Newsletters
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 19:3.2.12
Dear Parents
This week I am devoting most of the newsletter to informing you of something new and very valuable that we are offering at school, starting next half term.
Recently, most of the staff have completed training to be ‘Rainbows’ facilitators. ‘Rainbows’ is a support programme for children who have been or are affected by any kind of loss, separation or change in their life that means someone special to them is no longer there. It could be a death, divorce, separation, moving house, or any type of change involving loss either temporary or permanent. There are in fact two programmes – Rainbows and Sunbeams. Sunbeams is for children in foundation and Key stage 1. The programmes are delivered in school over 12 weeks. Each session lasts around half an hour and takes place in school time. During the sessions the children are given support to verbalise their feelings, feel better about themselves and begin to accept what has happened to the family. The sessions are completely confidential to the group and personal family details are not discussed. This is simply about the children’s feelings and making things better for them.
I have spoken to a local headteacher who has been running Rainbows for a few years and he speaks very highly of it. He says that children love to be part of the group and respond very well.
Your child’s teacher may speak to you if they feel Rainbows would be helpful for your child, or if you feel your child would benefit from it then please ask the teacher or me about it.
On Thursday 9th February there will be an opportunity for you to come into school either first thing in the morning or after school, to see the materials we will use and ask any questions you may have. Information leaflets for Parents are also available from the office or the cloakrooms.
Lost Cat
If you have lost a young female tortoise shell cat with a black nose, please can you ring this number - 751377 as it has taken up residence there! It is a small and very friendly cat and probably less than a year old.
500 words
Radio 2 have announced that the story writing competition ‘500 Words’ is running again this year. It is open to all children of primary age and I have encouraged our children to take part as we have some excellent writers!
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to The Busy Bees as their behaviour has been the best in school this week! Well done!
Unfortunately there have been incidents involving some very unacceptable behaviour this week and I have had to speak to children and parents about our expectations. The vast majority of our children always behave well both in and out of class. Thank you.
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is the Terrific Tiger Moths with 100%. Excellent! Well done!
Road Safety Award
I have forgotten to include the children who achieve an award from Mrs Fox, our Crossing Patrol Lady, in the newsletter and they really deserve to be mentioned! So, well done to Leah Skelding, who received the award this week, and to Dylan and Sienna Hawes, Charlie Doughty, Mollie Whitham who have also received a certificate recently. If I have missed anyone out please forgive me – and WELL DONE!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 18:27.1.12
Dear Parents
Lateness
The number of children arriving late this week has reduced. Thank you!
PTFA
There will be a meeting on Tuesday January 31st for ANYONE who would like to help in any way, great or small. Even if you cannot attend all the meetings or give much time we really would like you to come along. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be free-flowing! Thank you.
Film Club
There is no Film Club tonight and unfortunately there will not be one next week. The next Film Club will be on Friday 10th February. The film will be ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules’
Pantomime Rehearsals
Please can I remind the children who are taking part in the pantomime that they all now need to attend rehearsals, on Mondays at 5.00pm. Thank you.
Phones for Water Aid
A reminder that if you have an old phone at home that you no longer use, please bring it into school as we can send them away to WaterAid. Just three phones can enable one person to gain access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation. Thank you.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to The Clever Caterpillars for their excellent behaviour in singing and the enthusiasm for their Aztec topic. They have made some amazing pyramids at home. Well done!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is The Learning Ladybirds with 99.2%. Well done!
Have a good weekend and let’s hope the snow doesn’t arrive!
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 17:20.1.12
Dear Parents
Attendance and Punctuality
Recently we seem to have more and more children arriving late for school. The Education Welfare Officer (EWO) comes into school on a regular basis and checks the registers for late marks and regular absences, both authorised and unauthorised. She particularly looks at children with continuous late marks listed. If your child is arriving late on a regular basis we will send you a letter to remind you of this so that, hopefully, a visit from the EWO is avoided. There may be genuine reasons why you are having difficulties getting your child to school, which she can help with.
Years 1 to 6:
School starts at 8.55am and your child should be on the playground ready to line up at that time, waiting for a member of staff to collect them. Once all the children have left the cloakroom and are in the classroom, the door will not be opened again and you must bring your child to the front entrance. Your child will then receive a late mark. The side gate, near Miss Calder’s classroom will be locked at 9.00am.
It is vitally important that your child, and their class, get off to a prompt start each morning. Children who are late disrupt the class and are missing out on the first part of the morning session which is either Literacy or Numeracy based. Ofsted are now inspecting schools on both attendance and punctuality so we need to make sure we have no issues!
Arrangements in Foundation Stage are different as parents are aware.
Breakfast Club
Children should arrive at Breakfast club between 8.00 and 8.15. If they arrive at 8.30 the staff may not be available to open the door or provide them with a breakfast.
Calculations
Mrs Broadbent has produced a booklet explaining how calculations are taught through school. Quite often parents are confused by the methods used in schools as they can be different to the ways used when they were in school. The booklet will be on the website but if you would like a paper copy, please ask at the office. Thank you.
Phones for Water Aid
If you have an old phone at home that you no longer use, please bring it into school as we can send them away to WaterAid. Just three phones can enable one person to gain access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation so it is worthwhile having a rummage through the drawers this weekend! Thank you.
Pantomime
The PTFA are producing another pantomime this year and are desperate for some white and black material for the cow’s costume. Please could we ask for donations of sheets or pieces of any size. Thank you. I will send out more details about the panto later! Oh yes I will, oh no……… (Sorry, couldn’t resist!)
