Coronavirus Update 17.06.20

Dear parents/carers and wider community of St Bernadette’s,

 

Motivation

Following a few conversations with parents and staff this week, as well as colleagues across other schools, I know some children are struggling for motivation at present.  If this is the case for your child, I would suggest you take a break for one week from home learning or at least just dip into the areas they are stimulated by most.  No one could ever have predicted this time.

Together we have united to try the best we can to support the children we all love:

• You (our parents) have been amazing and should be proud of how you have carried on the essential learning for your children during school closure whilst balancing work and home life – thank you, well done and do not be hard on yourselves! What you have done will ensure your children progress again at a rapid rate when we all return to school full time.
• Teaching staff (teachers and teaching assistants) have worked non-stop since lockdown – I am so proud of their love and commitment in supporting in school with key worker/year group bubbles and at home maintaining their class and leadership responsibilities.
• Our administrators have played a crucial role in the life of your school which can often go unnoticed, but in a time of such immense upheaval they have been working harder than ever to ensure the safety of staff and students.
• The children have been our rays of light and the photos/messages teachers receive really lights up their days. We have loved talking to you on the phone and hearing your informal news – like how you can now ride a bike or you are now a times table whizz!

 

Thank you Team St Bernadette’s– you are an amazing group of individuals.  Keep on going, keep on communicating with us, keep on working – it is worth the effort!

We are all desperate to have the children back but we still do not know definitively when this will be.  Personally, I am hopeful and as a school we are making plans for all children to return in September but we have to be guided by the Government guidance in this respect.

 

Video calls

In recent months, teachers have been conducting formal meetings via ‘Google Meet’ and this has been vital in the logistical organisation of school since lockdown whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.  Because of the high levels of security, this is the recommended Trust platform to hold video calls.  We are not permitted to use Zoom or similar video conferencing facilities for in-school communications.

The recent announcement from the Government is that schools will not return in full before the summer holidays.  This will obviously prolong the period many children will have missed school.  We want to stay connected with you and staff have tried so hard to maintain children’s enthusiasm through videos, messages, work and calls – I know you have all appreciated this.   This week Mr Bourner, our IT lead, has been exploring ways for each teacher to arrange a ‘video meet’ with each class.  We hope to facilitate a whole class video invite in the coming weeks.  Depending on its success and the period of time children are not in school, this video chat could progress from an informal, fun catch up to some formal teaching opportunities.  The logistics of a ‘Google meet’ with each class, once finalised, will be communicated.

 

Year 1 return!

What a fine return our Year 1 children have made this week.  We have missed their bouncy entries to school – how you have grown!  You have been so mature in saying goodbye to your parents on a morning and adapting to the new layout of the classroom.  You are resilient little human beings and we are very proud of you!

Returning groups

• This week, we are receiving Year 1, Year 6 and children of critical workers only in school.
• We have not set a date for children in Nursery and Reception to return as yet.
• There is no clear directive as yet to return children in other year groups but as this changes we will inform you immediately.

To manage social distancing we would like children due in school to arrive/depart at the agreed staggered times.  Year 6: 830am/2.35pm; Year 1: 8.45am/2.15pm and Key workers 9am/3pm.  Only in exceptional circumstances can a child be in school before/beyond these hours.  Mr Conway/Miss Brady must authorise these cases prior to commencement of each week (where agreed normal charges will apply).

A reminder that it is expected that all children in school wear freshly cleaned school uniform daily (no tie necessary); trainers are fine as there will be regular outdoor provision in this interim period.  No protective face masks are permitted for children. Please limit all additional items to school eg no PE kit; packed lunches if required; water bottle (only water allowed); coat if necessary; no bags if possible.

 

Packed lunches

Please note that our school kitchen service will resume cold packed lunches again for anyone who would prefer a school packed lunch.  Please let us know by Wednesday each week if your child will require a school packed lunch.  Please email [email protected]  Key Stage 1 children and those on free school meals can receive a school lunch for free. The usual charges will apply for other children.

 

Key workers

The definition for key workers has remained unchanged.  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 18^th JUNE to request a place in our school for wb 22.06.20.  Children may only come to school if you have first authorised this with Mr Conway/Miss Brady.

 

RSE (Relationships and Sex Education)

Next week (wb 22^nd June) we will share appropriate Relationships and Sex Education resources via the learning platform.  Children in Y1 or Y6 will also receive this input in school.  If your child is at home, please cover the aspects outlined on the individual class pages.

As part of their ‘Journey in Love’ week, Year 5 and Year 6 will be able to view a Puberty video.  The video is available on request for parents in Y5/6.  I would encourage all Y5/6 parents to watch the video with their children. This, along with the teaching resources, outlines how their bodies change during puberty, what menstruation is and how babies are born.

 

General notices

 

Facebook

We now have an open Facebook page (St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Nunthorpe).  Initially this will be used to share communications and become an outward looking face for the school.  It will evolve over the coming months.  We will not share any pictures of children via this medium unless we gain your consent.  When we all return to school we will review all our various platforms and issue new guidance and agreements in relation to them. Please check out our new page and share feel free to share information with friends: ‘St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Nunthorpe’.

 

FSM

Those in receipt of FSM vouchers will be receiving your weekly voucher this week as normal. If anyone’s circumstances have changed and would like to see if they are are eligible for Government funding please contact me directly.

 

SVP support

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have provided school with emergency funds.  I have vouchers in school available for any families (FSM or not) who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families.  Please reach out if you are in need of any support financially and we will help immediately. 

 

Reading book sale

Several parents in EYFS/KS1 have been asking whether we could send some school reading books home during the period of school closure.  Unfortunately, it is not possible to share books at present between houses.  On the wc Monday 22nd June, Mrs Harris will display books we no longer require in school each day next week on the grass area at the front of school.  The books were all books previously used as part of our banded scheme to develop early reading (Reception and Year 1).  If you would like any of these books please call by school at a safe time of your convenience or have a look if you are dropping off the children.  Please collect the books using the gloves provided and keep them.  You can collect as many books as you want.  Please do not return them to school.  If you want to, you can leave a small donation for the books.  Any monies raised will be used as part of our purchasing of new resources.

Thank you for the donations for our Literacy developments in recent months (World Book Day and Run for Reading).  We have already purchased an £800 planning resource and this week Mrs Harris was able to order our first set of new Oxford Reading Tree EYFS/KS1 reading books.  Without your support these purchases would not have been possible through our budget.  Thank you!  Our early reading resources (Reception – Year 2) need a complete overhaul and we are grateful for your ongoing support.  Our parentpay tab for Reading will remain open as we plan to have further fundraising events and make further purchases next academic year.

 

Virtual Sports week (wc 15th June)

This week is ‘Virtual Sports week!’   What a great start you have all made – well done!

 

As we are not able to partake in our annual Sports day in school, Tees Valley Active are trying to ensure we can all still enjoy a series of sporting activities in June.  The clip below demonstrates the challenges for you to practise at home individually or as a family: https://www.teesvalleysport.co.uk/young-people/school-games/virtual-school-games/

 

We would really like you ALL to get involved to show how sporty we all are. The more entries the better…if you log your scores online our school will progress up the leaderboard!

Send your own individual/family clips to Mrs Smith, our PE lead, who will display your efforts on Twitter (please send either photos or short video clips with the name of your child and an explanation of their activity to:  [email protected]  )

This week, our PE work this year (led by Mr Bourner in Autumn and Mrs Smith from the Spring term) has been recognised through an ‘ongoing commitment award’ from the Tees Valley Schools Games organisers for the Autumn and Spring term.  As ever, I am grateful to all our staff for their commitment to providing a variety extra curriculum PE support.

