"Life is a cycle of change, and the seasons are just another reminder of that."

And in the blink of an eye, we have completed our first half-term together. Despite so much happening, it seems to have started and ended so quickly; there is so much to celebrate. The main thread of our curriculum has been the Story of Creation. From plants being studied in Year 4, to deforestation in Year 6 and the human body in Year 3, to the wolf story in Year 2; we have to care for our common home. Being a steward of our community means being active and curious; constantly seeking ways to care for each other and our world. We are truly blessed that we have so many active members. Our Worship Area has been instilled to ensure that there is a collective place for prayer and liturgy. We have encouraged our pupils to interact with the area. Please watch this short video below reflecting on the scripture that we have shared this half term. As we move into the most special period of Advent, we will strive to become faith-filled and hopeful.

As well as active stewards, we have had very active learners! I cannot believe that we have only been in school 7 weeks, yet the children are producing things beyond their years. One of my favourite things is being able to visit each class, or to get a knock on my office door inviting me to see what they have been up to. I have had the pleasure of visiting Year 1 and Year 5 this week to read their stories. From the adventures of Supertato and the misdemeanors of Evil Pea, to really complex stories involving the Adventures of Narnia - the level of creativity and storytelling is so deep.

I am incredibly proud of the art curriculum that takes place in school. Every child experiences quality art that enables them to express themselves in multiple ways.

Miss Neves, our resident artist, is currently studying a Fine Art degree and for her professional practice, she commissioned Year 6 to complete some inspired graffiti art work.

I think they are remarkable and the words used; so very powerful!

The Our Lady Poppy Appeal

It has started! We have 133 poppies so far - but we need more!

Over half term, can you be creative and make a poppy that can be attached to our castle. Think about what you could make it out of to withstand the elements:

  • crisp packets

  • plastic bags

  • drinks bottles

  • felt

  • wool

  • wood

  • milk bottle tops

The list is endless. How wonderful would it be if each member of our community laid a poppy in remembrance.

Staff who lead learning

At yesterday’s INSET training, all staff completed their annual safeguarding training. This year, with the changes in Keeping Children Safe in Education, we invited in a member of the Lancashire team to present updates on Online Safety. The world in which we live in, and the one that we are preparing our children for, is a fast-paced technological world. It is crucial that we are informed about the best way that we can support our children to navigate this tricky aspect of growing up. As we move through the year, there will be opportunities for parents to gain further support and to also check the filtering systems on devices at home too. We will keep you informed and let you know about the events that we are planning.

As part of the safeguarding training, we will be making some tweaks to the systems that we have in school, in order to safeguard and protect our children further:

  • We have changed the text messaging service to be able to text BOTH parents who we have listed on our system. After half-term, Mrs Nel will be sending out a data sheet to ensure that we have the correct contact information for both parents, email addresses included. When a text message is now sent from school, it will go to both parents.

  • We have looked closely at our First Aid procedures in school and the ‘bump notes’ that we send home when the children bump their heads. We need to ensure that these notes get home and that they are seen by the parent, as quite often they are left in a child’s bag. Therefore, if your child has a bump at school, we will send a text message letting you know this and that there is a bump note in their bag so you are aware of the concussion symptoms. If the bump to the head is concerning, we will of course phone home and let you know straight away. This will be the same for an injury that needs reporting. Please do not be alarmed that you have received a text message, we are simply informing you in a more rigorous and robust way than a bump or injury letter.

  • It has been lovely to see all of our parents on the playground at the end of the day collecting your children, but we are aware that the area around KS1 classrooms can become a little congested. From 30th October, Year 1 parents will collect their children from the Year 1 outside area. There is a small gate that will be opened onto an area where you can stand and wait for the children to come out. This should ease congestion and enable parents and family members to be seen more easily by the teaching staff. Can I ask that we still continue to stand away from the doors to give the children space to come out. Please can you communicate this with each named person who will collect your child.

Office News

Unbelievably it is half term! I think we are all ready for a well-earned rest, snuggling down and enjoying quality family time. It has been a very busy half-term and the next promises to be even busier! Dinners next term, in line with LCC meal charges, are still £2.50 per dinner, £12.50 per week or £97.50 for the half term, payable on ParentPay. It is never pleasant chasing payments and we  encourage all dinner accounts to be paid up at least a week in advance. Thank you for your support with this. Please see the menu below for next half-terms meals. There may be some variation where items are unavailable, but we will stick as close to the menu as possible.

After half-term, our school’s attendance officer will be visiting, which he does annually. We will be looking at each child’s attendance and aiming to reduce the gaps that can sometimes form. Just like last year, letters will be issued to any parent whose child’s attendance has fallen below 90% in the first half of the Autumn term.

In the final week of school, we received 7 leave of absence requests for holidays that attached to the October half term. Can we urge you to let us know as soon as a leave of absence is required as the paper work associated with absences can be vast. We would really appreciate your support with this going forward. We have also had a number of pupils who have been away this week and have not contacted the school to inform us (we can always tell from the international dialing tone). Honesty is always the best policy and it legally allows us to monitor attendance. Please always do share when your child will be absent from school, it makes life so much easier for us all.

There is a new timetable for extra-curricular opportunities in school. Please see the document below and visit the Sports section or News Around the School to book a place.

We always like to celebrate the work that our pupils do outside of school, and our proud cloud is now brimming with photographs of very proud children. One of our pupils, Joseph and his family, are taking part in Nativity at Marine Hall in Fleetwood this Christmas. Details are on the poster to the left if you would like to book tickets and go and watch.

Thank you all for your continued support this last half term. We are incredibly blessed to have the community that we have. I wish you all a very happy and safe half term.

God bless

Mrs Gregan

'If you can be anything in this world, be kind.'

When we started our year together in September, I gave the community one mission - TO BE KIND. Kindness above anything instills peace, reflection and brings God’s Kingdom alive here on earth. We are exposed to so many things in the news and local community where kindness has not happened; when others have suffered as a result of actions. As a school family, we constantly want to reflect on our behaviours and actions, ensuring that we are all following in Christ’s footsteps. There are times when we get it wrong, but we trust that God will bring us back and ensure we follow his path.

Year 2 shared such a magical liturgy this week, all about us being kind to our world; demonstrating stewardship. Through the power of a story, the children spoke using powerful vocabulary to convey the message that they were sharing. We have one world, it is our responsibility to look after it. Thank you Year 2 for a thought-provoking assembly.