Other reminders
Please can I remind you that hair of shoulder length or longer MUST BE TIED UP. This applies to girls and boys equally. We have issues with head lice but, also, we have to follow guidelines relating to Health and Safety in PE which require that hair is tied back and earrings are either removed or taped if they are in the healing period or cannot be removed for any reason. It would be ideal if parents remove their children’s earrings on PE days so that children do not have to remove them or send some micropore tape into school if your child’s earrings are going to be taped up.
Film Club
There will be no film club on Friday 27th January.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to The Turbo Tiger Moths for the determination and enthusiasm they showed during their dinosaur making day. Well done! We can’t wait to see him!!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Year 2 with 99.3%. Well done!
Have a good weekend. God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 16:13.1.12
Dear Parents
Head Lice
Unfortunately, some of our classes have already got some very unwelcome visitors. The only way to combat head lice is to stay vigilant and treat your child as soon as you see anything.
Football Team
We have been told that our under-11s team are in the Wombwell edition of the Barnsley Chronicle this week. Well done boys!
Milk
We have updated our class numbers with the dairy so if you haven’t paid for your child to have milk it will no longer be available for them in class. Please send £8.50 per term if you would like your child to be offered a carton of fresh semi-skimmed milk each day. Thank you.
Uniform
Please can you ensure that your child does not wear any jewellery other than a watch and ONE PAIR OF STUD EARRINGS ONLY. This is for health and safety reasons but some children are still coming to school wearing hoop earrings. Thank you.
Cloakrooms
Please can parents wait out side the classrooms for their children at the end of the day, especially in the younger classes. Staff must ensure that children are collected safely and this is made more difficult if parents come into the cloakroom. If you need to see the teacher, please wait until the other children have been collected. Thank you.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to The Busy Bees this week for taking such great care of their little visitor Freddy, this week. What kind children you all are!
Attendance Award
We have joint winners this week! Both Year 1 and Year 2 had 100% attendance which is a fantastic achievement. Well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 15:6.1.12
Dear Parents
Happy New Year and welcome back! I hope you all had an enjoyable Christmas.
I would like to thank parents and children for the lovely cards and gifts I received.
Weather
Please could you ensure that your child has a warm coat each day. The weather is very unpredictable at the moment and we want the children to get as much fresh air as possible so they will be playing out if it is not too wet or too windy.
Thanks
Thank you for your generous donations for the Christingle which amounted to £169.00.
Salvation Army Clothes Bin
If you are having a clear-out for the new year, please don’t forget the clothes bin which is near the front gate. We have received £15.00 from The Salvation Army for the last collection. It isn’t a lot but as they say ‘Every little helps!’
Barnsley Hospice
As many of you know, one of our families has had a very sad and difficult time recently and has been greatly supported by the Hospice. The staff sent a donation before Christmas but if anyone would like to donate to the fantastic work done at the Hospice, please send it in to the Office. Thank you.
Milk
Please can I remind you that Milk money is due and is £8.50 for the term.
Gardening Club
There will be no more Gardening Club until after Easter.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to the whole school this week for the calm and sensible attitude they have shown since returning to school. I was very impressed on Wednesday morning by the way they came into assembly and all sat so quietly. It was a very peaceful start to the term. Thank you and well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 14:16.12.11
Dear Parents
SCHOOL CLOSES TODAY AND RE-OPENS ON WEDNESDAY 4TH JANUARY
Football Stars
Our 6-a-side team were in action on Monday morning, against all the other heat winners in the NpowerU11 Kids Cup. Once again they stormed to success and now are in the Regional Finals in March. This is a fantastic achievement and they very proudly brought back their ‘Best in Barnsley’ pennant. Well done boys! As ever, they were a real credit to their families and to the school.
Free School Meals
Please let us know if you think you are eligible for Free School Meals. Schools receive £600 per pupil who is eligible for Free School Meals. Obviously, as a small school our budget is very tight indeed and any extra funding that we can receive is vital. We have a low percentage of Free School Meals and so the amount we would receive is less than most schools. As they say in the advert – Every Little Helps!
If you would like more information as to whether you are eligible, please contact Janet Marshall on 01226 773513, in person at Barnsley civic Centre, Eldon Street Barnsley, Monday to Friday 1pm to 2pm and if you want to speak to someone at school, Mrs Fiddes can be contacted at any time during the day at school in confidence.
Dick Whittington
One of our past pupils, Bryony Davies is appearing in the Pantomime Dick Whittington at The Dearne Playhouse, Goldthorpe, from 21st to 28th January 2012. Go along and have a good laugh!
Shelterbox
We have received notification that our Shelterbox is now ready. When it is dispatched we will be able to track it at www.youngshelterbox.org The number of our Shelterbox is 5237. I have been on the website and The Ellis School is there so I will be going on from time to time to check what has happened with our box and I will let you know as soon as it has been dispatched.
Christingle Workforce
Many thanks to the parents (and children) who made all the Christingles on Tuesday afternoon.
I would also like to say a special thank you to all parents who have supported their child/ren and the school so much this term.
The Bossy King Photographs
Photographs of The Bossy King will be published in the Sheffield Star on the 22nd December.
Film Club
Film Club will start again the first week back after Xmas with the film Ice Age 3, the week after that will be Monsters Vs Aliens.
Attendance Awards
The class with the highest attendance this term is The Brilliant Butterflies with 61 points. Fantastic! Well done to Ben Grimmer who won the child’s Argos voucher and Kieron Bradley’s mum who won the adult’s Argos voucher. 57 children received 100% attendance certificates this morning. That is just over one third of the children. Well done!
