Dear All,
This time of year can be a whirlwind of emotions for many of us. While we celebrate the arrival of summer holidays, it’s also natural for our children to feel a sense of overwhelm as they move up to new classrooms and say goodbye to familiar teachers. Our "Move Up, Stay Up" transition days have been designed with this in mind, aiming to ease some of the anxieties that come with such changes. Last week, we felt the excitement in the air as children met their new teachers and explored their classrooms. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and sadness during this transition, and we’re here to support each child as they navigate through these feelings.
This week, we bid farewell to our Year 2 cohort, though it feels more like a 'see you later' as we will continue to visit The Abbey and see many of our children in the years ahead. We are incredibly proud of the wonderful individuals they have become and will always cherish the time we've spent together.
This week, many of our Poppies children have graduated, marking a significant milestone in their journey. We can’t wait to welcome them into the main school and watch them build new friendships with other children who will be new to St. James.
This year has been a very busy one! The school continues to grow from strength to strength. It is time to reflect on the many exciting successes we've achieved this past year.
- Each classroom is now equipped with its own set of iPads, enhancing our computing lessons and enriching subjects like maths and science.
- Recently, we were honoured to host a visit from the Department for Education (DfE), who were eager to see the strengths that shape our teaching and learning at St. James- it was lovely to stand back and just 'show off' our children.
- Our new school values—respect, kindness, inclusion, and teamwork—have taken root this year, growing our children into well-rounded individuals who are ready to make a difference.
- Next year, we will proudly welcome a full reception cohort—an important first milestone for St. James. The Sunflowers and Daisies classes will be buzzing with energy and creativity with our new faces!
- Our fundraising efforts have been met with incredible support, allowing us to purchase new resources for our classrooms and equipment for the playground and outdoor areas. We will celebrate the wonderful items the PTA has helped us obtain in the new school year! Thank you for being an essential part of our inspiring community.
Can I please remind you to have a look and complete our parents' survey, if you haven't done so already. Your views are important to us.
Please click on this link:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/vBz1StTedq
Mrs. Finch will be leaving the St. James family this week. For six years, she has been an integral part of our community, teaching Year 1 and Reception children, and also as our reading and phonics lead.
Mrs. Finch, your warmth, dedication, and passion have touched the lives of so many children. The love for reading and learning that you have fostered in our children will remain with them for a lifetime. We wish you all the best in your new school, and we hope you carry fond memories of your time here. Our children and the whole school community will miss you.
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Mr. Nixon's departure this year. He has made significant contributions to our PE and Forest School lessons over the past year. Thank you for your time with us, Mr Nixon. You will be missed.
Wishing each of you a wonderful family summer! I hope it's filled with sunshine, joy, and unforgettable moments together. Enjoy this special time, and I look forward to seeing you all on Wednesday 3rd September.
Mrs O'Shea
