

To secure a place on the trip a deposit of £25 is required in the first instance, either by cash or a cheque made payable to Bath & North East Somerset Council by 31st October 2007.

A payment book will then be issued and this will act as your receipt. Payments can be made at any time. We do need to ask that full payment is made by 31^st January 2008.

If you would like to seek advice regarding financial assistance, please make an appointment to see myself.

Please reply even if your child does NOT intend to take part in the visit.

Yours sincerely

Gill Kennaugh
Deputy Headteacher

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.05

HEAD'S VIEW
One of the reasons that I really love my job is that it is never boring! This week, in particular, has been 'interesting' with the comings and goings of Ofsted inspectors on Tuesday and Wednesday.

What I was never in doubt about was that the children, staff, governors and parents would rise to the challenge. All come out with great credit and I would like to thank the staff for their huge skill and commitment, the children who were singled out for praise for their behaviour, manners and attitudes to learning, the governors for their support behind the scenes and our parents who showed their support for the school with an incredible response to the parental questionnaire.

I am not at liberty to divulge any details of the report, which will be issued in about three weeks, but suffice to say it reflects our view of where we are at in terms of building a new school. In a recent Headteacher's Report to governors I likened the stage we are at to climbing a mountain. We have been putting strategies, systems and resources in place to make a successful climb. Base camp has been established and we are in the process of striding onwards and upwards. I cannot wait until the inspectors come back at some point in the future! Well done to you all.

Our charity fund raising up until Christmas is aimed at supporting the Royal United Hospital and that day we all love has come around again – yes, of course, it is 'Ted's Big Day Out' next Friday! Please see details below of the theme etc but just remember, girls and boys, all the money we bring in next Friday will support the work of our local hospital. Teddies at the ready! I hope you all have a relaxing weekend.

TED'S BIG DAY OUT

This year's big event takes place on Friday 12th October. The theme for this year is 'Child’s Play!' If you would like to join in the fun why don’t you dress up your teddies in baby clothes, or anything else you can think of on the theme of 'Child’s Play'! There will be small prizes for the children who can come up with the most original or eye-catching ideas. Don’t forget to bring in your £1 donation to help raise funds for the Royal United Hospital.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Week Beginning 8/10/07:

Tuesday 9/10/07 – PACT Meeting
Thursday 11/10/07 – Parents' Evening
Friday 12/10/07 – Ted's Big Day Out

CERTIFICATES OF EXCELLENCE – SEPTEMBER
At the end of every month each class teacher has a very difficult decision to face. They have to choose the one person from their class to receive a Certificate of Excellence! The person they choose has to consistently be the best that he or she can be either in effort and attitude, achievement, behaviour or citizenship. Sometimes it can be very difficult deciding as all of the children at Newbridge seem to work so hard! The people with their names up here this month deserve congratulating. It is not easy to be awarded a Certificate of Excellence and they have done extremely well!
Lower School
1HO – Lily

1H – Jarrel
2GB – Johan
2RB – Lauren

2S – Ella

Upper School

3C – Daisy

3H – Charles

4A – Veronika

4P – Rebecca

5C – Emma

5D – Mille

5W – Finlay

6B – Georgia

6N - Caroline

6S - Tasharna

SCHOOL COUNCIL
Well done to the following girls and boys who have been voted by the children in their class to be their voice on the School Council this year:
Lower School

1H – Rosie

1HO – Tommy

2GB – Daniel, Lucy

2RB – Kasiem, Lucy
2S – Ben, Alice
Upper School

3H – Megan

3C – Joe

4A – Katie

4P – Aisling

5C – Isaac

5D – Hannah
5W – Harrison
6B – Joe, Frances
6N – Caroline, Cassius
6S – Danny, Darcy

SCHOOL HOUSES FLY HIGH!
Choosing the names of our school houses is not a matter to be taken lightly. This week's vote, involving all the children in the school, resulted in the following house names:

• EAGLES
  
• FALCONS
  
• KESTRELS
  
• OWLS
  

It was a landslide vote and the children have chosen names which could last for generations! All the children will be allocated a house and they will be informed of this immediately after half term. We are introducing a house points system so that our children will earn points for excellence (personal excellence of effort, achievement or behaviour) so that not only are they recognised individually but their points also go towards their house total. Brothers and sisters always belong to the same house, as do children, grandchildren …….. we are planning for the future!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'

Years 3 and 4
Daniel, Sinead
Charlie, Jake
Years 5 and 6
Tom, Mark, Chris
Erin, Charlie, Chakhila

PPA Music
Marlena
PPA Art
Daniel, Zoe
PPA PE
Raphaela, Paige

PARENT/CARER HELPERS
If there are any parents/carers who would like to help in the School over the next academic year, could you please contact us so that we can obtain a CRB form before the end of this term (Friday 19th October.) Thank you.