There is no doubt that there are times when I really miss teaching daily. There is nothing like the feeling that you get when a child overcomes a barrier or succeeds because of something that they have strived really hard to achieve. When I became head, I was adamant that I still wanted to teach where I could. I am blessed to visit Year 5 each Monday to teach maths, but this week, I delivered something different. The children explored what it meant to be kind, what kindness is and how it makes others feel. We had an open, honest and evolving conversation that I hope will continue throughout the year. The children used their desks as jotters (much to the children’s delight). They then designed some posters, using important quotes, that we will be able to share around school. Thank you Year 5 for helping us all to understand the importance of being kind.

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

Being in Year 6 is so challenging; partly because of the expectations that we have of them as ambassadors and leaders. This week, the class went on a 2 night retreat to Castlerigg; exploring what it means to be the light of the world. The talent list of this group of children is endless, therefore the expectations we place on them are endless. They really have so much to give! The class were fabulous ambassadors for our school. They looked after each other and supported the team beautifully - we are so very proud of them. Thank you has to go to Mrs Harrison, Mrs Webster, Mrs Barker and Mr Cornwell who took the children away. Your time is precious and we are grateful for the time you have given to enable the children to make life-long memories.

‘We shall harvest with joy.’

It is so important to say Thank you for what we have, and what we have been given. During Father Peter’s homily on Thursday, he shared that within the word ‘HARVEST’ there are a number of different words: Starve, Share and Ta - all of these things relate to what we are trying to achieve,

Various Harvest celebrations have taken place in school this week. On Thursday, Year 1, 2, 5 & 6 visited church, alongside the parishioners, to say thank you for the gifts that we have been given. In school, our Reception and Nursery children shared a beautiful liturgy together; full of song, thanks and prayer.

Thank you all for your generous donations to Fylde Foodbank, we are supporting our local community. The school foodbank is now empty. Please continue to donate goods to it and we can continue to provide support where possible. Remember that the foodbank is for all of our community.

Learning Awards of the Week

Our Growth Mindset certificate winners of the week!

Our Virtue Role Models of the week!

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.”

The Our Lady Poppy Appeal

It has started! We have had a number of knitted poppies delivered into school, handcrafted by Esther and her grandma. There will be a poppy box in the worship area next week for any poppies made - please do contribute to them and make any poppy you can! For half term, I have made a craft sheet of lots of different poppies that you could make at home - all from household items. It would be great if every child made at least one for our castle reflection.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 2 & 3 - 98.7% Our whole school attendance this week is 96.3%.

Office News

With one more week to go until half term, it is important that all Parent Pay accounts are settled. Please can you visit your account over the weekend and see if anything needs to be payed.

Those children taking part in fencing next year will be confirmed next week so that payment can be made.

We enter into the final three days of half term determined to finish all of the learning opportunities that we have. School closes for the children on Wednesday at normal time - 3.20pm/3.25pm; with Parents’ Day on Friday 20th October. This is virtual so can be accessed anywhere in the world; wherever you might be. There is still time to make appointments if you haven’t. We will be contacting all those without an appointment on Monday. Please click on my previous blog for more information.

There has also been some lovely news; Mrs Marshall is expecting her second baby. The school community wishes her family a huge congratulations on her announcement and look forward to welcoming Baby Marshall in the Spring.

How wonderful do our football team look? CN Active has kindly sponsored our new football kits, ensuring that our teams look their best whilst playing their best. Despite the rain, the children’s spirit was not dampened. The progress that our football and netball teams are making week on week is great. All children who train have now had the opportunity to represent the school - how fantastic! There was one extremely special goal on Tuesday too!

There will be a pause in fixtures after half term to account for the darker evenings. Watch out for the new extra-curricular timetable coming next week.

Finally, congratulations to Harcourt who have won this half term’s house points. All children in Harcourt can come in their house colours on Wednesday.

Have a lovely weekend with your families

God bless

Mrs Gregan

"Love one another as I have loved you."

The greatest commandment of all; Love one another as I have loved you. Our Year 6 children started our assemblies this week by telling us all about heroes. There have been lots of leaders throughout the world; some good, some bad, but all who we can learn from. The hero that we look to is Jesus Christ. A key message that was delivered as part of the assembly was that we can all be heroes - every single one of us. Our strengths and talents need to be shared with others for the greater good. Every day I see hero behaviour from pupils in our school; they are our greatest teachers. Below is an image of our whole school display in our Worship Area. Every child in the school has been created in the image of God. Together, they make our school family. Thank you to our nursery children who have also been talking about the gifts of Creation - your sunshine, rainbow and flowers are the perfect addition to our display.

In assembly today, we have spoken about another group of heroes. During the month of October, we will be recognising the many black men and women who have been a hero to their community and our world. Black History Month aims to make us all aware of the trailblazers who shown leadership, talent and impact. This year, in particular, we will be highlighting pioneering women. Each class in school will be focusing on one individual. Keep an eye on homework and blogs for more information.

On Thursday 12th October, we will be attending mass for our Harvest Festival. This year, we have decided to collect food donations for our local community and Fylde Foodbank. Don’t forget that we also have our school foodbank too for any donations; just inside the main office area. Over the next few weeks, please can the following items be brought into class.

Nursery - tinned beans

Reception - tinned or packet soup

Year 1 - tinned fruit or vegetables

Year 2 - tinned tuna

Year 3 - tea bags

Year 4 - biscuits

Year 5 - cereal

Year 6 - long life milk/juice

Thank you for your generosity.

Learning beyond the curriculum

The curriculum is an exciting and intertwining web of knowledge that the children have to know before they leave primary school. It is the core of their education. However, there is so much more to learning than this. There are other skills that the children have and do beyond school that add to their knowledge and life experiences. Next Wednesday afternoon, the children will all be swapping teachers and spaces in school to take part in enrichment. This is an opportunity to form relationships with the many other staff that they will come to know during their time at Our Ladys, as well as experiencing something new. Throughout the year, the children will visit each class teacher - I am really excited about this. From learning German, to ballroom dancing, and some gardening too, the children will learn some skills that they may choose to develop further.

I have loved seeing just how many of our pupils have been getting involved with the extra-curricular opportunities that are on offer. Many pupils have represented the school in football and netball this week - see next week’s newsletter for our football teams.

Please do not forget our Proud Cloud too. If your child has done anything outside of school that they are proud of, please send us a photograph so that we can add it to the display and celebrate their talents. Whether it is football, dancing, swimming, musical instruments, brownie badges or cubs, judo - whatever it is we would love to see what you have been up to and to celebrate your achievements.

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.”

