Dear Parents and Carers, 

Playground Update 

Play is a key development priority for us this year, and we’re excited about the progress so far! The benefits of play are undeniable, and we’re working hard to make playtimes more inclusive and enjoyable for every child. 

At the Juniors, we are introducing different play zones, and the new undercover area is proving popular for quieter activities—think board games, card games, and even Twister! Thanks to funds raised by the PTA, we’ve added colourful picnic-style tables in house colours, and the games you kindly donated are being enjoyed. Today, Active Surrey are visiting the Junior School to spend time with our Sports Crew, learning new playground games to share with others. And there’s more to come—watch this space! 

For our Infants, we’re sourcing additional playground equipment and creating a ‘Wishlist’ of resources to make playtimes even more fun for our youngest children. 

If you’re having a pre-Christmas clear-out, we’d love any unwanted games, puzzles, or construction resources (please make sure they are complete) — please pass them to Georgie. 

Zest for Learning 

This week has been full of exciting learning moments across the school! 

Year 4 immersed themselves in Roman history with John Eagle, a Roman expert and consultant on the original Gladiator film. He brought real Roman weapons and armour, taught authentic Latin phrases, and shared fascinating (and slightly terrifying!) stories about Roman Army discipline. The children loved dressing up and taking part in battle drills—what an incredible way to bring history to life! 

Year 1 enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Guildford Museum as part of their Old Toys topic. They explored exhibits, classified toys into ‘new’, ‘old’, and ‘oldest’, and discussed the materials used to make them. The highlight? Making their very own thaumatrope to take home! 

A group of children from Year 6 represented us brilliantly at the GHS CWIZZ, a quiz run by the Society of Authors and Illustrators. Competing against around 20 teams from Years 5–8 across local schools, they impressed everyone with their knowledge and achieved 2nd place—a huge well done to them! 

Help Needed! 

We need a Santa for the infant Santa Storytelling and Grotto on Friday 5th December, 3:30–5:00 pm. Costume and mince pies provided! If you can help us find a suitable Santa, please email his elves at sheenap@htpd.surrey.sch.uk. 

Thank you for your continued support in making our school such a vibrant and joyful place for learning and play. 

Have a wonderful, albeit wet weekend! 

Vicky 

Thought of the week: How can you be a better team player?