Many thanks for taking the time to read my latest update.
With SATS exams for Year 6 next week I want to say a huge thank you to the pupils, to parents/carers and to St Egwin’s staff for doing all they can to ensure that the week goes well. Regardless of the inevitable spectrum of views on examinations, they are what they are and all that we want is for each pupil to give their best. Nothing else is relevant and it is important that they do not become an undue source of distraction or anxiety.
I could not explain to you how much hassle and administration is involved in the exams so I wanted to pay tribute to the many staff who have worked extremely hard to make sure that everything is in place for next week. Their work is hugely appreciated and makes a massive difference in supporting the pupils in Year 6.
Collective Worship
The theme this week has been taking the time to see rather than just look. We have used the story of the road to Emmaus to remind ourselves that sometimes the things that are most important to us can be hidden in plain sight if we allow ourselves to be distracted. Pupils have been showing great maturity in their reflections when considering the many and varied distractions in life. Let’s be honest, there is so much going on around us that distraction is extremely hard to avoid at times!
The core message from this week has been that those around us that most need support are often not the ones showing obvious signs. It is important to take the time to notice as often in doing so we can make the biggest difference to those around us.
Prayer of the week
Our prayer for next week was written by Ellie M:
Dear God
The people that have no water you save them to live
We are happy when people see that God loves everyone in this world
We all need your help as you care for everyone you see or hear
You help us when someone feels hurt
Underneath you, we know that everyone deserves a chance in life
Amen
House and attendance update
Well done to Christie who were our attendance champions this week. In winning this week they have closed the gap to Curie for the overall attendance standings.
Curie were the winners of the House Point competition this week, winning by a margin of only 17 House Points. As always, the contribution of every pupil really does make a difference!
Well done to Maksym K who was our overall House Point winner, representing Attenborough.
The highest House Point achievers by House were:
Attenborough – Maksym K
Christie – Theo H
Curie – Freya J
Farah – Esme S
Turing – Ellie M & Jessica R
Individual success
Congratulations to Sephy G who was nominated as our Oracy Champion of the week.
Superb work from Harry JM saw him chosen as the Artist of the week.
Thank you for the wonderful contributions to the Attenborough Challenge where we had over 300 entries. The winners of the prize draws were:
Year 6 – Rowan KG
Year 7 – Theo H
Year 8 – Izzy T
Move over JK Rowling!
I was delighted to be informed by Mrs Watts that we have had several published entries into a book which I have attached a picture of for you to see. It is fantastic to see such inspiring talent and the recognition within the publication.
Well done to Katelyn T, Bella M, William B, Lily O, Lizzie F, Izzy B, Elodie H, Lia K, Lauren C and Tilda M. We are incredibly proud of their outstanding efforts.
Lunch trial
I am delighted that pupils have been respectful in the trial to allow them to eat grab and go food outside the dining room at lunchtime. I am very happy to continue this arrangement so thank you to all who have supported this.
Uniform reminder
For Monday to Thursday next week Year 7 and 8 pupils should come into school in their PE kit as they will be undertaking a range of sporting activities whilst Year 6 take their SATS exams.
On Thursday 21st May all pupils must wear their full school uniform (not PE kit) for the 50 year celebration photograph.
Careers Fayre
On the 25th June we have our amazing Careers Fayre. As always the support of volunteers makes a huge difference to the range of information and opportunities that we can facilitate.
There are a range of sessions that will run throughout the day so if you might be able to assist as a volunteer for part or all of the day to explain or show the skills and experiences you have, then our superb careers team of Mr Wood and Mrs Croft would love to hear from you. If you can assist, please email [email protected]
The Big Future survey
Dame Rachel De Souza, Childrens Commissioner, recently wrote to schools asking us to promote a survey to give chidlren a voice in forming national strategy. If any pupil would like to give time to completing the survey that would be wonderful. The link to the survey is http://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/thebigfuture
Have a wonderful weekend.
Best wishes
Mr Collard
Headteacher