Dear Parents and Carers,

I know that some of you were disappointed not to hear any news in last week’s newsletter about the Pewley RAAC repair project – I’m sorry about that. It was simply because I didn’t have any updates to share, although it is our firm hope to be back at Pewley in September. I will always pass on any news as the project unfolds, and you’ll be glad to know that I’ve been in touch this week with Alex Tear, Director of Education at Guildford Diocese; he will be writing to the school community next week to keep us all informed.

I also wanted to pass on an update from Surrey’s parking enforcement team – they have been around at school drop off and pick up a couple of times this week and they suggested I make sure that you’re all informed about how they police the parking situation. They won’t always issue parking tickets on the spot, but instead take a photo of number plates of cars that are parked dangerously, and then penalty notices come by post. They advised that it’s against the law to park on the zigzags and they’re particularly keen to keep the junction at the top of Addison Road, and the bend by the school gate clear of parked cars – this is to keep pedestrians safe. It’s been fantastic to see more people walking to school so hopefully with better weather around the corner, the roads will become calmer than ever!

On a more positive note, I’d love to tell you about a lovely junior school choir event that will be happening next Thursday 2nd May. The whole of our school choir (Years 3 to 6) will be showcasing some of their favourite songs from last term. The performance will start at 2.45 and we aim to be finished at 3, in time for the infant pick-up. All are welcome to join us in the Chapel to hear the performance – and especially for those children who didn’t get a place to sing at GLive, it’ll be a really joyful occasion!

It was great to see Year 1 arriving back from a trip to Guildford library this week – we’re so pleased that reading for pleasure is becoming such an important part of their lives. Now that so many of them have cracked the phonics code, it really does look like they’ve been bitten by the reading bug! With our brilliantly well-resourced school library, as well as Geraldine’s remarkable expertise, they’ll enjoy finding books that spark a lifelong interest in reading. This continues right through the school – as part of my afternoon teaching in Year 6, I enjoy taking a class of children to swap their books. Geraldine always has some new title to introduce or is ready to chat about what the children might like next. If ever you’re stuck for an idea for a child’s birthday present, do ask her for a book recommendation! And perhaps, instead of extra screen time as a reward, you could pop along to Guildford library for a browse in the children’s section.

Hope you’ve got a good book lined up for the weekend!

With much love,

Clare

Thought of the week: Bee special…do you like yourself? “Blessed are those who are poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Whole School

If your child attends after-school clubs, do check the notices below by clicking on the junior or infant section.

Admission to Year R and Year 3 – September 2024

If you have been offered a school place for Year R or Year 3 for September 2024 you must accept/decline the place by next Tuesday 30 April.

Bikes & Scooters

It is lovely to see so many children come into school on bicycles and scooters. Please could we remind the children to dismount from their bicycle/scooter before entering the school premises and/or before they come down the narrow path between Addison Road and Cline Road.

HTPD School Fun Run Saturday 8 June

Tickets are selling fast! Entry deadline is May 10. It’s all about having FUN, 3-legged races, fancy dress, running backwards. Registering is easy - click the link Register now! See the poster below for more information.