It may seem a few months too early, but we have started to think about remembrance in school. When the castle arrived, I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we used it as the basis for Remembrance Day. A space where we could display some community work.’ Therefore we have a community challenge. We want to make as many poppies as possible that can be attached to netting from the castle. These poppies will need to be suitable to be left outdoors so could be knitted or made out of a plastic bottle. The more poppies the better. So…get your family and friends to start making, ready for our community art installation.

Parents’s Meetings

In a few weeks, there will be the opportunity to speak to your child’s class teacher and find out how they have settled into school this year. Again, we are taking a hybrid approach to hopefully include everyone - a mixture of in school and virtually. You have already been into school as part of induction night to meet your child’s teaching team and see their learning environment.

There is now an opportunity for parents to meet virtually with your child’s teacher. We would like to invite you to a virtual parents’ meeting to discuss your child and to celebrate their achievements. We will be using the same system we used in the past, called SchoolCloud. This will allow you to access the meeting from where ever you are, with no need to wait in school. This can always be tricky, especially if you have multiple children, or have planned October half term holidays. We have found in the past year that parent attendance has been higher virtually, than it was in person. I even had the pleasure of conducting a parents’ meeting whilst the family was on a beach in Mexico!

This platform has no app for you to install, you simply use your web browser, and you will be automatically connected with the teacher at the time you have booked in the appointment schedule. Each appointment will last ten minutes and start at the allotted time. You will then see the time and count down on the screen. Please note: when the countdown ends, the meeting is automatically closed and the next appointment is started, we have no control over this. Please log in and check the audio and visual before your appointment starts.

Within the program there is a facility to add a note when you book. If there is something specific which you would like to discuss, this will enable you to communicate it to the teacher before the meeting.

The available appointments will be on Friday 20th October from 8.30am - 5.30pm. Appointments can be booked from 4pm today by clicking on this link:

School Cloud

When booking, it is crucial that you use your child’s legal forename and surname – those recorded on our school management system. If any part of your child’s name is hyphenated, again it needs to be so when typing in their name. Your own name on Sims is now recorded with one of the following titles Miss, Mrs, Mr or Dr. The system will also ask for an email address so that a reminder can be sent out.

There are two links below which provide support on booking an appointment and how to access the virtual meeting. Please click to find out more.

A GUIDE TO BOOKING APPOINTMENTS

If you are struggling, please contact the school office asap and we can help.

Following this meeting, we will provide opportunities in the Spring term to visit school and sit with your child to look through their wonderful work. The teachers all have an email address too. If you have any worries or concerns, please do email them at the earliest opportunity for it to be discussed.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Learning awards!

Demonstrating our virtues - curious & active!

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 1 - 99.7% Our whole school attendance this week is 97.2%.

We are incredibly proud, and blessed, to have such a wonderful team of individuals who work at Our Ladys. They love the children unconditionally and strive to ensure that they experience the very best that we can offer them. A key member of our team is Mr Nay. For those of you who know him, and the work he does both in and out of school, you will appreciate just how much of his time he gives to the children - not just at Our Ladys but across the Fylde Coast. His dedication and enthusiasm is palpable. I know that we could not deliver the same quality of physical education that we do without him.

Last night he attended the Best of Lancashire Awards in Burnley where he was awarded the Grass Roots Sports Award for the work that he does. On behalf of the whole school community, thank you and congratulations. We are beyond proud of you and know how much of your own time you give, often when that family time is calling you.

Have a lovely weekend with your family.

God bless

Mrs Gregan

'Oh Lord, your love knows no bounds.'

When we go through periods of darkness, it can be so hard to see the light. We can be confused by the actions of God and why certain choices has been made. In assembly today, we have spoken about the need to trust in God; He knows the plan and can see the bigger picture, even when we can’t. God has a plan for all of us, whether we agree with it or not. We need to believe in His vision as children of Christ. We have all faced challenges this half term. Starting a new school year and a new class is always difficult to navigate. There are new people that we need to get to know, new classrooms to explore and new expectations to understand - but we always get there; much quicker than we realise!

‘Books are uniquely, portable, MAGIC!’

This week we were joined by the most wonderful author - Dan Worsley. It is a while since we have had an author in school, and my goodness, he did not disappoint! Dan filled the hall, and each classroom with tales of the unexpected. Adventures beyond our wildest dreams. Laughter that came from our bellies! Reading is so important for many reasons, but I think the most important one is that it can transport you to another place and another time. You really can get lost in the book. It would be great if we continued to support Dan - hopefully he may come and visit us again one day soon!

Our school library is missing a large number of books that was taken out last year. Please, please, please can you all have a really good look at home and see if any of our books have hidden themselves in and around your house.

Primary School Admissions

If you have a child who will be starting primary school in September 2024, the window is now open to apply. We are opening the school at various times for you to come and have a look around. Please see the poster for more details.

To apply for a primary school place, please click on the following link:

Lancashire School Admissions

If you have any questions at all, please do ring the office on 01253 726015.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Learning awards!

Demonstrating our virtues - curious & active!

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 3 & 6 - 98.3% Our whole school attendance this week is 97.3%.

Office News

My goodness the weeks are flying. Please remember to check Parent Pay. Class trips and dinner money have been added.

Please do not hesitate to contact the office if you have any queries.

Dates for your diary:

  • Thursday 26th September - Year 6 Assembly 2.10pm & 2.35pm

  • Thursday 5th October - Year 4 Assembly 2.10pm & 2.35pm

  • Thursday 12th October - Harvest 9.30am Mass

  • Thursday 12th October - Year 2 Assembly 2.10pm & 2.35pm

  • Parents’s Day - Friday 20th October. Virtual appointments will be available to be booked next Friday

We are having an awful lot of uniform go missing at the moment; both labelled and unlabelled. Please can you ensure that all of your children’s uniform is clearly labelled and that they come home with the correct uniform at the end of the day. Thank you kindly.

Have a lovely weekend with your families.

God bless

'Family is not an important thing. It is EVERYTHING.'

This week we celebrate 175 years of Catholic Education. Some of your great-great-great Grandparents might have been the first people to have learnt in a Catholic school. The mission of Catholic education is to grow the mind, the body and the spirit of each individual, according to the Gospel values. In school, being the very best version of ourselves is central to our being, but to also recognise that we are part of a much larger family than the ones we know and see on a daily basis. We are constantly aiming to walk in Jesus’ footsteps; bringing his kingdom alive here on earth.

