News - 16th November 2023

Dear Parents and Carers

Last week we bid farewell to Mrs Fozard, who has been a part of our school for the past twelve years. We are extremely grateful for everything she has done for St Marys and we wish her all the best in her new endeavours. We will truly miss her presence and dedication to our school community.

On a happier note, I am pleased to announce that we have welcomed Mrs Frances Sadler to our team. She will be working as part of the Year 4 team (Mr Hanson having moved to the Year 6 team), we are delighted to have her on board. I am confident that her experience and expertise will greatly benefit our pupils.

Last Thursday, we held a Remembrance Service and were honoured to have Richard Flenley and Sean Garrett join us. It was a beautiful and poignant service led by our Year 6 pupils. I must commend all the children for their reverent and respectful behaviour during the service. We were all immensely proud of them.

This week, we are observing Anti-Bullying Week, during which our pupils have been engaging in discussions about how they can help and support the school in tackling bullying. They have also been learning to differentiate between banter and bullying. It is important that we instil in our children the values of kindness, empathy, and respect towards one another.

Furthermore, we have had the pleasure of welcoming prospective parents for our open mornings this week. Our pupils have done an outstanding job showcasing the wonderful opportunities and learning environment that St Marys has to offer. Thank you to all the children who have been excellent ambassadors for our school.

I would like to remind you that tomorrow is a mufti day for Children in Need. We kindly request your support by sending in any donations and items for our school Christmas Fair. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and will make a positive impact on the school and those less geographically privileged.

On a final note, I would like to emphasise the importance of regular school attendance. We have noticed an increase in requests for absences due to term time holidays. Whilst we understand that some families may have commitments abroad, it is crucial to remember that consistent attendance plays a significant role in your child's academic progress and overall performance. I kindly request that you avoid planning term time holidays and prioritise your child's attendance at school.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

Warm regards,
Mrs Buckley
Headteacher

Starting School –

Reception: If your child was born between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020 you will need to apply for a school place. You can apply between 31 October 2023 and 15 January 2024.

If you live in Surrey, you can find out all you need to know about school admissions and apply online at surreycc.gov.uk/admissions or you can call on 0300 200 1004.

AMAZON WISH LIST
As all schools face difficult financial times, we are always thinking of ways that parents may be able to help. We have added new items to it and staff will be updating it throughout the year so if you would like to contribute then please take a look:
https://amzn.eu/3jGVC9p

CHILDREN IN NEED
On Friday 17th November, we will be raising money for Children in Need. The children can come dressed in mufti on this day. A voluntary donation can be made on Scopay.

Pudsey Pie Challenge
Mr Hanson will also be asking for donations of £0.50 (cash) for those who wish to take part in pie Mr Hanson!

Following Government guidelines, schools are no longer allowed to authorise requests for children to be taken out of school for a holiday during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. If you take your child out of school, you may face a penalty notice.

WEEK COMMENCING 6TH NOVEMBER – 10TH NOVEMBER 2023
RECEPTION – 95.8%
Year 1 – 93.8%
Year 2 – 95.5%
Year 3 – 95%
Year 4 – 93.9%
Year 5 – 97.5%
Year 6H – 89%
Year 6N – 86.2%

ST. MARY’S SCHOOL VISION
Wisdom Wisdom is a core Christian value in our school because we believe through wisdom good choices are made, that it encourages us to learn from our mistakes and encourages us to live our lives wisely for the benefit of all. "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’’ John 8:32 Hope Hope is a core Christian value in our school because hope gives us energy and supports us through difficult times. "Be happy because of the hope you have. Be patient when you have troubles. Pray all the time.’’ Romans 12:12 To act with hope is to aspire to greater things, to promote positivity and courageous advocacy. Respect Respect is a core Christian value in our school because we believe that all life is precious within the image of God and deserves to be valued. "Do to others as you would have them do unto you." Luke 6:31 Our Christian value of respect means living up to the image of God with our school, our community and ourselves. Community Community is a core Christian value in our school because we know that together we are stronger and can achieve more. "Live together in peace with each other. Don’t be proud, but be willing to be friends with people who are not important to others. Don’t think of yourself as smarter than everyone else.’’ Romans 12:16
Everyone in our school, local and global community are needed and valued.