Amazing Woodlice
A very warm welcome back to everyone. I hope you all enjoyed a restful and enjoyable half-term break. Somehow, despite it only being November, I have already started hearing reminders that the countdown to Christmas has begun!
We began the week by exploring the fascinating history behind Bonfire Night. Children learnt about the events of 1605, why they are still remembered today and even how Henry VIII played an important role in the chain of events that eventually led to the Gunpowder Plot. As always, pupils asked thoughtful questions and demonstrated impressive historical knowledge. As a keen history enthusiast, I am always encouraging children to look critically at evidence and remember that history is often written by the victors.
On Tuesday, we welcomed colleagues from Highbury for another successful collaborative professional development session. Bringing professionals together to share ideas and learn from one another is always valuable, and we look forward to continuing our work when Highbury hosts the next session next week.
Before half-term, Kahlo Class treated us to a fantastic Halloween-themed bake sale. The event was a tremendous success, raising an impressive £310. A huge thank you to all our talented bakers and especially to Sooriya and Ambar for organising and running the event so brilliantly.
Year 3 paid a memorable visit to my office this week, bringing along some rather unexpected guests: woodlice! As part of their science learning, pupils had created Lego mazes to investigate which direction the woodlice would choose. The verdict? A clear preference for turning left (just like the US electorate!). Year 3 have also begun rehearsals for their Christmas production and, from what I have heard so far, it promises to be a wonderful performance. Perhaps that means the Christmas countdown has officially begun after all.
Year 4 have been learning about the digestive system and have produced some highly accurate diagrams, demonstrating an excellent understanding of the different organs and their functions. They were able to confidently explain how each part of the system works and locate them within the body. With Diwali taking place next week, pupils have also been exploring the origins and significance of this important festival. Their knowledge and understanding were incredibly impressive.
Digest this!
Meanwhile, Year 5 have been preparing for Space Week by learning about the Space Race and the events that fuelled one of history’s greatest scientific competitions. They delivered excellent presentations, showcasing impressive confidence and oracy skills. Alongside this, they have been exploring the events of 1066 and debating the decisions surrounding the succession following the death of Edward the Confessor. History and space exploration in the same week… what could be better?
Our Year 6 Sports Leaders and Sports Captains demonstrated fantastic leadership by planning and leading activities at the KS1 Multi-Skills Festival. It was wonderful to welcome so many local schools to Whitehill and to see our pupils acting as such positive role models. I was also treated to a visit from five pupils in Wilde Class, who performed their Gothic poems for me. The quality of writing was exceptional and showcased remarkable creativity and maturity. Some of the poems were genuinely spine-chilling and clearly inspired by their current class text, The Raven.
Don’t read this alone!
As I write this, I am sharing my office with a rather large telescope, which can only mean one thing: next week is Space Week! A huge range of fascinating activities are planned and, as this will be my first Space Week at Whitehill, I am particularly excited. It promises to be a wonderful week of exploration, discovery and awe for our pupils.
I am also delighted to share some personal news from the Whitehill team. Mrs Jarman is expecting her third child. We are all thrilled for her and send our warmest congratulations and very best wishes to her and her family.
Next week we will mark Remembrance with a series of important events and reflections. We will begin the week with an assembly exploring why we remember and the significance of 11th November. On Wednesday, the whole school will come together for a two-minute silence and a recital of In Flanders Fields. It is always a poignant occasion and an important opportunity for pupils to reflect on the sacrifices made by others. Our Junior Leadership Team will continue selling poppies on behalf of The Royal British Legion until Wednesday.
On Sunday 22nd November, members of our local community will be taking part in a walk to highlight ongoing road safety concerns along Stevenage Road. The event will focus on issues including speeding traffic, pedestrian crossings and the challenges many children face when travelling safely to and from Whitehill. The walk will take place from 10.00am to 11.00am, starting at The Orange Tree in Hitchin. It is an opportunity for residents and families to share their experiences directly with local decision-makers. As these issues affect many of our pupils’ journeys, it would be wonderful to see some Whitehill families there if you are able to attend.
We rounded off an action-packed week with our Achievers’ Assembly. Sooriya entertained us with a superb clarinet solo, while Alfie and Molly gave impressive recitals of their Gothic poetry. Wilde Class were crowned Class of the Week and Fire House secured the first House Cup of the half-term. Alongside this, we celebrated Headteacher’s Commendations, Sports Reports, House Point Certificates and achievements from activities outside school. Unsurprisingly, the assembly ran slightly over time! As if that wasn’t enough, Ivy and Gabriella sang us out with a wonderful rendition of Dancing Queen.
Have a lovely weekend, everyone. Hopefully we get to enjoy a little sunshine before another busy and exciting week at Whitehill.
