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!