Thank you for all your support and I sincerely hope you have a wonderful Christmas celebration with the ones you love. Please remember those for whom Christmas may be a sad time this year.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 13:9.12.11
Dear Parents
The Bossy King
Thank you once again to everyone who attended ‘The Bossy King’. It was a huge success on both days. Well done children!
Christingle
Please join us for the annual Christingle service next Friday, 16th December at 2.30pm.
Please remember the Christingle making session in the Multi-Purpose Room on Tuesday afternoon from 1.00pm. All welcome!
HAG Carol Concert
The HAG Carols will be held in the hall tonight, Friday 9th December at 7.00pm. Tickets are available from the office.
PTFA
The PTFA would like to thank anyone who contributed to the baking and tombola stalls or to the raffle for the Christmas Fair. Thanks also to everyone who came and spent their money! The Fair raised £482.75. Many, many thanks.
Well done to all our winners at the Christmas Fair:
Name the bear – Toni (Y5/6)
Treasure Hunt – William (Y4/5)
Raffle – Helen (Teddy), L. Ambler (Biscuits), Alex Barker (Next toiletries), Emma Sanders (Vanity Set), Alex Kay (Champagne)
Npower U11 Kids Cup
Well done to our 6-a-side team who won their heat and now go through to meet other heat winners next Monday. Well done boys and good luck!
Appeal
If you have any socks, pants, tights, trousers or skirts age 3-5 years of age that you no longer need, please could you let Mrs Pollard have them as spares for our younger children. Thank you.
Also, Y2 have no spare PE kits so if you have an odd pair of shorts or a T shirt we would be very grateful for them. Thanks again!
Vouchers
A big thank you for all the vouchers you collected for school. The total was 10,206. A greenhouse has been ordered! Brilliant!
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to all the children who took part in ‘The Bossy King’ this week. Their hard work and determination made it a great success. They were all brilliant! Thank you and well done!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Year 2 with 97.1%. Well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 12:2.12.11
Dear Parents
The Bossy King
Please note the evening performance is now full. Tickets are still available for the morning performance.
Christingle
Please join us for the annual Christingle service on Friday 16th December at 2.30pm
Appeal
If anyone has any time to spare the PTFA need some helpers to make the Christingles. If you can help, please meet in the Multi-Purpose Room at 1.00pm on Tuesday 13th December. Thank you
HAG Carol Concert
The HAG Carols will be held in the hall on Friday 9th December at 7.00pm. If your child would like to join the band, please let the teacher know. Thank you.
Christmas Dinner
Christmas Dinner is on Wednesday 7th December. Please remember there are no alternative meals that day so if your child has not ordered a Christmas Dinner please bring sandwiches from home. Thank you.
Christmas Parties
Christmas Parties for classes are on Wednesday 14th December. The party food cost is the same as a normal school meal (£1.70). Your child may wear party clothes if they wish to do so. If you would like to donate any additional goodies please hand them into your child’s class. Thank you.
Zumba
There will be no Zumba classes on Thursday 29th December and Thursday 5th January. The next class will be on Thursday 12th January.
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 11:25.11.11
Dear Parents
Industrial Action
The school will be closed on Wednesday 30th November unless the planned industrial action is cancelled. If so we will text and e-mail all parents.
Children in Need
Many thanks to all who supported Children in Need. The total raised was £133.90. Thank you once again.
Christmas Dates
The Bossy King will be presented by FS and KS1 children on Tuesday 6th Dec at 10am and Wednesday 7th at 6pm. Tickets now in sale at the office, £1 each. Not many left now!
Christingle
Please join us for the annual Christingle service on Friday 16th December at 2.30pm.
HAG Carol Concert
The HAG Carols will be held in the hall this year – no seizing up of instruments this year! We would like as many children to attend as possible so that they can take part in the singing. We are also inviting our brass players to join in with the band for a few pieces as they have done before.
Nativity Dress Appeal
If anyone has a white angel dress, a bridesmaid’s dress, a fairy or princess outfit that they could donate to school we would be very grateful. Any age between 4 and 8 years would be great. Thank you.
PTFA and School Christmas Fair
Friday 2nd December in the Hall. If you can help to run one of the stalls (from 2pm) or to help tidy up afterwards (from 4pm) please leave your details at the Office or see a member of the PTFA outside school. Any items for the tombola will be greatly appreciated, as will donations for the cake stall, please hand them in at the Office. You are welcome to collect your child from class from 2.30pm to come along and support the PTFA. All of the money raised helps towards our school. Thank you for your support.
Headteacher’s Award
The award this week goes to the Learning Ladybirds for their endless enthusiasm and eagerness. Well done!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is F2 with 98.4%. Well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 10:18.11.11
Dear Parents
Children In Need
Thank you for your donations to Children In Need. Our children (and staff) always enjoy the treat of a non-uniform day! I will let you know the total amount raised next week.
Important Information
We have been informed by a parent that a white van has been seen near schools and some children may have been approached by the driver. If you see a white van acting suspiciously please inform the office immediately. Thank you.
Dates
The Bossy King will be presented by FS and KS1 children on Tuesday 6th Dec at 10am and Wednesday 7th at 6pm. Tickets now on sale at the office and in class, £1 each.
Nativity Dress Appeal
If anyone has a white angel dress, a bridesmaid’s dress, a fairy or princess outfit that they could donate to school we would be very grateful. Any age between 4 and 8 years would be great. Thank you.
Industrial Action
School will be closed Wednesday 30th November.
PTFA and School Christmas Fair
Friday 2nd December in the Hall. We are looking for volunteers to run one of the stalls from 2pm, or to help tidy up afterwards from 4pm. Please leave your details at the Office or see a member of the PTFA outside school.
