St. Bernadette's Catholic Primary School

Coronavirus Update 22.04.20

Dear parents/carers,

I am sure this Easter period was the most unusual you will have all ever had but I do hope you and your families are keeping well given the circumstances.  I hope you enjoyed our school video: Reach for the stars and it provided you and your families with some post Easter cheer.

 

Easter reflection

Easter is a very special time for Christians when we recall the Last Supper, Christ’s Crucifixion and then his glorious Resurrection. It is traditionally a time when we discuss how Jesus, when washing the feet of his disciples, modelled “service to others.”  We use this analogy to remind us all of the importance of putting others first, being a positive influence on others and a great role model. I thank the community of St Bernadette’s for the service and support you give and will continue doing, going forward. In the midst of a huge challenge, you are all responding magnificently. In a few short weeks, life has changed dramatically for us all and we are all feeling the impact of COVID-19. At the moment every day can be challenging.  It is important we all find coping strategies and time to relax amidst the uncertainty.  One of my mantras is: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% of how you respond to it”

An article I was reading recently recommended the following tips to help well-being:

• Look after key relationships: your partner, your children and keep in regular contact with parents and grandparents, siblings, closest friends.
• Stay active. Exercise. Enjoy nature.
• Watch your diet. Try to eat/drink healthily.
• Books that have nothing to do with the current crisis and can be such a wonderful release.
• Limit your time on reading difficult news articles. Use social media responsibly.
• Listen to uplifting music/podcasts.
• Keep in touch with local residents. Offer support where you can.
• Write down your thoughts. Keep a family lockdown diary/memory book.
• Have a good sleep. Mindfulness can help you switch off.
• Remember that all crises end! See an opportunity in every setback: most people are being kinder; there is a boom in volunteering; there is more respect for others and the air is cleaner.

 

FSM

During the COVID-19 outbreak the government has committed to providing support to Free School Meal Families (FSM).  Although there has been some problems processing vouchers FSM children will receive their vouchers this week via email.  If you have not received yet, please contact us.  We have had a limited take up on new families applying for FSM but I will continue to ask anyone who thinks they are now eligible as a result of changing circumstances, including Nursery parents, to send your applications to school as soon as possible.   A successful application will ensure you can access Government funding.  Full guidance is via the red link on the school website https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk or please contact me directly to discuss further.

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have provided school with emergency funds for families who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families so please reach out if you are in need of any support financially.

 

School closure

The Government last week indicated that the current restrictions in place for lockdown would remain in place for at least another three weeks.  Hopefully during this time we will see a continued decline in new cases as a result of social distancing and self-isolation.  I appreciate the difficulties that arise as a result of our school being closed and the lockdown rules but please remain patient and please keep following the Government guidance.  When guidance changes, I will inform you at the earliest opportunity.  School remains open only for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. I would ask that if you need to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus, to contact myself, Miss Brady or school office by 3pm THURSDAY 23rd APRIL to request a place in our school for wb 29.04.20.

 

Keeping in touch

Teachers love catching up with you all and hearing what you and the children have been getting up to since school has been closed.  They will continue to call you regularly.  We understand many families are juggling parenting and work commitments so please don’t think we are checking up on you.   We know you are all doing what you can to support your children in these unprecedented times.  We are in this together so please be assured that our teachers are there for you – if you need anything at all just reach out!

 

Home learning

This week, the teachers have refreshed home learning resources via the Learning Platform ready for a new term of learning.  After a slight blip on Monday 20^th April as a result of the volume of people trying to access materials across the whole country, eschools is fully functioning again.  We have started a new term so the Topic focus for Y1-6 will be Art/Dt and for EYFS will be ‘Wonderful World’.   Please continue to engage in this learning in the coming weeks – we are fortunate to have your dedicated support in your child’s learning.  Please practice regularly the essential skills of learning (read lots; practise key spellings and phonics; handwriting and maths especially basic skills in the Y1-6 white booklets). Share your 100 reads or Maths key skills developments with your teachers and we will celebrate this via Twitter or the Learning Platform.  Thank you so much – it really does make a massive difference!  If anyone is having any individual issues regarding the learning platform please contact your child’s class teacher via their school email.

 

Cookathon

Congratulations to all the bakers out there! Mrs Whitfield was overwhelmed with the community response to our school Cookathon competition – thank you everyone who kindly donated (https://www.teamevie.org ) All entries were all celebrated via Twitter.  The 3 lucky winners as chosen by Steph (Millie’s mum) will receive £5 Amazon vouchers as a token of thanks for your participation and the runners up will receive a Team Evie wristband.

Winners:  Sophia H (Reception) for her amazing bunny cake; James W (Y6) for his NHS millionaires shortbread shared with his auntie who works on a COVID ward and the Burke sisters (Y5/Y6) for their traffic light jam tarts given as gifts to others in the community.  The runners up were: the Braye siblings (Nursery and Reception) for their biscuits; Lily W (Reception) for her cupcakes which were donated to the radiographers at the hospital and H Mullins siblings (Y3/Y6) for their rabbit cake.  Mrs Whitfield will be posting your prizes in the coming days.  Well done all!

 

Hope project-Art

We are going to have an Art project over the next two weeks to fit in with our Topic focus this term.   Please do participate if you have time:  In these unprecedented and uncertain times, we at St. Bernadette’s are always aiming to look for positivity, happiness and hope within our communities.  Using our children’s artistic abilities, we are hoping to create a ‘Wall of Hope’ across the railings at the front of school to display our children’s hopes and aspirations for the future. We would like to invite our children to create a colourful, vibrant piece of artwork to showcase their hopes and dreams for the future, which we will then display on the railings at the front of school to inspire and encourage others. Create your own picture, dream or hope for the future…anything that inspires hope and positivity would be welcome!  If your child wishes to participate, please photograph the artwork and email directly to Mrs Stoker, our Y6 teacher ([email protected] )   Mrs Stoker will tweet the picture of hope and share it with our school community via our ‘Wall of Hope’ at the front of school.  Please do not put names on the artwork but inform Mrs Stoker of the name/class your child/children are in via email.   Please ensure all entries are received by Friday 1^st May.

