29 Feb 2008 - Newsletter 15
29 February 2008
Newsletter 15/08
Dear Parents
When I was about 10 or 11 years old I had an anorak blue and quilted I think, with a hood that tucked away inside the collar. Warm, waterproof and ideal for going to school in, I thought it a most useful item of clothing. I therefore wonder why the term anorak is nowadays used to refer to someone of a somewhat sad and boring nature who does not necessarily embrace the more exciting aspects of everyday life. There are days when I feel like an anorak! Everything seems to revolve around education and even the most trivial aspects are discussed as though they were the most important issue on the planet. I suppose it is much the same whatever job you do.
Of late I have been looking at a number of OFSTED reports, published on their website, of schools in our area. I was particularly impressed by a report on a junior school in Cheltenham which inspectors considered to be outstanding. They praised the way that pupils in the school developed their aspirations, had determination to succeed, showed a sense of responsibility and enjoyed having opportunities to participate in work that was special and out of the ordinary. Parents of pupils in the school felt that teachers were really passionate (about education!) and their enthusiasm inspired the children.
I hope that our own vision is similar at CVJS and that we are able to deliver an education that embraces all of the facets mentioned above. I believe that our pupils are the best in the county and that they deserve the best education we can provide. We are looking at ways of adjusting our curriculum delivery so that learning will be more meaningful and fun, but still challenging and accessible to all. We will provide opportunities to participate in extra-curricular experiences provided by staff and, where appropriate, outside agencies. We will ask parents to be actively involved in shaping our vision by becoming more involved with the work their children do in school and letting us know what we do well and what we could do better.
Our children have an excellent start to their educational journey and I would like to congratulate the infant school on their own highly successful recent OFSTED inspection. It is our duty to ensure that the progress they make at CVJS reflects the potential of each individual child.
U.S. Students
We will be welcoming three students from North Georgia College and State University who will be helping in school from 5th March to 2nd April. Unlike the students from the University of Gloucestershire, they will not be involved in whole class teaching. However, I am sure they will make an exciting contribution to school life during their stay with us and I hope the children enjoy this extra dimension to their tuition.
Spanish Students
After the Easter holiday we will also be hosting two Spanish students from Cadiz University who will be in school from 29th April to 23rd May. This will give them the opportunity to develop some Spanish language classes and to participate in our International Week from 19th 23rd May.
Green Fingers
Mr Millington will shortly be starting a Horticultural Society (or Gardening Club) in school. He is hoping to grow produce in a number of raised beds. Whilst these beds can be purchased commercially, if there is anyone who has the ability to put something together for us (we are looking at something in the region of 4ft x 2ft) please let us know.
Gymnastics
There is a possibility of running a Gym Club, staffed by professional gymnasts, on Thursdays after school for all year groups. However, the club would start at 4.45 p.m. and finish at 5.45 p.m, which would mean children leaving school at 3.20 p.m. and returning for the club. If you would like your child to attend and feel that you would be able to make the appropriate arrangements, please complete the slip at the end of this letter so that we can have an idea of numbers before deciding to go ahead. There will not be a charge for this club.
Music Club
Please see the attached letter from Mrs Stewart regarding a new Music Club that will be starting on Fridays after school.
World Book Day: Thursday 6th March
We will all be celebrating by dressing up as characters from our favourite books. There will be prizes per year group (and staff!) for best costumes. (Fancy dress is not compulsory. Please wear school uniform if not participating). Children should also bring a favourite book to school to share during reading time.
On the same day there will be a Book Fair, details of which will be sent out separately.
Yours sincerely,
D A Clough
CHURCHDOWN VILLAGE JUNIOR SCHOOL Gym Club Mr Ahmad
I would like my child to take part in Gym Club on Thursdays from 4.45 5.45 p.m. and am able to make appropriate arrangements for their collection and return to school.
Childs Name: Class: ...
Signed: .. .. (Parent/Guardian)