And finally,

Let us continue to act kindly and be invigorated by the positive lessons learnt during lockdown with a greater appreciation of each other and grateful for the love we find within our community.  #bethebestyoucanbe

 

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

Coronavirus Update 10.06.20

 

Dear parents/carers and wider community of St Bernadette’s,

 

Congratulations

I am delighted to inform you that our Year 1 teacher Mrs Mannion has been appointed as Assistant headteacher of St Therese of Lisieux, Ingelby Barwick.  This post is a promotion for Mrs Mannion and reward for the work and impact she has had in her teaching and leadership duties at St Bernadette’s in the last 10 years.  We will be sad to lose her skills but wish her all the best in her new role which starts in September. Please be reassured that she will maintain her dedication to our current Year 1 class until the end of this academic year and is looking forward to welcoming them back next week.  We are in the process of appointing a new teacher and will inform you in due course of this.

 

Facebook

We now have an open Facebook page (St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Nunthorpe).  Initially this will be used to share communications and become an outward looking face for the school.  It will evolve over the coming months.  We will not share any pictures of children via this medium unless we gain your consent.  When we all return to school we will review all our various platforms and issue new guidance and agreements in relation to them. Please check out our new page and share feel free to share information with friends: ‘St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Nunthorpe’.

 

School Fence!

We are very proud of how our school fence has been received by the local community – The Northern Echo and The Evening Gazette featured the article last week and this week the Mayor, Andy Preston, came to visit school to discuss how we have tried to spread the message of hope throughout this uncertain time.  If you haven’t seen the article please click the link below:

https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/local/teesside/18496802.nunthorpe-pupils-create-wall-hope/

 

Year 6 return!

How wonderful it has been to see our Year 6 children join our regular key worker children this week.  We have missed their happy faces and we look forward to spending the remaining weeks of the term together.  School is different but the welcoming face of the school is not!  The Year 6 class have already demonstrated their resilience and adaptability to the new safety systems we have in place and we cannot wait for Year 1 to join us next week!

 

Class videos

Year 1 and Year 6 classes have videos which have been shared with parents and are available to view on our Twitter and Facebook page.   This videos displayed how we will be entering school, the new classroom set up and other logistical information.

 

Returning groups

• This week, we will only be receiving Year 6 children and children of critical workers in school.
• From Monday 15th June, we will be receiving Year 1, Year 6 and children of critical workers in school.
• We have not set a date for children in Nursery and Reception to return as yet.
• There is no clear directive as yet to return children in other year groups but as this changes we will inform you immediately.

To manage social distancing we would like children to arrive at the agreed staggered times.  Only in exceptional circumstances can a child be in school beyond these hours.  Mr Conway/Miss Brady must authorise these cases prior to commencement of each week (where agreed normal charges will apply).

Finally, it is expected that all children in school wear freshly cleaned school uniform daily (no tie necessary); trainers are fine as there will be regular outdoor provision in this interim period.  No protective face masks are permitted for children. Please limit all additional items to school eg no PE kit; packed lunches if required; water bottle (only water allowed); coat if necessary; no bags if possible.

 

Packed lunches

Please note that our school kitchen service will resume cold packed lunches again from 15^th June for anyone who would prefer a school packed lunch.  Please let us know by Wednesday each week if your child will require a school packed lunch for the week beginning 15th June.  Please email [email protected]

Key Stage 1 children and those on free school meals can receive a school lunch for free. The usual charges will apply for other children.

 

Key workers

The definition for key workers has remained unchanged.  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 11^th JUNE to request a place in our school for wb 15.06.20.  Children may only come to school if you have first authorised this with Mr Conway/Miss Brady. If you do not fulfil the criteria for key workers we will unfortunately have to decline a place for your child.

 

Home learning

Resources for home learning have again been updated for all year groups this week.   The work the returning children are doing will be similar to the work we set on the class pages. If your children are remaining at home, we will keep in touch.

 

RSE (Relationships and Sex Education)

This year as we are not all in school, we will be sharing appropriate Relationships and Sex Education resources via the learning platform on wc 22^nd June.  Children in Y1 or Y6 will also receive this input in school.  As we are not all in school this year, we are asking you to cover the aspects outlined on the individual class pages.

As part of their ‘Journey in Love’ week, Year 5 and Year 6 will be able to view a Puberty video.  The video is  available on request for parents in Y5/6.  I would encourage all Y5/6 parents to watch the video with their children. This, along with the teaching resources, outlines how their bodies change during puberty, what menstruation is and how babies are born.

If anyone would like to discuss the content of the ‘Journey in Love’ input or any of the above please do not hesitate to make contact with Mr Conway or Miss Brady.

 

General

WOW!  Thank you all the kind donations for our ‘Run for Reading’ fundrasier.  We have rasied over £900 so far.  The PTA have also donated an additional £1000.  Mrs Harris is really excited to spend this on new books….as the monies raised means we can purchase our first round of new EYFS/KS1 individual reading books.  Thank you so much! If anyone else would like to make a donation please do so via Parentpay or drop your cash donation into school.

 

FSM

Those in reciept of FSM vouchers will be receiving your weekly voucher this week as normal. If anyone would like to see if they are are eligible for Government funding please contact me directly.

 

SVP support

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have provided school with emergency funds.  I have vouchers in school available for any families (FSM or not) who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families.  Please reach out if you are in need of any support financially and we will help immediately. 

 

And finally,

Virtual Sports week (wc 15th June)

Next week is ‘Virtual Sports week!’   As we are not able to partake in our annual Sports day in school, Tees Valley Active are trying to ensure we can all still enjoy a series of sporting activities in June.  The clip below demonstrates the challenges for you to practise at home individually or as a family: https://www.teesvalleysport.co.uk/young-people/school-games/virtual-school-games/

We would really like you ALL to get involved to show how sporty we all are. The more entries the better.  There are  2  Challenges for you to try per day, all have varying degrees of difficulty so there is something for everyone: Standing Long Jump, Speed Bounce, Bucket ball, Target battle, Shuttle run, Speed Pass, Agility Course and Boccia Throw.

Send your own individual/family clips to Mrs Smith, our PE lead, who will display your efforts on Twitter (please send either photos or short video clips with the name of your child and an explanation of their activity to:  [email protected]  )

 

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

Year 1 and Year 6 logistical arrangements for school reopening

 

 

Dear Year 1 / Year 6 parents,

 

Thank you for your continued effort in supporting your child working from home.

From the recent letter sent to you from Hugh Hegarty, CEO, about the wider opening of schools, earlier in the week, we are now in a position to set out further logistical details and reminders. It is important that you understand how the school day will look like for your child and the steps we have to take to keep all children and staff safe.

 

Vulnerability

If your child is clinically extremely vulnerable, or living with someone who is in this group, they should not come back to school and should continue home learning. If your child is clinically vulnerable (but not clinically extremely vulnerable), you should follow medical advice to decide if they should come back to school. Please refer to government guidance for further details of these groups.

 

School Opening Times

In this interim period, to socially distance, returning groups will have staggered start and finish times:

• Y6 (from wb 08.06.20)

Start time: 8.30-8.40am

Finish time: 2.35-2.45pm

• Y1 (from wb 15.06.20)

Start time: 8.45-8.55am

Finish time: 2.15-2.25pm

 

School Arrival and Pick up Arrangements

Parents and pupils must observe social distancing measures and remain two metres apart from other groups.

