Progress Evenings 

This week, we held our final Progress Evenings of the year, providing an opportunity for parents and teachers to discuss learner development and set goals for the remainder of the term. These meetings are vital in ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive academically, supported by you at home.  

If you were unable to attend or would like to discuss your child's progress further, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office to arrange a phone call with your child’s class teacher. 

Year 6 SEND Meeting at HHS: Supporting Every Learner 

Our first Year 6 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) meeting at HHS took place this week. This session focused on tailoring support to meet the diverse needs of our learners, ensuring that all have access to the resources and strategies that will help them succeed. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. 

Year 5 Boys' Football Match vs. Wolfreton: A Display of Team Spirit 

At the time of writing this, the Year 5 boys' football team were still to travel to Wolfreton for an away match. I am certain that the team will demonstrate exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the game. Lots of luck, boys! 

Celebrating Creativity: Our School Art Gallery Event 

This week, our school was transformed into a vibrant art gallery, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our learners. Each piece displayed was a testament to their hard work and imagination, and the pride they felt in seeing their work exhibited was truly heart-warming. 

We would like to extend our thanks to all the parents who generously supported this event by attending, purchasing artwork, and encouraging their children's artistic endeavours. Your involvement not only made the event a success but also reinforced the importance of the arts in our children's education. An added bonus is that the money raised by your generosity will be put towards resources for our learners, both inside and outside! 

A special thank you goes to Miss Davies for her dedication and effort in organising this event. Her passion for fostering creativity and providing leaners with opportunities to shine was evident in every detail of the exhibition.  

Response to the uniform queries 

A few people have asked about the new uniform policy that is being implemented, specifically querying the absence of black trousers. This change is due to the increase in the number of black jogging bottoms and leggings that we have been challenged with in recent years. We anticipate that by sticking to grey, it will eliminate the confusion around acceptable styles. Thank you for your understanding.  

Plea for help 

As we embark on the implementation of Opal Play at Penshurst, we are receiving kind donations from all angles – thank you so much for this. We have recently been promised a shed for storage but have no way of transporting this. If you are able to offer your support with a vehicle and lifting, we would be eternally grateful. Please contact the school office if you are able to help. Thank you in advance. 

As always, thank you for your continued support in making our school a vibrant and nurturing place for all students. Should you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

We have managed to fit quite a lot into a short week this week.  

Miss Loveridge, alongside Mrs Bourne from Hessle High School, held the Year 6 SEND Transition parent meeting, in which they explained the process of our learners with SEND being supported as they move to the secondary phase. We wish them lots of luck as this process begins earlier than for the remainder of the learners.  

Our Year 5/6 girl Footballers played valiantly against Brandesburton. Alas, we can’t win them all, and they were defeated by an excellent team. However, Mr Vernon and Miss Careless commented on how fabulously the girls played and we wish them lots of luck for the next fixture.  

Next week, we have some more exciting sporting fixtures. Be sure to check the round-up for details.

As you may already be aware, the Netflix series Adolescence has been widely discussed over the last few weeks. The show provides a powerful, and at times difficult, look at the digital pressures young people face online and the role parents have to play in their digital wellbeing.  

Free Parent Resources 

To help, we’ve created a resource page. It’s packed with practical advice, conversation starters, and useful insights to help parents navigate the various challenges the series brings to light. 

From setting boundaries around screen time to processing upsetting online content, the resources are designed to give parents the tools and knowledge to take the next steps in supporting their child’s digital wellbeing. The resources can be accessed at https://smoothwall.com/adolescence 

Have a great weekend and see you next week! 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Year 1 Dino Workshop: Our Year 1 learners had a fantastic time at the Dino Workshop. They learned about different types of dinosaurs, and participated in interactive activities such as archaeological digs. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the children were truly wonderful to witness. 

Year 5 Boys Football Matches: Our Year 5 boys football team had thrilling matches against Skirlaugh and Brough. They showcased their skills and teamwork, securing a well-deserved victory in one match and drawing in the other. The learners demonstrated great sportsmanship and determination in both games. 

New Nursery Starter Taster Session: We welcomed our new nursery starters with a taster session. It was a delightful experience for the children as they got acquainted with their new environment and made new friends. 

Nursery Easter Bonnet Parade: On Wednesday, our nursery learners also participated in the Easter Bonnet Parade. The creativity and effort put into their bonnets were truly impressive, making the parade a colourful and joyous event. 

Reception Easter Bonnet Parade: On Friday, it was the turn of our reception learners to have their Easter Bonnet Parade. The children proudly displayed their beautiful bonnets, and it was wonderful to see their excitement and pride. 

Pupil of the Term Assembly: We held our Pupil of the Term assembly, celebrating the achievements and hard work of our learners. It was a proud moment for all as we recognised their dedication and accomplishments. 

Easter Break: We will be closing for Easter today and will re-open on Tuesday, 22 April. We wish you all a restful and enjoyable break.

