Head
Dear Parents,
Thank you to everyone who attended our annual Art Exhibition this week. The quality of the work was outstanding, and it’s notable that many pieces were the result of children collaborating on this creative journey. The Chapel is such a great space, and to bring it to life further as a communal gathering place, much of the artwork will remain on display to inspire us. A number of parents asked about purchasing some of the larger pieces, and we’re considering that for next year!
On the subject of the arts, Year 5 and 6 dazzled us with their performance of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ throughout the week. The children were super confident and accomplished with song and movement. They supported each other brilliantly to enjoy the moment. Thank you to the performers, the staff behind them and to the appreciative audiences. The Rock and Pop Concert on Thursday was also a real audio treat!
From light-hearted to more serious topics, you may be interested in a grassroots campaign that has gained attention in recent weeks: Smartphone-Free Childhood. I recommend checking it out, as they aim to empower parents in a national conversation. A reminder that, much like driving a car, alcohol, and cigarettes, social media has age restrictions to keep our children safe. Apps like WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are not for children aged under 13. This entire area is becoming increasingly challenging for parents to navigate, and we’re here to support you.
Lastly, to help navigate the challenges of 21st-century parenting, our seminar this term will focus on Special Educational Needs, on 9th May at 6:00 pm, online. You’ll receive an invitation via our portal on Tuesday, along with a Google form to submit questions for an engaging Q&A session.
Enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend!
Mr John Towers
Head of Upper Prep
Dear Parents,
It was such a pleasure to meet so many parents and children at the Upper Prep Parent Consultation Evenings this week. I know all the staff enjoyed giving feedback on how well the children are working as well as setting some targets to support the children as they prepare for their upcoming exams. Following feedback from parents, a Year 7 Revision Google Classroom has been set up, so that, just like Year 8, Year 7 can access revision lists, materials and past papers. Please do use this – it is a fantastic resource!
Upper Prep have enjoyed preparing for their Business Enterprise Afternoon which will take place on Tuesday May 7th at 2.30pm. Weather permitting, this will be outside! Please come along and bring your spare change to purchase the products and food items each group has made. This wonderful project has taught the children so much about cooperation, as well as how to manage their finances.
Amongst all the hard work going on in the classroom this week, there has still been time to enjoy sport, art and drama. I was so proud of the contributions made by Years 7 and 8 to the Art Exhibition this week. Well done to everyone who took part in the Rock and Pop Concert on Thursday too. It was great to see so many Upper Prep students playing with such skill and confidence.
Have a lovely bank holiday weekend everyone!
Mrs Mason
Head of Middle Prep
Dear Parents,
This week, our Year 5 and 6 children dazzled us with their outstanding performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Their dedication, creativity, and sheer talent were truly inspiring. In addition to the theatrical success, I am pleased to report that Year 5 and 6 continue to impress with their diligent revision efforts. I have no doubt that their hard work will pay off in the upcoming assessments.
Our Year 4 children have also enjoyed their drama this week with a thought-provoking lesson focused on expression of emotions. Year 3 have been busy rehearsing their play, practising their public speaking and building their stage confidence. The week concluded on a high note with a super assembly led by 3R. Their enthusiasm and positivity were infectious.
On a culinary note, I am thrilled to share that our children had the opportunity, during food technology lessons, to cook with leeks grown right here at Barrow Hills. They worked hard together to create either a delicious leek and potato salad or leek and cheese muffins, showcasing their skills and celebrating the fruits of our school garden.
Wishing you a relaxing and enjoyable Bank Holiday weekend.
Miss Tyrrell
Head of Pre-Prep
The welcome arrival of the warmer weather and sunshine too, in parts, put a spring in our step this week. Pupils and staff headed outdoors at every opportunity. It was lovely to see how Year 1 were using the natural resources from the garden to make islands, as part of their topic work on Islands and Coastlines.
Meanwhile, back indoors, some of our classes enjoyed an early preview of the whole school Art Exhibition in the Chapel which all our Pre-Prep pupils were involved in. The summer flowers canvas which our Pre-Prep children created with Mrs Weller was arguably the most vibrantly colourful painting on show and would look wonderful as a permanent piece on the wall of the Chapel…!
This morning’s assembly recognised Work of the Week for Mia (YR), Ethan (Y1G), Lenny (Y1R) and Hugh (Y2). Well done to all of these pupils for super work in phonics, fantastic listening and thoughtful contributions when discussing what makes a good friend. Keep up the great work Pre-Prep.
We recognise that our children’s birthdays are very special and significant. Therefore, if children wish to celebrate their birthday with their class, they are very welcome to bring in individual healthy treats which the birthday child can hand out at the end of the day for their classmates to take home and enjoy. These must not contain nuts and if they are home-made, please ensure they have a label with all the ingredients / allergens listed. Thank you for your cooperation.
Enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend, everyone.
Mrs Barnett
School Notices
Your Librarian Needs You!
Mrs Dudley has sent home a letter this week to children who have overdue library books. We would appreciate it if you could help find the overdue books and return them to school or if they are lost, replace them by buying a book from the Barrow Hills Library wish list. Thank you.
