Newsletters

Dear parents & carers,

We have had a great start to the new year.  The children have settled very well and have been working very hard. Teachers have begun pupil progress meetings where we discuss every child's progress so far this year and ways forward for them individually.  This helps teams to focus on their planning and how we organise support staff appropriately.  It is excellent practice.

Monday 15th January is the deadline for applying for places at Bushmead for Reception 2024.  We can see that we are already over-subscribed as a first-choice school. However, if you have a sibling at the school and live in a catchment, this will move you up the priority list as long as your application is in on time.

Next week is Mental Health & Wellbeing Week at Bushmead.  We start by chasing Blue Monday away in bright and positive clothing.  There are events throughout the week to help and support children express themselves. 

Unfortunately, the cost of school lunches for KS2 is rising to £2.45 to meet the rising costs.  This will take effect immediately. We have been trying to keep costs down as long as possible, but we must break even on our budget. 

Mrs Turner will be opening the KS1 Library on a Wednesday after school for parents and children to visit. They will access through their collection doors and will leave through the Yr1 doors next to Mrs Blair/Mrs Toyer's room.  The KS2 Library remains open for visitors on Tuesdays after school.  We would be delighted if you came to the libraries to choose books and read with your children.

Attendance continues to be a hot topic in the news.  We have been working hard with families to improve children's attendance. We do still have an issue before and after holidays where families extend their travel. Please try to stick to the 13 weeks of holidays that children have per year.  It does have an impact on learning and well-being.  Thank you to those who try to get their children into school every day!

When a child is unwell and not coming to school, please can the parent call the office by 9.30 am.  This cannot be done by Class Dojo or by informing the class teacher.  Please call 01582 725 387. Many thanks.

Thank you to everyone who has sent their children back in the correct uniform. It is very helpful. UNIFORM

WhatsApp and TikTok do create issues for some of our older children. If your child has a phone or access to a device, and you allow them access to these apps, please monitor what they are posting.  The fallout does come into school.  Social media can have a profound impact on children's mental health. Please see the links below from the NSPCC.

Work on the path at the Old Bedford Road entrance begins a week on Monday and will take approximately four weeks.  There will be workers on site and maybe some disruption, but hopefully, the new improved path and gate will be open by half term.

We have a great deal to look forward to this term. Lots of exciting learning experiences for our children.

Have a lovely weekend.

Joanne Travi

Headteacher