The Mead School
Newsletter
Autumn Term 2015
‘…..individual success for every child…..’
Taken from The Mead School
Mission Statement
Dear Parents and Friends
What an amazing term! Despite more wet playtimes than I care to remember
this term has been ‘full on’ and having just completed your children’s reports I
am in awe of everything each of them has achieved over the last 14 weeks. I
hope you enjoy reading through this newsletter, a reflective window into The
Mead School in Autumn 2015.
EXAM SUCCESSES
Huge congratulations to the following members of Year 6 who have passed
the Kent Selection tests to Grammar School:
Aigerim Aitzhanova
Edward Attiogbe
Ella Barton
Tabitha Bolter
Louis Coombs
Alice Davies
Eliza Deniz
Edward Harris
Claudia Kirk
Dean Mann
Sami Pang
Alexander Parry
Alfie Phillipson
Akshat Pundir
Samuel Tavares
Tyler Zenoni
Huge congraulations also go to Ciara Bradley who has gained a Drama
Scholarship and Tabitha Bolter an All-Rounder Scholarship, both to Mayfield
School. In addition Alice Davies, Eliza Deniz, Isabelle Ellse, Amelia Hofmeyr
have all been offered places at Mayfield with Amelia also being offered a place
a Kent College. Well done girls, we are all very proud of you.
At the time of writing we are still awaiting entry and scholarship exam results for
various independent schools.
THE BUILDING!
The works are still on schedule to finish at the end of January. The roof is on,
electrics in, front door chosen and rendering about to start.
A huge thank you must go to Rebecca who has managed the build with military
precision and huge success.
It must be said too that the builders and
architect have been super and the
school has been able to work with
minimal disruption albeit a lot of
excitement!
I do know, however, the staff will not
mourn the leaving of the portaloos!!
I cannot wait for you all to see the
finished building – it is going to be
fantastic!
ANNUAL CYCLE RIDE IN AID OF THE ROYAL NATIONAL CHILDREN’S
FOUNDATION
They say the sun shines on the righteous – and it really did shine on The Mead
Community as they embarked on the annual Family Charity Cycle Ride. We
were delighted to meet and greet some 45 families of all ages along the
beautiful Forest Way. A huge thank you to Nick and Jenny Staines who saw us
safely across the road, to Elizabeth who ticked us off at Hartfield and ensured
we stayed hydrated and to Mr & Mrs Hunt who are the BBQ King and Queen
and ensured their ‘meal deals’ fortified us for the return trip!
A wonderful £900 was raised and donated to The Royal National Children’s
Foundation and will go towards giving vulnerable children a real chance in life.
We hope to see you all next September – Sunday 25 September 2016 for a
repeat performance.
OTHER CHARITIES
Thanks to your wonderful efforts and generosity we were able to send 104
boxes to less fortunate children as part of the Samaritan Shoe Box appeal.
Well done everyone.
You also generously donated towards the Poppy Appeal and £360 to Movember
not to mention all the produce that we were able to take to ‘Soup Bowl’ as part
of our Harvest Festival celebrations.
PARENT SEMINAR - RESILIENCE, CONFIDENCE, INDEPENDENCE
These qualities become the cornerstones of our lives if we are to become the
people we are meant to be.
We were delighted to welcome some 80 parents to a seminar evening where
The Mead staff each gave a fantastic presentation outlining how they and their
department promote and develop these areas of a child’s personal
development. The staff’s passion and appreciation are palpable and the four
Year 6 pupils who ended the evening describing their personal journeys were
utterly outstanding – live examples of all their teachers’ had been describing.
There was no prouder Head in the world of education!!
TWITTER
Follow us @ThemeadschoolTW
STEPS IN TIME
On Wednesday 11th November, Years 4, 5 and 6 were lucky enough to enjoy
the entertaining and interactive performances, staged by Ollie Naylor, who is the
brain behind the ‘Steps in Time’ dramatic company.
The hugely talented Mr Naylor transported Year 6 back to the days of the
Second World War in his role as ‘William – the World War 2 evacuee.’ Year 5
met Mr Naylor in the guise of ‘Charlie – the Victorian Shoe Shine Boy,’
discovering some of the features of everyday life Victorian England, finally Year
4 experienced a trip to Ancient Greece, experiencing some of the sights, sounds
and characters of Ancient Greece!
The children were electrified by these fantastic performances that transported
them all on historical learning journeys, really bringing to life the different History
topics encountered.
We look forward to welcoming ‘Steps in Time’ back to the Mead in the New
Year, when Year 2 discover more about the Great Fire and Year 3 experience
Tudor life at close quarters!!
I Feaver
Literacy Coordinator
ART
All the children have been very busy with their artwork this term. The younger
children have worked on a wide variety of topics including the Great Fire of
London, self portraits and Matisse.
KS2 started the term working on Viking Longships, Greek Vases, painting their
own interpretation of Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ using warm and cool colours and
finally, Y6 started their lino prints based on the work of William Morris.
After half-term we went into full swing with Christmas themed work and there
are some beautiful and imaginative examples of Hanging Christmas Tree
decorations, 3D Santa and his reindeer, Christmas themed houses and gardens
and Christmas baubles. The lower school is looking spectacular with snowmen,
handprint Christmas trees, lanterns and all things sparkly! A special mention
must go to the Lower Kindy staff and children for their Advent Calendar display
based on their favourite book ‘The Little White Owl’. Beautiful!
The Hamptons competition this year was to decorate Snoopy’s kennel. These
are displayed in their window and we wait with anticipation for the name of the
winner!
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas.
Debbie Latty - Art Dept.
MODERN LANGUAGES
French
This first French term has been full of excitement, joy and challenges.
Early Years & KS1 have been studying with fun. They have learnt and practiced
greetings and names (songs), story listening and drawing, body parts (dancing
and singing our famous song about French people planting cabbages with their
body parts), numbers up to 20 (singing and playing the wolf game), simple food
(story and drawing), moves around (singing and dancing the boogie-boogie
song) and colours (with our French Christmas tree decorations making).
KS2 have been busy combining learning with
pleasure. They learnt and practised greetings (finger
puppets for speaking activities), colours (French
exercise book with flag and anything about France),
numbers up to 60 (speaking and written activities),
the French alphabet (Bingo game), on the way to
school and directions, full time (speaking, listening
and written activities + worksheets), transports
(drawing and singing), weather, places in the locality
(giving and receiving directions), my family (poster
making), days of the week (singing), places in our
school and colours (with our French Christmas tree
decorations making).
