More and Moore!
Another week has flown by as we edge ever closer to the halfway point of the half term. We have certainly been fortunate with the weather, which has allowed the children to make the most of their lunch and break times outdoors. Let’s hope the sunshine remains with us for the rest of the term!
I have spent part of this week attending training courses in Stevenage. While the professional development has been valuable, there is nowhere I would rather be than at Whitehill, seeing the wonderful learning and achievements taking place across the school.
Our week began with an inspiring assembly about the life and work of Dr Seuss. Many of the children were familiar with his famous stories, but were fascinated to discover some of the hidden messages behind them. They were also intrigued to learn that Dr Seuss is credited with popularising the word “nerd” and that he wrote Green Eggs and Ham as the result of a challenge to create an entire story using fewer than fifty unique words!
One of the many things I love about Whitehill is the enthusiasm our pupils show for the wide range of extracurricular opportunities available to them. On Monday, I was delighted to be treated to a performance from one of our dance groups. The children performed with tremendous energy, confidence and teamwork, and it was clear just how much they enjoy participating. Well done to everyone involved.
The breadth of learning taking place across the school continues to impress. In Year 3, pupils have been exploring personal achievements, ambitions and self-esteem as part of their RSHE learning. Subsequently, they designed medals to represent goals they would like to achieve this year. Their aspirations were thoughtful, ambitious and inspiring.
Year 4 have been developing their geographical knowledge by studying Italy and creating informative fact files. They were particularly keen to share their knowledge that Europe’s only active volcanoes are found in Italy. In Science, they have been learning about the different types of teeth (and how to look after them) and were able to explain confidently how each type helps us to eat and digest food.
Year 5 pupils have been combining creativity with mathematics by designing vector houses, demonstrating how mathematical skills play an important role in design. They have also been studying the work of Keith Haring, creating eye-catching posters that explored both his distinctive artistic style and his life story.
In Year 6, pupils have been producing some fantastic clay sculptures inspired by their recent visit to the Henry Moore Studios & Gardens. The creativity and attention to detail on display have been remarkable, and I am very much looking forward to seeing the finished pieces once they have been painted.
Today’s Achievers’ Assembly provided another opportunity to celebrate the hard work, effort and success of our pupils. Congratulations to Kahlo class for being awarded Class of the Week and to Fire House for securing this week’s House Cup (collected by their newly appointed House Captains).
It has been another busy, productive and rewarding week at Whitehill. Thank you for your continued support, and I wish all of our families a wonderful and restful weekend.