 

Twitter

We are trying to creatively use our school Twitter feed to share a variety of fun and factual messages; if you don’t already, request to follow us!  As we progress from Easter, we celebrate new life.  Mrs Pennick and Miss Brady will be sharing staff baby photos via Twitter!  Please join in and share your responses. This week the EYFS team photos are on @stbernadettesm.  Can you identify Miss Brady, Mrs Andrews, Mrs Hill, Mrs Harris and Mrs Maguire?  I got them all wrong!  Answers will be revealed in a few days.  Look out for more staff photos; staff prayers and maybe even another song in the coming weeks!

 

New starters

The school and parents of Reception class September 2020 children were informed last week where their Primary school allocations were.  We are delighted to welcome 25 new full time families.  We still have some Reception places available so if you know if any families seeking alternative settings please ask them to contact school.

We are also happy to inform you that we are able to offer up to 16 places of 30 hour provision in our Nursery from September 2020. These places will be offered on the criteria of age, so oldest children will get first chance to take up the places.  Please contact us Mrs Day ([email protected]) or Miss Brady ([email protected]) as soon as possible if you would be interested in taking up the 30 hour provision.

Miss Brady will be contacting both the new Nursery and Reception starters for September 2020 in May/June.

 

And finally…

 

Try to remain as positive as possible and have faith that we will rise from this crisis.   We are here for you all.  If you are concerned about anything or anyone, please contact us immediately.

God Bless,

Mr P Conway [email protected] / [email protected]

St Bernadette, Patron of our School, Pray for Us and Help Us

Blessed Nicholas Postgate, Pray for Us

 

 

Latest Official Guidance

To keep abreast of the latest Coronavirus information or to access Trust support services please refer to our school website (https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk ) and click the red link at the top of the page.

 

 

Reflection of an elder (a post war childhood)

My father and I are very close and one thing I love about him most is how he imparts his reflections of the past to help guide me through the present.  Over Easter, we were discussing via Facetime things we can learn from this current crisis.  As you read my dad’s reflection below, I am sure you too will draw many parallels with life then and now.

‘I was born in 1947. I remember food being rationed. I recall queuing in shops. What was available was basic, wholesome produce. In fact, peoples’ diets were really healthy as the meals were home cooked and made from fresh ingredients. I remember having to help my mother prepare the vegetables and I became proficient at preparing the Yorkshire pudding mix!

 My mother also taught me how to sew my shirt buttons on and I also learned to iron. Skills I learnt at that time have stood me in great stead in later life. 

The NHS was created in 1948 and from then onwards treatment for sickness has been free. I am very grateful for the treatment I have received since.  The current situation has made the public realise once again what a marvellous job all the doctors, nurses and support staff are doing at present to help us through the crisis.

Because of the shortages during the war people developed a positive community spirit. I knew well all my neighbours in the street. You would think nothing of asking to borrow basic commodities like flour or milk from someone nearby if you had run out.

We amused ourselves a lot within the home. Most people did not have TV’s until the early 1960’s. We played a lot of card games with our parents and brothers and sisters. Knockout Whist was my favourite. We played dominoes and games like Ludo and Snakes and ladders. Table tennis on the dining room table was eagerly looked forward to. Head tennis with a balloon was good fun. Football along passage way with my brother was always another great activity but not popular with the grown-ups!

We were encouraged to read. The books were not as exciting as those available now. I preferred comics like the Dandy, the Beano, the Hotspur and Charles Buchan’s football monthly.

These are indeed extraordinary times but when it has passed, I look forward to enjoying meeting my friends again in the pub, hugging my grandchildren and welcoming a new positive, kind and loving way of living.’

Frank Conway aged 73 years April 14th 2020

 

• As the national press has rightly reflected on Captain Tom’s inspirational acts and life we all need to keep reaching out to ‘elders’ in our community with renewed appreciation and respect.

 

Coronavirus Update 08.04.20

 

Dear parents, parishioners and friends of St Bernadette’s,

 

I am sure this Easter period will be the most unusual we have all ever had.  I do hope you and are families are keeping well in the circumstances.    Please continue to reach out to myself, the leadership team and the staff – we are here for you all.   We are one community and together we will emerge from this stronger than ever!

 

I am aware that people’s circumstances are constantly changing so please, if you are struggling financially in any way, I would strongly urge you to complete a FSM form (Free School Meals).  The form is available to download via the red link at the top of the school website https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk    Applications can be returned to the my school email or via our general school enquiries: [email protected]   If you would like to discuss this further or have any questions please contact school and speak to me directly.  By accessing this support, the TRUST CAN HELP YOU NOW through food vouchers/hampers!

 

For those children eligible for ‘free school meals’ but not attending school, a voucher system will be introduced wc 20.04.20. I will personally liaise with you to discuss the logistics of this arrangement.

 

Last week I talked about HOPE and my prayers were responded to via a conversation I had with the St Bernadette’s Parish SVP group this week (St Vincent de Paul Society-Turning Concern Into Action).  The SVP Parish group have offered to support a limited number of school families who are experiencing extreme hardship at this time.  I am extremely thankful for this offer of support from the SVP group and it is so heartening to see how our parish and school community can walk ‘hand in hand’ through this crisis.  If you are anxious about providing basic provisions for your family at present please contact me as soon as possible and we will endeavour to support.

 

Other financial points of note:

• Our administrators are progressing with reimbursing Year 6 parents with their Northumberland deposits. We are just awaiting refunds from various pre-organised facilities.  Individual contact with parents will be made once this has been finalised after Easter. Thank you for your patience in this matter.
• Schools debt reminders are being stalled for a few weeks but please continue to pay where you can.

 

Although there has been some recent press relating to the impact of school closures we remain closed for the foreseeable future – except for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. The safest place for your children at present is at home. I know the importance of our school being open for critical workers and their families and as a result St Bernadette’s will remain open throughout the Easter holidays.   Thank you to the whole staff team for their dedicated support of our school community.  Again, I would ask that if you need to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus, to contact myself, Miss Brady or school office by 3pm THURSDAY 8^TH APRIL to request a place in our school for wb 13.04.20 and wb 20.04.20.

