Dear Parents and Carers, 

Although some of our sporting events have been affected by the rain, Blue Monday certainly didn’t dampen our spirits at HTPD! I’ve seen so many wonderful examples of our values in action this week. 

It has been a real joy visiting classrooms across the school. The children have been enthusiastic, focused, and deeply engaged in their learning. Our Reception space station in the Rainbow Room looks fantastic, and in Year 1, I enjoyed learning more about Judaism and the Mitzvot (commandments). Year 2 are fully immersed in their Dinosaur topic—the excitement (and the flour!) from making salt dough fossils has filled the classrooms. 

At the Juniors, I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the children across the school. It has been a delight to work alongside Year 3 on their creative clay projects and to listen to their thoughtful reflections during Thoughtful Times. Year 4 have truly lived out our value of imagining the journey in another’s footsteps during a special assembly, led by a visitor who works with children who have a hearing impairment. The children learnt how the ear works, how different hearing aids support people in their daily lives, and even how to say “My name is…” in sign language. The session helped deepen everyone’s understanding of how best to support those with hearing loss. Meanwhile, Year 5 have ‘met’ Henry VIII and have produced some wonderful, tension‑filled historical stories, while Year 6 have been rising to the challenge of ratio and percentage problems in maths and developing persuasive writing through their work on The Hobbit. Spanish has also got off to a brilliant start across the Juniors — do ask your child if they can tell you the days of the week! 

There has been plenty happening beyond the classroom too. The choir is beginning to learn new songs in preparation for GLive, children are practising skills for upcoming Sportshall  events, and I am keen to hear how today’s New Age Kurling event went! 

Following recent remedial work to the gates and intercom system at the juniors, the part finally arrived on Monday and the main office door has been added to the entry system. As such, you will now need to buzz for the office staff to let you in. 

The weather forecast for the next couple of weeks looks rather wet and gloomy. We aim to get the children outside for break and lunch whenever possible, and light rain or drizzle won’t usually keep us indoors. Please ensure your child brings a suitable coat to school every day so they can enjoy their playtime comfortably—thank you! 

We feel it would be amiss not to acknowledge the tragic incident that occurred locally this week. We are deeply saddened by the death of a young person in Guildford, which has shocked our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family, friends, and all those affected by this loss. In times like these, we draw strength from our school communities and remain committed to supporting one another with kindness, care, and compassion. 

Have a wonderful weekend, stay dry! 

Best wishes 

Vicky  

Thought of the week: Passionfruit “Find truth. What is the truth about you?”