Every single day, when the children come to my
class, I can see them with this genuine smile on
their face and making an effort, every time they see me around, to speak to me
in French. I realise how lucky I am, being able to teach your children; they have
the passion for learning and it gives me the passion for teaching French at The
Mead. Thank you all and I will see you next year!
Monsieur Stéphane.
Mandarin
In Mandarin this term we have progressed to Book 2 for Years 4, 5 & 6 and
have covered the key subjects of 'Food and drink', 'School and classroom' &
'Activities'.
The majority of the children are now able to say simple sentences and they are
all working very hard on writing Chinese characters. They have also been using
our online games at Kung Fu Kingdom to enhance their listening, reading and
writing skills.
Congratulations to Oluwatoyin
Adenekan who has reached achievement
level Queen Fu (9530 points) and also
to Akshat Pundir (7985 points), Owen
Watts (7920 points) and Daniel Barr (7595
points) who all gained Dark Brown Fu.
For Year 3 children, who are all incredibly
hard working and talented in Mandarin,
special congratulations go to Amber Jones
- Light Brown Fu (4055 points), Francesca
Anderson - Dark Orange Fu (3685 points),
Alastair McCrae - Silver Fu (3405 points),
Adriano Beltramini - Light Orange Fu
(1230 points) and lastly Max Averill Yellow Fu (830 points). Well done to all of
them.
Fen Burley
PERFORMING ARTS: DRAMA & DANCE
What a busy first term back in the Performing Arts department! The children
have been great and I feel like I have never been away!
Once again we welcomed The Young Shakespeare Company in for KS2 who
spent the day ‘workshopping’ and watching a fantastic performance of ‘Romeo
and Juliet’. The children had a great day and were fully involved throughout.
Year 3 then did some food menus and Year 4 excellent invitations both for the
Capulet Ball. Year 5 wrote a news report on the tragedy of ‘Romeo and Juliet’
and Year 6 wrote some reviews. All the children’s wonderful work will be
showcased in my room.
Reception, Year 1 and 2 enjoyed a fantastic workshop taken by the company
‘Perform’. KS1 learnt all about Samuel Pepys and The Great Fire of London and
Reception re - created the story of ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’. The children
looked like they were having great fun and learnt a lot too.
Miss Hannah has taken over the Ballet and the children have been really
enjoying her lessons. Ballet exams will be held at the end of next term on
Tuesday 15th March. Coaching will be during school time on Friday 11th March.
Everyone enjoyed watching their children during ‘open ballet’ and getting the
opportunity to meet Miss Hannah.
Miss Lesley and myself are now running the Modern and Tap department
together and the children continue to work hard. I hope you all enjoyed their
open dance day. Exams will be in the Summer Term.
Don’t forget about our second hand ballet, modern and tap uniform list outside
my room. Please sign up if you have anything to sell and come and have a look
if you would like to buy some of your child’s dance kit second hand.
Nativity 2015 was once again performed by our wonderful EYFS children. King
Charles was packed with excited parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins,
nannies and more! The children performed with enthusiasm and confidence –
Well done. A big thank you to Mr Zerpa-Falcon for his wonderful piano playing,
to all the EYFS staff for all their help and hard work this term and to Mrs Latty
and Mrs Biggs for the great set and costumes.
LAMDA exams have been confirmed as Monday 14th March and Tuesday 15th
March. A timetable for the days will go up nearer the time.
Next term Year 6 will be entered into the ISA Drama competition. PLEASE MAY
I ASK ALL YEAR 6 TO KEEP SATURDAY 5TH MARCH FREE FOR THIS. This
is the first time in 12 years The Mead has entered so no pressure Year 6! They
will then be performing their pieces to friends and family at Trinity Theatre on
Thursday 10th March.
For the first time next term Years 1 and 2 will be performing their own
production, ‘The Wild Bunch’, again at Trinity Theatre on Thursday 10th March.
Times and details for these productions will follow.
Congratulations to Phoebe Douse who won a role in Trinity Theatre’s Christmas
production of Oliver! She will be busy performing over the Christmas period and
I hope many of you will be able to go and support her. A list of her performance
dates and times is outside my room so do check before you book your tickets.
Good luck Phoebs!
Congraulations also go to Ciara Bradley who has
gained a Drama Scholarship to Mayfield School.
After such a busy term and a busier one to
follow, please all have a good rest!
HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
Miss Victoria
BY ELLA MCCRAE, YEAR 5
The Verona
YOUR DAILY FAVOURITE
Teenagers Found Dead
Romeo and Juliet together in the Capulet
family tomb.
This morning two teenagers, Romeo
Montague and Juliet Capulet were found
dead together. Experts have been
brought to the scene and think that this
was not murder, but suicide. Needless to
say, with both families at war with each
other this is considered to be very
strange. Juliet, who was engaged with a
man called Paris, was believed to be dead
when her nurse attempted to wake her
up. Mysteriously, she was not in the place
she had been put the day before when
examined by experts. Here at “The
Verona News” we have an exclusive
interview with Paris himself: When we
asked him how he felt about his
girlfriend’s death, he replied: “I am
devastated. She never seemed that
interested in me and now I think I know
why. I think she loved Romeo.” We then
asked him why he thought Romeo and
Juliet had run away together, he seemed
to think it was obvious. He said: “Well, I
think they loved each other so
much that Romeo killed
himself after bringing Juliet
towards him so they could be
together .” This statement
caused lots of talking. How
could this be? As mentioned
above, the Capulets and the
Montagues are still enemies. It
appears that Romeo poisoned
himself and Juliet was
stabbed. The community is,
however, confused by the fact
that when found in the
morning by her nurse, she
wasn’t stabbed. Who would
stab a dead body? Was she
really dead when found that
morning? We interviewed
Juliet’s father, Lord Capulet
and let him speak for himself:
“Juliet was my only child and
she ran off with a Montague! I
am ashamed of her and very
sad that she has died. I don’t
know how I can explain what I
feel like. I am already getting
someone to take the
Montague out of our tomb.”