 

This week, the teachers have set mainly RE work linked to Holy Week via the Learning Platform.  Please engage in this learning next week at home as we prepare for the death and resurrection of our Lord.    If anyone is having any individual issues regarding the learning platform please contact your child’s class teacher via their school email.  If you are experiencing browser issues you may want to try using Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer.  A reminder that we will not set formal work over our planned Easter break (Friday 10th April – Friday 17th April) although teachers have suggested some fun activities to keep you all busy on individual class pages!   With this in mind, as a result of our current home learning, we would love it if you did this year’s Cookathon in your own homes over the ‘Easter holidays’.    Please e-mail photos of your entries to: [email protected]  Please can all entries be returned to Mrs Whitfield, our Reception teacher who is currently on Maternity leave, by Monday 20th April. 3 lucky winners will receive £5 Amazon vouchers via e-mail as a token of thanks for your participation from Millie’s family!

Over the ‘Easter ‘break,’ where possible, try to relax.   Further formal work be set again on Monday 20th April.

As children are now accessing more online material please regularly remind children around keeping safe online and discuss and monitor positive ways of communicating with others.  Please raise any concerns regarding inappropriate online activity or communication immediately to myself or your child’s class teacher.

The following links are recommended by GOV.UK-please have a look:

• Thinkyouknow​ (advice from the National Crime Agency to stay safe online)
• Internet matters (support for parents and carers to keep their children safe
• online)
• Parent info​ (support for parents and carers to keep their children safe online)
• LGfL​ (support for parents and carers to keep their children safe online)
• Net-aware​ (support for parents and carers from the NSPCC)

Please let me know if we could be doing anything more to inform, help, support or reassure you in the coming weeks.   We will try to continue to reach out…

• Staff have contacted you again this week and they will continue to speak to you regularly to offer education support but most importantly to see that you are all safe and well.
• I will continue to write regularly to keep you abreast of national and local matters
• Our School and Trust website is refreshed regularly with support documentation and regular updates
• Twitter/Tapestry is constantly refreshed to inform and celebrate joy amidst the crisis. If you are not already following us on Twitter please send a request: @stbernadettesm
• St Bernadette’s Parish have a Facebook page. Request to become a friend to receive updates from Monsignor Hogan, Diocesan Mass links and parish notices – the group is called ‘St Bernadette’s RC Church, Nunthorpe’.   If you would like further information on this, please contact Joe Harrison, Group administrator and parishioner: [email protected]
• If you need to contact school during the COVID-19 closure and you are unable to make contact via the school number, you may also try the school emergency contact numbers which are available via the red link at the top of the school website.

As the number of coronavirus cases continue to rise worldwide, positivity is perhaps more difficult to come by. Yet, there are some reasons to be hopeful. As the pandemic has deepened, the worst of the crisis continues to bring out the best in humanity.  Some examples are:

1. We now all appreciate the simple pleasures in life: love, friendship and embracing others.
2. We all appreciate critical jobs people are continuing in spite of individual risk – thank you!
3. Countries such as Australia, China, South Korea, Spain and Italy are seeing a decline in new cases as a result of social distancing and self isolation. Keep following the Government guidance in this respect – it will come to an end quicker if we do!
4. Scientific progress continues. Several vaccines are in development, with human trials already under way.
5. Community spirit and acts of kindness are flourishing. Although coronavirus has been keeping people apart, communities have been coming together in their time of need through various means.
6. In the UK, hundreds of thousands of people have signed up to join the NHS volunteer army.

It would be remiss of me not to offer our prayers to the Prime Minister this week and all those who are suffering from the severe effects of COVID-19.  My individual and our community prayers are offered to all who are currently ill in any way.

St Bernadette, Patron of our School, Pray for Them and Help Them

Blessed Nicholas Postgate, Pray for Them

I hope that the information within this message and the attachments are helpful to you. I will update you again wb 20.04.20 or as the situation develops. Once again – thank you for all that you are doing (wherever you are) to support everyone in our school and parish community. I’d like to reiterate my thanks to the school staff and to you all for your unwavering support during this very difficult time. We have significant difficulties ahead but I have no doubt that together, we will continue to rise to the challenge.

Best wishes for Easter

God Bless,

Mr P Conway

 

Latest Official Guidance

To keep abreast of the latest Coronavirus information or to access Trust support services please refer to our school website (https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk ) and click the red link at the top of the page.

 

A lovely poem

“And the people stayed at home. And read books, and listened and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being, and were still. And listening more deeply. Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows. And the people began to think differently. And the people healed. And in the absence of people living in ignorant, dangerous, mindless and heartless ways, the earth began to heal. And when the danger passed, and when the people joined together again, they grieved their losses, and made new choices, and dreamed new images, and created new ways to live and heal the earth fully, as they had been healed.”

A retired teacher, Kitty O’Meara

NPCAT Easter Update

 

02 April 2020

Dear Parents and Carers,

As you are acutely aware all 26 schools within Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust
–NPCAT remain open across Teesside and North Yorkshire providing continuous
provision for the children of our Key Workers and all those identified by the government
when the partial closure of schools was announced.

As a Trust we feel that it is vital that we maintain in contact with you throughout these
challenging times and I hope you are appreciative of the ongoing communication from
schools both to you as parents and also with all your children. Our websites and social
media platforms are alive with wonderful examples of pupils work and uplifting messages
of support for each other and respect for our NHS and all Key Workers fighting this
pandemic.

The NPCAT term ends next Thursday 9th April and starts on Monday 20th April. We will
however continue to keep all schools open over this period and provide Free School Meals
(FSM) to all eligible pupils during this time. After the Easter break the Trust will be
participating in the government’s national FSM voucher scheme and further information
will be sent out by each school in respect of this before then. Those pupils not attending
school will naturally have no lessons set for them from 9th April until Monday 20th April.
Those pupils who will attend during the holiday period will access a more creative
programme of activities.