We are part of a community of people of faith who all share and respect the same values and virtues. On Wednesday, we opened our classrooms to welcome you in and see where your children learn on a daily basis. Having the opportunity to see the classroom through the eyes of your child is magical and I know just how much they loved bringing you into their world. You will have the opportunity to discuss your child’s start to their school year on Friday 20th October on Parents’ Day. If you have any questions at all in the meantime, please do not hesitate to email the class teacher.

‘Books are uniquely, portable, MAGIC!’

We are passionate about reading and the joys that it can bring. A child who can read for pleasure and is interested in it, can access the curriculum fully. This week, the children have all been quizzing and setting their new AR reading level (I even saw a few parents having a go on Wednesday night). Next Wednesday, I want the children to be excited by reading once again. It is a few years since we have had an author visit school, and we cannot wait to welcome Dan Worsley to school next Tuesday & Wednesday. Dan is a local author and ex-primary school teacher who is passionate about creative writing. He predominantly writes for KS2 children, but will be offering creative writing workshops to our younger children too.

Dan will have copies of all six of his books (£5 each/cash only) available for purchase after school on Wednesday 20th September in the school hall. If any children in Year 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 would like to purchase a copy on the day, he will be happy to sign and personalise the pupil’s books. Dan is a KS2 writer, therefore some of his themes demonstrate this. Year 1 & 2 children may want to purchase a book and save it for a few years, to be read at a later date.

Our school library is missing a large number of books that was taken out last year. Please, please, please can you all have a really good look at home and see if any of our books have hidden themselves in and around your house.

Primary School Admissions

If you have a child who will be starting primary school in September 2024, the window is now open to apply. We are opening the school at various times for you to come and have a look around. Please see the poster for more details.

To apply for a primary school place, please click on the following link:

Lancashire School Admissions

If you have any questions at all, please do ring the office on 01253 726015.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Learning awards!

Demonstrating our virtues - intentional and prophetic!

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 6 - 99.1% Our whole school attendance this week is 96.8%.

As Autumn draws near, and the weather is changing, please ensure that all pieces of uniform are fully labelled. There is a tendency for the children to head out at breaktimes all wrapped up, then gradually lose layers as the breaktime unfolds.

Finally, this week we received the heart-breaking news this week that two of our former pupils have been involved in a serious car accident. They were such valued pupils, along with their siblings and parents, whilst in school and a big part of the Our Ladys family. We are praying deeply for their family and friends, sending much love and prayers for all who need it. Please keep them in your prayers and thoughts over the weekend and coming weeks.

God bless

'So God created man in his own image, in the image of God.'

What a wonderful week we have had in school. It was a joy to open the gates on Monday morning to welcome all of our children, and families, back into school. The beautiful weather has really helped! The first week in school is always about reconnecting and forming new relationships with the class team, finding out about what they are learning and discovering all of the new adventures that they will have during the year. On Monday, we gathered for our first assembly and thought about all of the families that we belong to - they are so different. But the one family that we all belong to is God’s family. This year I have given all of our family members one mission, to be kind! We are all part of creation and we need to be stewards of it by looking after each other and by being kind. I think we can do it!

On Wednesday 13th September, the classrooms from Year 1 - Year 6 will be open from 3.30pm - 5.30pm. Please collect your child from school as normal. You may want to go home and come back or simply stay and pop in at 3.30pm. The children are really excited about showing you their new classrooms and where they put their things. The teaching team will be on hand to answer any questions that you may have too. Miss Woodend has come back to school as our new SENCO and will be in the hall for any SEN questions. We really hope that you can make it! Please do check the class website pages too - there is lots of information on there.

With any family, it never gets smaller, in fact it only gets bigger! In July, we said goodbye to our Year 6 children who all headed off to their new high schools. Once part of Our Ladys, always part of Our Ladys. I was filled with immense pride when some photos popped into my email earlier this week. We are so proud of all of our children - just how smart do they all look.

As one group of children leave us, another group of children join us. On Wednesday we welcomed our Reception children into school for the very first time. 27 children entered the classroom for the first time, amazed at what they saw and the exciting adventures that they will face this year. It is such a big step, starting primary school, but all children have done so with a huge smile on their face. We could not be prouder of you all!

Believe it or not, but we are already looking ahead to next year, ready to grow our Our Laad’s family even more. If you have a child who will be starting primary school in September 2024, the window is now open to apply. We are opening the school at various times for you to come and have a look around. Please see the poster for more details.

To apply for a primary school place, please click on the following link:

Lancashire School Admissions

If you have any questions at all, please do ring the office on 01253 726015.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Learning awards!

Demonstrating our virtues - intentional and prophetic!

Office News

There is something magical in new beginnings and  the new school year is no exception. The excitement, anticipation and air of hope is almost tangible. As has always been the case, our school office doors are open to assist, guide and support you in whichever way that we can and I do look forward to working with you and your family this year.

This school year, in line with Lancashire County Council’s meal charges, school dinners for Years 3 to 6 are £2.50 per meal or £12.50 per week or £82.50 for this first half term. We do ask that payment is prompt.

Unfortunately there are a number of outstanding dinner  accounts from the previous school year. I will be sending reminder letters shortly as we do have to recover overdue amounts in order to balance our books. Your support here would be appreciated.

I would also like to ask that if there have been any changes to your contact details that you inform the office ASAP so that our system can be updated.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 4 - 99.1% Our whole school attendance this week is 96.9%.

Back to School

All of the children have looked so shiny and new this week in their school uniforms. It has been nice to see the hoodies have been very popular, and along with the tracksuit, make our PE kit really smart. The hoodies are for PE kit days only. The school jumper and cardigan apply at the other times. Just a few reminders about our uniform policy:

  • For PE, the children need to wear trainers which are white, blue or black.

  • Hair needs to be tied back and if choosing to wear a headband, can this be in uniform colours too.

  • Some children have had their hair braided or dyed over the summer. Braids need to be plaited into the hair to avoid any injuries and dye needs to be removed.

Drop off and collection will remain the same this year:

Marsden and Harcourt 8.45am drop off Plessington and Bamber 8.50am drop off

Marsden and Harcourt 3.20pm collection Plessington and Bamber 3.25pm collection

The teachers will be sending the children out in this order at the end of the day. We really want to reduce the traffic around school, making it safer for our community. We have noticed a significant difference with this in the morning and after-school. Please be mindful where you park, especially near corners etc. And definitely not on the yellow lines or zig-zags.

When collecting your children, can I ask that you step back away from the classroom door. The teachers and staff are trying to get used to faces and for the children to be able to spot you. KS1 and Reception parents, if you can use the grass area - that would be great. Please can you communicate this message to other people who may pick your children up. We want a calm end of the day, free from any anxiety.

