Dear Parents,

Our Compass curriculum is underway and this week has demonstrated so many examples of our ‘hands-on approach’ to interactive learning. Science Week has brought a real sense of wonder and excitement to the School, as pupils across all year groups immersed themselves in hands-on discovery, problem-solving, and creative exploration. One of the undoubted highlights was the arrival of the Explorer Dome — an inflatable planetarium that transformed our sports hall into a gateway to the stars. Inside the dome, pupils were taken on a captivating journey through the Solar System. With the help of expert guides and stunning visuals projected across the curved ceiling, they learned about planets, moons, asteroids, and comets — and the many questions scientists are still asking about space. The immersive experience sparked awe, curiosity, and some brilliant questions from the children. From marveling at the rings of Saturn to considering what life might be like on Mars, pupils were inspired to think big, dream boldly, and see science not just as facts, but as a thrilling adventure. Our thanks to the Parents’ Association for their funding contribution that ensured this was experienced by all pupils.

Science Week is a wonderful reminder of the value of learning beyond the classroom — of giving pupils space to ask ‘what if?’ and ‘why?’ and ‘how do we know?’ My thanks to Mr Agnew and the wider staff body for curating such an enriching week, and to the children for embracing it with such energy and enthusiasm.

Our annual Wellness Week starts after the Bank Holiday on 7 May. Tuesday morning starts with Mrs Whatman’s ‘wake up’ session at 7.40am! Please do look at and book an event to feed your wellbeing, as there are so many events running across the week. A full timetable can be found in the newsletter.

Weaving throughout the term, we have started our cricket and athletics season, along with a number of tennis matches. Keep an eye on Spond notifications as this will inform you of the location and finish times of matches.

Last Friday, our Year 3s enjoyed a ‘sleepover’ at School, what an amazing experience and opportunity. In the evening they enjoyed a BBQ and played games and then settled down for a good night’s sleep! We hope that events like this will encourage independence and resilience and ready the children for more adventurous residentials in the future. My thanks to everyone who supported this event and especially to the Year 3 staff, who demonstrated such a high level of care and hopefully managed to get some sleep!

Wishing you all a lovely Bank Holiday weekend.

Best wishes,

Emma Neville

Head