Newsletters

St Bernard's Preparatory School - Newsletter 29th September 2023

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Dear Parents,

On Wednesday, Our Year 6 children delivered a truly captivating and spiritually uplifting mass, led by Father Kevin, to mark the beginning of our new academic year. 

As we celebrated the feast of St Vincent de Paul, our talented pupils presented a touching ceremony that exuded reverence and unity. They showcased their exceptional dedication and deep-rooted values throughout the service, leaving us all feeling inspired and connected.

Ros Nockles, our Chair of Governors, sent a beautiful email to our staff and really captured the essence of the occasion. She wrote "The children’s behaviour throughout was exemplary; it is wonderful that such young children can sit quietly and engaged from start to finish. Again, I know it is a result of preparation and high expectations of behaviour, which is always fulfilled on occasions such as this. I must also commend all the children for their singing, which always impresses me after years at the Senior school where the young people were much less enthusiastic about singing in Masses and Assemblies. Their natural love of singing is wonderful to hear. The way the children read is also very impressive. I know again from experience what goes into preparing children to read or speak in public. The children this morning showed such confidence and understanding of what they were reading, they were a true credit to the school and their parents".

I would like to extend a huge thank you to all parents who joined us, and also to Mr Joe Smith, the newly appointed Head Teacher of St Benedict's School. Gathering together for these important events highlights the strong sense of community that defines our school. It reminds us of the power of togetherness and the importance of supporting one another, just like St Vincent de Paul did in his lifetime. 


Soft Play Session for Early Years Children

We are looking forward to welcoming our Early Years children to school on Saturday for Soft Play. With a variety of safe and stimulating activities, our youngest pupils are guaranteed to have a blast, whilst developing essential social, cognitive, and physical skills. We can't wait to see you all to make happy memories, have lots of laughter and fun. It is also a great opportunity for parents to form new friendships.

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Meet the SLT

Join us for a delightful evening of cheese and wine and get the chance to meet our amazing Senior Leadership Team.

Learn more about the dedicated individuals who continue steering our school towards success. You'll have the opportunity to chat with Mrs Verma, and all other members of the SLT who work tirelessly to ensure every child reaches their full potential.

This informal gathering will give you the chance to ask any burning questions you may have about our school's vision, curriculum, or any other area of interest. 

Please fill out the form sent on ParentMail to book your place.

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Trans K's Assembly

Today, Trans K celebrated the start of Black History Month, commemorating some of the outstanding contributions black people have made to society, both today and historically. From Marcus Rashford to Stormzy, Trans K shared stories of people who inspired them through their actions, courage and determination to make the world a better place. Trans K reminded us Black History Month is an important opportunity to recognise the image of God in each and every person, regardless of their background or ethnicity.

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Buddy Week 16th -20th October

As we get closer to Buddy Week, it is time for the children to show some buddy love, and it would be lovely if they could create something special for their school buddy.

It's the perfect opportunity for the children to bond with their buddy, get to know them better, and make some amazing memories together. So why not unleash their creativity and craft something unique just for them.

Whether it's a handmade card, a friendship bracelet or a thoughtful poem, the possibilities are endless! Let their imaginations soar and put their artistic skills to the test.

Remember, it's the thought and effort that count, their buddy will appreciate the gesture, no matter what. We cannot wait to see all the amazing things you come up with!


500 Words Competition

Attention all young wordsmiths! Are you ready to unleash your creativity and embark on an incredible writing adventure?

The highly anticipated BBC 500 Words competition is back, and it is time to let your imagination soar! 

BBC 500 Words is a captivating writing competition, aimed at two age categories, 5-7 year olds and 8-11 year olds. It encourages young minds to dive into the world of storytelling and express their wildest ideas through the power of word. The challenge is to write an original story they would love to read, in no more than 500 words.

Just imagine the sense of pride and accomplishment the children would have, knowing their story has been read by some of the most famous voices in the UK! From celebrities to acclaimed authors, their words will captivate hearts and inspire imaginations. This year BBC Breakfast will be hosting the competition, supported by BBC Teach. The winners will be featured in a special 500 Word programme with The One Show, on World Book Day, 7 March 2024.

So, are your children ready to turn their words into magic? Encourage them to join thousands of young storytellers across the UK and let their imagination transport readers to enchanted worlds and unforgettable adventures. It's time to unleash the power of their creativity and make their mark in the world of writing!

Entering the BBC 500 Words competition couldn't be easier! Simply visit the official BBC 500 Words  website and fill out the online entry form. Make sure to follow the guidelines, and let us know if your child has applied. 

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Little St Bs

Do you have younger children and are looking for a safe and fun environment to connect with other parents and encourage your little ones' development? Look no further! Join us at Little St Bs Baby and Toddler Group, where we create a nurturing space for your children to grow, play, and make new friends. 

At Little St Bs, our aim is to provide a stimulating environment where your babies and toddlers can explore, interact, and learn through structured activities and free play. 

If you would like to join us please book your place by emailing admissions@stbernardsprep.org

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EYFS

Early Years Crafty B’s went on a hunt around school looking for Autumn treasures. We used the sticks, leaves and conker shells we found to create our beautiful hedgehogs.

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This week in Design and Technology Year 6 have been challenged to make a bag using only newspaper and tape. We were so impressed with their haute couture results - Gucci eat you heart out! The worlds top designers all have to start somewhere.

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Achievements

A big congratulations goes out to Anuj this week. He recently started playing tennis at a club and participated in his first competition winning gold - Andy Murray eat your heart out.

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FOPS (Friends Of Prep School)

Calling all parents! Come and join us for our exciting FOPS Coffee Afternoon and discover more about the amazing work we do with our school community. 

This event is the perfect opportunity to build friendships and meet other parents who are just as passionate about their child's education as you are!

During the afternoon, you'll have the chance to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while engaging in stimulating conversations. Learn about the exciting projects the FOPS team are currently championing within our school. Share your own new ideas and suggestions to help shape the future of our school community and discover fun and creative ways to get involved and make a difference.

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Wishing you a wonderful weekend and leaving you with a final thought from St Vincent de Paul

"If God is the center of your life, no words are necessary. Your mere presence will touch hearts".

Mrs A Verma

Headteacher