Dear Parents and Carers, 
As always, there’s been a lot happening at Beaford and the sun even made an appearance! Which is a welcome break from the consecutive rainy days recently.
This week
In assembly on Monday, we revisited our OPAL play provision and discussed how playtimes continue to develop across the school. As part of this, our OPAL ambassadors have been given the important task of gathering suggestions from their classmates about new equipment we could purchase.
A key part of OPAL, and of our wider school ethos, is giving children a genuine voice in shaping their environment. We want them to understand that this is their school and that they can play an active role in helping it grow and improve.
The children enjoyed taking part in our skateboarding and scooter workshop this week, led by Team Rubicon on their second visit to the school. The sessions provided an opportunity for pupils to build confidence, develop their balance and coordination skills, and challenge themselves to try something new. It was wonderful to see the children supporting one another, showing perseverance and, by the end of the session, many were performing tricks.
World Book Day was filled with activities celebrating a love of reading. In the morning, classes took part in book-themed learning, followed by a World Book Day assembly and quiz in the afternoon. We also enjoyed a character parade, where children showed off their costumes and had a disco in character. Reception and KS1 pupils were treated to an immersive audio experience of traditional tales, stepping into the role of story characters as the narrative played through headsets.
Next week
Assessment week
Next week is assessment week for children in Years 1–6. Pupils will complete assessments in reading, spelling and grammar, and maths. These assessments are an important tool that helps teachers understand how well children are progressing and identify where additional support or intervention may be needed.
At school, we often talk about resilience and the importance of approaching challenges with a positive mindset. Completing tasks that may feel demanding or less exciting is an important life skill, and we support the children by keeping routines calm and familiar throughout the week. As always, we encourage the children simply to try their best — that is all we ever ask of them.
Cross-country and Exmoor Challenge practice
The TEAM Multi-Academy Trust cross-country race, which was previously postponed, has now been rescheduled for Wednesday next week. Children from Years 2–6 will be representing Beaford, and I am sure they will do us proud by showing determination, encouragement towards one another and excellent sportsmanship.
Our Year 6 pupils will also be continuing their preparation for the Exmoor Challenge. They will be teaming up with children from High Bickington for their second practice walk, building up their stamina with a longer route from Torrington to Meeth.
Devon SEND Team visit
Members of the Devon SEND team will also be visiting the school next week. Working in partnership with external professionals is a key part of continuing to raise standards and ensure that every child receives the support they need to succeed. During the visit, we will review our SEND provision with the Devon advisor and explore how we can continue to strengthen our offer so that all children can access the best possible education.
Enjoy your weekend
