OFSTED Report

We were visited by OFSTED in July, the new report has just been posted on the OFSTED website. It is really pleasing to see that the great progress the school has made over the last few years has been recognised.
We are particularly proud that the community nature of the school has been judged as outstanding- OFSTED's highest category. Our overall category has been upgraded to 'Good'; this is a great boost to all the staff who have worked so hard to improve the school in this way.
A wonderful way to start the Summer break!

You can read the report for yourself here

Sun, Sea and Sand

Tuesday 7th. June saw a mass exodus of the school to Alum Chine Beach in Bournemouth as part of our 'Sun, Sea and Sand' whole school topic week. Whilst there was plenty of sea and sand available, the sun was in rather shorter supply!
Everyone involved had a great time (as you can see from the pictures), many sandcastles were built, and we all enjoyed the freedom and space of the beach.
As well as being great fun for all involved, the visit was a tremendous boost to the children's creative work- their writing, art and drama work were all of a much higher quality for having taken part in the trip.
Many thanks to all the parents who gave up their time to come and accompany us on this visit.

The Wolves of Willoughby Chase

half-term ended with areal treat for the children of Key Stage 2, as we played host to our good friends of the Nuffield Theatre who put on a visually stunning performance of  'The Wolves of Willoughby Chase' for us. The audience were absolutely spellbound for a couple of hours as they were transported to an alternative version of Victorian history, which also explored themes of loyalty, friendship and trust.

We have a real commitment to enriching children's learning through culturally significant plays, literature and art- this production was by common consent probably the most engaging and enjoyable production we have hosted. We thoroughly recommend getting along to catch it at the Nuffield Theatre.

Violin Concert

Last Wednesday saw the first concert given by our strings section. Year 3 have been learning to play the violin since September, and really gave a fantastic display of their growing musical ability. Many proud parents looked on as we were treated to a range of pieces of varying styles and complexity.
Our increasingly talented woodwind players provided some contrast with a very confident performance. Another step closer to the Swaythling symphony orchestra!

Back to School!

Happy New Year!
We hope everyone has had a great Christmas break; a reminder that school re-opens for the spring term on Wednesday 5th January at the usual time.

Christmas Plays

Monday and Tuesday saw the performances of our two Christmas plays- the infant department performed 'Cat in the Manger', a traditional nativity story adapted from the Michael Morpurgo book, whilst the juniors performed the more contemporary 'Bossy Christmas Fairy'. Both performances were of a very high standard, and it was impressive how quickly and how well the children had mastered all the different skills necessary to put show like this together.
During the break we were entertained by our woodwind players, who have now reached a very good standard. A good number of parents joined us for both performances, and a great afternoon was had by all! Well done and thank you to all involved in these productions.

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Carol Concert at St Alban's

Monday morning saw the whole school involved in a very coldd march up to St Alban's Church for our carol concert- led by our good friend and Chair of Governors Rev. Gary Phillbrick. The church is a magnificent building, and this along with the pipe organ music lent a real sense of occasion to the event. A busy Christmas week in school has begun!