After an unusually quiet weekend, given the last few as a barometer for Whitehill-related activities, the main activity for our Year 6s this week has been their SATs. Whilst these end of Key Stage assessments do not define our pupils, we obviously want the pupils to do as well as they possibly can so that the data they take to secondary school sets them all up in the best possible way. We can now put these tests out of our minds and look forward to everything else lined up for our Year 6s.
It is worth pointing out that, for many, the pre-test breakfast each day was the most important part, together with the conversations around the residential which I am looking forward to next week. As a matter of interest, the 60 pupils managed to consume the following during their SATs breakfasts over the four days: 15 loaves of bread (around 330 slices of toast, four packets of butter), 180 pain au chocolat, 168 croissants, 133 bananas, 120 apples and 120 satsumas!
I happened to see Joshua’s (Year 3) English book on Monday lunchtime where they had been looking at figurative language. His sentence relating to me has convinced me that I am making the right decision. I can’t quote it verbatim, however he did put my age as being similar to David Attenborough’s.
The pupils’ attendance was once again recognised as being outstanding across the spring term. Whilst the certificate we received referenced the fact it was in the top 10% nationally, I received a phone call to announce that it was in the top 2%. Whilst there are always genuine reasons why pupils will need to have time off, attendance is a measure scrutinised by Ofsted and so I am always keen to keep it as high as possible.
Having been particularly impressed by the Monday after school dance club run by Mr Sapsed the other week, I thought I would spend a little longer watching this week and witnessed an equally as enjoyable session. It is clear they listen carefully and are able to pick up the choreography very quickly. There were some very mischievous expressions in the ‘Naughty’ dance inspired by the stage show, Matilda.
I managed to fit in another Cookie Club chess match after school on Tuesday, this time against Charlotte (Year 3). It was another enjoyable learning experience and one which earned her several house points.
I handed out a few Headteacher Awards on Tuesday afternoon when several pupils from Kusama Class brought me their topic work all about volcanoes. Ironically, I think three of them were in Fire House.
Last week I spoke about Eloise and her Kusama classmates in terms of their generosity and charitable nature. This week, it is Alex (Year 6) who has (again) been on the sponsorship trail with his family. He completed his third half-marathon charity walk last weekend with friends and family, raising money for the Isabel Hospice. We are all very proud of his achievements.
Wednesday lunchtime provided us with an unexpected hail shower, just as I was tasked with clearing up something on the playground. I think Mrs Flanagan was playing a trick on me when I asked if she had an umbrella. See below for evidence of what I was provided with. It wasn’t the most effective weather shield I have ever used.
I wasn’t able to lead Achievers’ Assembly on Friday, despite it being the last one of this half term. Mrs McConnell Smith was able to cover for me. The Class of the week was jointly awarded to both Year 6 classes and Air won the House Cup.
Violett (Year 5) sang for the pupils and as I was unable to see this for myself, I am looking forward to watching the video I believe was captured.
We presented this half term’s sports awards and there was an eclectic mix of other awards and certificates ‘on the piano’ for Mrs McConnell Smith to present. Well done to everyone who was celebrated this week.
Looking ahead to next week, there are two main diary entries. From early Monday, I am away with the Year 6 pupils on their residential in Devon. From Wednesday, the Year 4s are then away in Overstrand for their two-night excursion.
For this reason, next week’s blog will be one with a difference. I will focus on the Year 6 trip (no offence to the other three cohorts) when I report back this time next week. Assuming I can get Wi-Fi or a phone signal.
For now, have a great weekend and if you are spending time packing for a Year 4 or Year 6, please make sure everything is labelled… even the pants!
Best wishes,
Steve Mills
Headteacher
