School trips are often something remembered fondly from childhood, from the excitement of getting out of the class for the day, taking a packed lunch from home and making memories with classmates. In addition to being a fun day out and a break from normal ‘formal’ learning, educational visits have a plethora of benefits for children. Hands-on learning and contextual learning opportunities help to embed learning and development greatly and indeed in ways that are just not possible within the classroom, in spite all the digital technology available at our fingertips nowadays – for sure, there is nothing quite like taking learning out of the classroom!
Likewise, we loved celebrating World Book Day on Thursday as it always presents the perfect opportunity to immerse ourselves in great books for the day. What wonderful costumes appeared at Pre-Prep – we appreciate your support and know that days like these do present parents with added burden and stresses but know that it is all so worthwhile – thank you!
We also loved our visit from author Annemarie Anang, who told the children all about her experiences as not just an author but musician and actor, too. Her lovely picture book, ‘I am Nefertiti’ – an empathy-fostering exploration of the importance of names and respect (according to the Guardian) – a comment we fully endorse – had the children hooked from the off, and they just loved the added dimension of hearing a range of interesting instruments that accompanied her sessions. We have a few of Annemarie’s book left if anyone is interested in purchasing a copy – they are £7.99 each – a note will be coming from Mrs Van Pol or alternatively do let either Mrs Parkinson or me know if you are interested in purchasing one, it will be on a first come, first served basis.
This week the Courtesy Cup was awarded to the whole of Reception for their exemplary behaviour on their school trip to RHS Wisley – very well done!
and Stars of the Week were awarded to:
Year 2: Teddy for being such an enthusiastic learner, and for his mature approach when things don’t go according to plan.
Year 1: Kostya for his boundless energy when approaching every task. What a great attitude!
Reception: Coco for good progress with her sight words, learning her sight words in her reading folder – well done!
Have a super weekend.