E-newsletter 179

Letter From Damian Hinds, Minister For Schools

Yesterday, the school received a very well-timed letter from the Department for Education.

It arrived just as children returned to school to explore their new curriculum themes and spectacular learning environments.

The school has maintained a strong belief over many years that excellent teaching and engaging, memorable learning experiences are key to academic success. The letter from the Minister For Schools and the selection of photos below of the first day back are testimony to the fact that pupils can excel in learning whilst also experiencing a highly enjoyable, rich and broad curriculum. 

Here is a transcript of the letter: 

I would like to congratulate you, your staff and your pupils on the very high standard of achievement demonstrated in the reading, writing and mathematics Key Stage 2 assessment last year.

Your school's results, as published on 14 December, show that 93% of your pupils reached or exceeded the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics at the end of Key Stage 2. This means that for achievement in reading, writing and mathematics, Grendon CE Primary School is in the top 1% of primary schools in the country.

The government wants to ensure that every child has the fluency in reading, writing and mathematics necessary to prepare them for a successful secondary education and beyond, which is why I was delighted to see your results.

Thank you for your work in continuing the drive towards higher academic standards and congratulations again to you and your staff for your commitment and success.

FOGS: World Book Day

As part of their tremendous fundraising efforts for the new school library, FOGS have organised activities around World Book Day which, this year, takes place next week on Thursday 7th March.

Your child will have brought home details of the Design Your Own Book Cover competition where prizes are on offer in all year groups from Nursery to Year 6. Entries can be returned to school any time up to and including World Book Day. 

World Book Day Dress Up on Thursday 7th March is open to all pupils - children can dress up as their favourite book or story character or they can come to school in their PJs or Mufti. FOGS are asking for voluntary cash donations in exchange for mufti and all funds raised will go towards the exciting library refurbishment project!