• To manage social distancing guidance we would like prompt drop off and collection times. Please leave the school promptly and avoid conversations with others within school grounds.

• Parents/children are encouraged to walk/cycle/scoot to school where possible and only one parent should drop off/collect their child. If at all possible, other siblings should not attend at drop off and pick up times. If there is absolutely no alternative, then they must remain beside their parents. Toddlers should remain in their pushchairs and not be allowed to roam.
• Children in Year 1 and year 6 will be collected by a teacher from the main gate.  Children will need to come into school via the gate independently.  Parents will not be allowed through the gate or admittance to the school office.
• There are lines and arrows on our paths as a reminder to distance from each other – more than one family in each section should be avoided.  Parents must not congregate and strictly distance themselves.
• Children must be collected by a designated adult and Y6 children are not permitted to walk to/from school alone.  Without this measure, there is an increased risk of social contact outside of school.
• It is not possible to run our Schools In and Out service in this interim period.  To manage staffing ratios, adhere to social distancing guidance and keep children separated safely it would be logistically very difficult to run our wraparound service. Only in exceptional circumstances can a child be in school beyond the hours indicated above. Mr Conway/Miss Brady must authorise these cases prior to commencement of each week (where agreed normal charges will apply).             

 

Organisation of Children in school

Pupils will be divided into small groups or ‘bubbles’ with dedicated members of staff for that group. The teacher will be supported by another teacher or teaching assistant. There will be no whole school gatherings of any kind. Pupils will be assigned their own toilet areas and hand washing facilities.

 

Behaviour

We have had to adapt our current behaviour policy to the current situation. Our usual Code of Conduct and standards of behaviour are expected.  Expected behaviours will be carefully explained and children will receive regular reminders about our Code of Conduct.  Any child putting others at risk will be sent home immediately. This includes consistent refusal to follow social distancing measures and other anti-social behaviour.

 

Attendance

Normal protocol will be resumed for year groups required back into school. Daily registration will take place for each session that the child is required to attend school and will be in accordance with the timings of the revised school day.  It is important that children arrive at school on time.  This will allow for the precautionary measures that have been put into place to be effectively managed and with minimal disruption to the child’s learning.

 

Break times and lunch times

Breaks will be staggered to enable social distancing. More than one group will be allowed to play outside but only within their designated areas. Activities will be extremely limited; for example no football games or activities where children are in close proximity. There will be limited play equipment available and many activities will focus on skill development.

 

Catering arrangements

Initial catering arrangements over the coming weeks will be a “grab bag” cold packed lunch offer from our catering provider.  There will not a return to offering a hot meal provision until we receive further guidance on how we can prepare and deliver food in adherence to government guidelines on social distancing.

Please let us know if you require a school packed lunch otherwise we will presume you are providing your own packed lunch.  Year 1 children are entitled to a free school meal under the universal free school meals offer.   Children in Year 6 can have a school meal however normal charges will apply.

Where Year 1 and Year 6 pupils are currently in receipt of a weekly free school meal voucher, we are expecting the Government to stop the weekly voucher scheme.  I will confirm this once I have definitive information.

 

Use of Equipment

Pupils will not be permitted to share resources. Materials and surfaces will be cleaned and disinfected more frequently in school.

 

Uniform and items from Home

On return to school our normal standards and expectations will be expected for behaviour and work, therefore all children are asked to wear freshly cleaned school uniform each day (so no need for PE kits).  Comfortable shoes or trainers suitable for outdoors are permitted and no tie is necessary in this interim period

Where possible we would like you to provide stationary for the children (Small pencil case including only: pencil, coloured pencils, ruler, rubber, glue stick).  School has stationary where this is not possible.  Stationary will stay in school until the end of term, will be used by individual children only and be cleaned regularly.

Children must not bring book bags as we are unable to send books home at the moment. No personal items should be brought to school other than a coat, sun hat and water bottle. Sun cream should be applied before arriving.  Children should not need additional suncream but will have to apply it themselves if necessary.

 

Learning Provision

Because of social distancing, staff are restricted in the range of learning activities that they are able to provide at this time. Staff will of course do their best but this is not going to be school as we know it.

 

Contact with School

All contact with school should be via telephone and email. Please do not visit the office unless absolutely necessary. Please adhere to all measures in place, particularly with regard to drop off and pick up times.

Please ensure that we have your most up to date contact details and that you are able to be contacted throughout the day.

 

Pupil illness

IF IN DOUBT DO NOT SEND!   If your child becomes unwell at school, you will be asked to collect them immediately. We therefore need you to be contactable at all times. Your child will be kept in isolation with a member of staff while we wait for your arrival – you may drive into the school car park to collect a child who is unwell. If coronavirus is suspected, the staff member will be wearing a disposable apron, gloves and mask. Any child or staff member with symptoms consistent with coronavirus will need to isolate for seven days and their fellow household members for fourteen days.

Where a staff member or child tests negative for coronavirus, they may return to school and their household members may end their isolation. Where a staff member or child tests positive for coronavirus, the rest of the group (bubble) will be sent home and asked to isolate for fourteen days.

 

Social Distancing Measures

As a school, we are doing all we can to minimise risk and operate a safe learning environment.

 

Safety and handwashing

Staff and pupils will be encouraged to wash their hands more frequently which instructions displayed within all toilet rooms.  Pupils will be encouraged to catch and bin any coughs and sneezes.  The water fountains will be out of use so please provide water bottles for your children (Still WATER only- no juice allowed).

 

And finally,

In order to protect the well-being and safety of our staff and pupils, it is paramount that everyone follows the social distancing measures as outlined by the government.

 

With thanks for your support

Mr P Conway

Coronavirus Update 03.06.20

 

Dear parents/carers and wider community of St Bernadette’s,

 

I do hope you enjoyed your half term and managed a few relaxing days with the family last week.  In the past few months, you have been put in a very challenging situation. There are not many generations of children who have faced such a tricky set of circumstances. You have faced uncertainty, apprehension and a huge change in the way you learn. I am proud of your positivity and role modelling – thank you.

 

In the space of a single weekend in March, you made the transition from classroom learning to working from dining room tables; you went from spending your days with your friends on our busy playgrounds, to being limited to a single household for weeks on end. We have all missed our friends and family and we have all missed you.

 

You have been challenged, yet you continue to shine and show how fantastic you are. At times, you may have struggled, but you have come together with your families and we will be all the stronger for it!

 

Good News

Over half term I am delighted to inform you that Mrs Whitfield, our Reception teacher, had a baby girl.  Mr and Mrs Whitfield is doing really well and enjoying time at home with her second daughter, Jessica.  Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Whitfield!

 

School reopening update

Last week the Government confirmed that schools are now safe to reopen.  We must see this as a positive step towards welcoming a return to ‘normality’.  I wish everyone could come back, but this can’t happen yet. The Government ambition remains to bring all primary year groups back to school before the summer holidays but we will need to closely monitor this in the coming weeks and we will communicate further updates as necessary on the return of any other year groups.

The way in which the return to wider groups of children will be managed at St Bernadette’s is as follows:

• This week, we have only been receiving children of critical workers in school.
• On Monday 8th June, we will only be receiving Year 6 children and children of critical workers in school.
• From Monday 15th June, we will be receiving Year 1, Year 6 and children of critical workers in school.
• We have not set a date for children in Nursery and Reception to return as yet.
• There is no Government directive as yet to return children in other year groups.

