No. 287 - 27 January
Dear Parents and Carers,
This week’s assembly theme was focused on finding ways to be calm. The children told us that they love to find peace by reading books, by listening to calm music, by staying off screens, and by getting outside. They are so wise – and many of them prayed that the adults around them would be able to do the same. We learnt about the storm on Lake Galilee that’s described in the Bible, when Jesus miraculously commanded the wind and waves to be still – and we marvelled at Him being able to fall asleep when all about was chaos and panic. Clearly, Jesus knew how to be calm. I had the privilege of spending some time in 6J leading their Thoughtful Time following this assembly. The children’s responses to the story were admirable – they reflected that Jesus shows us an example of helping those who are afraid or struggling to stay afloat. They recognised that some people face storms that seem overwhelming. They discussed the metaphor of the storm, realising that sometimes we can bring calm and peace to others by helping them keep their eyes above the waves.
For me, the school prayer group does this so well; they ask God to watch over the school and to keep us within the school community safe from harm. They pray that He will keep us from worrying about any stormy seas that we each may face. They sent me a timely reminder just this week that we can find peace in God, sharing an encouraging verse from the Bible with me: “He will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are set on Him.” How lovely that their words matched this week’s assembly theme so well! If you’d like to join in next time they pray together, just let either office know and they’ll be happy to put you in touch with the group.
The children may have told you about Robert Cotton’s important news this week. He has just announced his retirement after over 25 years as rector of Holy Trinity Church. He will also be moving away from Guildford and therefore leaving his role as our much-loved chair of governors. He will leave such an amazing legacy behind him, he has been an incredibly effective chair, and we will all miss him hugely! In his email to me, he wrote:
"Although it is not time for a farewell speech, I must say that my involvement with HTPD has been absolutely central to my enjoyment of over 25 years ministry in Guildford. I admire all the staff, governors, families and children so much. It has been a privilege to be part of this school community."
There will of course, be an opportunity to celebrate his remarkable contribution to life at HTPD nearer to his departure. For the moment, I just wanted to let you all know this important piece of news.
With love,
Clare
Thought of the week: The Magic of Calm: What makes you angry or scared? Miracle – Jesus calms the storm
Notice about teachers’ strike days: Wednesday 1st February
I’m sure you’ll have seen the news about the planned teachers’ strike days that are coming up in the weeks ahead, with teachers from the NEU striking over pay and conditions.
The first of the strike days is next Wednesday 1st February. The school will still be open, but for some classes, the children will not be taught by their usual teacher. They won’t be covering the usual curriculum, and instead may watch a film or be supervised with a range of activities.
Infant
Bedtime Stories, Wednesday 8 February 5.15 – 6.00pm
On 8 February children are invited to come back to school in their pyjamas and onesies for a bedtime story with their class teacher. More details in FOPS section below.
Fluffy Friday, 10 February
Choice forms will be sent out early next week via ParentMail.
Menu: Week 1 beginning 30 January.
FOPS News
Hi everyone
We hope you’ve all had a good week.
The rainbow room
A big thank you to everyone who helped to paint the rainbow room last weekend. Despite the freezing conditions, it’s looking great and the climbing wall and new electrics can now be fitted.
We’ll be arranging another day soon to finish off the decorating, so keep an eye out and if you can help, that would be much appreciated.
Quiz and Curry Night
We’re looking forward to the Quiz and Curry night next Friday and the Silent Auction which will be running next week. Look out for ParentMails with details of both. It’s all set to be a fun night!
Bedtime Stories
On Wednesday 8th February, children are invited to come to school in their onesies or pyjamas for bedtime stories with their class teacher. Bedtime stories will take place from 5.15pm - 6pm and parents/carers are welcome to wait in the hall where Lilja will give a short talk on how to support your child with their reading. Second hand uniform will also be on sale. A ParentMail containing all you need to know on this will be sent early next week but please note, this event is for Pewley children only.
FOPS planning meeting
We now have an exciting schedule of events for the Spring and Summer term that we’d love to share with you! For anyone who would like to hear more or share any fundraising/ community building ideas that we could include in our plans, please join us on Tuesday 7th February at 8pm via Zoom. A link will be shared on the day for all those who’d like to join.
If you have any questions, please do ask us or your reps.
Have a great weekend!
Sally and Eleanor x
Dates for your diaries
- Quiz and Curry Night - Friday 3rd February
- FOPS planning meeting (Zoom) – Tuesday 7th February
- Bedtime stories at Pewley - Wednesday 8th February
Junior
Dates for the Diary
- Monday 30 January – Y5 Winchester Science Museum visit
- Friday 3 February – Y5 Science exhibition at 2pm
Cancelled Clubs
- Friday – Y6 Netball is cancelled. See below for details
Lunch – Week 1 beginning 30 January
Revised menu for Friday 3 February (Next week): there will be Fish Fingers, Vegetable Burgers or Bacon and cheese turnovers with chips and beans.
Holy Trinity fixtures and Clubs Updates w/c 28/11/22
Monday Hockey Club – now for all year groups
- Hockey club is now also open to Y3. Please ensure your child has a gum shield and shin pads otherwise they will not be able to join in.
Friday 3 February - Y6 Netball club is cancelled
- Sportshall practice on the pitch until 4.15pm. The teams have been sent out on ParentMail.
HTSC News
Next HTSC Meetings
We would like to invite you all to our next virtual HTSC Meeting :
- To discuss our next events and brainstorm for fundraising ideas on:
- Wednesday 1st February at 7.30pm (via Zoom)
- A separate link for the Zoom meeting will be sent out next Wednesday
And then our Next Social & HTSC Meeting on
- Wednesday 1st March at The March Hare pub at 7.30pm
Please feel free to come and share your ideas and get involved in helping raise funds for the School.
Other HTSC Events:
Social events for March are underway. Dates to follow shortly.
Look out for new dates for:
- Cake sales
- Film nights & other Year 6 fundraising events
Other
Surrey Arts – will be starting Drum Lessons at HT, please see the flyer below for more information.
Vacancy - Christ Church are looking for a part-time Worship Pastor, please see the flyer below.