Mrs Preston

Head of School

PFA Mother's Day Shop: 

Our PFA Mother's Day Shop was a great success! The learners enjoyed selecting special gifts for their mothers or guardians, and we hope these tokens of love bring joy to your families. 

Year 3 & 4 Prime VR Workshop: 

Learners in Year 3 and 4 had an immersive experience with the Prime VR Workshop. They explored new worlds and learned about various subjects through virtual reality. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to engage with technology in a fun and educational way and from conversations I have had, both learners and teachers alike had the most wonderful time! Well done and thank you to the teachers for arranging this exciting event.  

Rocksteady Concert: 

The Rocksteady Concert was a huge hit! Our young musicians showcased their talents and hard work, performing a variety of songs. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and the support from the audience. 

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.  

In other news: We have received a few queries regarding the recent messages about PE kits, and we would like to clarify our policy. 

PE Kit Reminder: 

Our uniform policy states that during the colder months, learners should wear a dark tracksuit or black shorts along with a PE T-shirt in their house colours. These items should be plain, without any logos, except for the school badge. Additionally, earrings should be removed, and long hair should be tied back. 

Please ensure that your child is wearing the correct PE kit as per the policy. This helps maintain uniformity and ensures the safety and comfort of all learners during physical activities. 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. 

Have a wonderful weekend and we look forward to seeing you next week for the final week of the Spring term.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Year 5/6 Girls Football vs Springhead @ Home 

Our Year 5/6 girls football team had an exhilarating match against Springhead at home. The girls showcased incredible teamwork and sportsmanship, making us all proud. It was a close game, and the enthusiasm from both teams was truly inspiring. Once again, we can report a victory! Well done, girls! 

Year 5 Planetarium Workshop 

Year 5 learners had an out-of-this-world experience with the Planetarium workshop held in school. The children were fascinated by the wonders of space, learning about stars, planets, and galaxies. It was a fantastic educational experience that sparked curiosity and excitement about the universe. 

Class Photographs 

This week, we captured beautiful faces with class photographs. We will be in touch when the photographs are ready for viewing. 

Red Nose Day (Wear Red) 

On Red Nose Day, the school was a sea of red as learners and staff donned their brightest red attire to support a great cause.  Thank you to everyone who participated and made the day special. 

Science 

This year, British Science Week was filled with hands-on experiments and fun learning opportunities! Learners across the school engaged in a variety of activities, from online workshops and live lessons, to creating their very own balloon rockets, making ice cream, and even their own butter! It was a wonderful way for the learners to explore the wonders of science in an interactive and enjoyable way.  

A highlight of the week was the incredible creativity displayed in our poster competition. We had so many fantastic entries showcasing the students' passion for science. It was tough to choose winners, but every child should be proud of their efforts! You can find some pictures over on X.  

Thank you to all the learners for their enthusiasm and curiosity. We look forward to many more science-filled adventures! 

Mrs Holmes 

Important Notice: Gate Closure at 3:25 PM 

Unfortunately, due to a handful of incidents involving unsupervised (and occasionally supervised) learners at home time, we will now be closing the school gates at 3:25 PM. They will then be reopened in time for you to collect your child(ren) from clubs if they attend. This measure is to ensure the safety and well-being of all learners. We kindly ask for your cooperation in picking up your children promptly. 

Thank you for your continued support. Have a great weekend! 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

This week, our community came together to celebrate Holi, the vibrant and joyous Festival of Colour. Holi is a Hindu festival that marks the arrival of spring and celebrates love, passion, and the triumph of good over evil. It's a time when people of all ages gather to throw colourful powders, dance, and enjoy festive foods. 

Holi is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, with stories that highlight the victory of faith and love. One of the most famous tales is that of Prahlad and Holika, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Another story celebrates the divine love between Radha and Krishna. These narratives remind us of the importance of love, compassion, and community. 

This year's Holi celebration was a spectacular event filled with laughter and a rainbow of colours. The sight of everyone covered in vibrant hues was truly a feast for the eyes. One Year 2 learner turned to his teacher and exclaimed ‘That was so much fun, wasn’t it?’ Moments like that are what it is all about! 

In other news: 

Health Alert: We want to make you aware that chickenpox is still circulating in the school and the community. Please remain vigilant and monitor your child for any symptoms. If your child shows signs of chickenpox, we advise keeping them at home and consulting with your healthcare provider. Let's work together to keep our community healthy and safe. 

Have a super weekend and we shall look forward to greeting you all on Monday! 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Year 6 Boys Football Match: Our Year 6 boys played a fantastic match against Anlaby Primary Tuesday after school, securing a 6-0 victory. Congratulations to the team for their outstanding performance, and thank you to those parents who came to support our players! 

Year 5 Robotics Workshop: The Year 5 learners participated in a Robotics Workshop, which saw lots of engagement and enthusiasm. It was wonderful to see them so involved and excited about technology and science.  

Year 5/6 Film Night: Our Film Night featuring "Shrek" was well attended as always and enjoyed by all. Respectfully, please ensure the letters are read carefully as this stated that learners would not be allowed to walk home alone. However, we did receive a number of enquiries at the end of the film. It is to safeguard your children and our learners that we ask that they are collected at this time. Thank you for your cooperation. 

