Dear Parents and Carers,  

In true HTPD style, we have already been out and about on some exciting learning adventures! 

Last Friday, Year 4 launched their Invaders topic with an exciting visit to Butser Ancient Farm, an experimental archaeology centre. The children stepped back in time to learn about the Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age periods and took part in a range of hands-on activities, including copper jewellery making, pottery, archaeology and clunching as part of the process of creating wattle and daub walls. The centre staff were incredibly knowledgeable and always eager to answer questions and deepen the children's understanding. Year 4 had a fantastic day and truly embraced our value of imagining the journey in another's footsteps as they immersed themselves in the lives of people from ancient Britain. 

This week, Year 3 launched their exciting new topic, It's Only Natural, with a visit to the British Wildlife Centre. The children were fascinated by the wide variety of native animals they encountered, including otters, foxes, squirrels, badgers and owls. They learned about the animals' habitats, behaviours and the importance of conservation. Returning to school full of enthusiasm, the children were eager to share their favourite moments and newly acquired knowledge. The trip was a wonderful way to bring learning to life, spark curiosity and deepen the children's appreciation of the natural world. 

After the extreme heatwave forced us to postpone it, Year 5 were finally able to embark on their much-anticipated residential trip to High Ashurst. It was a real pleasure for the Year 4 team to catch up with their former pupils and see just how much they have grown in confidence and maturity. Throughout the trip, the children challenged themselves on the high ropes, demonstrated impressive resilience and independence, and worked collaboratively to solve a range of demanding physical challenges. I thoroughly enjoyed joining them for dinner, followed by a memorable campfire and sing-song, which was a real highlight of the visit. Spending the night in teepees added to the adventure and provided wonderful opportunities for friendships to flourish. Year 5 returned tired but exhilarated, with many happy memories and a renewed sense of confidence. What a fantastic start to their year! 

Our sporting calendar has also got off to a flying start. This week, Holy Trinity hosted the local schools' cross-country event on the Downs. The children demonstrated fantastic determination, resilience and team spirit as they tackled a beautiful, albeit hilly, course. We were incredibly proud of their effort and positive attitude. The netball season officially begins today, with our Year 6 team heading off to their first fixture after school. We wish them the very best of luck. 

This week, we have also begun a new assembly series entitled "God at Work". Using the metaphor of roadworks, we will be exploring how life's experiences help to shape, challenge and strengthen us as we continue to grow and learn. Our focus this term will be learning about the life of Moses, and we will share with the children how God worked throughout Moses' life to transform him into an inspirational leader. 

Each week, we will explore a different part of the Old Testament book of Exodus. This week's theme has been "staying faithful", and we have been reflecting on some big questions: What is the meaning of life? and Who helps you find direction when you need it most? I am sure your children will be able to tell you more about these conversations at home. 

As always, it has been a busy and purposeful week across the school, and it has been wonderful to see the children embracing new opportunities, challenges and experiences so enthusiastically. 

Have a wonderful weekend. 

Best wishes, 

Vicky