I want to pay my total respect for all our staff who continue to work so tirelessly for every
child and this commitment is magnified at this time with so many giving up their holiday
entitlement to ensure our children are safe.

We are rightly proud of our long, rich and unbroken tradition with over 150 years of
Catholic education in Teesside and North Yorkshire built on generations of community
determination, with everyone in the Parishes, parents, and teachers doing their best to
improve life chances for young people. I am reassured that this is evident even more so
today and thank you for your support of our wonderful school community.

As we begin Holy Week in a few short days the message of Hope that we associate with
Easter is very much to the fore.

 

Blessed Nicholas Postgate Pray for Us

 

Regards
Hugh Hegarty

CEO
NPQH / MSc / PGCCGC / B.Ed. Hons  / CTC

Coronavirus Update 01.04.20

 

Dear parents and wider family of St Bernadette’s,

During these very challenging times I will try to write weekly to update you with latest education and Government headlines.

In the last week, myself and the teachers have contacted you all to see how you are and how the children are getting on. We will continue to do this. On the whole we have been heartened by your responses. Thank you to you all for your resilience, fortitude and solidarity in a rapidly changing situation. I realise that the events taking place are unsettling for all of us.

In some way, we are all feeling worried about various things at the moment: family, finances, work, and at times, this it can be overwhelming. I want to remind you that we are here for you all. If you are concerned about anything or anyone, please contact us immediately. We are one community and together we will emerge from this. If you need us, please contact us via school or via our school leadership team: myself; Miss Brady or Mrs Pennick are available anytime for you all. In most cases, we can’t solve every problem but we can support a little and try to access support and advice where we can.

As many people’s work circumstances change because of the effects of COVID-19, Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust is aware that some families may be in need of free school meals (FSM) for the first time. I would strongly urge anyone who feels they may be eligible for FSM to complete the form attached to this letter immediately. Applications can be returned directly to me. We will process it quickly to ensure you can access support as soon as possible. By accessing this support, the TRUST CAN HELP YOU NOW through food vouchers/hampers!

Despite the current challenges, where we can, we must try to be people of hope. We must look for the good and try to be positive in all situations, despite how extreme the situation currently is. The thing that will keep us going is hope and the scientific knowledge that this time will pass. This week, we have seen hope and shards of light in many forms. We have seen hope on a national scale, the many brave people who have volunteered to support the critical work of the country. We have also seen the tireless and brilliant NHS staff and other critical workers who continue to put themselves on the front lines – I am sure, like me, you displayed your appreciation for them on your doorstep last Thursday evening. Furthermore, we see tangible examples of good in our community through the growing numbers of volunteers of local Food Banks.

The Education Secretary has confirmed that ‘Schools and other settings will remain closed for the foreseeable future – except for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers.’ I support this 100%. The safest place for your children at present is at home. However, I know the importance of our school being open for critical workers and their families. As such, I can confirm that St Bernadette’s will remain open Monday to Friday throughout the Easter holidays, including Good Friday and Easter Monday. I am grateful to the commitment of ALL our staff who, without question, continue to work in school throughout their holidays to ensure the critical workers can do their jobs. If you need to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus, please contact school via my email or phone school by 3pm THURSDAY to request a place in school next week.

This unprecedented time has led us to a ‘distance or home learning’. We don’t yet know how long schools are going to be closed for but we do know that ‘if you don’t use it, you lose it’ so I would ask that you try to practice regularly the essential skills of learning (read lots; practise key spellings and phonics; handwriting and maths especially basic skills in the Y1-6 white booklets). Share your 100 reads or Maths key skills developments with your teachers. Teachers are making fresh resources available via the Learning Platform each week. New resources will be updated each Friday during ‘term time’. Thank you so much for your dedicated support in helping your children – it makes a massive difference. Should any of you be having any issues at all at any time, please contact your child’s teacher. Please mix up formal learning on the Learning Platform with other activities such as: baking, exercise or learning new skills. We do not necessarily expect you to complete every task set – you may have days when the children do no school work and other days when they catch up – that’s fine!

Next week, the teachers will set mainly RE work linked to Holy Week via the Learning Platform. Holy Week is such an important week in school and we were so disappointed not to complete our Easter preparations in school this year. Please engage in this learning next week at home as we prepare for the death and resurrection of our Lord. Advance notice: please note we will not set work over our planned Easter break (Friday 10th April – Friday 17th April). It is important, where possible, to try to relax (both children and teachers). Therefore, further work will not be set after this Friday until Monday 20th April.

As time goes on, we are working hard to ensure that we access support for your child’s mental health. It is vital we look after each other, try to stay calm and be mentally strong. This week, a parent shared some online mental health resources which look really good for children who are worried or confused about current events. The resource covers: helpful information about what the new virus is; how to stay healthy and do your best not to pass it on; how children might feel about it and things to do at home. If you feel this would be of benefit to your child, please share with them using the following link:
https://lms.recoverycollegeonline.co.uk/mod/scorm/player.php?scoid=166&cm=6455&currentorg=articulate_rise&display=popup

Please continue to keep abreast with official school communication and support via email/Twitter/School Website/Learning Platform.

As a proud member of the St Bernadette’s community, I know that we will come through this! Despite the overwhelming challenges we are facing, we will adapt and cope as best we can. We will emerge from this even stronger.

God Bless,
Mr P Conway

St Bernadette, Patron of our School, Pray for Us and Help Us
Blessed Nicholas Postgate, Pray for Us

Latest Official Government Guidance
To keep abreast of the latest Coronavirus information or to access Trust support services please refer to our school website (https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk ) and click the red link at the top of the page.

 

A beautiful message of hope from Holy Father Pope Francis

“Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other. No matter how difficult it is…Life is good when you are happy; but much better when others are happy because of you.”
Let us all remember then that every changing colour of a leaf is beautiful and every changing situation of life is meaningful, both need very clear vision. So do not grumble or complain, let us instead remember that Pain is a sign that we are alive, Problems are a sign that we are strong and Prayer is a sign we are not alone!! If we can acknowledge these truths and condition our hearts and minds, our lives will be more meaningful, different and worthwhile!!

