Dear Parents and Carers
It was wonderful to welcome the children back on Monday. They have been noticeably refreshed this week after the time spent with their families and have come back ready to learn.
This week In Monday’s assembly, we talked about Bonfire Night, the story of Guy Fawkes and the rather gruesome but important history behind the celebrations. We also reminded the children about the importance of staying safe around bonfires and fireworks.
On Tuesday, we welcomed leaders from across TEAM Multi-Academy Trust to Beaford to review the provision we offer our children. They spent time looking at teaching and learning in maths, reading and writing, as well as how we create an inclusive culture where all children are supported to thrive.
It was lovely to hear such positive comments about the hard work of our teachers and the impact this is having on the children. They also commented on how supportive the children are of one another and how wonderfully behaved they were throughout the visit. I am incredibly proud of the team and the children, and it was great to have this recognised by colleagues from across the trust.
Home learning This year, we have asked the children to complete regular weekly home learning, focusing on three important areas: a maths fluency activity, a spelling activity and regular reading at home.
On Friday, I rewarded the children who had consistently completed their home learning throughout the half-term with a well-earned prize from the prize box.
If your child is finding it difficult to get into the routine, please try to set aside around 30 minutes each week to complete a maths and spelling activity, alongside daily reading. Once completed, all parents need to do is make a short note in the homework book so that the teacher can check and sign it off in class.
Read to Achieve programme Beaford is working closely with the library service this year to promote a love of reading. Reading is the most important academic skill children develop during their time at primary school, and its benefits extend well beyond the classroom, supporting future opportunities, employment and wellbeing.
We have joined the Read to Achieve programme, which means each class will have the opportunity to visit Torrington Library during the year and borrow books for free!
The children will need their own library card to take part. If your child does not yet have one, you can complete this form. The library staff will create your child's card and send it into school so they can start borrowing books.
We also received a very kind donation from the library on Thursday: a Toniebox for our Early Years children to enjoy. This will give our youngest children access to a range of audiobooks and stories, helping us to develop their enjoyment of books and storytelling.
Remembrance On Wednesday 11th November, we will observe a two-minute silence at school to commemorate those who died serving our country. Our ambassadors in Owls and Otters will also attend a Remembrance service at Atherington War Memorial and lay a wreath created by the children.
Next week Reverend Gary will be joining us on Monday to lead our assembly.
Trainee teacher Mr Stephenson will join us next week for the first of his PGCE placements. He will be working in Hedgehogs class at different points throughout the year and learning his craft from Ms Beattie. In addition, we will be hosting a North Devon College student who will be spending time at Beaford as part of their childhood development studies.
Finally, Hedgehog's assembly is on Friday from 9:15 - 9:45. Doors will open at 9am for parents. I know those of you who can attend will do your utmost to be there.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
Kind regards
George Myers
Head of School