World Book Day: We celebrated World Book Day with a "Dress as a Word" theme. The creativity and effort put into the costumes were truly impressive and I thoroughly enjoyed popping my head into classrooms to see the breadth of words on display. The children love to challenge the adults to guess the correct word! 

Eco Furniture Delivery: Mrs Smith and I are pleased to announce that the eco-friendly furniture, made from collected bottle top tokens, has been delivered. This initiative has been a great success, and we appreciate everyone's contributions. 

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. 

Yet another busy week has passed here at Penshurst.  

On Thursday, a selection of our learners had a wonderful time at the TCAT Learner Conference, where the theme of "Aspiration" drove the day. It was truly inspiring to see our students engage with the various activities and discussions and collaborate with peers that they would not meet in their host school. Their behaviour was exemplary, and they were a credit to the school! 

Also this week, Mr Vernon hosted the first football match of the year against Kirkella St Andrews. Although we were defeated, an incredible time was had by all. Well done, Year 6! 

We are excited that next week, Imam Abid Salik from Hull Mosque will be visiting Penshurst to do afternoon workshops and an assembly about Ramadan and Eid.  

Please find below a note from our Year 3 teachers: 

As part of our Stone Age day on 26 March, in addition to the virtual reality visitor, the learners are going to be doing some designing and creating of their own Stone Age village. To support this, we are asking for any donations to support the year group with this activity such as: 

• Straw/sawdust 

• Matchsticks/Lollypop sticks 

• Shoe boxes 

• Playdough  

• Foil 

• Battery powered tea lights 

• Plastic cattle/pigs/goats (to be returned) 

Please see the pictures below for ideas. 

If items can be brought in on, or before, Wednesday 26 March, it would be greatly appreciated. 

Once again, thank you for your support. 

Miss Coates and Miss Daniels. 

A few polite reminders for you this week: 

1. Blue Badge Holders: Please be mindful of where you park and be respectful of Blue Badge holders parking nearer the school.  
2. Curriculum Overview: The curriculum overview is available on our website. We encourage you to review it to stay informed about what your child will be learning this term. 
3. No Dogs on Site: A gentle reminder that dogs are not allowed on school premises. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all our students. This is with the exception of registered therapy dogs.  
4. Edurio Survey: Please take a moment to complete the Edurio survey. Your feedback is invaluable to us and helps us improve our school community. 

Thank you for your cooperation and support, and I hope you have a super weekend.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

On Wednesday, a selection of our learners had an incredible opportunity to connect with nature through the "Rewilding Youth" program, hosted by the Humber Forest Visitors. The learners played a key role in shaping our forest area through tree-planting, and I thoroughly enjoyed the moment when one of them proudly took me on a tour of the newly planted area. It is wonderful to see these learners having deeper appreciation for the environment.  

Later in the day, the PFA Friendship Disco brought joy and laughter to our school community. The event was a fantastic success, with the highlight of the night possibly being the year 6 boys serenading the Year 6 girls and vice versa in a sing’off! I’m not sure there was a winning team, but it was entertaining, nonetheless. A big thank you to the PFA and all the volunteers who made this event possible! 🎉💃 

Reports 

Please look out for learner reports which will be distributed by the end of today. These reports provide valuable insights into your child's progress and areas for improvement. We encourage you to review them carefully and reach out to your child's teacher if you have any questions or concerns. 

Parking Reminder 

We kindly ask all parents to be mindful of parking on Winthorpe Road and Penshurst Avenue. This week, we had a report from a resident of a car rolling backwards into their own Needless to say, this could have been a child and so we politely remind you to ensure your vehicle is securely parked and consider using alternative parking areas if necessary. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. 

Health Alert: Chickenpox and Scarlet Fever

Lastly, we want to make you aware that chickenpox is still circulating in the early years and the community. We have also been notified of 2 cases of scarlet fever in our Nursery. Please remain vigilant and monitor your child for any symptoms. If your child shows signs of chickenpox or scarlet fever, we advise keeping them at home and consulting with your healthcare provider. Let's work together to keep our community healthy and safe.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. Have a wonderful half-term break and I look forward to seeing you upon our return. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Also this week, we held our NSPCC Number day on Friday, in which all of our learners were invited to dress with the theme of Number, whilst taking part in a wide range of number-related activities. It was great to see how creative the learners had been with their imaginative outfits!  We are pleased to confirm that along with the PFA you have raised an amazing £172.70, well done! Thank you for your support with this.