 

 

Coronavirus Update 25.03.20

Dear Parents, Carers, and Children,

What strange times we are living in.  Life is so challenging for us all at present because the government restrictions are tightening and changing at a rapid pace – it is vital we all adhere to these new guidelines, namely only leaving the house for essential tasks.

This week is a week I never imagined I would ever have to lead. What keeps me going through these most challenging times is the friendship of the whole staff, the Governors, the parents, the children and love of our families.  Thank you so much to the many parents who have contacted either myself or the staff to express their gratitude for all the school is trying to do to support your children, families and the local community.  Earlier this week Miss Brady and our Chair of Governors, Mrs Bilous, delivered your kind donations of food from our Food Bank (and some Easter eggs) to the families of our Christmas CAUSE campaign – thank you!  Supporting communities who need it most is our gift and the donations were gratefully received.

I hope you are all now fully accessing the learning platform.  Should any of you be having any issues at all, please contact your child’s teacher.  Already we have been delighted to hear and see the home learning from so many of you.  It has been a great pleasure to witness your children’s home learning via your communication with the staff via Twitter, Tapestry or email.  Please keep on sharing the learning of your wonderfully motivated children.  Teachers will update the ILP each Friday with a new timetable, resources and suggested activities.   As the children are using more online materials please continue to remind them about important ‘stay-safe’ advice.  With your permission we will try to share your learning via Twitter however we cannot retweet messages with your child’s name in. 

You will all be aware of the latest advice from the Government this week:

• The safest place you can be now is at home!
• Only go outside for food, health reasons or essential work
• Stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people
• Wash your hands regularly
• Do not leave your home if you have coronavirus symptoms. Use the 111 online coronavirus service if you need advice.
• Anyone can spread the virus!
• Protect the NHS. Save lives.  Stay at home! 

As a country, we all need to do what we can to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  As things stand, on Monday (30.03.20) St Bernadette’s will continue to support childcare ONLY for families of key workers.  For your own child’s safety and the safety of our key workers families, attending school should be the last resort!   All other children will need to remain at home. 

If you need to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle Coronavirus, please contact school via my email or phone school by 3pm THURSDAY.   If we believe your child is eligible for a school place next week, I will discuss logistical arrangements with you in person.  Where we are not able to offer you a place, I am extremely sorry.

More school staff are now having to self isolate as per the Government guidance and this continues to put an obvious stress on our intended provision in school, therefore our offer of support will be assessed on a weekly basis.  I can confirm next week that identified children will be cared for at St Bernadette’s school, by St Bernadette’s staff next week.

Thank you so much to ALL the key workers out there.  We must keep believing that our current challenges will pass at some point!

I know we are all going through this awful time, the stress within our lives, is at times, unbearable – the concern for our families and our children at school is always at the forefront of our minds.   You and your families are in my thoughts and prayers daily.

Please keep abreast of official school communication via email/Twitter/School Website/Learning Platform. I will regularly update you with education and Government headlines.

We are here as you need us for: prayers, provide updates, food provisions, childcare needs etc. and we will endeavour to access support where we can.

God Bless,

Mr Conway

St Bernadette, Patron of our School, Pray for Us and Help Us

 

PS Please find in our Newsletter section a letter to share with your children.

 

Latest Official Government Guidance

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

 

In these dark times, offer hope to others where you can … some thoughts on random acts of kindness

• Call a friend that you haven’t spoken to for a while.
• Tell a family member how much you love and appreciate them.
• Make a cup of tea for someone you live with.
• Arrange to have a virtual catch up with someone or a group you know.
• Arrange to watch a film at the same time as a friend and video call.
• Send a motivational text to a friend who is struggling.
• Send an interesting article to a friend.
• Reach out to call a friend, family member or neighbour who is experiencing loneliness or self-isolation.
• Give praise to your colleague for something they’ve done well.
• Donate to foodbanks.

 

Dear parents,

As you will be aware the British Government has announced that all English schools must close from Monday 23 March to help stem the spread of Coronavirus. I appreciate that school closures and the outbreak of Coronavirus has presented us all with huge challenges in our own homes, our families, our work and with our wider networks. As a country, we all need to do what we can to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus. That is why the government has given clear guidance on self-isolation, household isolation and social distancing. The most recent scientific advice on how to further limit the spread of COVID-19 is clear. If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading.

 

From Monday, attending school should be the last resort! However, the Government has announced that schools should, where feasibly possible, continue to support childcare in the coming weeks for families of key workers and all vulnerable children only. All other children will need to stay at home, so we ask that you do not send your child into school from Monday onwards. If workers think they fall within the critical categories they should confirm with their employer that, based on their business continuity arrangements, their specific role is necessary for the continuation of this essential public service.

 

Over the last 24 hours we have been inundated with requests to school to support the care of your children in the coming weeks. Thank you also to those of you who completed the Trust survey last night.

 

Firstly, please understand that we would love to keep the school open for as many children as we could, however this is not legally nor logistically possible. Unfortunately for many, this provision does not apply according to current Government’s guidelines. Under Government guidelines, (see below new link if you think this applies to you) during the period of school closure, parents who do not have jobs classed as Key Workers are expected to care for their own children. This has left school leaders in the awful position of ‘turning down’ places where jobs are not classed as ‘key’ under Government instruction. As it stands (9am on Friday) we have used the most recent criteria identified by the Government to assist us with this task. We currently understand that this will include the likes of: NHS staff, police, community support officers, prison officers, social workers, probation service staff and supermarket delivery drivers who need to be able to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus. If you have already contacted us, I will call you today. If we believe your child is eligible for a school place next week, I will discuss logistical arrangements with you in person.

 

Where we are not able to offer you a place, I am extremely sorry. I appreciate that this may cause you additional stress at what is already such a difficult time. Again, I will personally speak to all parents today who have called school to request a place in school next week. If I do not call/email by 3pm today please make contact with me. Please respect the decision we have had to make in order to protect the wellbeing of the children and staff who must attend school next week. We must all now adhere to Government instruction on social distancing and self isolation in our bid to reduce the spread of Coronavirus and without putting further people at risk.

