SHARPNESS PRIMARY SCHOOL
Newsletter Number 7
15th December 2016
That time of year has crept up on us once again. On behalf of the staff and
Governors, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy
New Year.
Christmas Productions: Angel Express & Bethlehem Bandits
Well done to all the children for their fantastic performances last week! They worked so hard and
we were thrilled at how well they entertained their audiences. We have received many positive
comments and we are very proud of all your children. I would also add my sincere thanks to staff,
parents and friends of the school for helping out with costumes, scenery, and fund raising. It
really wouldn’t be as successful without you!
Sharpness School Association
I would like to say a huge thank you to the children, parents and carers for your support this
term. We understand that this time of year is expensive for everyone and so are extremely
grateful for your donations and attendance at this year’s Fair. The approximate total raised at
the Fair and the Christmas hamper raffles, was £1409.45 – an amazing effort! Thank you all again
for your continued support.
Bliss Harding and Teri Smith, Chair of the SSA.
Christmas Tree
I’m sure many of you have admired the Christmas tree situated in pride of place
outside our main entrance. This was generously donated by Hinton Parish Council,
delivered by Lesley Yeomans (Merrick and Evie’s mum) and erected by Angie Reece. It
looks wonderful – thank you!
Christmas Jumper Day – Friday 16th December 2016
A reminder that we are taking part in the Save the Children Christmas
Jumper day tomorrow. By joining in and donating £1 per pupil, we will be
helping to solve some very serious problems, and helping every last child to
have a brighter future. Children can have great fun decorating their own
jumper to wear in on the day – there will be a prize for the best creation in each class. We’re
going to have a woolly wonderful day!
Carol Singing
A reminder that we are holding a Christmas carol concert after school
tomorrow at 2.45pm (children finish at 2.30pm). Mr Davis will be bringing his
choir into school to entertain you with carols and festive songs, ably assisted
by our own KS2 children. Please do come along and enjoy some wonderful
entertainment with a class of mulled wine (non-alcoholic) and a mince pie. We look forward to
seeing you.
Vacancy for Lunch Time Play Coordinator
The school would like to recruit a lunchtime Playworker to join our OPAL play team. We are looking
for someone who has excellent communication skills to supervise children during the lunch period.
The successful applicant must enjoy the company of children and be able to form positive
relationships. They must be committed to initiating supervised, fun play activities and to promote
and encourage healthy eating. If you are interested in the position please speak to Mrs Palmer in
the office. Further details can be found on the school website and application forms are available
from http://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/SchoolsVacancies
Family Support Worker
As some of you may already know, we have been using the services of the
Hill Vale and Valley Children’s Centre since the summer term as part of our
extended services provision. We have a dedicated Family Support Worker,
Joyce Booth, who comes into school every week to work with families on a
wide range of issues including parenting support, behaviour management,
emotional wellbeing, mental health and support with building healthy
relationships. The sessions last for 20 - 40 minutes with each child, or
parent or both and take place each week for as long as everyone involved believes it is beneficial.
As well as working with children and parents, Joyce liaises closely with the school and holds
regular meetings with myself and staff to update us on her work and outcomes. She also involves
herself with any ongoing CAF reviews and will offer support around the introduction and creation
of “My Plan & My Plan+” for children who need these.
We are exploring the possibility of increasing the amount of support available to parents through
this service. The support does not have to be for an extended period but could be used to support
children and families through short-term crises or difficulties and is available to any family in
school. Consequently, I look forward to hearing from anyone who feels that they or their child
might benefit from this additional level of help and advice.
Tuesday 3rd January 2017 - CHILDREN BACK TO SCHOOL