Congratulations from Nick Gibb MP ( Minister of State for School Standards)
Last week I was extremely proud to receive a letter from Nick Gibb, congratulating us on our very high standard of achievement in the 2016 phonics screening check. This recognises the importance we place on developing phonics from the moment the children enter the school. Well done to the children and staff for working tirelessly to secure this foundation for future reading success. I have attached a copy of the letter to this newsletter.
PTA Halloween Disco
Thank you to all of the children and the parents who supported the Halloween Disco. The PTA raised a phenomenal £1004 . Very well done to everyone involved.
PTA Pumpkin Carving Competition
Congratulations to James Larter, Harry McTernan , Isaac Hutchinson ,Sophie Crabbe and Megan Kelly for winning the Pumpkin carving competition. Thank you to Waitrose for providing the prizes once again this year.
Poppies For Sale
We are selling poppies and a range of related items to raise funds for the Royal British Legion in advance of Remembrance Day on 11 November. Poppies can be bought for a donation as well as Friendship Bracelets (£1), Slap Rulers (£1), Wristbands (50p), Reflectors (50p) and LED Torch (£1). Get them early to avoid disappointment as we sold out of many items last year.
Congratulations Green Team
Well done to the members of Green Team who were the winners of our Team Point Challenge last half term. They were rewarded with a very popular non-uniform day for Green Team members.
Opportunities To Train To Teach
If you know anyone who is interested in a career in Primary School Teaching recruitment is beginning now for September 2017.
At Ponteland First School we are the Lead School for our partnerships primary teacher training. We offer a route into teaching through the School Direct programme in partnership with Northumbria University, other schools in our partnership and some Cramlington schools. We have successfully run this programme for the last 4 years and pride ourselves on having a 100% employment record for previous trainees. Prospective trainees must have a degree, preferably at 2:1 or above. They will incur tuition fees from the university and will not receive a salary whilst training.
Applications are now open through UCAS and we are known as The Wider Ponteland Partnership. If anyone would like to discuss the opportunity further please ask to speak to Mrs Fowler or myself.
Walking Bus
Mrs Blyth and The School Council have arranged a weekly walk to school from Waitrose car park. The purpose of this event is to promote walking at least some of the way to school each day. If you would like to join in please meet on Friday mornings at 8.30am in Waitrose car park.
Mrs Phipps Retires
As Mrs Phipps retires, the staff have incredibly fond memories of working alongside her. She quite simply loved teaching and working with the children each day. She will always be an example of the teaching profession at its best. We are compiling a special scrap book of photographs and best wishes for her to celebrate her time at Ponteland First School. If any parents would like to add to this with photographs or comments please call into the school office before Friday. Many thanks.
Dates for your diary inAutumn Term2016
Wednesday 2 November Y2 visit St Mary’s Heritage Centre - Gateshead
Thursday 3 November Y4 Football Festival
W/C 14 NovemberAnti-bullying week: This year the theme is “Power for Good”
Friday 18 NovemberChildren In Need – “The Big Spotacular” – wear something spotty
Tuesday 6 December 9.30am Reception Nativity
Wednesday 7 December 9.30 am Reception Nativity
2.15 pm Key Stage 1 & 2 Christmas Performance
Thursday 8 December 9.15 am Key Stage 1 & 2 Christmas Performance
Friday 9 December 9.15 am Key Stage 1 & 2 Christmas Performance
PTA Christmas Fair 3.15pm
W/C 12 DecemberChristmas parties
Friday 16 December 11am Christmas Service at St Mary’s Church – all welcome
End of term
The above dates are those envisaged by the school and may be subject to change
L Blain
Head Teacher
1 November 2016