The website calendar has lots of important dates that you will need over the coming year; author visits and class assemblies are just two things that you will find on there. Please do keep a weekly check on the exciting things that are happening in school.

Many of our children attend breakfast and after-school club at St Thomas’ school. They are in need of some additional after-school staff. If you are interested, or know anybody who would be interested, please email stthomasasc@hotmail.co.uk

Enjoy your weekend with your families. Hopefully you may see a kite or two flying over the beach.

Mrs Gregan

"We all make so many new beginnings, there will never be an end."

“We all make so many new beginnings, there will never be an end.”
— Louise May Alcott

Welcome back to school for our new year together. There is always such a big build up to the summer holidays; I hope that you have managed to find some solace and rest, ready to start the new year together.

Over the past few weeks, the staff have been in school getting everything ready to welcome the children back in to their new classrooms. Change can often be unsettling, but we hope that with a familiar face in each classroom, the children will come back to school happy and feeling safe. The staff have worked incredibly hard to ensure that their learning environments are inclusive and engaging; ready to support the children on the exciting learning journeys that they will be experiencing this year.

We always talk in school about evolving. Are we doing everything that we can to meet the needs of our pupils? There are going to be some enrichment opportunities for the children throughout the year, which will really enhance the depth of learning that will already be taking place, as well as them being able to form relationships with other members of staff. Please keep checking the website each week so that you know what is coming up and can share the moments with your children.

Next Thursday, we will be walking to church as a whole-school community, ready to celebrate Our Lady’s birthday and start our new year together. We hope that you will be able to join us by walking down with us, or meeting us there to celebrate mass together.

Meet the Teaching Team

Each year we hold an induction night for parents to come and meet the teaching team, hearing all about what their children will be learning over the coming year. This year we are going to try something a little different. On Wednesday 13th September, from 3.30pm - 5.00pm, the classrooms will be open for you to come and have a look around with your child. We feel that it is important that your children share their new space with you, showing you spaces that are important to them and what they will be learning over the course of the year. There may even be one or two tasks for you to complete. The teaching team will be on hand to meet you all and to answer any questions that you may have. We hope that you will be able to pop in!

We look forward to welcoming all of the children from Year 1 to Year 6 on Monday. The same drop-off and collection arrangements will be in place. Our Reception children will be joining us on Wednesday for their phased induction into school.

God bless

Mrs Gregan

"If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it."

And so we have arrived at the end of the year. A year that has been full of precious memories and moments to be proud of. Sitting in church yesterday and seeing the vast numbers of people come to support the school like you did, it really took my breath away. I am so proud of our community this year. We have come together, moved forward and remained as strong as ever. There is so much to now look forward to next year. In our final assembly, I have challenged each of the children to be shining lights in our world - just like Jesus.

Our lovely Mrs Hodges

Over the past few days we have been saying goodbye to our wonderful Mrs Hodges. Today, in assembly, the children all presented her with their class made gifts and spoke about what they loved about her. There has been a steady stream of people in the office all day! Thank you from us all Mrs Hodegs for being you and for giving of yourself so selflessly. We are richer because of you. I am sure that Mrs Hodges will pop in next year from time to time. For now, we wish her the happiest of retirements.

“A heart is not judged by how much it can love, but how much it is loved by others.”

Each and every year, the staff team put on a wonderful show for the children as a thank you for all of their hard work over the year. This morning, The Wizard of Oz came to the stage. The staff team are unbelievable. They love your children so dearly and unconditionally. I am so blessed to work alongside them. Having read all of the report comments that have come in and the many emails that I have received, I know you think the world of them to.

Instead of the teachers and staff voting for the weekly learners of the week, the children in each class have voted for their learners of the year. Children who have gone above and beyond in their classrooms and showed such kindness. Thank you to all of these children for being such wonderful role models.

All that remains is for me to wish you all the most wonderful summer holiday. Thank you for your support throughout the year and we look forward to welcoming you back on Monday 4th September.

God Bless

Mrs Gregan

“Whoever listens to you listens to me" - Luke 10:16

In this week’s gospel, we hear about the benefit of listening. How Jesus used stories and parables to enable people to listen and access the messages that he was trying to share. Like any good teacher, Jesus knew the people who he was speaking to. He knew how they would respond, how they would listen and what would engage them. Sometimes we do an awful lot of talking when in fact, just listening is the key. It helps us all to have consistent messages and to come together in union for a common cause.

Last Saturday, members of our school and parish community came together to walk in St Annes Carnival, and what a lovely morning it was. We had families from Reception to Year 6 walk with us, waving flags and smiling to all. Thank you to everyone who walked, who waved, who smiled and who cheered. It was a very special morning and a lovely way for our community to come together.

The children are all bringing home their end of year reports today. I have loved every minute of reading just what journey each child has been on this year. Beyond the academic achievements, there is such evidence of confidence, resilience, friendships and independence; all of which need to be celebrated. Each and every child have been on their own journey, never to be compared to anyone else. Please do read the report carefully with your children and the information that is in the envelope too. There is an unbelievable amount to celebrate - I am incredibly proud of each and every child. They really are true gifts from God. Immense gratitude goes towards our staff team who have all contributed to the progress that your children have made this year. They really do love your children unconditionally; they provide challenge, comfort, support and humour - just when they need it the most. We may not always get it right, what human does? But we have worked with you, hand in hand, to ensure that your child is happy and safe; always reflecting on ways to do things differently.

We always like to receive feedback on the year your child has had in school, and their report. Please use the button below to do this. Thank you.

We are OPEN!

Yesterday, we opened the castle for the very first time. After a ribbon cutting ceremony, where Mrs Hodges did the honours, we spoke about how exciting this project was and how the children had been instrumental in its design. I think it is a big win! The children have spent the past few days exploring it, reading in it, acting in it and climbing. If the school Wi-fi is strong enough, you may just find me in there too!

Exciting Learners

I have really loved walking around school this week; the buzz of learning is so infectious everywhere I have been. From spaghetti bolognaise in Year 5, to stay and play in Reception, the final judo session for our Reception and Year 1 children and final parent interviews in Year 4. We have a wealth of knowledge with the professions that our parents do. Some of them, very kindly, came into school to share what they do with our Year 4 children as part of their geography unit of work.

Some tough questioning took place:

  • Can your job be dangerous?

  • Do you ever take your child to work?

  • How many years have you been doing your current job?