 

Please be aware, there are several members of staff who are now having to self isolate as per the Government guidance and this puts an obvious stress on our intended provision in school, therefore our offer of support will be assessed on a weekly basis. The St Bernadette’s staff are an amazing team, who care deeply for all of your children. Like many of you in the coming weeks, as part of the Government’s request for school staff to be frontline workers, those who are fit and well, are willing to sacrifice being with their own families to support the provision of our school children where we can. I know you will all be appreciative of this. We hope to continue as long as possible to provide support for identified children in school, however there may come a time when this provision has to be centralised by the Trust. I can confirm next week that identified children will be cared for at St Bernadette’s school, by St Bernadette’s staff. I will update relevant families on a daily/weekly basis should this need to change.

General Information

 

Our Year 6 children are booked to attend Minsteracres in June 2020. Due to these very challenging times I regret that this residential will have to be cancelled. We will look into how refunds can be applied for all parents in the coming weeks.

 

Many thanks for your support in providing Easter Eggs and selling raffle tickets in recent weeks. It has been suggested by a few parents that donated eggs could be distributed through our food bank collection. If you are agreeable, I will also donate monies collected to School PTA funds. All PTA funds are spent directly on the children. A reminder that this year PTA money has been used to purchase ipads; provide further basic classroom resources; subsidise school trips and provide transport and refreshments for the Christmas pantomimes. If you would like a refund on your donated money, please contact the school office today and we will arrange this.

 

And finally,

Finally, we do not know when schools will reopen fully to all pupils. We hope to see you all again in the not too distant future. I know this will present many questions and some children/parents will be disappointed about the cancellation of future events – again I am sorry. Should anyone be personally struggling or know anyone struggling for basic provisions at this time I would ask you to directly contact school so we can help.

 

I recognise these are extraordinary times in our country, our local area and for our wonderful school. I am proud of the way our children, our staff, our parents and our Parish community is coping under unprecedented circumstances. Could I thank you for all your support, your friendship and your patience with us.

 

Please keep abreast of official school communication via email/Twitter/School Website/Learning Platform. I will regularly update you with education and Government headlines. As soon as we have an official date to re-open, we will communicate this with you.

 

Please keep in touch. We are here for you! Please keep in touch in the coming weeks with our school leadership team: myself; Miss Brady or Mrs Pennick via our emails. We are here as you need us for: prayers, provide updates, food provisions, childcare needs etc. and we will endeavour to access support where we can. A reminder all learning is available via the Learning Platform and in homework books. Teachers are happy for you to contact them to discuss and review learning until our return to school.

 

We would like to offer our very best wishes to you all until we meet again and hope that anybody affected by this unprecedented virus makes a speedy recovery.

God Bless
Mr Conway

 

Latest Official Government Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision

A message of hope from a truly inspirational leader Pope Francis:

“Tonight before falling asleep, think about when we will return to the street.
When we hug again, when all the shopping together will seem like a party.
Let’s think about when the coffees will return to the bar, the small talk, the photos close to each other.
We think about when it will be all a memory but normality will seem an unexpected and beautiful gift.
We will love everything that has so far seemed futile to us:
Every second will be precious; Swims at the sea, the sun until late, sunsets, toasts, laughter.
We will go back to laughing together.
Strength and courage.
See you soon! “

Governor Spring term 2020 Update

 

Our Governors are a dedicated group of volunteers who regularly visit school to support, monitor and challenge school performance.

 

Governor roles and responsibilities are reviewed annually and in our December meeting the following roles were established:

 

• Chair of Governors:Mrs M Bilous (Foundation Governor)
• Vice Chair:Mr J Shiel (Foundation Governor)
• Foundation Governors:Mr P Benfield; Mrs L Brady, Mr P Mullins, Mrs L Cutler, Mr M Wren
• Parent Governors: Mr J Willett and Mr S Finn
• Staff Governor: Mrs L Stoker

 

Class Governors:

Nursery: Mrs L Brady
Reception: Mrs M Bilous
Year 1: Mr M Wren
Year 2: Mrs L Cutler
Year 3: Mr J Willett
Year 4: Mr P Mullins
Year 5: Mr S Finn
Year 6: Mr P Benfield

 

Governors with monitoring roles linked to School Improvement Plan:

Leadership and Management: Mrs M Bilous and Mr J Willett
Personal Development: Mr M Wren
Behaviour and attitudes: Mrs L Brady
Quality of Education: Mr P Benfield, Mr P Mullins and Mr J Shiel
Outcomes: Mr J Shiel
Core subjects: Mr P Benfield
Foundation subjects: Mr P Mullins
Religious Education and Catholic Life of the School: Mrs L Cutler
Sex & Relationships Education: Mrs L Cutler
Special Educational Needs: Mr S Finn
Safeguarding: Mrs L Cutler
Early Years: Mrs L Brady
Website: Mrs L Brady
Safer recruitment: Mrs M Bilous
Corporate Services: Mrs M Bilous, Mr J Willett and Mr S Finn

 

• Mrs M Bilous and Mr J Shiel, our Chair and Vice Chair of Governors, liaise with the Trust central team to support Governor Induction; Health & Safety & Risk Management; Appraisal; Appeals and Concerns.

 

The full Local Management Board meet each term with a focus on Finance and Raising Achievement.

 

In the last month, we have had several Governors to school:

• Mrs Mary Bilous, our Chair of Governor, meets weekly with Mr Conway to discuss whole school developments and she visits Reception in her Class Governor role
• Mr Finn has been inducted to the role as new Parent Governor.
• Mrs Brady has met with Miss Brady to discuss EYFS developments and monitor school’s readiness for their Quality Mark assessment last half term. The Quality Mark is a nationally accredited judgement to assess a school’s provision for providing the necessary basic skills for the children in their care.
• Mr Mike Wren visited Year 1 to introduce himself as their new Class Governor
• Mr Jonathon Willett and Mr Paul Benfield have visited Year 3 and Year 6 respectively to meet the children; discuss their roles as Governors and see the fantastic work in class.