After listening to this
astonishing speech by Lord
Capulet, we went straight to
the Montague family home to
speak to Lady Montague and
asked her how she felt about
the death of her only son,
Romeo. Most unfortunately,
when we asked her this she
burst into tears and told us
simply: “ I do not wish
to speak about it.” We
got off the land quickly
after that before she
could call security. So,
you can thin k what you
like, but we think this
needs investigating.
By Ella McCrae,
Year 5
MUSIC
I have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and spirit the children have shown
in music lessons and in performances this term. It's been an awe-inspiring
experience to see the creativity and imagination of these growing minds at work.
Music is a fundamental part of life here at the Mead fostering a great sense of
community and co-operation. Both Glee Club and Junior Choir have members
from years 3 through to year 6 who all instinctively help and support each other
in our work.
Back in September, we had an influx of requests for instrumental lessons after
several memorable assemblies delivered by our peripatetic staff. Drums, violin
and piano proved particularly popular. At present we have close to a hundred
children learning instruments on an individual basis, including piano, violin,
guitar, drums, flute, clarinet, voice, saxophone and of course ukulele. It really
bodes well for the future of the department. At the beginning of next term, a
percussion club to meet on Thursdays after school will commence, as well as
our brand new ukulele band.
I would like to make a particular plea for more brass players, and more cellists.
We have a stock of three trumpets, and three French horns, ready and waiting
for some willing souls to take them into their home. We are very lucky to have a
wonderful teacher in Ms Hanna, of twenty years experience, who is also a
performing professional French horn player, regularly working with London
orchestras.
The cello is my favourite instrument (after the piano, of course!) and it is
regretful that we have no children learning to play it. I would encourage anyone
contemplating learning a new musical instrument to consider it. Once there is
some interest, we have a superb musician in Helen Rathbone waiting to share
her incredible knowledge. Helen lives locally, and is a member of the London
Philharmonia orchestra, as well a regular performer in all the major concert
halls.
Concerning performances, the first half of term was very much about Harvest. I
was thrilled that the children took every song to their hearts, and performed with
such verve and spirit. Mrs Latty and year six delivered some really amazing
artwork for the programme covers, Miss Victoria's choreography was superb
and really helped the children absorb the songs. The professionalism and
aplomb the Infant Choir delivered their three songs with is a great credit to Ms
Hanna and the work she has done with them on Thursday lunchtimes. I'm
absolutely thrilled that our year ones and twos have such a great opportunity to
experience music-making together.
Junior Choir is now some forty-strong, and I'm in awe of their application and
energy. They performed beautifully at Harvest, led by Sissy Ellse's characterful
solo, and fully deserved their standing ovation.
Now Christmas is upon us, Nativity is already finished, and we are all terrifically
excited about our carol concert. All the children have been working really hard
to produce a special performance which we hope will send everybody away full
of Christmas cheer and ready to enjoy the festivities.
Anthony Zerpa-Falcon
Once again, I am truly amazed that this time of year has come around so
quickly!
Christmas may come but once a year but Maths Whizz is here
all year round!
This Christmas, why not encourage your children to spend moments of quiet
and calm working on their personalised Maths Whizz accounts.
To make things even easier you can now access MathsWhizz on iPads and
Android tablets!
Maths-Whizz subscribers can access the online virtual tutor on iPads and
tablets, through Puffin Academy, the freeFlash mobile browser that provides
access to whitelisted online educational resources.
1) Download the free Puffin Academy app
from the Google Play store for Android
tablets or from theiTunes store for
iPads.
2) Once you have downloaded the app,
go to this link within any browser on your
tablet or iPad: puffin://www.whizz.com.
3) You will arrive on the Maths-Whizz
website within the Puffin Academy
app. Log in to your account as usual and
enjoy Maths-Whizz on the go!
So please do encourage your children to continue their Maths Whizzing over
the holidays and have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year
Hope I
remembered to
turn roaming
off…..
Isobel Feaver
Director of Studies
KINDERGARTEN & PRE-RECEPTION
At the time of writing we are, somewhat unexpectedly knee deep in glitter and
good cheer. Kindergarten has just finished a truly beautiful 3D display based on
the gorgeous story of The Little White Owl, whilst Pre-Reception has thrown all
it’s creative talent into making a giant snowman! There’s nothing like welcoming
in a new season with bright new wall displays that we can all enjoy.
We have also been extremely busy making festive cards and presents for our
much loved families, as well as Christmas tree decorations and treats.
We are so proud of all the children who performed in this year’s Early Years
Nativity, under the brilliant guidance of Miss Victoria and Mr Anthony ZerpaFalcon. Kindergarten were so sweet as the stable animals, whilst Pre-Reception
stepped into the role of citizens with great confidence. Their beautiful renditions
of ‘Knock Knock’ and ‘Mary Wrapped Jesus’ will go down in Mead School
folklore.
Autumn is a big topic for us here in Kindergarten and Pre-Reception, as we
thoroughly explored the splendours of the seasonal change - greatly enhanced
by the first of our forest school visits to Hargate Woods.
Another highlight of this term was definitely a week’s worth of Divali
celebrations, where we explored and enjoyed festivities that helped us learn
about this, the Hindu ‘Festival of Light’. The children enjoyed learning about its
story and the way in which Hindu people celebrate Divali. We made Rangoli
patterns, Diva lamps, and beautiful artwork, before rounding off the week with a
scrumptious Indian feast.
It really has been such a lovely term. We look forward to seeing everybody
again in January, and welcoming in new children to our happy gang.
Have a wonderful Christmas, everybody.
Mrs Ovenden and Mrs Archer
RECEPTION INFANTS
It is quite amazing to think we have only been together just less than one term
and already we feel like life-long friends, busy learning and socialising between
our two Reception Environments.
The children began the term by learning about their own Planet Earth and
country, England. We researched native animals and visited the British Wildlife
Centre for the children to experience seeing them up close.
The children have mastered caring for their individual items and are now
working on turning their coats inside out and zipping them up all by themselves
– Important life skills that begin in Reception.
We hosted our annual Grandparents Day with an Autumnal theme. How we
have loved the autumn songs, poems and offerings of the season. This was a
chance for the Reception children to play host and give thanks to their
Grandparents for all they do in our lives and show them around our Reception
classrooms.
Reception children have had a prime view of the builders and their numerous
vehicles. We have observed step by step the stages of development. This has
led to interesting questions being asked, minutes of quiet viewing and inspired
building inside Miss Peace’s classroom including sound effects!
