Keep up to date with all the latest news happening in school at the moment.
2016-17 The Year of Science
Plans are already afoot for the next academic year. With a special focus on exploring and investigating as scientists, it promises to be a year of finding out fascinating facts, solving problems and developing an even better understanding of the natural world. I am having a wonderful time developing our science curriculum so that even some of our story books can help us with our scientific understanding. We will also look at possible careers in aspects of science and think about what we need to do to achieve this. Watch out for more information as we move closer to the Summer holidays.
Derwent Hill Residential Week
This week a group of Year 6 children are spending the week at Derwent Hill to "Discover, Explore and Challenge". You may not realise that Derwent Hill offers accommodation to small groups of private guests too so, if you fancy a weekend away, here is the website. http://www.derwenthill.co.uk/
Discuss, Debate then Vote
Today Gillian Bell, the Parliamentary Outreach Worker spent the morning with us. Following a very informative assembly for children at Key Stage 2, Gillian worked with Years 3 and 4 who held a debate on making homework illegal with Macy as the Speaker, keeping control of the two sides. She did very well to take no nonsense!
Then Year 5 and their Year 6 guests debated as to whether Torver Crescent should have a 15mph speed limit. Being very persuasive, the nays convinced the ayes that their argument was wrong so, in the end, there were only 3 ayes for the final vote.
*The following plans as to which teachers will teach which classes are provisional but we expect that teachers responsible for next year's classes will be:
In the Foundation Stage there will be times when the staff interchange and work alongside each other as in past years.
*The resignation date for teachers is 31st May.
Welcome Mr. Traves
In September we will welcome Mr. Richard Traves onto our teaching staff. Mr. Traves spent two weeks in our school last term as part of his training so already knows our systems, staff and many of the children. He will be our in-house supply teacher to cover staff absences but his main role will involve teaching Year 6 alongside Mr. Smith. This will give the current Year 5 class the intensive boost it needs to reach the high standards achieved by past Year 6 classes. We look forward to working with Mr. Traves and hope he enjoys beginning his teaching career with us.
British Values
As part of the children's education in British values, both Years 5 and 6 will be visiting the Mayor's office and council chambers this term. Year 6 are taking their trip this afternoon when they will meet the outgoing mayor and former governor of our school, Councillor Barry Curran.
On Monday 23rd May, the Parliament Outreach Officer will be leading workshops with Years 3,4,5, and children in Year 6 not going to Derwent Hill. Children will learn how to debate and make laws.
A Message to Year 6
Sats week is here at last! This year the government has set you a huge challenge by making the papers harder than in any other year. You have faced this challenge with smiles, resilience, determination and hard work. We know that we will be sending you out into the world as polite and caring young people with many interests. There are those of you who love sport, drama, music, science, technology and learning for the love of learning. Wherever you go and whoever visits us always compliment your fabulous attitude and very good behaviour. Whatever happens next week, we are proud of each and every one of you.
Miss Purdy
Mark, Bishop of Jarrow Visits SDPS
You can find a report and photographs of Bishop Mark's visit by clicking here http://www.seaburndeneprimary.co.uk/the-bishop-of-jarrow/
After a wet, dreary Bank Holiday here we are in glorious sun with temperatures rising to a comfortable level. Parents are asking me about Summer dresses as I understand there are blue gingham versions that are in a playsuit/culotte style, which sound super modern yet within the constraints of our uniform code. I have taken a look and they are a brilliant idea, especially for the handstand brigade!
Thank You-for your co-operation with regards to the new departure arrangements. As always our parents showed common sense until we sorted out all the little hiccups. Hopefully the pavements will also be a safer place too. I beg parents parking illegally and driving without care to really consider their actions and be aware of the unexpected. You can never predict what children will do next.
Our lovely Year 6 will be meeting the challenge of the new style SATS next week. The government have made them much more difficult for 2016 but Year 6 are showing great resilience and determination. They could not have worked harder this year so we wish them all good luck. It will soon be over!