Also, we need prizes for the Tombola stall. If you have anything to donate please send it into school by Thursday November 24th so that PTFA members can collect and ticket the prizes. Anything suitable will be welcomed, but ‘as new’ condition please. Thank you for your support.
Muddy Shoes
Please can you ensure that your child does not play on the grass before school as it is getting very muddy. This is then carried into school. This is particularly important for Foundation children as they do not change into indoor shoes. Thank you.
Missing Uniform
A few items of school clothing are still missing. Please check at home. Thank you.
Captain’s Table
At the Captain’s table this week were Cody, Lily-May, Ashley, Eva, Bailey, Izzy and Louie from the Learning Ladybirds class. Well done!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Year 4/5 with 98.5%. Well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 9:11.11.11
Dear Parents
Parking
Can I emphasise, yet again, that the school car park is not for parents and must not be used when you bring your child to school or collect them at the end of the day. Please ensure that other adults who bring or collect your child/ren are aware of this rule. Parents have witnessed adults reversing where children are walking so please, please abide by this rule for the safety of the children.
Unacceptable Language
Please can all adults refrain from the use of bad language inside the school and grounds. I do not want the children to hear bad language in school. Thank you.
Anti-Bullying Week
Next Monday is the start of our Anti-Bullying Week. The theme this year is ‘Stop and Think – Words can Hurt’. Fortunately we have very few incidents of bullying in school and the children are very aware of what bullying is and how to help prevent it happening. We have very clear procedures when an incident does occur and our Policy is on the school website for parents to read.
Dates
The Bossy King will be presented by FS and KS1 children on Tuesday 6th Dec at 10am and Wednesday 7th at 6pm. Tickets now on sale at the office and in class, £1 each.
Homework Club
At the request of several children, Mrs King will hold Homework Club on Wednesdays from 3.20 to 4.15pm. Initially this will be open to KS2 children but, depending on numbers, may be extended to include KS1. If you would like your child to attend it starts next Wednesday in the Y4 classroom. Please collect your child from the classroom. Thank you Mrs King!
Operation Christmas Child
The shoeboxes are being collected on Monday so if you haven’t brought yours into school yet, please bring it in on Monday. Thank you.
Competitions
Well done to the following who were successful last week.
Cake: Picture:
1st Evie Sanderson 1st Carys Garner
2nd Alex Kay 2nd Joshua Green
3rd Isobel Wood 3rd Evie Steele
Quiz: Nicole Abnett
Raffle: Amy-Jane Brown, Joanne Lee-Durman, Gill Jones
Many thanks to all who took part in any way. The Coffee Afternoon raised £138.75
HAG Auction
The Hemingfield Action Group Auction is tonight at 6pm. It promises to be a good night’s entertainment.
Shed
The Action Group have acquired a shed for us but cannot transport it to school. Has anyone got access to a van that would fit the shed in (8x6), laid flat, to bring it to school? If you can, please contact the office. Thank you.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to the Brilliant Butterflies for their respectful behaviour at the Cenotaph this week. We are very proud of you. Well done!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Year 3 with 93.5%. Well done!
Have a good weekend.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 8:4.11.11
Dear Parents
Welcome back. I hope you enjoyed the half term break. We always really enjoy this half term with the children because their enthusiasm and excitement is very contagious!
Lunchtime Behaviour
Before the half term we had a few incidents at lunchtime involving children throwing food across the table, on the floor, up in the air!! This is totally unacceptable and I have warned the children that unacceptable behaviour at lunchtime will result in them 1) eating alone at a table outside the staffroom or 2) being excluded at lunchtimes. This will mean that parents pick them up at the start of lunchtime and bring them back for 1.00pm. We will obviously speak to you individually if your child is misbehaving at lunchtime but please be aware that this is the procedure we will follow.
Christmas Dinner
7th December. If you would like your child to have a Christmas Dinner please tick the list in each class as soon as possible. Thank you.
Morrisons Vouchers
Morrisons are no longer handing out vouchers so if you have any at home, please could you bring them into school as soon as possible. Thank you.
Film Club
By popular demand, Film club starts again next Friday (11th November) The film will be ‘Spirited Away’ and the week after it will be ‘High School Musical 3’
Please collect your child at 5pm from Miss Calder’s classroom door. If your child would like to join Film Club but you have not filled in the form, please ask at the office for one. Thank you.
Poppy Appeal
Poppies are on sale now in school. Your child may bring money to buy a poppy. Some of the older children will take them round the classes every day.
Anti-Bullying Bands are also on sale at £1.00 each from the office.
HAG Auction
On Friday 11th November The Hemingfield Action Group is holding an auction in the school hall, from 6pm to 9pm. There are some good items up for auction so come and join in the fun!
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to the Determined Dragonflies for showing support to the younger children. Thank you for your kindness.
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Brilliant Butterflies with 94.8%. Well done!
Coffee Afternoon
Thank you to everyone who attended the Coffee Afternoon today. Well done to the prize winners. All the pictures and cakes were brilliant! Thanks to the PTFA for organising the event and to Mrs Beever for co-ordinating the competition.
Captain’s Table
At the Captain’s table this week were Holly-Rose, Jacob, Evie, Louis, Jacob, Milly and Isabelle from the Brilliant Butterflies class. Well done!
Have a good weekend and enjoy the fireworks safely!
Take care.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 7:21.10.11
Dear Parents
Unbelievably it is the half term already. I hardly dare mention what the next half term is leading up to!!
