1. WEST DOWN SCHOOL NEWSLETTER February 2017 NEWS
Willow and Blueberry Class – Roman Invasion
Willow and Blueberry Class had a fantastic day when they were visited at West Down by a Roman Centurion. We had lots of fun dressing up as a Romans, playing Roman games and learning about the weapons. The children and adults had a wonderful time re-enacting a Roman battle and got the chance to line up in the tortoise battle formation.
Magical Maths Morning
Thank you to all that came to our Magical Maths Morning. A great time was had by both adults and children and we are looking forward to the next one!
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY
Attendance is monitored quite closely at school as is the punctuality of the children. It has come to our attention that there are some children that are consistently late, without explanation. This makes it very difficult for children to start their school day in a positive way, they miss out on the social aspect of wake and shake and catching up with their friends.
The school day starts at 8.50am for and Berry 9am for West Down. Gates are open at 8.40am and all children are expected to be in before the school day officially begins.
If you have any problems meeting these expectations and feel you need some support to enable you to manage this, please get in touch with me. We would much rather work with you as opposed to the Education Welfare Officer having to be involved. Thank you, Elli Howarth
Internet and Social Media usage
Have you heard of Youtube kids?
It is very easy to access inappropriate content whilst viewing YouTube.  Consider downloading and installing YouTube for Kids, it gives your family an easy way to watch favourite programmes and explore, it's free, simple to use and full of family-friendly videos.
Another very useful resource for parents is a video for parents from Commonsense Media - 5 Ways to make YouTube Safer for Kids
E-SAFETY
It is important to keep track of what children are accessing online. From now on, if we become aware of your child accessing inappropriate online content we’ll let you know and offer advice to help keep your child safe.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Friday 10th February Last day of School
Monday 20th February Back to School
Tuesday 28th February World Book Day
Friday 3rd February Swimming Gala (Yr 4-6)
Friday 24th March Red Nose Day
Friday 31st March Last day of school
Tuesday 18th April Back to School
Monday 1st May Bank Holiday
Friday 26th May Last Day at School
Monday 5th June Back to School
Wednesday 14th-16th June London Trip
Wednesday 12th – 14th July Beam House
Tuesday 25th July Last day of term
Changes to Board of Govenors
Katie Simpson is our new Chair of Governors. We are delighted to have her back on board.
Robin Mellor our outgoing chair is no longer serving as a Governor. Carole King, our very long serving clerk, has finally been able to step down following the appointment of Natalie Stanbury (previously a parent governor) as Clerk to the Governors.
Natalie’s appointment as Clerk now leaves a Parent Governor vacancy. This opportunity to serve as a school governor will be offered to parents of children at Berrynarbor VC Primary in the first instance.
Clubs
Running Club, Wednesday 22/2/17 for 6 weeks. Time pm £15 to be paid in full to Emily Adams, years 3-6. Sibling discount available.
Football Club, Thursday 23/2/17 for 5 weeks. Time pm £15 to be paid in full to Rosie Smith, years R-6 sibling discount available.
Changes to Members of Staff
Elli Howarth will be leaving the school on February 24th. She has provided support for both children and their families. We will be very sad to see her go but wish her the very best of luck in her new role. Thank you for all you hard work Elli.
Kim Holloway-Denham will also be leaving us and we would like to say thank you for all of her hard work.
Elise Rhoads has now completed her work experience. Thank you for all your hard work in Willow. Good luck for the rest of your training.
Our School menu is attached with lots of the Children’s favorites! Children are always welcome to taste and have a sample of meals
Have a fantastic break and we will see you again after half term!!
DINNER AND BUN MONEY – Please ensure your child’s dinner and bun money is up to date over the holiday. If you are having issues with ParentMail please bring cash to the office. Thank you!