Speaking of NSPCC – here is an important message from them: 

How Safe is WhatsApp for Children - NSPCC 

WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps, used by over 2 billion people in 180 countries. It allows you to send and receive messages, as well as make voice and video calls. You can connect with people individually or join group chats where lots of people can contribute. All you need to set up a WhatsApp account is a phone number. However, children and young people can easily subvert the restrictions placed on its access. Although rated at 16+, all that is required is a phone number. All it takes is one child in a class to be on WhatsApp, and all the others will wish to join. This can lead to increased vulnerabilities for child users. The NSPCC has released its own analysis about the dangers of the app. If interested, please follow the link below:  

https://bit.ly/4hIIGL8  

I look forward to seeing you next week for the final week of this half term. Once again, thank you for all of your support. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

• Nursery learners have been engaging in bird watching, sparking their curiosity about nature. 

• Reception classes have been thoroughly enjoying their music lessons, especially playing the glockenspiels with Charanga music! Learners have also been captivated by the story of "Shu Lin’s Grandpa," enhancing their literacy and comprehension skills. 

• Year 1 learners have been learning about money management by spending "penguin pounds" in various activities. 

• Year 2 has been delving into the life and works of William Morris, exploring his contributions to art and design. 

• Year 3 learners have been exploring coding and programming through Scratch, developing their problem-solving abilities. 

• Year 4 have been busy with their weaving projects, showcasing their creativity and fine motor skills. 

We look forward to more exciting learning adventures next week! 

Speaking of next week... 

Next week, NSPCC Number Day will be held on the 7th February. On this day, learners will be participating in a range of number-related activities. They are also invited to dress up imaginatively, incorporating the theme of Number. I look forward to seeing what they come up with! 

Also next week, as part of our plan to increase learners’ exposure to a wide range of careers, a visitor from Reckitts will be giving an assembly on Wednesday. We will also be sending out our comms to parents, looking for volunteers from all sectors to support the school. We look forward to your responses.  

Polite reminders: 

• We would like to remind parents that the show "Squid Game" is rated 15+ and is not suitable for children. Please ensure that your children do not have access to this content as we have had instances of learners discussing, and acting out, Squid Games. Thank you for your cooperation.  

• As you are aware, we are a no-smoking and no-vaping school. Whilst not found on the school site, a pipe containing what smelled like cannabis was found just outside the Penshurst Avenue gates on Thursday evening. We must remind parents that this is a serious safeguarding concern for our learners and that should we find such items again, we will need to call the police.  

• We have been notified that a number of parents have been emailing the SEND email address, and these have not been coming through. Please find the email address here: ppssend@hessleacademy.com 

I hope you have an enjoyable weekend. As always, I look forward to seeing you on Monday.

Mrs Preston

Head of School

This week, the NSPCC's "Speak out Stay safe" programme was conducted for our Year 2 and Year 5 learners, aiming to equip them with the knowledge and skills to stay safe from abuse and neglect. The workshops included engaging activities and virtual assemblies tailored for different ages, helping children understand the importance of speaking out and knowing where to seek help if needed 

Also this week, the learners had a fantastic time watching Paddington, a delightful film that brought lots of laughter and joy. It was heartwarming to see them so engaged and enjoying the adventures of Paddington Bear. The event provided a great opportunity for learners to relax and bond with their classmates in a fun and safe environment. Our Governors meeting was held on the same night, and I was so incredibly proud of how the learners walked silently past the room in which the meeting was taking place. Honestly, you would not have known they were there if you couldn’t see their grinning faces! 

We understand at Penshurst that each and every learner is unique with their own ambitions and dreams, and to support this, we are working on a plan to improve how we inform learners about the vast array of careers out there. We would love to get parents involved in this and so please keep a watch out for further communications from Miss Davies, who will be contacting you to ask for volunteers! 

For now, have a restful weekend and I look forward to seeing you next week.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

I have a couple of reminders this week: 

We would like to remind you that our Homework Club runs during lunchtimes, providing learners with an excellent opportunity to complete homework or receive additional support in a quiet and focused environment. Your child doesn’t need to book onto this – they can just turn up. 

Also, if your child will be arriving late to school and requires a school meal, please ensure that the office is informed as soon as possible. This helps us make the necessary arrangements and ensures your child receives their meal on time. 

Thank you for your cooperation and support. Have a super weekend and we will see you for another speedy week next week! 

Mrs Preston 

Head of School

I would like to start by thanking you for your cooperation with our new Breakfast Club booking system. We anticipated there being some teething problems but so far, it has been running very well. As mentioned previously, this was necessary due to its popularity. Our numbers were increasing, and the adult-to-learner ratio was leading to concerns that this could affect the safety of the learners. Thankfully, your cooperation has helped us to be able to safeguard our learners effectively. 

Please note that we have had reported cases of headlice in Year 2. As always, please be vigilant and treat your child as necessary. 

I hope you have a great weekend and look forward to seeing you all on Monday! 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Nursery Stay & Play: A Warm Welcome for January Starters 

This week, we had the pleasure of hosting our "Stay & Play" session for our new Nursery starters who will join us in January. It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces—both children and parents! This was a lovely opportunity for families to meet the Nursery staff, explore our vibrant learning spaces, and take part in fun, hands-on activities designed to make the transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible. A big thank you to everyone who attended and helped create such a welcoming environment. 