I would like to thank all the parents who attended Parent Consultations. If you were unable to attend, please ring school to arrange to speak to your child’s class teacher as soon as possible. Thank you.
Attendance
Please can you ensure that your child is at school for 8.55 am. Quite a few children are arriving late and the Educational Welfare Officer will be picking up on persistent latecomers.
ShelterBox
Thank you for your support in our fund-raising for a ShelterBox. We have not quite hit the target of £500 but we have so far raised an amazing £327.29. Once again – a big ‘Thank you’ from all of us.
If you would like to donate and haven’t done so already, please call at the office.
Coffee Afternoon
The PTFA Coffee Afternoon will be on Friday 4th November at 2.30pm. Please call in and join us for coffee and a chat. Don’t forget the competition too!
Writing stars
Well done to our Writing Stars; Eva, Ashley, Thomas, Abigail, Jessica and Emma. Their work has been chosen for its high standard of presentation. The Writing Stars display now has a permanent home in the Hall. Please go in and look at your child’s work.
BMBC Adult and Family Learning
BMBC are currently running English and maths courses at Kirk Balk College for those who would like to improve their English and maths skills and gain a free national qualification. All levels of qualification are offered, from complete beginners to Level 2- which is equivalent to GCSE grade A-C.
If you would like more information contact:
Rachel Yarwood-Murray on 07976927797. e-mail rachelyarwood-murray@barnsley.gov.uk or
Hannah Basford on 07976854518. e-mail hannahbasford@barnsley.gov.uk
Missing Kitten
Please can you keep a look out for a missing kitten. She is a brown tabby, 6 months old. If you see her or have any information please contact Amy and Craig at 9, Rainboro View or on 07912965321. We have a photograph of her in school. Oh dear, someone is heartbroken!
Anti-Bullying Bands
Anti-Bullying week begins on 14th November. Bands are on sale now for £1.00 each at the Office.
Diary Dates
Christmas Dinner: Wednesday 7th December
Christmas Parties: Wednesday 14th December
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to the children from Foundation One and Two for their wonderful assembly this week. Well done all of you. You were very brave to stand at the front of the hall with so many people watching you!
Attendance Award
The class with the highest attendance this week is Learning Ladybirds with 98.2 %. Well done!
Road Safety
Mrs Fox has awarded her certificates to Chae Cotterill and Taylor Brooke. Well done!
I hope you have a good half term holiday and that we don’t get the snow!
Take care.
God bless
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 6:14.10.11
Dear Parents
Harvest Assembly
Many thanks to everyone who attended our Harvest assembly this afternoon. As you know, we have focused on ShelterBox for our Harvest fund-raising this year. In the assembly we talked about all the good things we have from our harvest but also about how little other people have and how we can help them. I hope to be able to let you know how much we have raised for ShelterBox next week.
Dates for the diary
Christmas Dinner: Wednesday 7th December
Christmas Parties: Wednesday 14th December
Parents Consultations : Wednesday 19th October. 3pm onwards.
PTFA
On Friday 4th November at 2.30pm the PTFA are holding an Autumn Coffee Afternoon. There will also be a competition, for which the entry forms have been sent out. Please can entries be in by 21st October.
There will also be a Christmas Fair on Friday 2nd December. More details later.
Anti-Bullying Bands
Anti-Bullying week begins on 14th November. Bands are on sale now for £1.00 each.
Head Lice
Unfortunately we have head lice in school again. Year 1 children seem to be under attack at the moment so please be vigilant, tie your child’s hair back and comb their hair regularly.
Prompt Start
Please can you encourage your child to get into class as quickly as possible in the morning. It is important for children to make a prompt start to every day.
Pumps
Please make sure your child has a pair of indoor pumps to wear. Apart from being part of the school uniform for children in years 1 to 6, the weather is getting worse now and the playground will be muddy before long!
Operation Christmas Child
Leaflets will be sent home next week giving details of the Shoe Box Appeal. Perhaps your child can tidy their bedroom over the half term and find a few goodies they no longer use to place in their shoebox? If you do not have enough items to fill a whole box please take them into your child’s class and a class shoebox can be put together. We have a few spare shoe boxes in each class if you would like one. The boxes need to be in school by Thursday 10th November so they can be collected and sent off in time for Christmas. Thank you.
Photographs
Photograph money needs to be returned by Monday 17th October ready for collection by Fotek.
Have a good weekend. I believe the forecast is good!
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 6:14.10.11
Dear Parents
Harvest Assembly
Many thanks to everyone who attended our Harvest assembly this afternoon. As you know, we have focused on ShelterBox for our Harvest fund-raising this year. In the assembly we talked about all the good things we have from our harvest but also about how little other people have and how we can help them. I hope to be able to let you know how much we have raised for ShelterBox next week.
Dates for the diary
Christmas Dinner: Wednesday 7th December
Christmas Parties: Wednesday 14th December
Parents Consultations : Wednesday 19th October. 3pm onwards.
PTFA
On Friday 4th November at 2.30pm the PTFA are holding an Autumn Coffee Afternoon. There will also be a competition, for which the entry forms have been sent out. Please can entries be in by 21st October.
There will also be a Christmas Fair on Friday 2nd December. More details later.
Anti-Bullying Bands
Anti-Bullying week begins on 14th November. Bands are on sale now for £1.00 each.
Head Lice
Unfortunately we have head lice in school again. Year 1 children seem to be under attack at the moment so please be vigilant, tie your child’s hair back and comb their hair regularly.
Prompt Start
Please can you encourage your child to get into class as quickly as possible in the morning. It is important for children to make a prompt start to every day.
