Preparations are well underway for Christmas, and we are enjoying hearing the children sing as they prepare for their Nativities and Carol Concerts. We know that our Nativities and KS2 Carols by Candlelight service will be wonderful again this year, and we are very excited to receive our school Christmas trees next week.

INSET Day Reminder
We have an INSET Day on Monday 16th November for staff training. School will be closed to pupils.

Parent Teacher Meetings
A huge thank you to all the parents who were able to attend. Our teachers enjoyed celebrating each child and working with you to encourage each child to be the best they can be. 

Attendance Matters
As the colder months approach, we'd like to remind families that regular attendance is important for children's learning and wellbeing. We understand that sniffles and mild colds are common in winter, and children are welcome to attend school with these symptoms. Unless your child is too unwell to leave home, has vomiting or diarrhoea, or has a fever, please send them to school as usual. Please ensure you arrive promptly between 8:40am and 8:50am. 

FOSG
Some exciting events are coming up this term. Please find the attached posters. We would be grateful for parent helpers. Please sign up on Edulink One.

Mission Christmas Present
It's that time again! We are launching our Mission Christmas Present campaign. Christmas is about family time and sharing what we have with others. Unfortunately, there are people within a short walk of our school who will be lonely and unlikely to receive gifts at Christmas unless we send them! Please visit the Catholic Life and Mission page on our website to read more about our Mission Christmas Present. Please can we have all shoebox gifts by Wednesday 9th December. Pop them under our Christmas tree in the main reception area (arriving very soon!).

Read More, Achieve More!
As you know, reading is of the utmost importance in our school and has the potential to make an incredible impact on the progress of each and every child.

Children who read more develop a better vocabulary, grasp new concepts more quickly, are able to focus for longer and achieve greater academic results. There are also studies showing that reading calms our minds, helps children to develop empathy and supports positive mental health. We have five school weeks until we break up for Christmas. This is the perfect time to choose a Christmas book and enjoy reading together as a family over the coming weeks.

Quote of the Week
"In November, the earth is growing quiet. It is making its bed, a winter bed for flowers and small creatures." - Cynthia Rylant

Happy Friday,

Mrs Penney