Year 1 & Year 2 Productions: A Show to Remember 

Our Year 1 and Year 2 learners dazzled us with their holiday productions this week. From stunning costumes to heartfelt performances, it was a treat to see their hard work and enthusiasm on full display. Each learner played their part beautifully, and the hall was filled with laughter, applause, and perhaps a tear or two!  

Year 3 & Year 4 Church Performance 

The Year 3 and Year 4 learners brought the true spirit of the season to life during their church performance at All Saints. Through song, storytelling, and reflection, they reminded us all about the values of kindness, togetherness, and hope. The church was filled with proud families and an undeniable sense of community. 

Year 5 & Year 6 Church Performance 

Not to be outdone, our Year 5 and Year 6 learners delivered their own stunning performance at the church later in the week. Their confidence and talent shone brightly as they sang, recited, and performed with passion. This special event was a testament to their maturity and teamwork, leaving everyone in attendance inspired and uplifted. Bravo to our older learners—you’ve set a wonderful example for the younger years! 

Year 2 Polar Express Day: All Aboard the Holiday Fun! 

Thursday saw Year 2 transformed into the enchanting world of The Polar Express. From pyjamas to hot chocolate, and from storytelling to crafts, the students were fully immersed in the magic of the day. A big thank you to the Year 2 team for organizing such a delightful experience for our little ones. 

In other news: 

Please note that the ppsssend@hessleacademy.com email address is now active again. Should you have any concerns or queries, please use this address and Miss Loveridge or Mrs Anderson will pick this up. 

Just a reminder to check the recent Homework letter that you will have received which outlines the homework expectations for after Christmas. 

Please also ensure that you are using the new Breakfast Club booking system if you would like your child to attend Breakfast Club after Christmas.  

All that remains is for me to wish you the most wonderful Christmas. Enjoy time with loved ones and I look forward to hearing all about it from our learners in the new year. See you on Monday 6 January 2025.

Mrs Preston

Head of School

• PFA Breakfast with Santa: Our learners had a magical time enjoying breakfast with Santa, who spread cheer and joy to everyone. It was an incredibly well-attended morning, full of smiles and festive spirit! 

• School Christmas Lunch: Our Christmas lunch was a huge success! It was wonderful to see so many of our learners enjoying the holiday feast with friends and teachers. 

• EYFS Christmas Production: Our youngest performers in the Early Years Foundation Stage put on a spectacular Christmas production. We are so proud of all of the children for their hard work and dedication. 

• Christmas Jumper Day: It was a fantastic sight to see everyone dressed in their festive jumpers, raising money for a good cause. Thank you to all who participated and helped spread the Christmas cheer. 

We are so grateful for your support in making these events a success. It has been a joyful and memorable week, and we appreciate the festive spirit your children have brought to school! 

Also this week, Year 4 joined Mindscape and Floor 84 Studio, the creators of the new Dog Man video game, Dog Man: Mission Impawsible, for an exciting event all about how games are made. They explored the fascinating world of game development and discovered how art, storytelling, technology and science come together to form the games we love. Developers from the game answered learners’ pre-submitted questions all about coding, character creation, and how they brought the iconic Dog Man series to life! 

Please also note that the school will close early at 2:00 PM on Friday, 20th December. 

We look forward to welcoming the children back to school on Monday, 6th January. 

In other news: 

We would like to inform you that we have had confirmed cases of chickenpox within the school. While the situation is being closely monitored, we want to ensure that all parents are aware and take necessary precautions to protect their children and others. 

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children, though it can also occur in adults. Symptoms typically include an itchy rash with red spots and blisters, fever, and general discomfort. 

If your child develops any of these symptoms, please keep them at home and consult with a healthcare provider for advice. We also encourage you to monitor for any signs of illness and remind your child about the importance of hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing. 

As always, the health and safety of our students are our top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. 

If your child is going to be absent for whatever reason, please ensure you inform attendance rather than your child’s class teacher as this message will not be passed on. Many thanks for your support.  

Please see below a link to a range of activities that you can do with your child over the festive period. We thought it may be useful.  

https://bit.ly/3ZD7SLN 

Have a super weekend and I look forward to seeing you next week.  

Alongside this, we wanted to share with you how fantastic the RockSteady concert was that took place on Friday! The children did an amazing job showcasing their musical talents, and it was a joy to see them perform with such enthusiasm and confidence. 

We are so proud of their hard work and dedication, and it was wonderful to see so many of you join us for the event. A big thank you to the children for their fantastic performances, and to you, our supportive parents, for helping make this event a success. We look forward to more musical moments in the future! 

A plea from Year 1 - We are planning a fun and exciting activity in Year 1, and we need your help! We are looking to borrow a train driver's hat to make the experience even more special for the children. If you happen to have a train driver’s hat at home that you would be willing to lend us for the day, we would be incredibly grateful. We promise to take great care of it. If you can help, please let us know. We truly appreciate your support in making this activity an engaging and memorable experience for the children! Thank you so much in advance. 