Pumps
Please make sure your child has a pair of indoor pumps to wear. Apart from being part of the school uniform for children in years 1 to 6, the weather is getting worse now and the playground will be muddy before long!
Operation Christmas Child
Leaflets will be sent home next week giving details of the Shoe Box Appeal. Perhaps your child can tidy their bedroom over the half term and find a few goodies they no longer use to place in their shoebox? If you do not have enough items to fill a whole box please take them into your child’s class and a class shoebox can be put together. We have a few spare shoe boxes in each class if you would like one. The boxes need to be in school by Thursday 10th November so they can be collected and sent off in time for Christmas. Thank you.
Photographs
Photograph money needs to be returned by Monday 17th October ready for collection by Fotek.
Have a good weekend. I believe the forecast is good!
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 5:7.10.11
Dear Parents
Important information
Please can all parents and carers note the information I am sending with the newsletter regarding the Council’s policy on violence and aggression to staff. The definition of violence includes any act, verbal or otherwise, which results in members of the staff feeling fear, apprehension or threat.
Please note in particular the last paragraph which states quite clearly that action will be taken if any staff member feels they have been subject to angry, threatening behaviour or verbal aggression. This is a very serious issue and parents must be aware of this.
Fortunately the incidents of this are few and far between. We have excellent relationships with the vast majority of parents and carers who discuss their concerns and queries with staff in a friendly and calm way. We believe that a mutually respectful partnership with parents is the best way to ensure children make the best of their time at school and achieve their potential.
Great News!
We are proud to announce the arrival of 7 little chicks in F2 this week. It was very exciting watching them struggle out of their shells and they are looking very fluffy and sweet now. We are allowed to keep them until next Thursday and then they will go back to the farm. If you would like to see them, I am sure Mrs Fahy would be more than pleased to welcome you.
Themed Lunch
A change to last week’s message. On Friday 14th October there will also be a hot meal choice, not just the Moussaka and jacket potatoes.
Harvest Assembly
We would like to invite you to our Harvest Assembly on Friday 14th October at 2.30pm in school. As you know, we have focused on ShelterBox for our Harvest fund-raising this year. In the assembly we will be thinking about all the good things we have from our harvest but also about how little other people have and how we can help them. There will be a basket at the back of the Hall for donations to ShelterBox.
Bio-Diversity
The school was reviewed by a member of Barnsley Bio-Diversity Trust this week as to its potential to encourage and sustain wild life such as birds, hedgehogs, mini-beasts etc. The good news is that we have great potential and our grounds are already a haven for some creatures. A report will be produced and then we will work with the Trust to further develop the grounds. It was wonderful to walk round the grounds and actually look at what is growing and living there. We heard robins and even saw a Bullfinch in the trees! As a Church school we have a commitment to care for and preserve this wonderful creation and this is one way in which we can inspire children to take responsibility for their world and understand their commitment.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to our Busy Bees for the kind and caring way they have welcomed the new chicks into their class. Well done!
Captain’s Table
At the Captain’s table this week were Connor, Isabelle, Ellis, Ben L, Piper and Matthew from the Clever Caterpillars class. Well done!
Attendance Award
Well done to the Learning Ladybirds and Beautiful Butterflies this week who jointly win SAM
(School Attendance Matters) with 96.8% attendance.
Road Safety
Mrs Fox has awarded her certificate to Brooke Thompson. Well done Brooke!
I hope you have a good weekend. Get wrapped up, I think you might need it!
P Randall
The Ellis CE Primary School
The Local Authority is responsible for protecting the Health and Safety and Welfare of its staff and pupils in its schools and as such procedures are in place to protect members of staff from abuse and threatening behaviour from parents and others whilst on school premises.
The Council’s working definition of violence to employees is:-
1. any intentional act which causes apprehension, fear, psychological or physical injury to an employee arising out of or in connection with their authorised duties;
2. the deliberate damage to the property or belongings of an employee which is attributable to the carrying out of duties on behalf of the Authority.
This would include the following listed below.
- Physical attack – whether injury occurs or not. This will include sexual or racial attack.
- Verbal abuse – when an employee feels an unacceptable threat has been made against his/her person. This will include sexual or racial harassment.
- Animal attack – i.e. where an animal is used as a threat or tool of violence.
- Attack against property - as a means of intimidating an employee.
- Threats of attack – against employee’s family.
Action will be taken where an employee decides that they have been victim to actual physical attack, or any abusive/threatening behaviour which they find unacceptable.
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 4:30.09.11
Dear Parents
ShelterBox Appeal
The sleepover took place last night and happily we are all here to tell the tale! It was a very interesting night to say the least and we are all very glad we don’t have to repeat it tonight, which makes the plight of those for whom a tent like this is home for months at a time all the more saddening. Thank you to Mrs Pollard, Mr Grayhurst, Mrs Gay, Mrs Trotter, Miss Calder and Mrs Fahy for joining me in this venture! A big thank you to McDonalds for supplying us with free breakfasts this morning. Thank you so much to those who have sponsored us so far. All further donations gratefully received! Thank you again.
Footballers
A very big well done to Kieron, Louis and Finley from our Beautiful Butterflies class. They have been chosen for the Sheffield Wednesday Football Academy. Well done boys!
Themed Lunches
The cook is providing an Italian lunch of pizza on Thursday October 13th and Greek moussaka on Friday October 14th. Jacket potatoes will also be available on these days. Sandwiches will not be available so if your child does not wish to order the main meal or a jacket potato, please can they bring a packed lunch from home. A list showing your child’s preference is displayed in each class.