Perform – came to school and inspired us with a ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’
workshop. The children became fully engaged and it was wonderful to see each
and everyone using their imagination and become part of the group narration.
The highlight of our term has been our Early Years Nativity. How hard we have
worked to remember our lyrics and actions. We were so proud to perform in
front of the whole school in assembly and our loved ones at King Charles the
Martyr to kick off the Christmas season at The Mead.
Thank you to Mrs Brewer who reprised her role as Teaching Assistant to cover
Mrs Fox in Reception over the last few weeks of term. We miss and wish Mrs
Fox a speedy recovery.With festive blessing.
The Reception Team – Mrs Hunt, Miss Peace, Miss Ovenden & Mrs Ledger.
YEAR 1
The first term of Year 1 has passed in a flash and all the children have settled in
well to their new home upstairs. They have adapted to the routine of coming in
to the classroom independently and have taken on responsibility with roles such
as Daily Leader, Tidy Monitor and Coat Peg Monitor.
Whilst we are separate classes for most of the time, we have also enjoyed
lessons where the two classes come together for part of the lesson and so the
children get a chance to work alongside some of their class mates from
Reception. The two classes worked well to produce a fantastic Autumn
assembly and Mrs Culley said that she was blown away by how good it was!
We have finished our term with the usual flurry of glitter and sparkles and we
look forward to seeing all the children again next term.
With best wishes for a Merry Christmas,
Mrs Colbran, Mrs Biggs, Miss Batcheler and Mr O'Collins
YEAR 2
The children are now really settled in Year 2 and have all been working really
hard.
In Literacy this term our focus has been on story writing. The children have
been busy creating characters and settings and have used lots of adjectives in
their stories. They have written acrostic firework poems and have been busy
learning their weekly spellings.
In Numeracy the children have been learning to count in multiples of 10 from
any number, learning to rapidly recall number bonds for 10 and 20 and totalling
a handful of coins. The children have also been learning to recognise and
describe regular and irregular 2D shapes. The children have been so
enthusiastic in learning their times tables. Well done Year 2 and keep it up!
In History the children have learnt about the Great Fire of London. This has
proved to be a very popular topic and the children have listened to how the fire
started, why it spread so quickly and how it was eventually put out. The
children enjoyed our trip to London where they climbed the 311 steps to the top
of the Monument and were rewarded with a fantastic view of London. We then
walked to the Tower of London where the children took part in an educational
session. We finished our topic by presenting everything that we had learnt to
the rest of the school in our Year 2 assembly.
In Geography our topic has been ‘An Island Home’. Through the fictional
character of Katie Morag the children have learnt what it would be like to live on
a tiny island. The children have looked at the physical and human features of
the island and explored the island’s buildings and their multiple uses.
In Science the children have been learning about animals, including humans.
The children have been learning about the different stages of human
development and what all animals need to be able to survive.
In RE the children have been learning how different countries around the world
celebrate Christmas. The children have also listened attentively to stories that
Jesus told, including The Good Samaritan and The Prodigal Son.
Finally, in DT the children have really enjoyed making their Christmas
stockings. They sewed and decorated their stockings and also made a
Christmas Calendar and card.
We have had a very busy but fun term and we have really enjoyed getting to
know your children.
Have a very Merry Christmas and New Year!
Mrs Moral & Ms Rodriguez
YEAR 3
We have enjoyed a very busy term. All the children have settled really well into
life in KS2 and are fully participating in all the extra activities offered to them.
As we write the children are busy getting to grips with fractions, learning how to
follow and write instructions in literacy and investigating insulation of sound in
science. In geography they have learnt about weather and climates and
produced their own beautiful holiday brochures. The highlight of our term was a
visit from two Vikings! The children loved it all and learnt so much.
We wish you a very happy and peaceful Christmas!
Rachel Crouch
Jill Faure
Our Viking Day
Today it was Viking Day for Year 3. We all dressed up as Vikings and two real
Vikings came in and told us more about Viking times. First a Viking man came
into our classroom and we did lots of activities. I did weaving, grinding corn to
make flour and we threw rings over bits of wood. Next a Viking lady came in.
She could read runes. She chose Amber to stand up. The lady said that Amber
had a good future. Then she told us about what good Vikings would eat. They
ate fish, rabbit, eggs and bread. After that we pretended to row a boat. It was a
brilliant day.
Emilia Nottidge
Monkey
Appearance: A monkey’s appearance is very rare in Britain. Normally you
would find it in a jungle! They look like a fluffy human which have strong
muscles. They are very cheeky so watch out!
Habitat: Normally in the rain forest or a jungle but they can be found in forests
as well. They live In the trees and swing on the branches from the trees.
Diet: Bananas from a banana tree. Sometimes they eat insects as well!
Reproduction: Female monkeys give birth but can only be done one at a time;
they can grow to 56 centimetres. Baby monkeys can be cute but they are
tough. A monkey’s attack only harms you. They jump on your head and
confuse you and lure you into a pit and jump up to safety. This only happens if
you threaten it!
Adriano Beltramini
YEAR 4
It has been a lovely term settling into Year 4. We've had fun learning about
fables, instruction texts, explanation texts, traditional Indian folk tales and the
Hindu triumvirate! We really enjoyed reading our Divali stories to Reception.
We've revised basic sentence punctuation (this is ongoing!), used similes and
metaphors in image poems, replaced verbs with more powerful synonyms and
learnt how to correctly punctuate dialogue! In Maths we've learnt about
fractions, 3D shapes, addition, subtraction and multiplication. We've worked
really hard to learn our times tables. In History we've learnt about the ancient
Greeks and had a great time dressing up in togas! We've planned routes in
Geography and even learnt about the London Underground. Art has been
sticky, messy and fun creating Greek urns and 3D Christmas scenes! We'll be
packing just as much in to next term, looking forward to seeing you all in
January!
Have a wonderful Christmas,
Miss Seymour and Dr Parr
YEAR 5
Organised, motivated, keen to learn and not
afraid to have a go! Year 5 in a nutshell. This
term 5A and 5F have truly worked their socks
off!
The children have tackled a heavy workload and
the demands of increasing prep with aplomb. They have risen to the challenge
of developing their skills of personal organisation and, in general, have all
excelled in the art of being in the right place at the right time with the right
equipment!
