Newsletters

We believe that our children should have the aspiration and opportunity to ‘Live life in all its fullness’ and ‘Shine like stars in the sky’.
 
MANY THANKS…
…to all our families for your generous donations for our Harvest Celebration.  The School Council is pleased to report that all our food parcels have been safely delivered and we have received the following message of thanks:  
We have also raised a whopping £163.85 for St Michael’s Hospice!
 
WELLBEING AMBASSADORS
Having been inspired by the work of Maisie, Leroy and Poppy last year, a few children in Y6 have expressed an interest in becoming a school Wellbeing Ambassador.  These positions are open to any children in Y6.  There are two vacancies to fill.  Should your child wish to be considered, they can apply in writing to Miss Mandelson, explaining why they would like to become a Wellbeing Ambassador and which skills they feel they could bring to the role.  The deadline for applications is Monday 3^rd November please.
 
WORD OF THE WEEK
To help children develop their vocabulary and a love of words, a focus ‘word of the week’ is introduced each week for the children to investigate.  This week’s word is: The children are encouraged to find out what the word means and perhaps use it in a sentence or explore its etymology.  Their efforts are then displayed in the hall.  Although aimed more at the KS2 children, everyone is welcome to join in.
 
Coming Up…
 
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION POPPY APPEAL
During the week commencing 3^rd November, the School Council will be visiting class each morning to provide the children with the opportunity to give a donation for a poppy or other item to commemorate Remembrance Day.
 
SAVE THE DATE!
Mrs Harris would like to invite parents to come and join us for a Musical Showcase on Friday November 21st, 2.45-3.15pm. Children learning instruments in school will have a chance to perform and the whole school will sing some of the songs we've been enjoying in our singing assembly time. 
 
News from the wider community
Message from the Friends PTA group
Gallone Ices will be in West Tanfield on Monday 10th November at 3.30pm in the Memorial Hall car park.  Free ice creams in return for a donation for Children in Need – see below:  
Message from North Yorkshire Admissions
Just a reminder that applications for Year 7 (2026-27) are now due.  If you haven’t yet submitted an application for your child’s secondary school place for September 2026, please remember to do so by 31 October 2025.
Applications can be made online at: www.northyorks.gov.uk/admissions
Thank you for your attention to this important deadline.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Please find below some exciting opportunities for families with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities during the upcoming half-term. These events are designed to be inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable for all.  
Safeguarding, Health and Wellbeing Updates…
Please see below for a useful guide about Fortnite.  It shines a spotlight on what parents and educators need to know to help young players stay safe.  Fortnite’s latest season is packed with eye-catching features – but that can mean longer screen time, pressure to spend, and the lure of party chat with strangers 🎮  
From comical dance emotes to realistic weapons and big-name collaborations, Fortnite is a cultural heavyweight. But even with its PEGI 12 rating, many younger children are joining the action. The new guide explores the risks – and offers useful, clear advice for trusted adults.  Wishing everyone a happy half-term break.  We look forward to hearing all about the children’s adventures when school reopens on Monday 3^rd November.