Dear Parents and carers, 

What a varied and exciting week it has been in school—almost as changeable as the weather! On that note, we do our best to ensure the children spend time outdoors during break and lunch, so please make sure your child brings a coat to school every day. This week’s snow certainly reminded us of the importance of this, especially during some chilly school trips and time in the woods with Paul. We never let the weather stop us, and it’s been a busy week full of sport and learning adventures! 

On Monday, Year 2 enjoyed their much-anticipated visit to St Paul’s Cathedral. They impressed everyone with their knowledge of the Great Fire of London during a workshop, before climbing 200 steps to reach the Whispering Gallery! The children also explored the cathedral floor and learned the names of its different parts and areas. It was a fantastic day, and they are already looking forward to their next trip in the Spring Term. 

On Tuesday, a group of budding engineers represented our school in a STEM competition hosted by SATRO. The challenge? Build the tallest freestanding tower using only paper, nuts, and bolts—and attach a pulley system capable of lifting a 20g weight! The children showed incredible teamwork and problem-solving skills, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. They’ve even suggested we do more challenges like this in school—what a great idea! 

Year 3 had a wonderful day visiting St Mary’s Church and Guildford Baptist Church, bringing their RE learning to life. Exploring two different Christian places of worship gave the children the chance to ask thoughtful questions and deepen their understanding. It was an enriching experience and a lovely opportunity for the year group to learn together. 

Thank you for your continued support in making these trips and experiences possible. 

Exciting Update on Language Learning  

We’re excited to share some important changes to how Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) will be taught at HTPD. Over recent months, staff and pupils have been exploring the best approach for language learning, trialling different schemes in both French and Spanish. Based on feedback from both staff and children, we have decided to teach Spanish in the Junior classes using the highly regarded Primary Language Network scheme. Lessons will be delivered weekly by your child’s class teacher, and both children and staff are enthusiastic about learning Spanish together. 

Our choice of Spanish is closely linked to our ongoing partnership with a school in Tres Cantos, Madrid. Currently, Year 5 compares our town with Tres Cantos as part of their geography topic, and we hope to strengthen this connection further through Spanish lessons across other year groups. 

We’ve spoken with MFL leads at local secondary schools, and they emphasised that the most important goal at primary level is to develop a love of language learning—not which language is taught. Secondary schools build on the transferable skills gained in primary, regardless of whether pupils start with French, Spanish or German. 

To spark even more curiosity, we’ll also be using resources from WoLLoW (World of Languages, Languages of the World). This programme introduces children to the history of languages, how they work, and includes non-European languages—perfect for celebrating the linguistic diversity in our classrooms. 

We believe these changes will make language learning exciting, meaningful, and enjoyable, inspiring pupils to continue their journey into secondary school and beyond. We look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you soon as we help our pupils discover the joy of languages! 

Have a relaxing weekend. 

Best wishes 

Vicky 

Thought of the week: What makes you really happy?