 

We thank all our Governors for their time and commitment and look forward to further visits in the next few months.

 

If anyone would like any more information about the work of Governors please approach myself or one of our Governing body.

 

Many thanks

 

Mr P Conway

 

School Council Update Autumn-Spring 2019-20

This first term has been a busy one for our School Council. Having been democratically elected into office by their peers, a boy and girl from each class has been acting on behalf of their classmates to represent their views, on a regular basis, with other children from year groups one to six.

This year’s School Council commitment has been to focus upon, not only making the lives of all that have a stake in our school better, but also in global terms, with global warming issues at the forefront of our minds. Drawing inspiration from such figures as Greta Thunberg, we have been considering how we at St Bernadette’s can make a difference ourselves. Moving on from tackling the issue of recycling paper, card and plastics, with new recycling bins and bags recently being employed in the first term, the Council has identified water waste as a new sphere of opportunity to address. The Council organised for a representative from the local water agency to lead an assembly to inform and educate us regarding water waste. From such, we are keen to promote a setting of water conservation at school and in our children’s homes. A poster competition is planned to raise awareness, with the winners’ images being chosen for display around the building.

Our councillors have been keen to further our power consumption and thus make a contribution into reducing our use of energy sources. They are actively empowered to monitor ways to conserve energy in simple ways such as turning off lights and closing doors to prevent unnecessary heat loss. The council would love to raise funds to install wind turbines or solar panels!

Regular meetings have also been a platform for all members of the school to offer their ideas, in the form of suggestion boxes, which are present in each class. From these, contemplated at every meeting, the Council has discussed the merits of numerous and creative ideas…we will keep you abreast of new actions as raised by our classes in future bulletins.

The idea of some members of the Council liaising with partner schools to share ideas and possibly collaborate in activities is currently being acted upon. The Council has been interested to further our understanding of other faiths. With this in mind visits/visitors to further a deeper understanding, tolerance and respect for other faiths are planned for the Summer term.

Each meeting throws up new ideas and ways to improve our time at St Bernadette’s school and our fantastic councillors are playing their part in making the difference!

Mr Lynn

School Council lead

March 2020 Newsletter

 

Dear Parents, Carers and Children,

It is great to be back after our February half term.

 

Coronavirus 

Thanks you for your cooperation in the light of recent updates regarding the Coronavirus. There are no reported cases of coronavirus in this area so there is no need for alarm.  Please be assured that St Bernadette’s will issue fresh updates in response to the potential risks reported across the UK.  Be assured of our continued vigilance in caring for the welfare of our children and staff.

 

Diary dates – March/Early April 2020

 

Date                                        Event

Monday 2nd March Y5/6 Reading workshop at Town Hall (am)

Monday 2nd March Y1 Phonics screening input for parents, 2.30pm

Tuesday 3rd March                 Book swap (£1 & Book donation)

Wednesday 4th March           Y1 Assembly, 9am

Thursday 5th March                World Book Day (£1 & dressing up)

Friday 6th March    Cake sale and Fun run (£1 & Cake donation)

Wednesday 11th March         Parent consultation evening, 3-6pm

Thursday 12th March              Parent consultation evening, 3-6pm

Wednesday 18th March         Y6 Assembly, 9am

Friday 27th April     Y1/2 Lenten liturgy, 9am

Wednesday 1st April              EYFS (Nursery and Reception) Lenten liturgy, 9am

Friday 3rd April       Y3-5 Lenten liturgy, 9am

Thursday 9th April  Y6 Stations of the Cross (all welcome)

Thursday 9th April Break up, 3pm (School’s Out open as normal)

Monday 20th April  Return to school (8.40am Registration)

 

Sports Activities for selected pupils

Monday 2nd March                 Y5/6 Basketball, pm

 

Friday 27th April	Y1/2 Lenten liturgy, 9am
Wednesday 1st April	EYFS (Nursery and Reception) Lenten liturgy, 9am
Friday 3rd April	Y3-5 Lenten liturgy, 9am
Thursday 9th April	Y6 Stations of the Cross (all welcome)
Thursday 9th April	Break up, 3pm (School’s Out open as normal)
Monday 20th April	Return to school (8.40am Registration)
	Sports Activities for selected pupils
Monday 2nd March	Y5/6 Basketball, pm

 

School council 

We really value the opinions of our children.  One way our children influence school improvement is through the work of the school council.  Elected Y1-6 school councillor representatives meet regularly with Mr Lynn.  An update of their activity this academic year is attached with this newsletter.

 

Curriculum videos

Mr Bourner has made 2 curriculum support videos to clarify our Reading and Times table practise.  You can view these videos on our school website in the Curriculum area.  Please continue to support us in developing these basic English and Maths skills – it really makes a difference.

 

Parking

Thank you for your efforts in parking safely around school recently.  I was recently informed of an incident at a local primary school whereby a parent was injured as a result of someone parking on a curb side.  Please ensure you prioritise our children’s safety and have an awareness of our neighbours in parking around school.

 

Baby bank

I have been asked to share the following – please support if you can:

A Baby Bank will launch on Wednesday 4th March at St Thomas More’s church hall in Beechwood. The idea is for mums and families in need to come along and pick up essential baby items and equipment – nappies, wipes, clothes, toiletries, prams, etc. It’ll run on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 10am – 12 noon. People can just drop in.  If you know of any families who are experiencing difficulties or hardship then we would really like to be able to support them.

Equally, we would be really grateful of any donations of baby items in good condition. Donations can be dropped off at St. Thomas More’s Church House or we can arrange collection. We’re on Facebook as “The Little Flower Project” and our email address is [email protected]

Many thanks in advance for any help you can give to spread the word.

 

February Events

E-safety week

On the W/C 3rd February all children across the school explored a variety of age appropriate e-safety themes.   The week comprised of an e-safety Theatre group for Y2-6 children; set e-safety themes in each class and a police presentation for parents and KS2 children.  This year’s theme was online freedom. We discussed with the children how to use social media in a safe manner and to remove complacency.

If you would like further information regarding securing your children’s technical devices please contact Mr Bourner or the school office.