A plethora of creative writing tasks and SPaG learning objectives have jostled
for position on the children’s busy timetables alongside a maths curriculum that
has extended the children’s knowledge of the
number system; explored a wide range of
fraction, decimal and percentage work in addition
to exploring a range of tasks designed to extend
pupil’s mathematical vocabulary though
investigations into prime and square numbers,
square roots, multiples and factors.
In Science, pupils have investigated what it
means to keep ourselves healthy; this followed a
body of work that investigated solids, liquids and
gases. The role of the Monarch, the class system
and changes in education, medicine and hygiene
were just some of the fascinating topics that the
children explored within their work on the
Victorians in History.
Rivers and the Water Cycle filled the children’s
geography lessons whilst within the Performing
Arts element of their curriculum, the year 5
children have explored how a story may be
adapted using non naturalistic drama techniques in Drama lessons whilst in
Music, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky came under examination in
terms of the manner in which these great composers have evolved the elements
of rhythm and pulse.
E Safety, Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Mandarin, French, the history and structure
of the Bible not to mention PE, football and netball, tops off this whistle-stop tour
of just some of the many activities and topics that our year 5 pupils have tackled
with such gusto and determination this term.
Well done year 5, have a brilliant Christmas break and we look forward to
seeing you in January.
Isobel Feaver & John Agnew
My Victorian School Day
This morning I woke up at seven o’clock for school
with my brother, Alexander. I got dressed in my
green pinafore and my blue tights then went
downstairs for breakfast. Next I set off down the roads
of Tunbridge Wells. Soon I was trudging
through the gigantic bogs in the fields when
Alexander pushed me with lots of force so I slipped
and fell and my new pinafore got drenched in watery
mud. Now I was terrified what punishment I would
get, hopefully not the dunce’s hat; that would be
extra embarrassing (especially in front of the whole
class!) At least Alex apologised afterwards though.
When we got to school, my brother and I parted. I
went through the girls’ gate and Alex went through the
boys’ gate. I hope Alex doesn’t fight with Harry
Pettit again. Last week he came home with a big
bruise.
As I was greeting my friends the bell rung. We lined up and said good morning
to Miss Whitewood. “Morning Miss Harriet Jones” she replied. As I was putting
my belongings in my locker, I saw my very good friend Lorraine Charlotte
Johnson. When class began, I sat at my wooden desk next to Lorraine and
Maggie Roberts. We recited our 9 times table but suddenly Miss Whitewood
noticed the mud on my uniform so I was told to stand in the corner with the
terrible, attention-seeking dunce’s hat. At lunchtime Lottie and her horrible gang
were teasing me. I hated her.
Just then the bell rang. Our next lessons were the three Rs (Reading, Writing
and Arithmetic). Miss Whitewood told us to copy what she had written on the
blackboard. I accidentally blotted my copybook (literally!). I got caned.
Afterwards I was full of agony, it felt like spikes were going through my hand.
Then we started reading: The rapid rabbit ran round the ragged rocks. Those
tongue-twisters are very hard. Here is another: Peter Piper picked a peck of
pickled peppers. Poor old Lorraine said it wrong so she had to stand in the
corner with the dunce’s hat on. Sadly the bell rang for lunch; it nearly burst my
ear drums! Anyway, lunch was bread and jam; very filling! I caught a glimpse
of Lottie but ran to the girls’ changing rooms just in time. When lunch had
ended, I lined up, curtseyed to Miss Whitewood and said good morning to her
as usual. My afternoon changed when I noticed that my copybook and my
father’s quill had been stolen! Goodness knows what punishment I would get
for this and it wasn’t even my fault. I hope whoever did it owns up quickly
because I was really starting to panic now, what should I do?
“Class, please get out your copybooks and quills” asked Miss Whitewood.
Everyone pulled out their copybooks and quills. Miss Whitewood noticed that I
was the only student without a book. She took a slow stride towards me and
surprisingly placed my copybook on the desk. “Outstanding work, Harriet, really
amazing!” I was taken aback with this. “thank you Miss Whitewood” I mumbled
quietly. We were told to write down our three times table followed by our
twelves and elevens. We were told to make up our own tongue-twisters.
Before I knew it, it was time to go home. We all exited the classroom and
packed our satchels and set off home. I had to wait for Alexander who
fortunately did not have any scratches, bruises or marks on his face before we
left. We started out long way home.
Millie (Amelia James)
‘Steps in Time’
YEAR 6 NEWS
As always, Year 6 have had a very busy first term in their final year. Having
quickly dispatched the 11+ in the first week, everyone was hugely excited to be
going to the Isle of Wight for the, by now traditional, Study Trip. This is the first
time the Year 6 children are truly expected to ‘rise to the occasion’ by being
entirely responsible for themselves (with staff supervision) for three whole days.
For some this was the first time they had spent more than a night away from
home without their family and there was a mixture of nervous excitement and
trepidation as they set off towards Tunbridge Wells station on Wednesday 30th
September. The children were wonderful representatives of the school as they
journeyed across London and down to Portsmouth to take the ferry across to
the island. They were entranced by the splendour of Osborne House and
fascinated by some of the many strange objects contained in the Swiss Cottage
museum, including a nine-legged spider and a five-legged deer!
The delights of the Youth Hostel, sharing dormitories, making their own beds
and keeping their bedrooms tidy will, no doubt, be experiences they will never
forget. Back at school they have been working hard on their projects and there
will be some beautiful books to look at when they are finished. They will make a
wonderful memento and keepsake of their trip.
The children have taken on the responsibilities of being House and Sports
Captains, Drama Monitors, Digital Leaders, Librarians, Choir Monitors and
Leaders, School Council Representatives and Eco Leaders. Many were
afforded the privilege and responsibility of giving a guided tour to our visitors on
Open Day and Grandparents’ Day. It is daunting to meet and talk with total
strangers, but the reports fed back to the staff were full of praise for the way the
children had conducted themselves and they should be congratulated for doing
such an impressive job.
A visit from ‘Steps in Time’ gave the children
a glimpse into life as an evacuee during the
Second World War and was a wonderful way
of enhancing our ‘Britain Since 1930’ topic in
History. The children have worked very hard
throughout this long, academic term and
have really begun to grow into their Year 6
roles and we hope they will all have a super,
well-deserved Christmas holiday.
Heather Waight and Debbie Latty Year 6
Tutors
HOUSE NEWS
Thackeray
The main focus of our house this term was fundraising for Children in Need.