  • What is your favourite thing about your job?

  • How long does it take to get to work?

  • Where is the most exciting place?

Thank you to all of the parents who have given up their time to support the children’s learning.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Demonstrating our virtues

Learning Awards

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 1 - 99% Our whole school attendance this week is 95.7%. Much, much better than last week!

Office News

So much to say and such little space! We have endeavoured to reach each and every Y5 and Y6 parent to ensure that everyone could have the best allocation of Play tickets to suit their need. Tickets are still going out and we have only a handful left now. Please do contact the office ASAP if any more are needed.

Dinner money - there are still debts and we urge everyone to ensure that they are paid up to date by next Thursday - debts only roll forward to September and it’s not a good start to the year. We will be texting/ringing/writing as appropriate to urge parents to clear accounts in debit.

In September, in line with Lancashire County Council’s meal charges, we will be increasing our dinner charges for paid KS2 children’s meals to £2.50 per meal - £12.50 per week. We never like passing on increases but unfortunately we have no choice. Please remember, especially in these tricky times, if you feel that your circumstances have changed and you may qualify for free school meals, then come to the office and see Mrs Nel who will find you the appropriate form - it’s all very simple and LCC will then check your eligibility. It’s an entirely private and discreet process but it can help even if only in a small way.

Our Final Week

As we move into our final week of the year, there are still an awful lot of memories to be made. On Monday and Tuesday, our Year 5 and 6 children will be putting on their end of year celebratory play, ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. There are still tickets available for all performances - do contact the office if you need one. We would love for our wider community to experience the play. The times of the play are:

Monday 17th - 6.30pm

Tuesday 18th - 9.30am and 6.30pm

Our Leavers’ Mass will be at 9.30am on Wednesday. We would really appreciate lots of help walking to and from church. It is a mass for our Year 6 children, Mrs Hodges and the Maj family, all of whom are leaving us this summer. Mrs Hodges has supported so many families, I am sure you will want to join us at mass for her and to say thank you for all that she has done.

Bamber has won the house points for this half term! Yellow can be worn on Thursday, our last day, to celebrate! Well done Bamber.

Have a lovely weekend.

Mrs Gregan

'God loves us beyond comprehension, and we cannot diminish God's love for us.'

When Jesus ascended into heaven, he left his disciples on earth to bring the Kingdom of God alive. St Peter and St Paul were instrumental in establishing our church. They are the solid rock on which the Church is built, the origin of her faith and will forever remain her protectors and her guides. St Peter was the chief shepherd in whom Jesus trusted the most. On Thursday, the whole school walked down to church to celebrate this most special feast day. These wonderful role models have paved the way for our discipleship. Father Peter reminded us about the foundation that these saints left. They were not perfect, far from it, but they worked hard to bring the kingdom of God alive here on earth.

As we enter the final weeks of the school year, the children are thinking about the growth that they have had this year. What skills they have mastered, experiences that they have enjoyed; successes and areas for development. Next week, the children will be starting their transition into their next year groups. They will be spending time in their new classrooms, alongside their new teachers. This is a really important moment. Relationships are essential to feeling safe; the children need to feel loved and comfortable in their new environments. I am looking forward to seeing the children grow, just that little bit more, next Friday.

Learning Role Models of the Week

Learning awards!

Demonstrating our virtues - intentional and prophetic!

Office News

All is very hectic in the Office as we make end of year/start of new year preparations. We very much hope that you are all managing to keep up with all the dates and events happening. Please keep checking the website and class pages to ensure that you don’t miss anything.

We are still sending out reminders for outstanding payments - please help us in this as we have to balance the books! We are asking our Y6 leavers not to sign up to ParentPay for St Bede’s until we have organised any refunds if required, say for overpaid dinners and we will do this as we break up, the week ending 21st July.

Please can all Y5 and Y6 parents wanting tickets for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ensure that they have booked by next Friday, 7th July. Only when everyone has booked their initial allocation of up to 3 tickets, can we look at any spare ticket requests.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Reception - 98.7% Our whole school attendance this week is 93.8% - a lot of illness has affected us this week

Sports Days

Is has been a week of two halves. We managed to go ahead with the Year 3 & 4 Sports Day at the beginning of the week, but the arrival of rain mid week meant we had to postpone the Year 5 & 6 Sports Day. Once again, the competing children were just wonderful. They have really embraced the house team element of the competition and then come into their own for the individual races. The community event has added to the atmosphere. Parents have even been creating their own house cheers! Well done to Harcourt who won the Year 3 & 4 event - however, it is still Plessington who are winning overall!

We will be making the final count of the Gym Jam Jog money on Monday, please can all sponsor money be sent in and we can then reveal the final total.

St Annes Carnival

Thank you to all of those parents who completed the form for Carnival Day. We have a good number of children who will be walking with the parish, representing our school. All children need to either wear full school uniform or their school PE tracksuit - sensible shoes are a must. We want to be smart and showcase our school really well. All children walking will be given flags to wave as their walk.

We are number 17 in the parade line up, meeting in between Ashton Gardens and the United Reform Church on Clifton Drive at 9.30am.

It is lovely to see the children in their summer uniform. I always like to see a flash of blue gingham or white shirt from children running across the field in the sunshine. Please can we all make sure that the clothes which the children are coming into school with are school uniform. Things like hoodies are creeping in and PE kit that is not our school PE kit. Shorts for girls needs to be of an acceptable length too. We will aim to run a uniform stall before we finish for summer so you can get items ready for next year. Top Marque have ordered the new school hoodies for the children, these will be able to be bought ready for September.

Enjoy your weekend with your families

Mrs Gregan

'Every moment is an opportunity to create a handcrafted memory to be replayed for years to come.'

In today’s assembly, we have talked about the gifts that we have been given to make the world a better place, the gifts that we have been given to bring to our school community. Our Year 6 children are currently completing their jobs around school, showcasing their gifts and sharing them with the pupils in other classes. They are excellent role models and clearly demonstrating what they have learnt throughout their journey in school.

This week’s been one of those weeks in school where we haven’t had a moment to breathe, but yet it’s been a week in which lots of marvellous memories have been made. On Monday, our EYFS children competed against each other to earn points for their house at their sports afternoon. Every child in nursery and reception took part, cheered each other on and tried their hardest. Thank you to all the wonderful supporters who made the afternoon even more special. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

Wednesday might have been the Summer Solstice and the longest day - it certainly felt like the longest day in school! It was however so very special, a day filled with magical moments. The field was certainly filled with lots of eager runners in their pjs, taking part in the Gym Jam Jog. Sons, daughters, mums, dads, nannas and grandads all took part with the aim to raise money for our school funds. There were certainly some hungry tummies afterwards and toast was served to all children in classes. At the end of the day, we welcomed our new parents into school for their induction evening. It is a lovely feeling to see that our family is growing even more. So far we have raised over £1100 - with lots more sponsorship still to come in. Please keep collecting and bring it in early next week, it is so appreciated, especially as we know that times are tough. Each and every donation is massively appreciated.