Appeals
The PTFA are in need of some white material for future projects. If anyone could donate any (sheets or curtains are ideal) please hand it into the office. Thank you.
If you have any age 3-5/6 pants or socks (girls and boys) that could be kept at school as spares please could you hand them to your child’s teacher.
Please can I remind parents not to park in the school car park. This is for staff and visitors only. Thank you.
Please can you check that you have no school reading books at home. It is very easy to lose them among your child’s own books so please have a rummage! We are running short of the blue level books.
Salvation Army
We will be receiving a cheque for £345 from the Salvation Army for the clothes collected in the recycling bin. This is amazing! Thanks for using the bin and if you haven’t used it yet, please remember it is there.
SMSA
We have a vacancy coming up for a School Meals Supervisory Assistant. If you are interested, please call and see Joanne in the office. The advert will be displayed in the Notice board on School Street.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to our Clever Caterpillars for excellent behaviour at playtimes. Thank you for setting such a good example. Well done!
Attendance Award
Well done to Y2 and Y5/6 this week who both achieved 99.4% attendance.
Road Safety
Well done to Jessica Hackleton who has achieved this week’s Road Safety Cetificate. Well done!
Bikeability
Well done to the children who have completed the Bikeability Training this week. They have been excellent students! Certificates will follow shortly.
I hope you all have a good weekend and let’s hope the weather stays fine.
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 4:30.09.11
Dear Parents
ShelterBox Appeal
The sleepover took place last night and happily we are all here to tell the tale! It was a very interesting night to say the least and we are all very glad we don’t have to repeat it tonight, which makes the plight of those for whom a tent like this is home for months at a time all the more saddening. Thank you to Mrs Pollard, Mr Grayhurst, Mrs Gay, Mrs Trotter, Miss Calder and Mrs Fahy for joining me in this venture! A big thank you to McDonalds for supplying us with free breakfasts this morning. Thank you so much to those who have sponsored us so far. All further donations gratefully received! Thank you again.
Footballers
A very big well done to Kieron, Louis and Finley from our Beautiful Butterflies class. They have been chosen for the Sheffield Wednesday Football Academy. Well done boys!
Themed Lunches
The cook is providing an Italian lunch of pizza on Thursday October 13th and Greek moussaka on Friday October 14th. Jacket potatoes will also be available on these days. Sandwiches will not be available so if your child does not wish to order the main meal or a jacket potato, please can they bring a packed lunch from home. A list showing your child’s preference is displayed in each class.
Appeals
The PTFA are in need of some white material for future projects. If anyone could donate any (sheets or curtains are ideal) please hand it into the office. Thank you.
If you have any age 3-5/6 pants or socks (girls and boys) that could be kept at school as spares please could you hand them to your child’s teacher.
Please can I remind parents not to park in the school car park. This is for staff and visitors only. Thank you.
Please can you check that you have no school reading books at home. It is very easy to lose them among your child’s own books so please have a rummage! We are running short of the blue level books.
Salvation Army
We will be receiving a cheque for £345 from the Salvation Army for the clothes collected in the recycling bin. This is amazing! Thanks for using the bin and if you haven’t used it yet, please remember it is there.
SMSA
We have a vacancy coming up for a School Meals Supervisory Assistant. If you are interested, please call and see Joanne in the office. The advert will be displayed in the Notice board on School Street.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to our Clever Caterpillars for excellent behaviour at playtimes. Thank you for setting such a good example. Well done!
Attendance Award
Well done to Y2 and Y5/6 this week who both achieved 99.4% attendance.
Road Safety
Well done to Jessica Hackleton who has achieved this week’s Road Safety Cetificate. Well done!
Bikeability
Well done to the children who have completed the Bikeability Training this week. They have been excellent students! Certificates will follow shortly.
I hope you all have a good weekend and let’s hope the weather stays fine.
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 3:23.09.11
Dear Parents
ShelterBox Appeal
The sleepover is scheduled for Thursday night next week!!! Please support us by sponsoring us. Forms are available in all classes. Thanks in anticipation.
Photographs
Photographs (family and individuals) Thursday 29th September
Family photographs will be taken during school time, however, if you have a younger baby or toddler please come to the school hall with your children at 8.30am. For afternoon nursery children with a younger sibling please come to nursery at the usual time of 12.30pm. Parents are invited to stay with their child until the photographs have been taken.
Dogs
Please can I remind you that dogs are not allowed on school premises with the exception of Guide dogs.
The term ‘school premises’ refers to any part of the land inside the perimeter walls and fences.
Head Lice
Please be vigilant and comb your child’s hair regularly as one case of head lice has already been reported to us. Long hair must be tied back at all times.
Retaliation
I have been very pleased to have been able to congratulate more than one of our children for not retaliating or ‘hitting back’ recently. I know this is a difficult rule to keep but it shows good self-discipline. We encourage the children not to retaliate, as this prolongs the incident and makes it worse, but to deal with situations by seeking help from an adult. In the past we have also used Peer Mediators to help children sort out their differences together. I am looking into training some of our older children as Peer Mediators again.
Dates for the diary
Christmas Dinner: Wednesday 7th December
Christmas Parties: Wednesday 14th December
Parents Consultations : Wednesday 19th October. 3pm onwards. More details later.
Milk
The dairy have now been informed of the current number of children drinking milk. If you have not paid for milk for this term your child will no longer be offered a carton. Please ask at the office if your child changes their mind.Thank you.
Headteacher’s Award
The Headteacher’s Award goes to the Beautiful Butterflies this week for a great improvement in their classroom behaviour. Well done! Keep it up!