Despite the fact that we had the weather against us and had to relocate inside,
Thackeray raised a whopping £382.78 towards this deserving charity. A huge
thank you to all our families who contributed so generously to our cake stall! As
always this was a great draw, particularly for Thackeray staff, who ended up
lighter in the pocket, but much heavier on the scales next day. Please note that
next year Thackeray will be supporting a local charity.
Thackeray has taken part in interhouse netball, football and swimming this term
but at the time of going to press final results are not yet available. As usual our
thanks go to our house captains, Aigerim Aitzhanova and Tyler Zenoni, and our
sports captains, Phoebe Douse and Sienna Burgess.
Finally, please can we remind
everyone again that all items of
uniform and PE kit, including shoes
and trainers, should be named using
a sew-on name tapes or a sharpie.
Please do not use biro as this rubs
off.
We wish you all a very happy and
relaxed Christmas and New Year.
Thackeray House Staff
Chalybeate
Chalybeate have had an excellent term. As we write this, victory in the house
point challenge seems unlikely, although scores are very close! The green flag
has been flying a few times this term! All our house members have been making
an effort to gain house points by being well mannered and polite as well as
working hard. We have done well in the pool as well as in football and netball,
well done everyone. Special praise should go to Alice and Ashleigh for
organising the inter house fun swimming gala with such maturity, they also
showed great sensitivity towards some of the nervous ones! It was lovely to
witness. Next term we are hoping to have a fund raising activity for ‘Help Tibet’
to raise money for a school high in the Himalayas.
We wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas.
Heather Waight, Rachel Crouch, Claire Peace, Caroline Parr, Sandy Batcheler
& Helen Woodhams
Wellington
This term Wellington children have worked really hard to gain points by being
kind to others, completing their work and showing good manners. They have
done extremely well, having our red flag up for a couples of weeks. We have
had no minuses this term which we are really proud of.
We have enjoyed our meetings every week. We have welcomed new members
to our house including as well new staff, Mr. Zerpa-Falcon and Mr. O’Collins.
Wellies have been successful at the inter house sport this term and have won
the competition. Our house is immensely proud of this; let’s keep up the effort
and the good fun!
A fantastic term for our house, we are already looking forward to the next one.
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Wellington Staff
GREEN TEAM
We've been getting into the swing of collecting paper and card recycling and
encouraging people to walk to school and Switch Off on Sunday! There is
always room for improvement and so we really, really hope the school will come
back in January with New Year's resolutions of exercising more and saving the
planet!
Have a green Christmas,
Miss Seymour and the Green Team
COOKERY
Cookery for Years 3 & 4
Years 3 and 4 have really enjoyed their Monday Cookery Club with Anita. They
have made chocolate muffins, sausage rolls, pasta pots, banana and honey
muffins, bat cookies and Rudolf novelty cakes. They have also made and
decorated Christmas cakes.
French Cookery for Years 5 & 6
This club is a real excitement for the children. We try to prepare as many
different recipes as possible, from sweet to savoury, through to making
decorations. We have been making chocolate chip cookies, a trio of omelettes,
hot Italian chocolate with marshmallows and homemade fresh whipped cream,
fruit salad, pumpkin carving, vegetable cutting decorations, fruit compote and
vegetable soup. They take very seriously the fact that the kitchen environment
is full of hazards; we are using kitchen knives, gas cookers… They understand
that cooking is not only preparing food but also cleaning the area after the
preparations.
I am very proud of what they have achieved and again, they are the reason why
I love sharing my knowledge with them. Well-done Cooking Club!
Chef Stéphane
NEEDLES AND PINS
This term everyone who joined Needles and Pins has made several pieces of
work, ranging from simple bookmarks while learning to start and finish their
sewing correctly, to more complicated place mats with an array of stitches,
some of which have been of the children’s own devising. They have loved
designing their own pieces and choosing from the colourful array of sewing
threads available, and have been generous in showing each other how to create
a certain stitch or how to thread a needle.
Those who have become more proficient have helped to ‘untangle’ those who
have sometimes got into a muddle, and it has all been done in a spirit of friendly
co-operation and admiration for each other’s ideas. There has also been time
for a chat and some singing to pass the time. This has been a lovely club and
the children have lots of beautiful work to show for their efforts.
Heather Waight
MOSAICS CLUB
We have had fun in mosaics club this term, creating various designs using
initially paper mosaics and then moving on to working with foam pieces. After
half term we started using little ceramic tiles and the children have made some
lovely photo frames and coasters and got their hands dirty learning the art of
grouting. Well done everyone, you have produced some great results from this
introduction to the art of mosaics.
TEXTILES AND DESIGN CLUB.
I have really enjoyed working with the girls in our first term of this new club. We
started with the concept of design and armed with their rough books the girls
designed their own fantasy bedrooms and garden areas. Once they were
happy with them they then produced some fabulous mood boards. They really
loved going to the costume shed for materials. This term the girls have looked
at different materials to make their own clothes. The theme was dance and,
having been supplied with the same leotard and tutu the girls have transformed
them! We have had some frustrating times learning to thread the needle and
the bobbin in the sewing machine, pinning fabric to one side of the material and
hand sewing but overall it’s been a blast!
We hope to hold a fashion show in the New Year to
showcase their talents!
Have a lovely Christmas.
Mrs Biggs & The Textiles and Design Club
PUZZLE CLUB
This has been a new club for this year and we have
explored word searches, crosswords, Sudoku (very
hard!), jokes & riddles, rhymes and jigsaws. As well as
working out puzzles in books and games the children
have also made up their own. We have managed to
make an Infant and Junior puzzle book for everyone to
enjoy! Happy Puzzling. See you next term.
Mrs Biggs & The Puzzlers
WILDERNESS WATCH CLUB
We have had a fantastic term in Wilderness Watch Club.
This has been mainly due to the children's immense
enthusiasm for everything we do. Ideas have been
discussed, adjusted and implemented to make some wonderful creations. New
skills have been learnt by us all including, rope making, whittling, fire lighting
and different ways of using the wonderful natural resources around us. Please
enjoy looking at the display board outside the kitchen with photos and examples
of some of the great things we have been up to. Thank you club members for
making this such a special club to belong to and for your wonderful approach to
everything we do.
Happy Christmas Wilderness Watch.
