Newsletters

Dear Parents,

On Monday, our children had the privilege of meeting Ellie Olds, the company Nutritionist from Holroyd Howe. Ellie engaged the children in a discussion about the significance of healthy eating, guiding them on how to create a balanced plate, embrace a variety of colourful foods, and experiment with new flavours. The session was both interactive and informative, leaving our pupils enthusiastic about making healthier choices. Additionally, Ellie shared valuable tips with some of our parents on encouraging picky eaters to try different foods. Thank you to everyone who attended, and I truly hope you found the information beneficial.

On Wednesday, Year 5 led a beautiful Mass centred on the theme of hope. Their reverence and heartfelt participation were inspiring, and their singing filled the school with a sense of peace. I was incredibly proud of them for stepping up to lead this meaningful celebration.

This morning, Year 6 brought smiles and excitement with their fantastic whistle stop assembly for the start of Catholic Schools Week, next week. It not only included a beautiful array of songs, we also enjoyed an interactive game of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire focused on the Gospel values. Their creativity and enthusiasm were contagious, and it was a wonderful way to start the day.

Thinking School

This week we have been reflecting on the importance of risk-taking as part of our Thinking Schools initiative. Our Thinking Thursday Thought posed the question:

"How do you feel when you take risks with your learning?"

It’s been wonderful to hear pupils express their thoughts, recognise the value of stepping out of their comfort zones, and embrace challenges with a positive mindset.

Alongside this, our Bee-attitude of the week, “Bee Adventurous,” encourages children to explore new opportunities with courage and enthusiasm. Together, these themes are helping to nurture a growth mindset within our school community.

We invite you to discuss these ideas at home and encourage your children to share how they have taken risks in their learning this week!

Wellbeing Weekend Wisdom

Some wellbeing tips for your weekend ahead:

1. Spend Time Outdoors: Whether it’s a walk in the park, a family bike ride, or just playing in the garden, fresh air and movement can do wonders for everyone’s mood and energy levels.

2. Digital Detox: Take a break from screens for a few hours. Use this time for board games, storytelling, or crafting together as a family.

3. Cook Together: Try preparing a healthy meal or baking something fun as a family. It’s a great way to bond and teach kids about nutrition and teamwork.

4. Practise Gratitude: At dinner or before bed, take turns sharing three things you’re grateful for this week. This simple habit boosts positivity and helps everyone reflect on the good moments.

5. Relax with a Family Movie Night: Choose a feel-good movie or a favourite classic, make some popcorn, and enjoy the time together.

6. Start a New Family Tradition: Whether it’s a weekend walk, a breakfast ritual, or a creative project, traditions bring families closer.

7. Mindfulness Activity: Spend 5–10 minutes as a family practising mindfulness or deep breathing exercises. Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you through kid-friendly practices.

8. Plan for Next Week: Use Sunday to reflect, organise, and talk about what’s coming up. Feeling prepared reduces stress and helps start the new week on a positive note.

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy quality time together, rest, and recharge for the week ahead!

Woodwind Lessons

There are currently still a few places left for children to take up regular Woodwind (Clarinet, Flute and Saxophone) lessons in school.  

Learning a woodwind instrument is a great social and fun way to learn to play music, as these instruments give children the opportunity to play in groups with other like-minded musicians, whilst still encouraging all the other life skills that learning a musical instrument gives us (motor and co-ordination skills, listening skills, reading skills, counting skills, multi-tasking skills, music appreciation skills ....), the list is endless!  

Our woodwind teacher, Sue Dunsdon, has many years of teaching experience and has a 100% exam pass rate at St Bernard's Prep, with her students often gaining at least Grade 3 ABRSM before leaving primary school.  Sue was initially a classically trained musician but she also has a degree in Jazz and Contemporary Music and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. She is a proficient 'instrument doubler', performing on Clarinet, Flute and Saxophone in local jazz Big Bands and pit orchestras for musical shows, such as 42nd Street, Oliver, Little Mermaid, Sister Act, The Sound of Music, Grease, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Footloose and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to name but a few. 

If you are keen for your child to take up this amazing opportunity to learn one of these instruments, please fill in the form in the Parent Portal and return it to reception. Places will be taken on a 'first come first served' basis, so please don't leave it too long before applying as your child may miss out.  Your child may well be the next Benny Goodman, James Galway or Charlie Parker of today!

Yoga for Parents In January - Message from Nico's Dad (Y4)

I'm very excited to offer yoga to the parents at our wonderful school. The school is very supportive of the activity and have agreed to let me hire the hall so I can offer this to you all. Starting in January 2025, this is a great way for you to kick start 2025 with new intentions full of self care. As this is a brand new initiative at St Bernard's Prep, all classes in January will be offered free of charge (16, 23, 30 January). Thereafter, just £8 per class. Message me on 07557 391 890 to join. Please note, classes are suitable for all levels - whether you are a seasoned yogi, or you've always wanted to give it a go - everyone is welcome. Look forward to seeing you on the mat! Best wishes for the festive season - Kamil

We are excited to announce our upcoming Taster Morning for children entering Years 3 and 5 in September 2025, which will take place on Monday, 27th January, from 9:00–11:00 am. This is a fantastic opportunity for prospective families to experience the nurturing and inspiring environment that makes our school so special.

We would love your help in spreading the word! Please share the details with friends, family, and anyone who might be interested in joining our wonderful school community.

Thank you for your continued support in making St Bernard's Prep a place where curious minds thrive!

Sports News

Under 9 Football and Netball vs Gayhurst

On Tuesday, we had an under 9 inter-schools Netball and Football fixture vs Gayhurst School.  We welcomed the netball teams to St Bernard’s Prep. Both of our teams put up a wonderful performance on the courts with all of our players giving their very best for their respective teams. Our A Team narrowly lost, while our B Team convincingly beat their opponents. Well done to both teams and congratulations to Darissa and Ameena for being nominated as the MVPs.

Our Under 9 Footballers travelled to Gerrard’s Cross to face the Gayhurst teams. Both of our teams played 4 matches. Our A’s lost their first match 1-3 and won their second match 7-0, while our B’s drew their first match 2-2 and won their second match 4-0. Well done to all our players and congratulations to Reece and Ari, who were both named MVPs.

U11 Netball vs Dair House

On Wednesday, we were visited by the Dair House U11A Netball team. Our girls played outstanding together, linking up very well and thus scoring some fantastic goals. We won the match 10-4 This was a tremendous effort. Well done to all the players and a special congratulations to Sofia for receiving the “Green Laces” award for her brilliant contribution to the day.