Dear parent / carer,

Please note the following:

• Mid-year reports are being sent out this afternoon – please see attached an explanation of the data included.
• These reports can be discussed at parent consultations next week – please respond directly to your child’s class teacher through Class Dojo to arrange an appointment.
• It is great that so many pupils come to school now by bike or scooter!  However, some do not wear helmets – please can you sort this if this applies to your child.
• Lateness – just a quick nag!  School starts at 8:55 and the gates are locked at this time – please get your child here between 8:45 and 8:55 as late children miss the input for their lesson and generally disrupt the school day – perhaps just set the alarm for 5 minutes earlier!?
• Head lice – in KS2 apparently! I have been informed by a parent (many thanks) that you can get head lice treatment for free from Boots the Chemist in Cwmbran town centre on the "minor ailment scheme" to cover the whole family - this would normally cost £8-13, so perhaps a quick check behind the ears?!
• Balance bikes – Nursery, Reception and Year 1 have recently benefited from several sessions on balance bikes through a taster scheme.  They thoroughly enjoyed it and it is great for gross motor control (so it’s a win win!).  We’d like to buy some balance bikes but they are relatively expensive and our budget is being squeezed at the moment!  Have you got a balance bike in a shed / at the back of the garage that your kids have grown out of?  Not a problem if it needs some work as both Jim (caretaker) and I are pretty good on bike maintenance / repairs.  Could you donate us that old bike?  We would appreciate it!
• The school are once again supporting the Marie Curie Charity ( https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/ ) .  If you would like to contribute to this cause, we have daffodil badges available in exchange for a donation (children to bring in old style money for this one!).
• Parent Teacher Association – I’ve had several parents express an interest in getting this up and running again (after an expended period where everything has been run by staff!) so thought we could start by meeting in school for a coffee / chat to explore ideas.  Thur 20^th Feb at 2:30p.m in the staffroom if you are interested.
• Calling all dads! Our local For Dads By Dads group is back this Thursday evening– a relaxed space where dads can connect, share experiences, and get support in their parenting journey. If you're interested, find out more at   https://www.torfaenfis.org.uk/en/for-dads/for-dads-by-dads   or email Jacob.guy@torfaen.gov.uk . (see attached flyer)
• Message from Torfaen Play:

We are pleased to announce that our February Fun & Wellbeing Camp based at Cwmbran Stadium is returning offering a variety of fun for those aged 8 – 12 years old. This camp will run 10.00am – 3.00pm on the following days:

Tuesday 25th February 2025

Wednesday 26th February 2025

Thursday 27th February 2025

Flyer attached.

All the best.

Simon Bates