“The purpose of our lives is to be happy.”
Dalai Lama
We are very excited to be welcoming Elena Priesen-Reis into school next week to talk about the expedition to Antarctica that she will be embarking on in November 2021. The expedition is led by environmentalist Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk to both Poles. Not only will Elena explore Antarctica on land and on sea, but will also learn about energy futures, climate change, sustainability and conservation.
As part of her expedition, she will be coming to school next Tuesday 25th May to run workshops with the children about Antarctica and the work she will be conducting whilst visiting. She will visit us again after her expedition to tell us about her trip and her findings. She will kindly provide the school with exclusive insight into the expedition and act as a “window” into this extraordinary location on the other side of the world. To mark this special day, children can come to school wearing something white (such as a top or trousers) if they wish, to celebrate Antarctica Day. If they are wearing white, children do not need to wear school uniform. We ask for a minimum £1 donation that will be donated to the 2041 Foundation (founded by Robert Swan), which seeks to preserve Antarctica as a natural reserve for science and peace. Home – 2041 Foundation
Educational Visits
As museums and galleries start to open up, we hope that it will not been too much longer before we are able to take children on educational visits – so essential to enhancing learning and building knowledge. Y6 are very much looking forward to their school journey to a centre in Hampshire after the half term. Please be assured that we will always complete thorough risk assessments before going on any visits.
Attendance and Punctuality
The whole school attendance this week was excellent at 97.9%. A huge well done to Y1 for winning the bear this week with a perfect score of full attendance! Y3 have also continued to be strong and top the table in KS2.
Attendance Bears
Y1: 100% Y3: 99%
Early Birds
Y1 & Y4
Helping us to keep everyone safe
Please remember to adhere to the following practices:
- Maintain social distancing outside school at drop off and pick up;
- Parents/carers are unable to enter the school building or playgrounds and must drop off at/pick up from the allocated gate;
- It is recommended that only one parent/carer drops off and picks up;
- If parents/carers are attending a prearranged meeting in school and 2 metres distance is not possible, masks will need to be worn.
Christian Value – Compassion
One of the most well known stories in the bible is the healing of the leper. Due to the the contagious nature of their disease, lepers were considered outcasts in Jesus’ time. They lived separately and were seen as “unclean” and “untouchable”. However Jesus, taking pity on the leper, healed him of his disease. He didn’t see the man as a leper but a human being who was sick and needed his help.
As we reflect on this story, we are reminded that Jesus wanted to show us that kindness should go beyond social stereotypes. We should look at where people are coming from and try to ensure that we understand their circumstances; only then can we develop genuine compassion.
Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.
Ephesians 4:29
COACH STEVE’S HALF TERM MULTI SPORTS CLUB
Where: Eleanor Palmer Primary School, Lupton St, NW5 2JA
When: Tuesday 1st – Friday 4th June
Time: 9.00am-3.00pm Age: 5-11 year olds
Cost: Full week = £90 / Concession rate = £65
For more info, please email Coach Steve at prorevolution.development@gmail.com
Girls Football Development Class (with Coach Steve)
Where: Fleet Primary School, Agincourt Rd, NW3 2QT
When: Every Tuesday
Time: 5.30-6.30pm
Age: 6-10 year olds (Year 2 to Year 5)
Cost: First class is FREE (£6 per class thereafter)
For more info, please email Coach Steve at prorevolution.development@gmail.com
Food Bank Requests
Thank you to those that have delivered donations to school. Please do keep dropping food off as the need is still great. All non-perishables are welcome but there is a particular need for toiletries, loo paper, baby formula, chocolate treats and nappies in all sizes. Many thanks for your support.
BAME Helpline
Barnardos have a helpline for Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic children, young people and parents/carers, that are affected by Covid-19. They are available to hear about any worries, problems and stresses during this time, and can provide emotional support, practical advice and signposting to other organisations who can provide further help.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Wellbeing Tip of the Week – How to actively listen
When we’re going through a hard time and try to talk to someone about it, it can be very frustrating when we feel that we aren’t being listened to. Sometimes people offer a solution straight away or dismiss the issue like it’s no big deal. They might think they’re helping, but actually it makes us feel like our feelings aren’t important (and we might do it unintentionally to others too). All anyone wants is to have their feelings validated and this can happen through Active Listening:
- Validate feelings – acknowledge their feelings without judgement, e.g. by saying: “That sounds really upsetting” (no matter your opinion on the matter);
- Give full attention and eye contact, avoid distractions e.g. put your phone away;
- Be patient and comfortable to sit with their feelings – moments of silence don’t have to be filled;
- Just be there – we don’t have to fix the problem, just giving your time to listen is enough.
Camden Healthy Eating Support Team
Dear Parents/Carers,
Camden Learning are offering FREE virtual healthy eating sessions for families. The sessions cover a range of healthy eating support, including: eating well at home; fun breakfast ideas and hidden sugars; understanding labels and portion sizes; and strategies to raise healthy eaters. ‘Fussy eating’ strategies are discussed in each topic. You are welcome to attend one or all of the sessions. Times and contact details are listed on the flier here.
Fundraising
Easyfundraising – While shopping online during lockdown, don’t forget you can keep raising money for the school via many major retailers. Please click on the link and sign up if you have not already done so.
Music
All music lessons are now face to face at school including:
- Individual and group lessons
- Class bands
- Class recorder
Term dates for 2020 – 2021
| First day of autumn term | Thursday 3rd September 2020 |
| Half term | Monday 26th – Friday 30th October |
| Last day of autumn term | Friday 18th December |
| First day of spring term | Monday 4th January 2021 |
| Half term | Monday 15th – Friday 19th February |
| Last day of spring term | Thursday 1st April |
| First day of summer term | Monday 19th April |
| Half term | Monday 31st May – Friday 4th June |
| Last day of summer term | Friday 16th July |