School will feel different for those children who are returning: there will be no assembly in the hall, we will be staying in our smaller groups and we will not be allowed to wander around the school. What will not change will be the welcoming face of our school. Myself and all the staff are looking forward to seeing the children who are returning.

School has in place a robust risk assessment and logistical arrangements for Y1 and Y6 parents will be communicated in a separate parentmail.

 

Key workers

The definition for key workers has remained unchanged.  On Monday 8th June, school be only be open 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 4^th JUNE to request a place in our school for wb 08.06.20.  If you do not fulfil the criteria for key workers we will unfortunately have to decline a place for your child.

Key worker timings collections may be slightly more flexible as per current arrangements or if there are siblings in Y1/Y6 but to manage social distancing we would like where possible children to arrive at 9am and be collected at 3pm.  Only in exceptional circumstances can a child be in school beyond these hours.  Mr Conway/Miss Brady must authorise these cases prior to commencement of each week (where agreed normal charges will apply).

Finally, it is expected that all children in the key worker group wear daily freshly cleaned school uniform (no tie necessary); black trainers are fine as there will be regular outdoor provision.  Please limit all additional items to school eg no PE kit; bring packed lunches; water bottle (only water allowed); coat if necessary; no bags if possible. Please note that our school kitchen service will resume cold packed lunches again from 15^th June for anyone who would prefer a school lunch.

 

Home learning

Resources for home learning have again been updated on Monday 1^st June for all year groups.

The children returning to school will be doing school work: it will be exciting and interesting; they will spend a lot of time outside. Don’t worry if you are staying at home; the work the returning children are doing will be similar to the work we set on the class pages.

If your children are remaining at home, we will keep in touch.

 

RSE (Relationships and Sex Education)

Each year we have an annual Journey in Love week in school.  This is part of our Sex and Relationships Curriculum.  All Primary Schools are required to teach RSE (Relationships and Sex Education).  Unfortunately as we are not all in school at present we have not had it this year.  “Journey in Love”  is the current recommended teaching for Relationship and Sex Education in Catholic Primary Schools.  Nursery and Reception predominantly focus on celebrating themselves and the wonder of God’s world.  Year 1/2 focus on how we are part of a family and of wider communities.  Year 3/4 encourages the children to begin thinking about how can live good lives and celebrate our uniqueness.  In Years 5/ 6 a particular emphasis is on health education, as many children experience puberty at this age. Our current RSE Policy is available to view via our website.

This year as we are not all in school, we will be sharing appropriate resources via the learning platform on wc 22^nd June.  Children in Y1 or Y6 will also receive this input in school.  As we are not all in school this year, we are asking you to cover the aspects outlined on the individual class pages.

As part of their ‘Journey in Love’ week, Year 5 and Year 6 will be able to view a Puberty video.  The video will be available on request for parents in Y5/6.  I would encourage all Y5/6 parents to watch the video with their children. This, along with the teaching resources, outlines how their bodies change during puberty, what menstruation is and how babies are born.

If anyone would like to discuss the content of the ‘Journey in Love’ input or any of the above please do not hesitate to make contact with Mr Conway or Miss Brady.

 

Virtual Sports week (wc 15^th June)

This year, as we are not able to partake in our annual Sports day in school, Tees Valley Active are trying to ensure we can all still enjoy a series of sporting activities in June.  The clip below demonstrates 8 challenges for you to practise at home individually or as a family.  Send your clips to Mrs Smith, our PE lead, who will display your efforts on Twitter (please send either photos or short video clips with the name of your child and an explanation of their activity to:  [email protected] ) 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlUXmU9krvE

 

Half term challenge!

Mrs Harris displayed numerous pictures on our Twitter feed of you ‘Running for Reading books’ over half term.  Thank you to all who took part.  Whether you raised £1 or £200 all donations have been gratefully received.  I will confirm the total raised next week but as always we have been overwhelmed with your kindness – THANK YOU!

If any monies have not been donated to school yet please can they done via ParentPay: ‘Run for reading books’. Alternatively, if any monies can be safely dropped off at the school office this week in a sealed envelope with your name/child’s name on it would be really appreciated.  If you cannot safely drop off money in early June, please just contact school to inform us of money raised and drop it off whenever you are able.

 

‘Recreate a book cover challenge!’

What great contributions we have had to our reading project – thank you.  Mrs Stoker will adorn the photos on Twitter and in our library as a lasting memory of our school love of reading!

 

‘Y1-6 Times Tables Rock Stars Tournament’

Thank you for all your efforts on ‘Rockstars’ before half term – WE WON against our friends at St Augustine’s!   In all seriousness though well done to all the children who are trying to improve their times tables skills.

 

Class videos

All classes have now made videos as keepsakes for the children.  We have shared these videos on our closed platforms with the permission of our parents but please do not share these videos on your own social media platforms.  We hope you enjoyed them!

 

General

FSM

Those in reciept of FSM vouchers will again be receiving your weekly voucher this week. If anyone would like to see if they are are eligible for Government funding please contact me directly.

 

SVP support

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have provided school with emergency funds.  I have vouchers in school available for any families (FSM or not) who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families.  Please reach out if you are in need of any support financially and we will help immediately. 

 

Hampers

The kindness you display never fails to surprsie me; this week we dropped off two large hampers donated by one of parents to St Mary’s Primary, Grangetown.  Thank you to all who have displayed random acts of kindness to our in-school staff or for our wider community in recent weeks.

 

Transition (Y6-7)

In the recent weeks and over the coming weeks, Mrs Stoker is in contact with secondary school transition partners.  This is to ensure that the Year 6 still have as smooth a transition as possible. It is unclear whether children will visit the schools in person but we have passed on academic achievements, and we will share our opinions of the children as individuals (their attitudes to school, behaviour, attendance and homework record). If you are in Y6, no matter how nervous you get at the prospect of joining a new school, remember that you overcame COVID-19 and you are unstoppable!

 

New starters (September 2020)

Parents of children due to start in Nursery or Reception have been contacted via email this week.  If you require any additional information about your child starting our school in September, please make contact directly.  Please return relevant forms to the school office asap.

We currently have some additional spaces in some year groups so if you know anyone looking for new schools please ask them to contact myself or Miss Brady.

 

Uniform

For those of you looking to purchase new uniform for September please visit our school website: (order directly from our school website)  https://www.motif8.co.uk/schoolwear/primary-schools/st-bernadette-s-primary.html

One of our Grandparents supplies iron on name lables for uniforms and shoes.  If any parents are interested in enquiring about this please contact: [email protected]

 

New roles 2020-21

Next year, I have been appointed to support the Trust Standards team on a part time basis.   The role is initially a secondment for a year to begin in September 2020.  I will remain substantive Headteacher.  Miss Brady will act up as Head of school on the days I am not in school.  I have confidence in my leadership team and the wider staff at St Bernadette’s that the exceptional Catholic life and the achievements of everyone will continue to thrive.   My Standards role will involve visiting all Trust Primary Schools. There are excellent schools, leaders and teachers in the Trust and part of the Standards role will be ensuring the excellent practice in place is cascaded.  I would expect this to have a positive impact on St Bernadette’s.

 

And finally,

In our weekly newsletters, I promised you that we will be together again. I still don’t know when the whole school will reopen, but I make this promise to you again….it will happen!  We are making the first tentative steps towards that rainbow…hopefully the storm is passing. I cannot wait to see you all back in school, whenever and however that may be. In the meantime, keep safe and continue looking out for one another.

