Last week my reflections page was given over to the Year 8 English and Geography trip to Dorset. The children tell me they had a wonderful time and they enjoyed spending time together and learning more about the unique geography of the area. The teachers who accompanied the trip commented to me about the children’s excellent behaviour and enthusiasm despite the chilly weather. In fact, during their visit to the Tank Museum, the Year 8s’ behaviour and intelligent questioning were praised by three different museum staff.
This past week I was delighted and charmed by the Reception and Year 1 Nativity plays. Costumes were carefully arranged, lines were delivered clearly and songs were sung with gusto. There was even an impromptu dance by the stars in the Reception play. I have great respect and admiration for the teachers and staff who skillfully get the best from our youngest pupils in these productions. Years 1,2 and 3 were treated to a Beauty and the Beast pantomime performance on Wednesday at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing. A picture of Reception’s Nativity can be seen above. Year 1’s Nativity took place this afternoon and will feature in the final Newsletter of term next Thursday lunchtime.
In school, alongside lessons, the children have been decorating their classrooms and House Trees. My spies tell me that Drake Badgers are pulling out all the stops; I can’t wait to see them all for judging next week. On Monday, 7L did a very well-researched Assembly to the whole school on Christmas traditions around the world. We learned that KFC is a Christmas Day tradition in Japan, even though it is not a public holiday; that Orthodox Christians celebrate in January; and that fried carp replaces roast turkey in Austria.
Our sponsored Christmas Holiday Readathon was launched yesterday, and Head Librarian Freddie spoke about it in Assembly this morning. Reading is so important for children, and the chance to combine this with raising money for our local charities is an excellent idea. As I sign off my penultimate reflections of the year, a reminder that Christmas jumpers need to come out of the wardrobe for next Tuesday, and my best wishes to those in our community who are celebrating Hanukkah this week; a festival of lights is certainly welcome as the days get ever darker.