NEW BABY

Congratulations to Edward in Willow Class on the birth of his new baby sister.

Photograph Permission

Dear Parents/Carers

From time to time your child may be filmed, featured in a video or photographed by staff in school, press or TV. Photographs may also appear in the school prospectus, on the school website or on the school computer network. We shall try to inform you in advance if this happens, but on occasions opportunities arise at very short notice. The school's policy is to state first names of pupils only.

We would like to obtain your permission to take photographs throughout the year and would therefore be grateful if you would complete the permission slip below.

Many thanks

Yours sincerely

Mr J Croker
Headteacher

Harvest Festival

Dear Parents/Carers

Our Harvest Festival will be held on Friday 5^th October at St John’s Church at 9.30am. Unfortunately as this is a whole school event, there will be insufficient space to invite parents on this occasion.

The lower school pupils will be taken to the church by coach and the upper school pupils will be walking.

I would be grateful if you would complete and return the permission slip below by Wednesday 3^rdOctober. Please note that if we do not receive permission, we will be unable to take your child off site.

Many thanks

Yours sincerely

Mr J Croker
Headteacher

NEWSLETTER Issue: 2.04

HEAD'S VIEW
Please find attached to this newsletter our policy on Homework and relevant parts from our Attendance policy. They are both aspects of school life where we think we can do better!

In last term's parental questionnaire, homework was one of the main issues, particularly as regards an inconsistent approach throughout the school. In truth I have never known a school where all parents (and even staff) agree about homework. A few want homework for their children every night all year, a few do not want any homework whatsoever and the rest lie somewhere in between. We believe homework is a good thing for the reasons outlined in the policy but we also realise that it can be a source of unnecessary friction. We have therefore been clear about what you can expect, when to expect it and by when it has to be completed. This new policy comes into effect for Years 3 to 6 next Friday and for Reception to Year 2 immediately after half term. This year we are carrying out a full curriculum review and it will include homework so this policy may well be amended in the not too distant future. We would welcome any comments you have.

As regards the Attendance policy, this has been drawn up in line with Local Authority guidance. Our overall attendance levels could be better and we will be monitoring the attendance of children closely. The taking of holidays during term has become something of a habit in some cases and, while I want to work with families and recognise that a family holiday is exactly what is needed on some occasions, I am concerned that the amount of time taken out of school is undermining the education of a significant number of children. Research tells us that even 90% attendance will, year on year, lessen the life chances of a child. With this in mind this policy has been drawn up. Thank you for your support in ensuring that your child comes to school regularly and on time.

I would like to thank all our Year 6 tour guides who excelled on Open Day – our visitors were most impressed with their courtesy, enthusiasm and incredible knowledge of the school! CONGRATULATIONS too to all of us on reaching £24500 in our ReNewbridge efforts – a fantastic effort. This is also a chance to remind everyone that tomorrow is an INSET day and the school is closed. I hope all of our girls and boys have an excellent long weekend! Sadly, we say farewell to Sankha (2RB) whose family is moving to Loughborough. Our very best wishes for the future go with this delightful boy and his family.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Friday 28/09/07 – (Tomorrow) INSET Day (the school is closed)
Thursday 04/10/07 –
1H Assembly – 2.45pm
Kilve Meeting for Year 5 – 7.00pm
Friday 05/10/07 –
Whole School Harvest

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 'STARS OF THE WEEK'
Years 1 and 2
Ethan
Jasmin
Hannah
Ralph
Indigo
Years 3 and 4
Ollie
Nathan
Maya
Katie
Years 5 and 6
Tiffani
Brandon
Katherine
Jacob
Ben
Darcy
PPA Music
Jacob
PPA Art
Emily
Julian
PPA PE
Will
Kian

WANTED
Boys over 8 years old to join the Boys' Breakdancing Club at Oldfield Girls' School on Thursdays at 4.30pm. If you are interested please contact Oldfield Girls' School direct on 01225 423592.

YEAR 5 RESIDENTIAL TRIP TO KILVE COURT 2008
Please note that there is a meeting on Thursday 4th October at 7.00pm to give you details of this proposed trip.
The meeting will be held in Class 8 in the Upper School.
We look forward to seeing you.

SUNDAY FUN FACTORY
7TH October 2007 from 4.00pm – 5.30pm at Emmanuel Church in Apsley Road.
Entertainer Jon Bonner – songs, magic, puppets, fun and tea.
Everything is free!