Be kind, be hopeful and reach out to the people who love you!

 

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

I came across this lovely YouTube clip recently which you may want to share with your children: ‘While we can’t hug.’  It is an emotional but uplifting story that offers the many things we can do to continue expressing our love for those we miss most.

https://youtu.be/2PnnFrPaRgY

 

 

Monday 01st June 2020

 

Dear Parents and Carers,

 

As you will appreciate, preparations for the wider opening of schools has taken quite some time in order to consult, plan and prepare and our staff have been working hard to ensure school is as safe as possible. 

 

Each of our schools will be operating within its own unique circumstances in relation to the needs of families, available staff and the constraints of the school buildings. With this in mind, we have decided what is best for our schools, the priority being the safety of all our pupils and staff. 

 

As a Trust we are very proud to have kept all our 26 schools open for the children of Key Workers and vulnerable children throughout the lockdown period.

 

I am acutely aware that nothing can compare to coming into school and learning in a classroom setting . We are eager to begin bringing our children back as soon as it is safe to do so.

 

As a Trust we are constantly reviewing this situation and we have not set out that any particular age group will not return in advance of the summer holidays. Given the considerations set out below we have determined that nursery and reception will not be included in the first intake of pupils as part of the first intake of “wider opening”.

 

As you are aware, many local authorities have set out a blanket “no opening” message whilst many Trusts and local authorities have adopted a phased and staggered approach, indeed many have followed the same phasing plan of NPCAT.

 

Listening carefully to the concerns of our parents and staff, accounting for medical advice and trade union input and after taking into account the initial findings of our own comprehensive risk assessment, we have decided to begin planning for a staged approach to reopening our schools.

 

In common with many teachers and educationalists, we had concerns about bringing the very youngest age groups back at this point in the light of the requirements for:

• social distancing; 
• emotional challenges of bringing young children into such a restrictive environment;
• the nature of the learning environment i.e. without soft play equipment or seating; 
• hygiene requirements / considerations for children and staff;
• spacing requirements in playgrounds and corridors. 

For these reasons, our nursery and reception children will not be returning at this time. However, as set out in previous correspondence, these arrangements could be reviewed over the course of the term. 

 

We will commence our phased, staggered “wider opening” on June 8 with Year 6 joining the children of Key Workers. Year 1 pupils will have the opportunity to join them on June 15.  

 

It is also essential to stress the desire to meet the need for phased return of children and ensure their health and wellbeing.

 

I do accept the challenges faced by parents at this time and the decisions set out are not taken lightly. Our current plans account for a safe and staggered approach thus ensuring stability and safety for pupils, staff and families at this most challenging of times. We will monitor and review our measures and notify you of any increased provision.

 

Yours sincerely  

 

Hugh Hegarty

 

Hugh Hegarty CEO 

NPQH | M.Sc. | PGCCGC | B.Ed. Hons.| CTC 

Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust

School reopening considerations (June 2020)

 

Further to recent press regarding schools reopening, we thought it would be helpful to explain what we are doing in school. From the week commencing Monday 1st June the Government asked schools to consider welcoming back children in Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6.  As well as this,  schools have been asked to continue to provide education in school to children of critical workers. It is the Government’s ambition to then bring all primary year groups back to school before the summer holidays – however, this will be kept under review.

The definition for key workers has remained the same.  As a country, we all need to do what we can to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  From Monday 1st June, St Bernadette’s will continue to support childcare for families of key workers.  If you need to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus, please contact school.   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.  All other children will need to remain at home. 

 

Staggered cohort returns June 2020 (Y1/Y6/Key workers)

The way in which this return will be managed at St Bernadette’s is as follows:

• On Monday 1st June, we will only be receiving children of critical workers in school
• On Monday 8th June, we will only be receiving Year 6 children and children of critical workers in school
• From Monday 15th June, we will be receiving Year 1, Year 6 and children of critical workers in school.
• We have not set a date for children in Nursery and Reception to return as yet.  This initial period will be monitored and a return of Nursery and Reception children will be considered following a review of our returning Year 1 and Year 6 children.
• There is no Government directive as yet to return children in other year groups.  

Attendance (as defined by the Government May 2020)

• The Government would like all children in eligible groups to attend school (where there are no shielding (extremely critically vulnerable)  concerns for the child (or their household).
• If a child/young person or staff member lives in a household with someone who is extremely clinically vulnerable, as set out in the guidance on shielding, it is advised they only attend an education or childcare setting if stringent social distancing can be adhered to.  
• If a child, young person or a member of staff lives with someone who is clinically vulnerable (but not clinically extremely vulnerable), they can attend their education or childcare setting.  
• Parents should always follow medical advice if their child or a family member is in a vulnerable category.
• You must inform school if your child is due to return in June (Y1/Y6) but you are keeping your child at home (full time/part time).  The Government have advised that they will not be issuing fines for non attendance at this stage, however they are encouraging all children who can to attend. 
• If your child is unwell and it is necessary for your child to be absent from school, please follow our usual school absence procedures, namely call us before 9.15am stating the reason for absence.   
• To protect the safety of our staff and children, you must keep your child off school if they or a member of their household has symptoms of coronavirus and follow the self-isolation guidelines whilst awaiting a test and the results.  

Please can parents of all children in Year 6 and Year 1 please inform us wb 1st June if they do not intend sending their children to school so we can plan accordingly.  You have the right to change your mind at any point but please keep us informed.  ([email protected] )

 

General safety

• To protect each and every child and adult in school we will follow Government guidance regarding self-isolation.  It is expected where symptoms of COVID-19 are apparent children/staff are booked into a test clinic.
• PPE will be used by staff for intimate care but this is generally not recommended in educational settings.  Children will not be allowed to wear face masks in school.  
• Our cleaning staff have continued to work throughout the partial school closure and we have conducted a thorough deep clean of all areas of the school.  On return to school we will have extensive cleaning systems throughout the day.  Additional hygiene measures will be insisted upon for all pupils, staff and any visitors. Children and adults in school must wash their hands frequently throughout the day. Children will also have regular in class information and reminders relating to how to maintain their good hygiene and minimise the spread of germs.
• Social distancing is a key consideration of preventing the spread of COVID-19. As such we will be asking parents on collection and drop off to maintain 2m distance apart as much as physically possible.  To support this, we have placed some signs and markers to remind people of the necessity to social distance. 
• Parents/children are encouraged to walk/cycle/scoot to school where possible and only one parent should drop off/collect their child. Children must be collected by a designated adult and are not permitted to walk to/from school alone.  Without this measure, there is an increased risk of social contact outside of school.

 

Staggered start times

In this interim period the proposed school drop off and collection arrangements will be altered as follows:

• Y6 should arrive at school between 8.30am-8.40am and be collected between 2.35pm-2.45pm using the Key Stage 2 entrance point. 
• Y1 should arrive at school between 8.45am-8.55am and be collected between 2.15pm-2.25pm using the Y2 entrance point. 
• Key worker children’s official arrival time to school is 9am-9.15am and collection at 3pm-3.15pm, they will continue to use the Main office entrance point.  Key worker timings collections may be slightly more flexible as per current arrangements or if there are siblings in Y1/Y6.  Please liaise with Mr Conway/Miss Brady if this relates to you.  
• To manage social distancing guidance we would like prompt drop off and collection times.  There are lines and arrows on our paths as a reminder to distance from each other – more than one family in each section should be avoided.  Parents must not congregate and strictly distance themselves. 
• It is not possible to run our Schools In and Out service in this interim period.  To manage staffing ratios, adhere to social distancing guidance and keep children separated safely it would be logistically very difficult to run our wraparound service. Only in exceptional circumstances can a child be in school beyond the hours indicated above. Mr Conway/Miss Brady must authorise these cases prior to commencement of each week (where agreed normal charges will apply). 

