ℯNEWS November, 22 2024
The cold weather has certainly arrived at school this week, with temperatures dropping as we head into winter. Despite the chill, it's been a positive week, with the children showing great energy and enthusiasm in all their activities.
Colder weather
As the weather begins to turn colder, we kindly remind parents to make sure children bring their hats, gloves, and scarves to school each day. These items are essential for keeping them warm during outdoor play and activities. Fresh air and outdoor play are vital to their wellbeing, even as temperatures drop. Please ensure all items are clearly labelled with your child's name to help prevent them from getting lost.
Play Rehearsal
The Juniors had their first rehearsal of The Nutcracker this week, and they did a fantastic job! They have been working hard to learn their lines and remember all the words to the songs. The children showed great enthusiasm and focus during their practice, and it was wonderful to see the progress they’ve already made. We are all looking forward to seeing their hard work come together in the final performance! We hope you are just as excited as we are and do not forget to save the date - Wednesday 11th December at 2 pm!
11+ Exams
Form Six pupils have begun to take the 11+ exams for senior school selection. During the next two weeks CHS will be hosting a number of these online exams. We wish the pupils good luck and will all endeavour to ensure they have a quiet, calm environment in which they can work.
Staff news
Miss Wilkins, Form One Teacher, has recently completed a year-long Level Five training programme in supporting children with specific learning difficulties (SpLD), including dyslexia and dyscalculia. This significant achievement is already having a positive impact on our school community. The training focused on identifying and supporting pupils with SpLD, designing effective teaching programmes, and reflecting on best teaching practices. Miss Wilkins also gained a deeper understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN) legislation, neurodiversity, and the vital roles played by key specialists.
As our Assistant SENCo, Miss Wilkins is applying her expertise to enhance her one-to-one provision sessions and collaborate more effectively with all professionals working with our children. These include our experienced teaching staff, as well as external therapists such as for Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and counselling. Together with Ms Stock, Head of SENCo, she is strengthening our approach to supporting diverse learners, ensuring that every child has access to an inclusive, high-quality education.
This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to professional development and providing the best possible support for all our pupils.
Upcoming
Daunt Book Fair
The annual Daunt Books fair is taking place this Wednesday, 27th November, offering a fantastic selection of children’s books. Parents can browse and buy before school (8:15 am –9:00 am) or after school (3:30pm – 4:00 pm), with advice available from Daunt’s experts and Mrs Walsh and Mrs Wells. The children will also get the opportunity to browse the selection. This is a perfect chance to pick up gifts or a cosy weekend read! The children are invited to bring in a maximum of £20 in a named envelope/purse to purchase books at the fair.
Community Partnership
On Friday, 6th December, Forms Four and Five will represent CHS senior choir and visit Penfold Community Hub, in partnership with Marble Arch BID, to perform festive tunes for the residents there. This special event is a wonderful opportunity for the children to share the joy of the season with the community.
In addition, as part of our annual tradition, Mrs Wells has invited all year groups to create Christmas cards, which will be gifted to the residents alongside the performances. We encourage all children to take part in this thoughtful gesture, helping to spread festive cheer.
Junior Play and Senior Choir Carol concert - 2pm
The Junior Play, starring Junior One, Form One, and Form Two, will take centre stage on 11th December, with the Senior Choir adding a magical, festive touch to the event. Parents are kindly asked to practise lines with their children at home to help them feel confident and prepared. Thank you for your support—more details will follow in due course.
House Points
Week beginning 18th November:
Sussex: 1503
Clifton: 1713
Artwork of the Week
Ilan in Form Three, for fantastic printmaking! A brilliant relief-print portrait, inspired by the Pop Art movement. Well done Ilan!
Dates for your diary
November
27th - Daunt Book Fair
28th - Virtual Coffee Morning - Reports
December
6th - Community Partnership - Form Four and Five
11th - Junior Play and KS2 carol concert - 2pm
12th - Last day of term - Half Day
January
7th - Start of term