This is a friendly reminder that our school's uniform policy specifies that students should wear black shoes as part of their school uniform. Please ensure that your child wears black shoes to school each day to help maintain a consistent and uniform appearance. Our uniform policy can be found here.

Thank you for your cooperation and support in upholding our school’s standards. Have a super weekend and see you next week for the penultimate week of this term. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

On Tuesday after school, I had the absolute pleasure of escorting a handful of Year 3 and 4 learners to Wolfreton to take part in a Dodgeball tournament. The learners were picked out of a hat and some of them had never even played the sport before. After the first ‘settling in’ round and a little bit of coaching from myself, Mr Key and Mrs Holmes, the learners blossomed and became unstoppable competitive machines! I am delighted to say that we came third out of 8 teams, and I am so proud of every one of the participants! 

On Wednesday, we held our annual PFA Christmas Fayre which was once again incredibly well attended. We are already looking at ways in which we can make it even better next year. For example, we are mindful that being one long corridor means that there may be bottlenecks. Watch this space for developments and thank you for your continued support! We are also delighted to announce that the winners of the large hamper are Hudson in Year 4 and Phoenix in Reception! A huge congratulations to them.  

On Thursday night, Mrs Hornby held the Behaviour Policy information evening to parents. Thank you to those families who attended and raised some very valid queries. Again, watch this space for any developments! 

A reminder that this evening is the Hessle Lights Switch On and that a selection of our fantastic learners will be singing at the event. We hope to see you there and that you are in full song in support! 

Thank you for all of the Bags2School donations that we have received. Collectively, we have managed to collect approximately 230kg of donations – the overall amount TBC. Thank you so very much for all of the donations.  

A polite request – If your child walks home unaccompanied at the end of the day, please remind them about the need to exit the school site immediately at the end of the day (unless at a club) as we cannot supervise them after school hours and cannot be held responsible for incidents that occur out of our care. Thank you. 

I hope you have a fantastic weekend and will see you bright and early on Monday.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

As I stood on the playground one lunchtime in fluffy boots, a padded coat, scarf up to my eyeballs and gloves (I decided to leave the hot water bottle at home), I was amazed to see a handful of learners remove their coats and play in their shirt sleeves like it was July. This made me feel rather old but it also made me realise what a resilient bunch of children we have! 

Once again, it has been a busy week at Penshurst: 

• The Eco/PFA Book Sale took place on Monday night, and we appreciate all who participated and supported this wonderful event. 

• This week, Year 5 and Year 6 learners participated in Hatecrime Workshops led by the PCSO, which provided valuable learning on important social issues. 

• Today, we held PFA Comfy Feet Friday, where students were encouraged to wear comfy footwear. As always, thank you for your support and participation with these events. 

Looking ahead to next week: 

• The PFA Christmas Fair will be held on Wednesday, and we’re excited for the festive activities and opportunities to get into the holiday spirit. We hope to see you there! 

Please see below a link that allows customers with KCOM Internet connections to add content filtering at home. You will no doubt agree that is imperative that children are not exposed to content that is unsuitable for their age range.  

https://www.kcom.com/home/my-account/parental-controls/ 

I hope you have a lovely weekend and I look forward to seeing you next week.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

On Tuesday, I was momentarily perplexed as I spotted a sea of patterned, spotty and bright feet walking towards me. I eventually realised that this was for Odd Socks Day, to raise awareness of Anti-bullying week. Thank you so much for all of your support with this. 

As I type this, I have not yet seen our learners arrive prepared for Children in Need, but I am excited to do so, as there are always some incredibly imaginative adaptations to the recognisable Pudsey outfit. Another vital cause and again, thank you for your support. 

Also this week, Year 4 welcomed a visitor from Yorkshire Water. In their workshop, they covered a variety of topics including how water is treated to make it safe, how we can save water, and the water cycle. Whilst at Penshurst, they also delivered an assembly to KS2 on Water Aid and how we can support other countries to ensure they have access to clean water.  

In other news: 

Further communication was sent to parents this week regarding PE Kits. Once again, I thank you for all of your comments, be they positive, ways forward or just queries. We do appreciate that this will take time to embed but would like to reassure you that the decision is absolutely in the best interests of our learners’ education. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter. 

Please note that we have had reported cases of headlice in Nursery. Please ensure you check your child’s hair and treat accordingly if you notice anything. 

I hope you have a super weekend and I look forward to seeing you on Monday. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

After many years of dedicated service to our school community, Mr. Walker, our caretaker, retired this week. Mr. Walker has been an integral part of our team, always going above and beyond to ensure the school grounds and facilities have been safe, clean, and well-maintained. His hard work and commitment have made a positive impact on the daily running of the school, and he will be greatly missed by both staff and learners. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Walker for his years of service and to wish him all the best in his retirement. 

Mrs Wall has also moved onto pastures new this week. I know that many of you will have met with Mrs Wall on numerous occasions and I am sure you join us in wishing her well in her new endeavour. We are in the process of securing a replacement. In the meantime, please ensure SEND queries are sent to ppsoffice@hessleacademy.com.  