FRIENDS OF THE MEAD
This has been a wonderful term for the FOM. It has been a joy to welcome so
many ‘new’ parents to our morning meetings and to welcome back some
committed long time members who provide terrific continuity and wisdom to our
proceedings.
The success of our ‘Upstairs/Downstairs’ evening has led us to make this a
termly event. Dates are in the diary at the end of this newsletter. The film
choice will be made public nearer the time.
A huge thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the Winter Fayre
such fun as well as boosting the FOM funds by some £2k. Thank you too for all
the families who came and supported the Fayre.
FOM is all about enriching our community and it has given me great pleasure to
observe new friendships being forged through our events.
We are busy looking into the renewal of our climbing equipment and increasing
our outdoor equipment. Mead children are ‘outdoorsy’, thank goodness and the
playground inevitably takes very heavy wear, so this is a particularly exciting
initiative. At the time of writing, we have nearly £7000 in the FOM bank.
Thank you everyone and we look forward to next term’s events.
Mrs Angela Culley
THE OFFICE MANAGER’S BIT
Nearly there, with the building, that is. This term saw a stop to the seemingly
never-ending digging down to a rapid upward trend. We are still on schedule to
have the new building completed by the end of January 2016 which will mean
us being able to use all the new rooms after the Spring term half-term.
This will mean that we return to school in January to our now ‘normal’ daily
routines for drop off and pick up of using the ‘In’ gate entrance as our entrance
and exit for pedestrians. We will continue with no cars being allowed in this
area except for Mrs Culley’s, Elizabeth’s and visitors to the school. All staff and
delivery vehicles will still be asked to park off site.
Elizabeth’s office will remain in the library until the Spring Term half-term.
Kindergarten and Pre-Reception children should enter their classrooms via the
dining hall, KS1 via the boot room and KS2 via the fire doors at the rear of the
gym, straight to their cloakrooms and then up the main stairwell to their
classrooms. The builders have been very considerate to our needs as a school
and I expect the next half-term will continue to be as undisrupted as this one.
On a more usual and day-to-day issue, I continue with my battle to keep uniform
and kit united with its rightful owner. Margaret continues to match children with
kit on a daily basis and this does seem to be working. May I please continue to
urge you all to take all kit home every week to be washed, sorted and if needs
be, renamed so that we can try to keep lost property to a minimum. Also please
can you name sports kit on the outside of the garment so that it is very clear for
us to monitor when kit is walking.
The support staff continue to underpin the school. Anita and her team continue
to enjoy their much deserved grade 5 rating from the Food Standards Agency.
Our new in-house yoghurt / cheese cake making machine has sprung up a new
wealth of healthy puddings, for which I am personally very grateful. Thank you
to Anita and her team from all who benefit from their labours – delicious!
Nigel Wheeler has this term battled with a constant supply of leaves, be it wet or
dry he has made it his mission to ensure the children are not exposed to the
dangers of slippery leaves, such as those encountered by our rail services.
Nigel is a huge asset to our school and quietly performs miracles before more of
us even arrive for the day.
David and Margaret remain in the heart of the school keeping all safe and
sound. David passed his lollipop assessment with flying colours. If only they
had asked us first, we could have told them that. Margaret is, this term, turning
to her green fingers and adding plants and flowers to our daily school life. This
is a very bright and appreciated addition to our school life.
Please accept the termly reminder, that invoices are due on or before the first
day of next term i.e. 5th January 2016.
Do use electronic transfer where
possible and remember that the transfer may take three working days and to
reference your payment with your child’s name.
Fees and charges remain at their Autumn Term 2015 level and we continue to
offer many after school clubs and supervised prep sessions available to all
children in Year 3 and above mostly free of charge, a feature unique to The
Mead. These are for the coming term:
Ballet, Batik, Card Games, Choir, Cookery, Computer, Construction, Craft,
Forest Schools, French Cookery, Glee Club, Judo, Modern & Tap, Meditation,
Mosaics, Poetry, Public Speaking, Puzzles, Rollerblading, Sewing, Spanish
Culture, Sport and Textiles and Design.
We have our extended wrap around care provision to 6pm within the Munch
Bunch session which is charged pro rata. We also have Early Years staff at
every breakfast session to allow for an early drop off for even our youngest
children.
Parking
Please remain vigilant in regards to the parking around the school as we have
constant reminders from the council in this regard. Please also respect the rule
of not entering the car parking area in your vehicle at any time. This is for the
safety of our staff and children.
We do urge you to please be considerate to our neighbours when parking,
particularly those in Howard Gardens. Please ensure they can access their
drives at all times.
Pupil Insurance
Just to remind you that we do have Pupil Insurance cover for your children
should an accident occur. For further details please do contact me.
Policies and Procedures
Please may I take this opportunity to remind you that any policies and
procedures you may require to view are shown on our website. If for any
reason you do not find what you are looking for there, do not hesitate to ask
either Elizabeth or myself and we will guide you.
www.meadschool.info/policies/
I wish you all a very warm and relaxing Christmas break.
Rebecca Hall - Office Manager
SCHOOL COUNCIL
The School Council have had a busy first term. I have a great new team and
they instantly came with loads of ideas.
Our first mission was to explore the school and report any maintenance issues.
Many things have been done because of the Council’s beady eyes.
We have also been trying to solve the playground equipment issue. We have
come up with some fantastic ideas. Some items have been ordered and we are
waiting for delivery.
The Council have also been involved with raising money for
Movember. They gathered together all the votes as to which
moustache Mr Agnew should try and grow. They chose the
‘twirly style’ but unfortunately it did not grow enough in the time!
Some of the Council also interviewed each other asking what it means to be a
Meadite. These interviews were then played at the recent parent seminar.
I am looking forward to next term and our future missions.
The School Council
SPORT REPORT – DECEMBER 2015
Inter-house results this term:
Thackeray
U8 + U9 Football
20
U10 + U11 Football
5
U8 + U9 Netball
20
U10 + U11 Netball
5
Junior Swimming fun
16
races
Infants Swimming fun
12
races
Total
78 Points
Wellington
10
10
10
20
14
Chalybeate
5
20
10
10
18
24
12
88 Points
75 Points
Swimming
156 swimming badges were won this term across the school and heartfelt
congratulations go to all the pupils who earned their badge.
