Dear parents and carers,
Despite the not so summer-like weather, we’ve been getting outside as much as possible and had a good week of learning.
We started the week,
thinking about the environment. Last Friday was World Environment Day and Monday was World Oceans Day. I shared with the children that I and my children, are part of Woolacombe Surf Lifesaving Club and as part of the
children’s training last Sunday. They had spent just five minutes picking up plastic on the beach. We focussed our assembly on plastic and what we could all do to reduce our use of plastic and prevent it from ending up in the ocean, inside living creatures including people, and causing lots of problems. We really didn’t like it that plastic is being eaten by animals and ending up in our bodies as well.
We learned some interesting facts. Did you know…
- Humans have been producing plastic for about 75 years.
- Within that time, we have produced 3.8 billion tonnes of plastic (this weighs the same as 80 million blue whales!)
- Only 9% of the plastic ever produced has been recycled
We also discussed simple ways to cut down on plastic:
- Use refillable drinks bottles rather than buying drinks in single-use plastic bottles
- If you have to buy a drink – cans, cartons and glass bottles are easier to recycle.
- Use metal straws instead of plastic straws – they last for years.
- Use bags for life when you go shopping
And if you do use plastic, make sure to recycle it.
The Year 1 children have been undertaking the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check this week. We have been really proud of their hard work and determination. Well done Year 1!
Change can be unsettling for all of us. As we begin to approach the end of the school year and think about transitions to new classes or schools, this may affect children’s behaviour. This is very normal. As adults supporting the children, it is important that we acknowledge their feelings but also provide reassurance that things will be ok. Saying things like, “It’s ok to be nervous, but you’re going to have a great time” can really help them to feel settled and confident. Talk positively about the change and discuss what they can look forward to.
We’ve added a parent support section to our school website. We’ve made some support guides and information sheets which may help with some of the challenges that we all face as parents, such as supporting big emotions. The link to the page is here. We will keep adding more resources and links from time to time.
Have a great weekend.
Best wishes,
John Mortimer, Head of School