As of next week, we would like learners to come to school in PE Kits on the days that they have PE. This is to ensure they have maximum opportunity to participate in the physical activities and time is not wasted changing. They will stay in their kits for the remainder of that day.  

As part of our commitment to keeping all students safe, we would like to remind everyone that packed lunches should not contain any nuts or nut-based products. This includes items such as peanut butter, nut bars, and other snacks that may contain traces of nuts. We have students with severe nut allergies, and even trace amounts can cause serious health risks. Your cooperation in ensuring that all packed lunches are nut-free is greatly appreciated and helps us maintain a safe environment for all. 

This week, 2 very exciting projects were completed – we have a beautiful new EYFS outdoor area and our Eco Flag is now flying high near the allotment area. Well done Mrs Smith and team for your achievement. Speaking of Mrs Smith....... 

A message from Mrs Smith -  

Following on from our last collection of plastic lids, we were pleased to have achieved 34000 points! This meant we were able to order one table and 6 chairs for our outside area! Please keep collecting for us to access more of these brilliant items and help the planet in the process. 

Additionally, on Tuesday 26th November, we have a Bags2School collection, if you have any bags, please drop off at school by 9am. Thank you. 

Have a wonderful weekend and we will see you next week.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

On Tuesday after school, I was lucky enough to accompany our Year 5/6 girls to Wolfreton for a football tournament. I was delighted for them when they won their first two matches and came 4th out of 7 teams overall. A super effort by all players and great sportsmanship throughout. Thank you also to those parents who were able to come and support this. 

Also this week, as I was driving down the drive after a meeting, from a distance I spotted unfamiliar people in the Nursery play area and then realised that it was family members attending the Stay and Play session. It looked like a fab time was being had by all. Again – thank you for your support with this. 

On Monday and Wednesday this week, we also held our Progress Evenings. I would like to thank those who attended a session. Please expect a call from your child’s class teacher if you did not manage to arrange an appointment.  

Thank you to those parents who have completed our Homework Survey. Please be patient whilst we collate and analyse the results, and we will send an update on the Homework offer as soon as possible.  

Please remember that school is closed on Friday 25 October next week for staff training day. 

Have a super weekend and I will see you next week for the final week of this half term.

Mrs Preston

Head of School

World Mental Health Day took place on Thursday and the school was awash with bright, sunny yellow. Thank you for supporting with this.  

Once again, we have had a few reported cases of headlice – this time in a Year 1 class. Please check your child’s hair and treat accordingly if you notice anything. 

Next week, we have 2 significant events taking place: 

• Progress Evenings will take place on Monday and Wednesday evenings – If you haven’t done so, please remember to book your appointments (please see letter previously sent) 

• Nursery Stay & Play session – please see letter to book your place to attend 

Have a super weekend.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

We will begin a consultation with you in the next couple of weeks as this is a priority for us this year and we would like to gather your views. In the meantime (with the exception of Year 6 who are working towards their SATs and theirs may change frequently), the expectation is as follows: 

Read 3 x per week. This can be a reading book or on Reading Plus or a mixture of the two (Year 1 do not access Reading Plus) 

Times Tables practice on TTRS (Numbots for KS1). 

Weekly spellings 

Revision of their Penhsurst Graduate Award sheets. This can also count as one of their reads.  

There has also been a query regarding when the books should be in school. It is good practice for your child to bring their book each day as they may have pockets where they are able to read to the teacher.  

Please look out for further communication regarding the homework consultation. 

This week, KCOM visited our Year 4 learners to deliver a workshop which links to their unit of Systems and Networks.  

Our Reception held a Phonics and Maths workshop to parents this week that was very well attended. Thank you for your support with this. 

On Thursday, our learners had their photographs taken. Obviously, we will let you know when these arrive. 

Next week; 

A reminder that on Thursday 10 October, it is World Mental Health Day. Please encourage your child to wear yellow on this day.  

I hope you have a super weekend and look forward to seeing you next week.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Also this week, flu vaccinations were administered to children from Reception to Year 6. If your child missed their vaccination for whatever reason, a follow up session is due to take place shortly - further information to follow. 

On Tuesday after school, I had the pleasure of attending the Year 6 Boys Football tournament at Wolfreton. Whilst we didn’t win the overall tournament, I was so impressed with how well the boys played and how they cooperated impeccably as a team. I had a little tear in my eye when I witnessed Blu from Year 6 shake the hand of the organiser and thank him before we left. Now that’s sportsmanship! 

We have had a few reported cases of headlice in our Reception class over the last 2 weeks. Please check your child’s hair and treat accordingly if you notice anything. 

This week, I had to check the CCTV camera footage. Whilst doing so, I witnessed parents scooting back down the path and somebody vaping. Unfortunately, I could not identify them to address in person, so this is a gentle reminder that both of these are prohibited as aim to set a good example for our learners. Thank you for your cooperation.  

Next week, please remember that individual photographs will be taken on Thursday 3rd October. Please refer to your previous letter for more details.  