 

Year 3 Assembly

Our Year 3 children presented an Assembly on ‘Love’ to coincide with Valentine ’s Day.  We heard how if we act in love we will make ourselves and others happy.  Thank you for the great turnout in what was a super confident display of song, facts and acting!

 

Mindfullness

Emma Overton from Kalma Yoga School spoke to our KS2 children on February 13^th about the importance of mental health and taught them some basic breathing techniques to help relieve anxiety and stress.

 

Y1 Emergency services visits

Y1 had several visits from our Emergency services throughout February to develop their understanding of the police, fire safety and nursing.

 

Lottos Meeting

Thank you to all the parents who came to the Nursery to Year 1 Lottos meeting last week.  We hope the Lotto flashcards will support your children’s early reading development. It was great so many of you were able to make it. If you could not make the meeting you should have received a Powerpoint of information regarding the screening test.  If you would like to know more about the Lottos please make contact with your child’s class teacher or Miss Brady.

 

PTA Valentines Disco

Thank you to the parents and parishioners who helped with food stalls for the Valentine’s disco on Thursday 13^th February. DJ Snaith entertained the children with some great modern tunes and some traditional favourites!

 

Health and Safety Inspection

St Bernadette’s had our annual Health and Safety inspection on Thursday 27^th February.  I am delighted to inform you that we received the highest recommendation from our external inspection team.

 

February Sport

Year 2/3 children have excelled themselves in recent swimming lessons.  A huge amount of certificates over a range of stokes and distances have been presented in our weekly House meetings over recent months.

 

Extended schools timetable

Once again this half term we have a wonderful range of after school clubs on offer.  We try to offer a variety of clubs over the course of the academic year for our Year 1-6 so that all year groups have regular access to different opportunities.  Currently we only offer clubs to Year 1-6.   Last week Mrs Smith, Y3 teacher and PE lead, has distribute letters for extended school clubs which take place after school, 3-4pm.  We do not distribute consent letters for lunchtime clubs except Spanish and French which have a cost and are led by an external provider.

Please ensure you inform us through the school office should your child be unable to attend a club or wishes not to attend anymore.

Thank you to the staff for giving up their time to provide such a wide range of extended school activities. Over the course of the year, we try to offer extended schools clubs for a range of year groups.  We will offer further clubs following the Easter break.

Future events

World Book Week 

World Book Day falls on Thursday 5th March 2020 and we are having a whole school themed week of fun activities.  Throughout the week, we have many activities planned and for some we would like to ask for some donations.  The fundraising as a result of the World Book week will be used to supplement a literacy provision we would like to purchase to further enhance the reading and writing experiences of our children. As a school we struggle to purchase large scale resources to support our teaching and learning and use limited available budget funds carefully to add to our current resources.  Without the request for donations for World Book week we would not be able to purchase the additional provisions we feel would really benefit our children’s literacy.

All donations are voluntary and all fundraising will be used directly to fund the literacy resources.  Thank you in advance for your support.

Parent Consultations

Parent consultations for Reception to Year 6 take place 3-6pm on Wednesday 11^th and Thursday 12^th March.  The children registered for School’s Out will be able to use the service as normal on both evenings until 6pm. Miss Brady and I will be available throughout each session for consultation.  For your information – Nursery parent consultations take place as part ‘stay & play’ sessions. If you ever need a more regular update with the Nursery staff, please make an appointment with them via the school office.

Sports Relief Day – Friday 13^th March

We will raise funds for sports Relief on Friday 13^th March.  Further details will be released next week.

 

Easter Egg Raffle

Advance notice that we will again be requesting donations of Easter eggs in the coming weeks.  Our annual Easter Egg Raffle, organised by our small but committed PTA, will be on Friday 3rd April, at 2pm – please support if you can.

We have received several cheques to fund ipads, school trips, class resources and pantomime contributions this academic year.  Without the support of PTA fundraising we would not otherwise be able to provide these for our children.  Thank you to all who support the organisation of PTA events.

 

Lenten Liturgy dates

Please come along to share in our reflective, prayerful Lenten liturgies:

Friday 27th April     Y1/2 Lenten liturgy, 9am

Wednesday 1st April              EYFS (Nursery and Reception) Lenten liturgy, 9am

Friday 3rd April       Y3-5 Lenten liturgy, 9am

Thursday 9th April  Y6 Stations of the Cross (all welcome)

 

Year 6 2019-20 Northumberland Residential (June 2019)

This year’s residential visit will take place on 17^th -19th June. All current Year 6 parents/carers will by now have received a letter providing further details.

Year 6 2020-21 – Robinwood Residential (October 2019)

The current Year 5 class will attend their Residential trip to Robinwood when they are in Year 6 in October 2019. All current Year 5 parents/carers will by now have received a letter providing further details.

 

Schools out Survey

Please could I remind those who use our School’s Out service to complete a short survey using the link below to indicate how we can continue to cater for the needs of your children and yourselves.

To access the link click:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGJZnHK2KBIhkwAOJrLRlr7fUycLDAfTgcvVgdLd0bvVsUKQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

The link will be available to complete until Friday 6th March. So we can accurately assess the results, please only complete the survey once.   Please note we are not planning any immediate changes to School’s In/Out timings but want to ascertain your thoughts. Following your feedback we will inform you of the results and keep you fully abreast of future next steps.

Governor update 

Please find attached with this newsletter, an update on our Governing Body this year and an account of recent actions.      

 

And finally,

Friday drop ins – Throughout Lent we would love to invite you to support our morning activities in class.  You are all invited to come into your child’s class each Friday in Lent, 8.30am-9.15am to listen to readers, support with times tables, support with handwriting or join in a class activity.  We look forward to seeing you in school each week over the next month.

Volunteer plea:

As a school, we have had to make significant financial savings recently as a result of the relatively modest budget income we receive.  We therefore would activity encourage any of you who have any moments spare to support school in volunteering your services to listen to readers or times tables and support in class.  If you can volunteer regularly in any capacity please contact Mr Conway, Miss Brady or the school office.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Mr.P.Conway

Head Teacher