 

In school logistics and safety considerations: 

• • Set staff will be assigned to set groups of children.  
  • All groups of children will be assigned set areas to use throughout the whole day eg a set classroom; set chairs; set individual tables; no carpet time; set toilets; set playing areas etc

 

• On return to school our normal standards and expectations will be expected for behaviour and work, therefore from June 1st all children are asked to wear freshly cleaned school uniform each day.

 

• • Where possible we would like you to provide stationary for the children (Small pencil case including only pencil, coloured pencils, ruler, rubber).  School has stationary where this is not possible.  Stationary will stay in school, be used by individual children only and be cleaned regularly.

 

• Children will be asked to bring a clean,empty water bottle to school each day.

 

• • Children will use one exercise book for all in school activities.  This book will remain in school.   
  • We will not be providing school reading books at this point.  Supplementary resources and materials can be found via the learning platforms.  
  • Outdoor education will be encouraged but socially distanced individual games will be taught. 
  • Throughout June our home learning and school based learning will mirror each other as much as possible so all children are able to access learning equitably. 
  • As things stand I am unsure of whether catering will be provided in school or from a central base.  If possible we would like you to provide packed lunches for your children.   Where needed we can provide lunches at the usual cost or for free school meal families, meals will be provided where required.  Please let us know if you require a school lunch otherwise we will presume you are providing your own packed lunch. 
  • Lunchtimes and playtimes will take place within sets of children and at different coordinated times across the day.   Therefore, where possible, children will not come into contact with other children outside their agreed set/year.
  • Please limit what children bring to school to only essential items – clean uniform daily (so no need for PE kits); comfortable shoes or trainers suitable for outdoors permitted in this interim period; limited stationary items on the first day if possible; packed lunch/empty bottle (taken home daily); coats; avoid bags if possible.  
  • There are still some staff who are unable to be in school as a result of vulnerability/self isolating.  Please be patient and understanding at this time.  Limit all office queries to a minimum, maintain social distancing protocol and where possible please call/email school and we will endeavour to resolve issues as soon as possible.
  • We will limit all visitors to school to essential services only and appropriate risk assessments and strict hand hygiene will be adhered to. 
  • We are monitoring all future events and trips, making decisions on a case by case basis but currently all June/July school events are cancelled such as assemblies; Masses; residentials; First Holy Communion; sports day and sporting/educational trips etc
  • We will arrange leavers events at an appropriate time in the future; even if it is into the new academic year. 

 

 

 

We hope that this letter has provided reassurance that we are taking all necessary precautions to minimise risks.  A reminder that: 

• We will be open over half term and from Monday 1st June for children of critical workers only. From Monday 1st June, children in all year groups will continue to access home learning.  
• We will look forward to welcoming children in Year 6 and children of critical workers from Monday 8th June.  
• The following week (Monday 15th June) we look forward to welcoming children in Year 1, Year 6 and children of critical workers.  
• Further updates and proposals to extend in school provision will be guided by the Government and our Trust – we will keep assessing the safety of all children and staff in our care as we cautiously move towards a brighter future.  

 

Each day we receive daily updates from the Department of Health and we are diligently following their advice.  As updates change, we will keep you informed.  We understand that this is a very difficult time, please continue to be understanding and supportive of the precautions and Government advice we are following and implementing in our school to keep everyone safe. 

 

If anyone would like to discuss the above or further logistics of school reopening, do not hesitate to make contact.  We have demonstrated how strong we are as a community of hope.  Let us continue this togetherness as we progress slowly into a new phase of normality.  Please hang on to the lessons learnt from this crisis – let us treat each other with kindness, respect and dignity. 

Kind regards

Paul Conway                                                           Sarah Brady

[email protected]                  [email protected]

Coronavirus Update 20.05.20

 

Dear parents/carers and wider community of St Bernadette’s,

 

School reopening update

As you will now be aware from emails sent out this week, St Bernadette’s will begin a phased and partial return of our Year 6 children from Monday June 8^th  and a week later, Monday June 15th, for our Year 1 pupils. This would end the current phase of wider opening – no provision for Nursery or Reception is planned at this point, as we fully understand the educational issues surrounding any return to school for these children.  We will also continue to provide education in school to children of key/critical workers only next week and for the foreseeable future.

The Government ambition remains to bring all primary year groups back to school before the summer holidays.  During our next phase of reopening this will be monitored and we will be communicating further updates as necessary on the return of any other year groups.

Please be reassured that we will be guided by Government guidelines and will put in place robust risk assessments to ensure we keep our staff and your children safe.

School has been open since Monday 23^rd March for children of key/critical workers.  School staff have continued to provide education and care for these 10-20 children daily inclusive of holidays, bank holidays and planned PD days.  This service has been vital to ensure our key workers, who are unable to work from home, have been able to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus. I thank all our key/critical workers. I am also extremely grateful to our school staff for their commitment to our school.  The in-school team have adhered to specifically adapted COVID-19 risk assessments and our key worker children have enjoyed a plethora of stimulating activities as well as daily formal learning.

 

Half term

Next week is our May half term holiday.  I appreciate many of you may have taken annual leave, however if you have not already, please let myself or Miss Brady if you require a place for your child during half term: wb 25.05.20 by THURSDAY 21^st MAY.

 

June 2020

On Monday 1^st June, school be only be open 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 21^st MAY to request a place in our school for wb 01.06.20.

 

Home learning

Next week I am asking staff to try to relax a little where they can!  Resources for home learning will again be updated on Monday 1^st June for all year groups.

 

READING PROJECT – WHOLE SCHOOL:  ‘Recreate a book cover challenge!’

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

What great contributions we have had to our reading project – thank you.  You still have time to contribute….

This week, Mrs Stoker wants to set you a Reading challenge: ‘Recreate a book cover.’  To ensure we continue to develop essential basic skills we want you to share your favourite book you have read since school closure.  It could be a book the children have read independently or one you have read together.  Please could you send your photos to Mrs Stoker ([email protected]) by Friday 22^nd May.  We will adorn the photos on Twitter and in our library as a lasting memory of our school love of reading!

 

‘Y1-6 Times Tables Rock Stars Tournament’

A reminder that this week, we are competing in a ‘Times Tables Rock Stars Tournament’ against our friends at St. Augustine’s in Coulby Newham. Both schools are competing to become the highest scoring school! All correct answers on any game that the children take part in will count towards our overall total (so they can play garage, studio, soundcheck, festival and it all counts!). We really hope that the children from year one to year six embrace the challenge and improve their skills whilst they are at it!

The competition runs from 8am to 4pm until Friday 22nd May. Only games played between 8am and 4pm on those days will count – we are conscious of too much screen time! Each night, we will tweet the current score. Please contact Mr Bourner if you need reminding of your children’s log in details: [email protected]

Thank you for all your efforts on ‘Rockstars’ this week – unfortunately Mr Bourner informed me last night we were losing!   Regardless of the outcome though (it is a friendly tournament after all!), any extra practise that the children take part in will only be a good thing.