Yesterday, Mini-First Aid came into school to deliver a course for our Years 1, 3, 4 and 6 children. It is so important that the children know what to do in an emergency. They now have the skills needed to look after themselves and look after others.

Creative Learning - D&T

Whenever things change in school there are always opportunities to look at whatever’s changed with fresh eyes and evaluate its impact. Having changed the DT and Art Curriculum for this year, I can see just how much the children’s knowledge will grow in these areas and how their skill sets will improve. However, we also need to look carefully at how we will implement this. This week I have had some lovely conversations about the food technology aspect of it and how we can make it easier for families, both logistically and financially. The £2 donation has been put in place to enable us to source the ingredients that your children will need, and hopefully prevent you from having to shop weekly for full recipes. There may be some things that your children will need and will be sourced by you, depending on what they decide to make, but the majority we will source and provide. There is some further work to be done in this area and we will continue to evolve and tweak things until we are happy with it - we are still very early in the process. We want our children to engage with their parents and families, discussing what they are cooking and gathering - sampling too if you are lucky enough to receive some at home. Thank you for your understanding and patience with our new approach. We will continue to aim to communicate clearly our intentions so that you are well-prepared and informed.

Role Models of the Week

Virtue Role Models

Learning Role Models of the Week

Office News

We’re still trying to ‘balance the books’ and chase for final payments to clear dinner accounts that are in debit etc. Please help us by responding - if we text you to say that there is a debt then we need it cleared on ParentPay as soon as possible. Really, dinners should only be taken if there is credit on the account and no one should ever be in arrears on their account. Our Finance Officer will be in before the end of term and we think we will be advised to tighten up on our debt procedures - it’s in everyone’s interests as we don’t like having to constantly chase for payment and it’s much better for you not to feel under pressure.

We always try and help if we hear from you that there are problems in making payment - if there should be any difficulty, we ask you to come and have a discreet word. It’s entirely in confidence, one or two people involved at most, and utterly discreet.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 4 - 99.7% Our whole school attendance this week is 97.9%

Sports Days

Monday 26th June 1.30pm - Year 3 & 4

Wednesday 28th June 1.30pm - Year 5 & 6

If you are coming to watch and support, please enter the school via the gate on St Patrick’s Road. A member of staff will welcome you and explain where your child will be competing. We look forward to sharing these memorable events with you.

Our Student Council will be running a drinks stand at each event for you to purchase a cold drink and to raise some funds for our school. Please bring some change with you - unfortunately we do not have a card machine just yet. All drinks are £1.

This morning, I had the pleasure of being at the Swimming Gala with our Year 5 & 6 children. As always, they showed themselves to be wonderful ambassadors for our school. Thank you children. You swam beautifully and supported each other, and other schools. Well done!

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much

As mentioned above, there will be a lot of opportunities to get involved in school life this half term. On Saturday 8th July, St Annes Carnival will be taking place. There are a couple of ways in which we will be getting involved as a school and parish. Firstly, we have been asked if we would like to walk the processional route which we have accepted. The school will be combining with the parish to walk together. Many of the children will be representing their various clubs and organisations but we would really like a strong Our Lady presence. So far we have 28 children - which is fabulous. If your child is wanting to and available to walk this year with us, please can you complete the form below so we can gauge numbers for planning. We are waiting to hear the arrangements and will inform you as soon as we know.

There is also an opportunity to get involved in the St Annes Carnival 5k. Lytham St.Annes Road Runners are proud to bring you the St.Annes Carnival 5k and the 1.5k junior event. The Carnival 5k is a flat, fast 5Km race over an accurately measured course. The Junior race is flat and fast, perfect for a first time racer or as a fun run. Starting at 10.00am, on the prom close to the Lord Derby public house, the route is fully off-road and marshalled. Medals await all finishers.  Adults are welcome to accompany their child .

Click on the button below to book your place on the run.

With only a few weeks left until the school finishes for summer, we are trying to ensure that everything is in place for the new academic year. It is certainly a very busy time in school. We really hope that we see you at the upcoming events.

Enjoy your weekend with your families

Mrs Gregan

Sports Day Plans

After the lovely weather we have had of late, it was inevitable that it would break at some point - it is just unfortunate that is is breaking the week our foundation and key stage 1 sports days are planned. The weather over the next two days is very mixed with lots of rain and potential thunderstorms. We really want the children to enjoy the event, and parents and families too. The last thing we want is for the children to get wet and for them not to take part how they wanted because of the ground or the conditions.

I am hoping that the weather blows over quickly, as it often does. Today is a prime example for that.

A decision will be made if sports day will go ahead or not, at 11.30am each day and you will all be contacted. If there is a risk of rain or certainly thunderstorms are forecast, then the event will move the the reserve dates.

Thursday 6th July - KS1 New Date as trips are taking place during the week. This is the day when the least is on. Thank you for your understanding.

It is important that we give you as much notice as possible as I know many of you will be making work arrangements and some family members will be coming.

Fingers crossed it does go ahead - the children are really looking forward to it. Our student council are primed and ready to run the drink stands for spectators, so please bring some change with you to make a purchase and help us to raise money for the school environment.

No rain dances tonight please, only sunny and happy thoughts!

Mrs Gregan

'Those who don't believe in magic will never find it. Children believe in magic.'

This morning in assembly, we have talked about our new virtues that we are trying to demonstrate this half term, INTENTIONAL & PROPHETIC. We want our school community to make decisions with intention, to know what values they hold dear and to demonstrate these in a prophetic way through their actions and words. All of the children talked about their intentions in this final half term; what they wanted to strive to be able to do before they journey into their new classrooms. There is still a lot of time left to master those key skills. Why not ask your child just what they want to achieve in these final few weeks.

