Newsletters

St Bernard's Preparatory School - Newsletter 17th November 2023

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Dear Parents,

In our school today we had the absolute honour and privilege of hosting the renowned Red Arrows Squadron Leader, Graeme Muscat.

The Red Arrows are a world-famous aerobatic display team from the Royal Air Force, known for their jaw-dropping formations. Their precision flying never fails to leave spectators completely in awe.

Not only did our children learn about the incredible skills and teamwork behind the breathtaking aerobatics, but they also had the chance to hear inspiring stories from the Squadron Leader. They were captivated as he shared his experiences and discussed the importance of perseverance, determination, and chasing their dreams.

This remarkable event not only fuelled our children's passion for aviation, but also taught them valuable life lessons. It's true what they say - the sky really is the limit!

Graeme kindly judged our paper aeroplane competition and was extremely impressed with the tail fins designed by our children who participated in the recent Headteacher's challenge.

As we reflect on this unforgettable experience, we want to thank the Red Arrows Squadron Leader for taking the time to visit our school and inspire our children. It was an honour to have you with us!

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Early Years - World Nursery Rhyme Week

This week, Early Years have been having so much fun celebrating World Nursery Rhyme week.

Our little stars have been belting out their favourite nursery rhymes all week. From Humpty Dumpty to Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, our nursery children have been the maestros of melody whilst acting the songs out.

They also enjoyed getting their hands dirty with craft activities. They enjoyed making five currant buns, putting speckled frogs on their logs and playing with Old McDonald's Farm. Their imagination truly has no limit.

I am incredibly proud of our Early Years children for their enthusiasm, participation, and love for nursery rhymes. It's heart-warming to see them embrace these cherished traditions, increasing their vocabulary, memory, and creativity.

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Prep - Wind Spinners

This week in Year 1, we ventured into the fascinating world of wind!

As part of our science curriculum, our curious little learners made wind spirals to investigate wind direction! It was a hands-on and interactive way of exploring science, weather patterns and discovering the power of air currents.

Through this activity, the children not only engaged their creative minds by designing and crafting their wind spirals, but they also developed important skills in observation, prediction and analysis. They carefully studied the movement of their spirals, determining the wind's direction and strength.

Our young learners embraced the activity, asking questions, and making connections. They discovered wind is not just a breeze that rustles the leaves or tickles our cheeks, but it can also be a powerful force of nature that shapes our world.

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Upper Trans - Windsor Castle and Dr Choc's Chocolate Factory

On Monday, Upper Trans were out of school having a wonderful day in Windsor. They spent the first part of the morning exploring the state apartments in Windsor Castle, before taking part in a creative writing workshop. In their writing workshop, the children had exclusive access to certain areas of the castle and started planning a story all about a Knight of the garter. They saw swords and helmets and learnt all about the naughty knights, whose shields had been painted white to disgrace them. After lunch, they walked down the High Street to Dr Choc's chocolate factory where they learnt all about the process of taking a cocoa bean and eventually transforming it into chocolate. The children then had the chance to make three chocolate bars of their own, as a sweet treat to take home and enjoy.

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Odd Socks Day and Anti-Bullying Week

Thank you to all the children and staff who wore odd socks to school on Monday. Odd Socks Day is all about embracing individuality, celebrating our differences, and standing up against bullying. We believe every child should feel safe, valued, and respected in our school community.

From striped socks to polka dots, and everything in between, our children rocked their wildest and wackiest odd socks. We loved seeing everyone's unique style and creativity on display. Let's remember that being different is what makes us all shine brighter together!

During Anti-Bullying Week, we also re-introduced the Positive Post Box, which has been placed in the Atrium. Our children shared positive vibes across the whole school throughout the week. They all penned beautiful and uplifting letters to their buddies. These letters were filled with encouragement, compliments, and kind words – all aimed at making each other feel special and supported.

Remember, kindness costs nothing but means everything! Let's continue spreading positivity, inclusion, and kindness, not just today, but every single day!

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Upper Prep Liturgy - World Day of The Poor

Year 2 performed a beautiful Liturgy where they shared the story of the Good Samaritan. Pope Francis wrote a letter to everyone called ‘Fratelli Tutti’. In it he asks us to reach out to our sisters and brothers in need, whoever they are, wherever they may come from. We are all challenged to think of ourselves as a single global family living in a common home, and neighbours to all.

This Liturgy of the Good Samaritan, reminded us all, especially just before Christmas, to help and care for people who are in need. As a school, we will be supporting the Love Christmas campaign by donating bags of kindness containing gifts and toys to those in need in our local community.

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Lower Trans T Assembly - Celebrating Differences

Today, Lower Trans T delivered an inspiring Assembly marking "International Day for Tolerance". The children educated the school on the importance of tolerance for a healthy, loving community. They explained it is important to accept, respect and celebrate our differences. While some countries are at war, and have forgotten the value of tolerance, it is crucial we remember there are still individuals who feel threatened by diversity. Perhaps due to a lack of exposure, they have been taught to fear difference instead of embracing it. It's time for us to remember, on the inside, we are all the same, and to spread this message to the world.

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Achievements

Congratulations to Lara (Yr4) who passed her touch typing exam this week and achieved a level 1 certificate.

Congratulations to Arbaaz (Yr6) who won 2nd place in the Halloween Hackathon. He entered against several other Code Ninjas by creating a computing game that was judged by the renowned YouTube influencer, Dr Lupo. It was a highly competitive field, but Arbaaz's game stood out, earning him a place in the global competition. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishment.

Well done to Harmani (Yr3) and Aahva (Yr6) for entering into the prestigious BBC 500 words story writing competition. These talented children have put their creative minds to work, showcasing their imagination and writing skills in this national literary extravaganza.

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Tulsi's Book Review

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Sports News

On Wednesday the 15th of November, our U11 girls' football team travelled to The Marist School in Ascot to participate in their annual tournament. With over 200 girls playing football on the day, this was an amazing experience and an opportunity for our girls to showcase their abilities and skills.

Our team put up a phenomenal performance in all the 5 matches that they played in, and overall we finished in 3rd place to claim the bronze medals.

Our MVP was Hafsah who was well-supported by her other 7 teammates.

Congratulations ladies on your remarkable achievement!

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In a week celebrating individuality, being inspired by our very special visitor, all I have left to say is... always try your best and DREAM BIG!

Have a lovely weekend.

Mrs A Verma

Headteacher