 

Class videos

Teachers have been making videos will serve as a keepsake for the time children have spent away from school.  Nursery, Reception, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3 and Year 6 class videos have been shared it via parentmail, our Learning Platforms and Twitter.  We have shared these videos on our closed platforms with the permission of our parents but please do not share these videos on your own social media platforms.  Year 4 and 5 teachers will be sharing their videos soon – enjoy!

 

Twitter

It has been a huge source of joy to witness the sharing of hope via our Twitter feed.  If you are not already a follower, please request to follow us @stbernadettesm   We only accept names we recognise so please inform your child’s class teacher if you have requested to follow us but we have not accepted you.

 

Wall of Hope

Several neighbours have called school in recent weeks to express their appreciation of our fence art outside of school.  It contains prayers, letters, pictures etc  This week Mr Lynn has added our songs of hope from the staff – if you are passing school and have an enabled ‘QR Scanner App’ then click the QR codes to watch the videos staff made recently.

 

General

Northumberland refunds

Regrettably, in view of Covid19 we have had to cancel the Year 6 residential visit to Northumberland.  We are able to provide a full refund in respect of this trip. By accessing your ParentPay account, you will be able to see the amount you have paid.  Last week Mrs Simpson shared a Refund Request Form with Year 6 parents.  Once you have completed the form, the Trust finance team will be able to process your refund.  If you are unsure, or have any questions regarding the refund process, please email Mrs Simpson via the school enquiries email [email protected]

 

SVP support

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have rovided school with emergency funds.  I have vouchers in school available for any families (FSM or not) who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families.  Please reach out if you are in need of any support financially and we will help immediately. 

 

And finally,

Half term challenge!

Mrs Harris has been doing an early reading audit in recent months and I am sure you will agree that our EYFS and KS1 books need an influx of new resources!  As such we would love to organise some fundraising events in the next academic year to supplement the purchasing of new books for the children.

Inspired by Captain Tom’s remarkable fundraising for the NHS, please can we suggest you ‘Run for Reading books!’ this half term.  Our challenge is to see how many laps of your garden/front or back yard you can do over half term.  We have no specific target for this first event but across the year will be looking to raise up to £5000!  Whatever you raise whether is be £1 or £20 will be gratefully received and used immediately to purchase books for our young readers in school.   If you are struggling financially at present, don’t worry, just do it for fun.  If you send pictures (photos rather than videos) of your half term running to Mrs Harris, she will tweet it: [email protected]

If any monies raised can be safely dropped off at the school office wb 1st June in a sealed envelope with your name/child’s name on it would be really appreciated.  If you cannot safely drop off money in early June, please just contact school to inform us of money raised and drop it off whenever you are able.

Thank you in advance for your support and have fun running!

 

Half term summary,

I am proud to be the leader of our school.  I am proud to lead such a dedicated group of passionate and caring staff.  I am grateful for all the unconditional support from our parents and wider community – thank you. I am proud of how our children have tackled their home learning with such dedication.  I am also proud of our in school children – their resilience to change, their smiles and compassion for each other have made our jobs brighter in the dark months.

Do not be anxious or worried about our phased school return. This is our school! This is the family we love!  We have hopefully been through the tough period and are slowly progressing into happier times. When we return to school we will help your children get some normality back – this is the next phase in the seeking the rainbow!

There will not be a Wednesday newsletter next week unless guidance changes over the half term break.  I will communicate further logistical details on our June plans to all parents on Friday.

 

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

• ‘The Seven Wonders of the World’ – a lovely little clip focusing on the things that really matter in life is attached with this newsletter.
• ‘Things that may help your children transition back to school’ – a short article attached covering reassuring points to consider when discussing our return to school with children

Monday 18th May 2020

 

Dear Parents and Carers,

As you know, and as set out in my email last week, the government hopes that schools
may begin to offer wider provision for a selected intake of pupils from June 1st.
The realisation of this aspiration will require much planning. We are aware of the
conversations being held in households across the region. We are also taking account of
ongoing updates of medical opinion .

To this end we are exploring the possibility of a phased and partial return of a limited
number of primary school pupils from Monday June 8th, a week later than initially
considered. This would be for Year 6 pupils only. A further week later, Monday June
15th, would see our Year 1 pupils returning.

This would end the current phase of wider opening – no provision for nursery or
reception will be considered in our planning at this point, as we fully understand the
educational issues surrounding any return to school for these children. I have also sent
in a separate document an outline of the planned return of the limited number of
pupils.

Our Year 10 and Year 12 students will begin one to one consultations with secondary
teachers from Monday 15th June. Secondary headteachers will communicate directly
with you on how this will be managed over the next two weeks.

During the planning period ahead of us we will consult with teachers and support staff,
parents, professional bodies and the Department for Education. This time will also see
the rollout to headteachers of a range of NPCAT risk assessments, consideration toolkits
and planning frameworks, which we have developed with reference to national
guidance and following advice from professional bodies.

 

I look forward to us all working collaboratively over the coming days and weeks to plan effectively towards providing initially for those Year 6 children who wish to return to school, along with those most vulnerable and key workers’ children. 

 

We will do so while taking every possible precaution to ensure the safety of all of our children and staff, adapting our environments where necessary to allow for social distancing and hygiene considerations. 

 

I appreciate that so many of you will have reservations on this issue and I understand some may decide not to take this opportunity to return your children to school. 

 

Please be assured that as a Trust we will continue to do our very best to support your children over the coming weeks, whether this is through school-based learning or via our remote learning platforms. 

 

Yours sincerely 

Hugh Hegarty CEO

NPQH | M.Sc. | PGCCGC | B.Ed. Hons.| CTC

Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust

Coronavirus Update 13.05.20

 

Dear parents/carers and wider community of St Bernadette’s,

This week there was an initial formal announcement on the relaxation of lockdown rules.  The Government also laid out some plans on Sunday regarding schools reopening from June 2020.  I know this will cause many questions and some anxieties…please don’t worry!

 

School reopening

I know from the conversations I have on a weekly basis that many staff, parents and children are excited about a return to school but some will also feel nervous.

When we do start reopening to larger numbers, it will be a very different school initially.  There are many things to consider in reopening our school: which staff are available in school to work; what times will we offer; how will we arrange lunchtime and break time; what will we do about moving the children round the school; where will we teach the children; how many children/adults are allowed in each class; where will children leave their coats; what equipment will use etc   I will be working on providing clarity to your questions in the coming weeks.

 

May 2020

Over the next few weeks there will be no changes to home learning and school life.  School will remain open only for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers next week.  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 14^th MAY to request a place in our school for wb 18.05.20.

We will be also be open over the May half term holiday.  I appreciate many of you may have taken annual leave, however where it is not possible to take this leave please let myself or Miss Brady if you require a place for your child during half term: wb 25.05.20 by 3pm THURSDAY 14th MAY.

 

June 2020

From the week commencing Monday 1st June, the Government would like us to begin welcoming back limited numbers of children in set cohorts (namely EYFS, Year 1 and Year 6).  We will also continue to provide education in school to children of critical workers only. The Government ambition is to bring all primary year groups back to school before the summer holidays and this will be kept under review.

I will communicate clearer details on this phased return from 1^st June in the coming weeks.  At this stage we are still awaiting full guidance from the Government as to whther all these year groups will start on June 1^st or whether it will be a staggered start.  We will be guided by government guidelines and will put in place robust risk assessments to ensure we keep our staff and your children safe.

I have included some initial guidance for parents on the reopening of schools at the bottom of this letter.