Attendance Award
Well done to F2 this week who achieved 100% attendance! Excellent!
I hope you all have a good weekend.
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 2:16.09.11
Dear Parents
ShelterBox Appeal
This term we are raising funds for a ShelterBox. ShelterBoxes are sent in response to disaster appeals and contain a family-sized tent, a stove, water purifiers, warm hats and gloves etc. We will put some information up in the entrance so you can get a better idea of what a Shelterbox is. Members of staff will be holding a ‘sleep-out’ in a ShelterBox tent on the night of 29th September. Please sponsor us if you possibly can. There will be sponsor forms in each classroom.
School Outdoor Play Equipment
Thank you very much for your support in the matter mentioned on last week’s newsletter. The teachers have not reported any incidents this week.
Lesson Observations
Observations of teaching will begin next week and I will be videoing parts of some lessons. The footage will be used purely for the purpose of improving teaching and learning. It will not be shared with anyone externally. If you have any objection to your child being part of the video please see your child’s class teacher. Thank you.
Barnsley Youth Choir
Auditions are being held shortly for the choir. Please see the flyers in KS2 cloakrooms for details.
Earrings
For health and safety reasons only stud earrings are allowed to be worn in school. Please ensure your child does not wear hoops or dangly earrings. Thank you.
After-School Clubs
After the half term, Russ Odell our IT Technician will be running a Camera Club. More details later.
Photographs (family and individuals) Thursday 29th September
Family photographs will be taken during school time, however, if you have a younger baby or toddler please come to the school hall with your children at 8.30am. For afternoon nursery children with a younger sibling please come to nursery at the usual time of 12.30pm. Parents are invited to stay with their child until the photographs have been taken.
Dates for the diary
Christmas Dinner: Wednesday 7th December
Christmas Parties: Wednesday 14th December
Voucher Scheme
It’s that time again! We are once more collecting Morrisons Vouchers. We had a tremendous response last year (over 11,000 vouchers) and were able to purchase fruit trees and bushes, potato barrels, herbs and a wormery to name but a few! Our goal this year is 8,800 vouchers which will buy a new greenhouse.
Brass Tuition
There are now places available for brass tuition in school. This is offered to KS2 children and takes place on Thursday morning. Please enquire at the office for more details on costs etc.
Great North Run
Good luck to Mrs Fahy who is taking part in the Great North Run this Sunday! If anyone would like to sponsor Mrs Fahy please call at the office.
Headteacher’s Award
The Turbo Tigermoths get the award this week for the tidiest cloakroom in school. Keep it up! Well done!
Captain’s Table
At the Captain’s table this week were Ben, Daniel, Emma, Ciaran, Isabelle and Paige from the Determined Dragonflies class. Well done!
Attendance Award
Our target this year is 95.5 %. Well done to Year 2 who achieved 99.3%. well done!
I hope you all have a good weekend.
P Randall
THE ELLIS CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEWSLETTER 1:09.09.11
Dear Parents
Welcome back to a brand new school year. I hope you enjoyed the ‘summer’ (!) break. It was lovely to welcome the children back on Tuesday. They have made an excellent start to the year and all the teachers are really pleased with them and the positive attitude they have shown this week.
Starting the day
We want the children to get off to a prompt start every day so can children (excluding Mrs Fahy’s and Miss Calder’s) line up on the playground where they will be collected by a member of staff at 8.55am. I know parents of the younger children can be anxious that their child has got into class with all their belongings but the children cope with their coats, shoes and water bottles etc. during the day so please allow them to come into the cloakroom and classroom independently. It can be very congested in some of the cloakrooms which some children find upsetting. If you need to speak to the class teacher, please do so before the children come into class. They really can do it on their own you know!
Playtimes
Please could you ensure your child has a coat in school as the weather is very unpredictable at the moment. Also, as the weather gets even worse please could your child bring a pair of wellies to use.
Appeals
Would anyone like to have a stick insect as a pet? They are very easy to look after and one of our families has got 16 (Which is a bit too much of a good thing!)
If anyone has a garden shed that they no longer require we would be very grateful to take it off your hands. The Foundation Stage play area has now been extended to include the field near the car park and they need some more storage so a shed would be ideal. If you know of one that needs a good home, please see Mrs Fahy or Mrs Pollard.
There are also some new gates which will be unlocked until 9.15am. They will be unlocked for F1 parents to collect and bring their children and then locked until the end of the school day.
School Outdoor Play Equipment
Please do not allow your child to play on any outdoor equipment before or after school.
Mrs Pollard and Mrs Fahy had to set up the Foundation Stage equipment again on Thursday evening as children had been playing on it after school.
HAG
The H A G Coffee Morning group are holding a Macmillan Coffee Morning on Tuesday 20th September in the Elephant and Castle from 10.15am. stalls, raffle etc. All proceeds to Macmillan Nurses.
Parents Consultations
These will take place on Wednesday 19th October. 3pm onwards. More details later.
Please note, the calendar is on the website but can be e-mailed to you if you require, as can holiday forms and uniform order forms. Mrs Fiddes is also able to answer queries by e-mail.
Your child’s termly class newsletter can be found on the website in the parent’s section.
After-School Clubs
Further details regarding After School Clubs will be sent out next week.
Headteacher’s Award
The award goes to the Learning Ladybirds for being such shining examples of good behaviour this week. What a fantastic start! Well done!
SAM
The highest attending class this week has been Year 2 with 100% attendance. A fantastic achievement for the first week back! Well done!
I hope the weather is kind to us this weekend.
Have a good weekend anyway.
P Randall