Football
U10 /U11tournament at Skippers Hill: the A team finished third in their group
and the B team won the B team competition. Well done. Our A team went back
to Skippers Hill to practise on their astro in order to prepare for the ISA London
South finals at Crystal Palace. It was a fantastic win, 6-1 (the team had lost 4-2
a few weeks before).
For the ISA at Crystal Palace, the idea was to prepare the team for next year;
we played very well and won two matches and it was a good learning curve.
U9 match against Skippers Hill: This was a fantastic, very tight match and with
30 seconds to the final whistle was a draw until Skippers Hill scored making it a
win for them 3-2.
A big thank you goes to all the parents for supporting their teams and helping us
with the driving.
Netball
The girls have only played one match this term.
We played against Bricklehurst Manor School. It
was a very close game with both teams playing
really well. We narrowly missed out losing 7 to 6.
All the girls had a great time and played with a
great team spirit. We have two tournaments next
term which I am really looking forward to.
Rugby
Next term Years 5 and 6 are also playing contact
rugby, therefore the boys will need a gum shield.
Years 3 and 4 will be playing tag rugby for which
the gum shield is not necessary.
As the Spring Term is the wet, muddy and cold
term, please can you add gloves, Mead hat,
Lycra Leggings and tops, towel and a plastic bag to your son / daughter PE bag.
News
Firstly, our Years 5 and 6 will have Wednesday double games on Bayham
Fields (where we had Sports Day last year). We are taking a coach and
therefore our children need to be clean. They must travel with a tracksuit
bottom, fleece or cagoule and trainers. Football/rugby boots should be kept in a
separate bag.
Secondly, we have a new Sports coach staring in January, Mr William Davis.
He will be working every Wednesday with the Juniors and he is opening a
football practice (for boys and girls) for the Year 2 lunch time (13.00-13.30).
Football boots and shin pads will be needed.
Thanks to all for the huge improvement in naming sports kit this year – this has
resulted in lots of ‘good works’ being allocated to the three houses.
34 children have signed up for the PGL Summer Holidays in Liddington.
We will be departing on Friday 15 July and returning onMonday 18 July 2016.
We have the possibility to add a few more if you are interested. Please contact
me or Elizabeth for a form.
We wish you a Merry Christmas.
Pierre Leroy and the PE
Department
Matches Spring Term 2016
DATE
Wednesday
6 January
Wednesday
13 January
Thursday
14 January
Wednesday
20 January
Thursday
21 January
Friday
22 January
Wednesday
27 January
Wednesday
3 February
Wednesday
10 February
Thursday
11 February
Wednesday
17 February
Wednesday
24 February
Thursday
25 February
Wednesday
2 March
Wednesday
9 March
Thursday
10 March
Wednesday
16 March
BOYS
(RUGB/ FOOTBAL)
GIRLS
(NETBALL)
No Matches
No Matches
14h30. U10 + U11 2 teams
Contact Rugby at Skippers Hill.
14h30 U9 Tag Rugby
at Beechwood
14h30 U9 Tag Rugby
at Skippers Hill
ISA U11 Girls’ Netball Festival
U11 Quadrangular tournament at
Skippers Hill with Bricklehurst &
Battle Abbey at 2.00 pm
14h30 U8/U9 netball
at Skippers Hill
Half Term
12h00 ISA Tag Rugby Festival
on Bayham Fields
14h45 U10 + U11 2 teams
7 a side Tag Rugby
at Sacred Heart Wadhurst.
Half Term
KEY DATES FOR SPRING TERM 2016
Tuesday 5 January
Wednesday 6 January
Friday 8 January
Monday 11 January
Thursday 14 January
Monday 25 January
Friday 29 January
Thursday 4 February
Friday 5 February
Tuesday 9 February
Wednesday 10 February
Thursday 11 February
Friday 12 February
Monday 22 February
Tuesday 23 February
Wednesday 24 February
Friday 26 February
Monday 29 February
Tuesday 1 March
Thursday 3 March
Friday 4 March
Saturday 5 March
Tuesday 8 March
Wednesday 9 March
Thursday 10 March
Friday 11 March
Monday 14 March
Tuesday 15 March
Wednesday 16 March
Thursday 17 March
Friday 18 March
Saturday 19 March
Thursday 14 April
Start of term & First Infant swim
First Kindergarten swim
First Junior swim
Flu immunisation (nasal spray) for Years 1 & 2
FOM Meeting at 8.40 am in the Dining Room
Early Years’ Forest School
Own Clothes Day and Year 3 presenting assembly
Choir singing at Pantiles Baptist Church
Second-hand uniform sale from 8.00 am to 8.45 am
Year 4 trip to Unicorn Theatre, London to see
‘Minotaur;
Children’s Valentine Disco
‘Steps in Time’ historical performances to Yrs 2 & 3
Break up at 12.00 noon for half-term
Return to school
Infants to complete swimming badges
Kindergarten & Pre-Reception to complete
swimming badges
Key Stage Two to complete swimming badges
Children’s Film Night & Parents’ Soiree
Early Years’ Forest School
Year 5 church study visit to King Charles the Martyr
Parents can view Infants swimming (no
photographs or videos permitted)
World Book Day
KS2 Fun Inter-house swim
Year 6 at ISA Drama Competition - tbc
Year 6 at ISA Drama Competition - tbc
Evening Concert at 7.30 pm by Anthony ZerpaFalcon and some of the peripatetics
Grandparents’
Day
for
grandparents
of
Kindergarten & Pre-Reception children
Infants’ mini swimming races
Open Day from 10.00 – 12.00 noon & 2.15–3.15pm
Last Kindergarten swimming session of term
Key Stage 1 & Yr 6 performances at Trinity Theatre
Ballet exam coaching in the morning
Key Stage Two fun swim
LAMDA exams
Year 6 modern and tap viewing for parents
LAMDA exams & ballet exams
Infant fun swim
No Kindergarten swim
Ballet viewing for parents
Easter Bonnet & Cake Sale
Modern & Tap viewing for Years 1 – 5 parents
Easter Service at 11.15 am at King Charles the
Martyr Church – term ends 12.00 noon from the
church
ISA Judo Competition at Oakhyrst Grange School
Ski trip departs, returning 26 March
Summer Term commences
Thank you for all your support and involvement in school life – we are very lucky
as a community that your children are blessed with home and school working so
closely together. I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and every best wish
for 2016.