Weekly Bulletin 4th July 2025
Headteacher’s Message
Together with Mrs Richardson and Mrs Marsden and all of Year 6 I am currently enjoying 3 days at the Robinwood Outdoor Activity Centre in Alston as part of our Year 6 class residential visit. It might be wet, but the children (and staff too!) have engaged in various activities including climbing, canoeing, problem solving, the giant swing and a piranha pool! It has been a rich opportunity not only to develop new skills and independence, but also to develop teamwork. I know that the younger children in school look forward to their opportunity to visit once they are in Year 6.
I also wish to thank all of those who attended our open evening on the 1st July. It provided an excellent opportunity for parents to meet their child’s class teacher for the next academic year.
Reports will be sent home today for children in Reception – Year 5 (Y6 will receive their reports on Tuesday 8th July). This gives an overview of your child’s progress and achievements over the course of the year as well as next steps in learning and I have provided a summary of the information we are required to report to parents at the end of the year.
We are required to report if your child is at the expected standard for their age or if they are working towards that standard. The greater depth standard will be reported to children at the end of Key Stage 2. Please return the response slip as you are able.
Summary
End of year reports must include:
- achievements
- general progress
- attendance record since the last report
- results of any statutory assessments:
Year 1 (and 2 where applicable) – results from phonics screening check
Year 4 – results from multiplication tables check
Year 6 – SAT results (scaled score and whether they have met the expected standard)
– teacher assessment for writing and science
– statement explaining why SATs were not taken (if applicable)
– comparative information about attainment of pupils of same age
Each week I want to include a ‘snapshot’ of some of the things going on in school. For example, news from our ECO team, Worship group, V.I.P. (Very International People) and SNAG (School Nutrition Action Group). This week our focus is on FOSS and an update is shared below.
Best wishes
Mr Rumbles
FOSS
Over the years, FOSS has raised a significant amount of money which has gone directly towards enhancing the experience of all pupils in school. Thanks to their efforts, we have been able to invest in much-needed equipment, fund educational trips and visitors, and enrich our classrooms with additional learning resources. These contributions make a tangible difference to the children and are deeply appreciated by staff and pupils alike.
Just as importantly, it has helped reduce the financial burden on families when it comes to school trips and special experiences.
The current Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer will be stepping down at the end of this term, and unless we are able to fill these key positions, FOSS will unfortunately not be able to continue in its current form.
If you are interested in finding out more about what the roles involve, or if you would like to discuss how you might be able to help, please do get in touch via the school office or speak to a member of the current FOSS team. Even if you are unsure, I would encourage you to reach out for an informal conversation.
Diary Dates
For a full list of school holiday dates please see the school website.
Wednesday 9th July – Oriental Museum Y3
Thursday 10th July 9am – 11am – Y3 Maths Café. Y3 Parents welcome.
Tuesday 15th July at 2.45pm – Y6 Leavers’ Assembly – Y6 Parents Welcome
Friday 18th July at 10am – Y6 Leavers’ Service at St Mary’s Y6 Parents Welcome – refreshments served afterwards by St Mary’s parishioners
Friday 18th July – School closes for Summer holiday
Noticeboard
- Guitar lessons – Friday 27th June and Friday 4th July have been CANCELLED. The re-arranged dates are; Wednesday 2nd July and Wednesday 16th
- Wrap-around Care Provision – if you require any details, please contact the School office.
- Sun Cream – As the weather is starting to warm up, please remember to apply a long-lasting sun cream before your child comes to school. Please also provide a named sun-hat.
Christian Vision and Values
Our school vision is rooted in Jesus’ promise in John 10 v 10, that he has ‘come that you may have life – life in all its fullness.’ To help us understand and live out this vision we look at certain Christian values which, as a school community, we believe are important.
This half-term, we will explore the value of service and worship will be led by Mr Rumbles, Mrs Matthews, Fr. Peter, Fr. Bill and our Key Stage Two pupils. We will be thinking about the ways in which we are able to serve one another.
Further information on this half term’s Christian value:
Properly understood, Christian Service is a revolutionary concept. The notion of service calls us to lay selfish things aside for the needs of others. It is also an important value in all relationships.
Jesus said that he ‘came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’
The story of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper is well known—this is where he takes on the role of the lowest servant rather than that of the master. Jesus tells us clearly the meaning of this action: ‘Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done.’
Serving God, means serving others.
We would like our children to continue their reflection and experience at home.
Some things to think about:
- How are we encouraged to “find” our gifts and to use them for the good of the school and wider community?
- How do you show gratitude for those who serve / help you?
If you would like to receive a copy of the Weekly Bulletin by e-mail please e-mail the school. Shincliffece@durhamlearning.net The Weekly Bulletins from previous weeks can be found in the Parents’ section of the website.