I hope you have a super weekend and I look forward to seeing you next week.  

We have finally reached the end of the Year 4 swimming lessons (taking place over the last 2 weeks), and I am told that all have had a wonderful time.  

Also this week, flu vaccinations were administered to children from Reception to Year 6. If your child missed their vaccination for whatever reason, a follow up session is due to take place shortly - further information to follow. 

On Tuesday after school, I had the pleasure of attending the Year 6 Boys Football tournament at Wolfreton. Whilst we didn’t win the overall tournament, I was so impressed with how well the boys played and how they cooperated impeccably as a team. I had a little tear in my eye when I witnessed Blu from Year 6 shake the hand of the organiser and thank him before we left. Now that’s sportsmanship! 

We have had a few reported cases of headlice in our Reception class over the last 2 weeks. Please check your child’s hair and treat accordingly if you notice anything. 

This week, I had to check the CCTV camera footage. Whilst doing so, I witnessed parents scooting back down the path and somebody vaping. Unfortunately, I could not identify them to address in person, so this is a gentle reminder that both of these are prohibited as aim to set a good example for our learners. Thank you for your cooperation.  

Please accept our apologies as due to staffing issues, Mrs Smith was unable to monitor the cycle to school event this week. Further information and rearranged dates will be sent out shortly. 

Next week, please remember that individual photographs will be taken on Thursday 3rd October. Please refer to your previous letter for more details.  

I hope you have a super weekend and I look forward to seeing you next week.  

Mrs Preston

Head of School

Also this week, we held our Year 6 Residential information session for parents on Wednesday, and Year 4 began their fortnight of swimming lessons at Haltemprice. Football and cross country trials have also been very well attended this week. Thank you for your support with all of these events.  

Cycle to School Week will take place next week. Please encourage your child to cycle or scoot to school, where our lovely TAs will be giving out prizes, with a bonus prize for wearing a helmet! Thank you for your ongoing support in keeping your children safe.  

Please remember to refer to our uniform policy to ensure your child is wearing the correct items. PE kits should be brought on Monday and taken home on Friday. As always, if for whatever reason you are struggling to obtain the correct items, please contact the office confidentially and we will support with pre-loved uniform where available. We will be sending polite uniform prompts where necessary. Once again, thank you for your cooperation. 

Before the dark nights close in too much, I hope you are able to enjoy some sunshine this weekend. See you next week! 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

As you are aware, we started our new timetable of lunch starting 10 minutes later this year. As with everything new, we were well aware that we may not get it right first time, and we have had some teething issues as we work hard trying to find the best pattern in order to ensure a swift yet adequate turnaround in the dining hall for the learners. Please be patient with us until we get this just right. 

Another change is the opening of our school gates at 08:35. So far, this has been successful as it means that the majority of our learners are in at 08:40 and can promptly start their morning activity. Please note that the doors still open at 08:40. 

In order to avoid large gatherings on the school property, we would ask that when you have collected your child at the end of the day, you refrain from using the apparatus on KS2 as this cannot be supervised by Penshurst staff and there is a risk of accident. Thank you for your cooperation. 

A reminder that Year 4 swimming lessons begin on Monday. Children should come to school in their school uniform and bring with them their swimming kit (swimming costume/shorts, goggles (if required) and a towel) in a separate bag. They will be changed in separate boy / girl changing rooms and will always be supervised. If your child is in the later group, they will not arrive back until approximately 3:10 dependent on traffic. 

The chill is really starting to set in now. Wrap up warm and have a lovely weekend. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School

No matter how many years you have worked in education, the new school year is usually met with a dash of trepidation and a spoonful of nerves. These all melted away when the gates opened on Wednesday and a sea of smiling, excited faces flooded through. Standing in front of our beautiful learners in assembly was such a privilege and I have very much enjoyed hearing all about their summer breaks.  

This week, we have also welcomed our new starters in Reception and Nursery. After a few tears here and there, the learners settle in nicely and have a super day with their new peers. I have had a lovely time modelling plasticine, building with blocks and watching trainlines being constructed. I am very excited to get to know our newest learners better. 

Calling all families to help raise funds for Penshurst! If you download the Asda Rewards App and sign up, then select Hessle High School and Penshurst Primary School, we receive £1 per register, and 0.5% of the total of your shopping. You can select us in the ‘CASHPOT FOR SCHOOLS’ section. We have a variety of plans for any funds, including developing our Forest School, enhancing our new library, and funding rewards and experiences for learners. Thank you in advance! 

A couple of reminders: 

• If for whatever reason your child is going to arrive at school after 9.30 and requires a school meal, this must be pre-ordered via the school office before this time to guarantee a lunch can be provided 

• Please remember that your child’s PE kit should be brought to school in a drawstring bag only. Sadly, we do not have the space on pegs for rucksacks and these become a health and safety concern if they fall onto the floor. Thank you for your cooperation 

Fingers crossed for decent weather this weekend – the autumn feeling is really drawing in! Have a great weekend, regardless. 

Mrs Preston

Head of School