 

Home learning

I hope you were able to enjoy and even relax over the bank holiday weekend.  I hope you have enjoyed joining in some of the VE class learning and community celebrations safely.  Thank you for all you are doing to maintain the children’s basic skills whilst trying to work from home yourselves.  I am well aware that we are all living and working in a unique situation.  I would like to reiterate the importance of making sure you get the children’s work balance right and look after your and their mental wellbeing: balance is everything at present!

Next week we will provide home learning materials as normal but please note there will be no formal learning uploaded to the class pages over half term (wb 25^th May).  I am asking staff to try to relax a little where they can!  Resources for home learning will again be updated after this for year groups not in school.

 

NEW READING PROJECT – WHOLE SCHOOL:  ‘Recreate a book cover challenge!’

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

This week and next week, Mrs Stoker wants to set you a Reading challenge: ‘Recreate a book cover.’  To ensure we continue to develop essential basic skills we want you to share your favourite book you have read since school closure.  It could be a book the children have read independently or one you have read together.  Please could you send your photos to Mrs Stoker ([email protected]) by Friday 22^nd May.  We will adorn the photos in our library as a lasting memory of our school love of reading!

 

‘Y1-6 Times Tables Rock Stars Tournament’

Next week, we will be competing in a ‘Times Tables Rock Stars Tournament’ against our friends at St. Augustine’s in Coulby Newham. In what promises to be a very exciting week of frenetic times tables practise, both schools will compete to become the highest scoring school! All correct answers on any game that the children take part in will count towards our overall total (so they can play garage, studio, soundcheck, festival and it all counts!). We really hope that the children from year one to year six embrace the challenge and improve their skills whilst they are at it!

The competition runs from 8am on Monday 18th May to 4pm on Friday 22nd May. Only games played between 8am and 4pm on those days will count – we are conscious of too much screen time! Each night, we will tweet the current score. In all seriousness, St. Augustine’s and ourselves value TT Rock Stars very highly and it has made a huge difference to children’s time table knowledge since both schools began using it. So, regardless of the outcome (it is a friendly tournament after all!), any extra practise that the children take part in will only be a good thing. Look out for further reminders on our Twitter page!

 

Class videos

Teachers have been contacting you with details of a special project we would like all children to engage in.   Each class teacher will be making a video – we are hoping to feature all of the class.  The videos will serve as a keepsake for the time children have spent away from school.  Please send all short clips to individual class teachers on their chosen themes by their deadline date.

Nursery, Reception and Year 3 class videos have been shared it via parentmail and Twitter.  Year 1 will be sharing their video soon and other classes are being prepared!

 

Staff baby photos

Just for fun….this week the Year 3-6, office staff and our music specialist Mrs Beaumont’s baby photos have been on @stbernadettesm.  Did you correctly identify the little cuties:  Mrs Stoker, Mrs Davies, Mr Bourner, Mrs Lumley, Mr Lynn, Mrs Simpson (teaching staff), Mrs Smith, Miss Cole, Mr Conway, Mrs Simpson (office), Mrs Day, Mrs Beaumont.

 

Competition time: Trust Faith competition

Members of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust family of schools are being invited to take part in a special competition that celebrates faith in troubled times.   Inspired by the words of chapter 35 verse 35 in the Book of Exodus, Project 35:35 is an invitation to use our artistic talents to respond to the challenge of the coronavirus outbreak by giving glory to God.

In Exodus – which tells how God delivered the Israelites from slavery ­ the people were called upon to use their gifts to adorn the tabernacle that was built as a pace of worship before they reached the Promised Land.  He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers – Exodus 35:35

The Trust are asking children to create a piece of original art, a poem, a song or a dance.  Add a short explanation of your piece.  Bronze, silver and gold prizes will be awarded within each category.

To submit your work, please email a picture or video of the piece, along with your commentary, to [email protected]. The closing date is Sunday May 31.

Please state the category you are entering.

• Category 1: EYFS and KS1
• Category 2: KS2
• Category 3: Years 7–9
• Category 4: Years 10–13
• Category 5: Extended family of NPCAT, open to staff, parents, grandparents, parish members and all associated with NPCAT.

Work will be displayed online via our NPCAT Twitter/website and included in an exhibition when life is back to normal and we can all celebrate together as one family.

 

General

Northumberland refunds

Regrettably, in view of Covid19 we have had to cancel the Year 6 residential visit to Northumberland.  We are able to provide a full refund in respect of this trip. By accessing your ParentPay account, you will be able to see the amount you have paid.  Last week Mrs Simpson shared a Refund Request Form with Year 6 parents.  Once you have completed the form, the Trust finance team will be able to process your refund.  If you are unsure, or have any questions regarding the refund process, please email Mrs Simpson via the school enquiries email [email protected]

 

FSM

We have had a handful more applications for FSM (Free School Meals) as a result of changing circumstances.  Thank you.   One successful applicant commented,  “You just need to fill in details like name and address, you and your partner’s National Insurance number and the children’s date of birth. You don’t have to show any other evidence at that point.  The school does the rest.”

Successful applications ensure you can access Government funding immediately.  Full guidance is via the red link (NPCAT Schools Latest COVID-19 Information)  on the school website https://stbernadettes.npcat.org.uk  or please contact me directly to discuss further.

 

SVP support

The St Bernadette’s Parish SVP have also provided school with emergency funds.  I have vouchers in school available for any families (FSM or not) who are concerned about providing necessary provisions for their families.  Please reach out if you are in need of any support financially and we will help immediately. 

 

Step Up 7 (Year 5 transtion)

To assist the Trust’s pupil placement planning, we are requesting that all Year 5 parents complete a short survey to identify which of secondary school meets your child’s future needs.  By choosing an NPCAT secondary school you can be assured of quality schooling from the age of three to 19.  With us, your family’s values and your expectations for your sons and daughters can be realised in a rich and unique schoosl that recognise the individuality of every child and offers education and care that is carefully tailored to his or her needs.

 

And finally…

 

Please stay connected at this time and keep abreast of all communication systems:

• It is vital you read this weekly parental update (usually on a Wednesday). These updates contain all up to date school, local and national developments.  If you change your email address/contact details, please let us know straight away.
• Our School and Trust website is refreshed regularly with support documentation and regular updates
• Twitter 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.  This page has regular updates from Monsignor Hogan, Diocesan Mass links and parish/Diocesan/National notices – the group is called ‘St Bernadette’s RC Church, Nunthorpe’.   If you would like further information on this, please contact myself or Joe Harrison, group administrator and parishioner: [email protected]
• Staff are regularly contacting you to check you are all safe and well.  Please continue to engage in these calls – we love hearing what you have been up to.

I am very proud of the school’s response to this current crisis. When I reflect, it really is amazing what we, as a community of people, have achieved; you are: supporting and sharing home learning; engaging with the teachers/myself via phone calls; accessing and contributing to class learning platforms, sending Tapestry and social media posts; contributing to school/Trust HOPE projects AND alongside this, you have also have your own wider family and work concerns. Thank you for all you are doing.

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

Opening schools and educational settings to more pupils from 1 June: Government guidance for parents and carers:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers/reopening-schools-and-other-educational-settings-from-1-june

 

 

 

Reflection

All Things Pass-Lao-Tzu

All things pass.

A sunrise does not last all morning,

All things pass.

A cloudburst does not last all day,

All things pass.

Nor a sunset all night,

All things pass.

What always changes?

Earth…sky…thunder…

mountain…water…

wind…fire…lake…

These change.

And if these do not last,

Do man’s visions last?

Do man’s illusions?

Take things as they come,

ALL THINGS PASS!