Mrs Gregan’s Week Around School

This week has been extremely busy but in a wonderful and enjoyable way! I have spent a lot of time with different groups of children who have all achieved extraordinary things. Our youngest children have taken part in judo for the first time. Our Year 1 children have completed their phonics assessments with such calmness. Our Year 4, 5 & 6 choir and dance troupe took part in Showtime at The North Pier. Despite the heat and the late night, the children were fabulous and behaved beautifully. Thank you to all of the parents who came to support and to Miss Drummond, Miss Liddell and Miss Bassett who prepared the children for this event. You may have noticed that we have had some new benches installed on the playground. Our Year 5 class were the first to use them for lunch this week after a trip to The Winter Gardens to listen to best-selling and acclaimed children’s author, Cressida Cowell. She was fabulous and told us all about her inspiration behind How to Train Your Dragon. We have 5 signed copies that we will be raffling in school next week - keep an eye out!

Please have a look at the photographs below and watch the videos of the performances.

Creative Learning - D&T

Miss Neves is currently revamping our Art and DT curriculum. She has researched tirelessly to ensure that we are giving every child in school the opportunity to be creative and to learn food technology skills. This week our Year 3 children have made fruit kebabs and Year 6 have been planning their ‘Come Dine with Me’ menu. I do believe roasted pepper soup is on the cards for next week. Over the next few weeks, the children will be needing a lot of resources; some of which you will need to provide from home (depending upon what we are making). The resources that are generic and are required by the entire class will be bought and sourced by Miss Neves. We are asking for a £2 donation from each child (Year 1 -6) for food technology this half term. This would enable us to provide all of the resources needed and we will not then be constantly asking for you to send things in. We will put this item on ParentPay later today. Thank you for your continued support, we could not do so much of what we do without you.

Role Models of the Week

Role Models who have demonstrated virtues this week.

Our Whole School learning Role Models for this week.

Office News

It seems so sad in my final half term before retirement to start with money but needs must, just to explain where we are at! At this time of year we are looking at transfers for our Year 6, inputting data for the Autumn intake of our new Reception Class to be, and the move up of all Classes in between. We will be looking to try and straighten all accounts etc for everyone to start a new school year with a clean slate. This means we will be sending out reminders, invoices etc within the next few days.

As regards Year 6, there will be some children who will finish the year with a credit balance on ParentPay from dinners paid for and not taken. I ask those parents to leave their ParentPay account here open and not transfer to St Bede’s until 1st August to ensure any unspent balances are returned. Please too may I ask any parents in Year 6 and all other classes to ensure any arrears owing are paid in ASAP.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Reception - 100%! Our whole school attendance this week is 97.6%

Sports Days

Next week sees the start of Health & Happiness fortnight, and the beginning of our sports days. Typically, the weather is about to change, although I think it is currently too hot for the children so more temperate weather may be a blessing. There are reserve dates in place if they do not go ahead. Next week it is the turn of our infant children:

Monday 19th June 1.30pm - Nursery and Reception (Reserve date: Thursday 6th July)

Tuesday 20th June 1.30pm - Year 1 & Year 2 (Reserve date: Monday 3rd July)

If you are coming to watch and support, please enter the school via the gate on St Patrick’s Road. A member of staff will welcome you and explain where your child will be competing. We look forward to sharing these memorable events with you.

Our Student Council will be running a drinks stand at each event for you to purchase a cold drink and to raise some funds for our school. Please bring some change with you - unfortunately we do not have a card machine just yet.

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much

As mentioned above, there will be a lot of opportunities to get involved in school life this half term. On Saturday 8th July, St Annes Carnival will be taking place. There are a couple of ways that we will be getting involved as a school and parish. Firstly, we have been asked if we would like to walk the processional route which we have accepted. The school will be combining with the parish to walk together. Many of the children will be representing their various clubs and organisations but we would really like a strong Our Lady presence. If your child is wanting to and available to walk this year with us, please can you complete the form below so we can gage numbers for planning.

Don’t forget about the ART COMPETITION for Monday too. We need a formidable art team for the competition. Miss Neves is excited to receive you entries!

Our School Needs You!

We are currently looking at our wider curriculum for next year to ensure that the children have a wide range of knowledge in all areas. Part of this knowledge is experiencing enrichment opportunities to enhance their learning. This is where you come in! Are you involved in a job or profession that you could talk to our children about? Do you have a hobby or a skill that you could use in school? For example, our Year 6 class are currently completing a unit of work on photography. Could you just help out with our garden or with some small projects? Our school really does need you. Please can you complete the form below with some information then the teachers and staff have a pool of people that they can call on.

We finish the week with some lovely, celebratory news. We are delighted to celebrate the arrival of Miss Lavelle’s baby boy. We are sending much love to the new family and cannot wait to meet him. I am sure you will join us in our warm wishes.

God Bless. Have a lovely weekend and wishing all of the wonderful dads in our community, a very happy Father’s Day this Sunday!

Mrs Gregan

“Let your light so shine before you, so that all may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

And so we have arrived at our final half term in school for this year. In many respects it seems like it has gone in the blink of an eye, then again, so much has happened and has been achieved. Our Year 6 children will be giving their time generously to say thank you to the whole school community who has loved and cared for them throughout their time in school. Through working in their jobs around school, to meeting our new Reception parents for next year, to entertaining us with their end of year play, much fun will be had and more memories will be made. For our other children in each class, they will be ensuring that they have all of the necessary tools in their toolkits, gathered from their current year groups, before meeting their new teachers and looking forward to next year. Alongside all of the learning that is still to be achieved, we have sports days, health and happiness weeks, Gym Jam Jog and much, much more. Please keep an eye on the dates section of the website for everything that is going on. Our first Sports Days start on Monday 19th June for our nursery and reception children.

“Serve one another in love.”
— Galatians 5:13

When I talk about service, I am sure that you will agree that Mrs Hodges has been the ultimate servant of the community of Our Lady Star of the Sea. For over 30 years, she has loved each and every member, provided a listening ear, supported families when they have needed it the most and has been the go to person in school for nearly every kind of situation. It is certainly time for Mrs Hodges to have a rest and to retire to spend time with her beautiful family. As we say goodbye to our Year 6s in July, we will also be saying goodbye to Mrs Hodges. I know many of you will want to visit her this summer to thank her and to wish her well. I know that she will continue to visit us beyond her retirement. Once a member of the Our Lady family, always a member of the Our Lady’s family.

Mrs Nel has been appointed as our new office manager and will be taking over from Mrs Hodges in the office from September. As you all pop in over the coming weeks, you may see her in there learning the ropes and getting to grips with the nature of the job. Please do say hello when you see her.

Sun Safety

What fabulous weather we have had for our half-term holiday. It has certainly been appreciated. From looking at the weather for the coming week, and beyond, it looks like it is here to stay.

In order to protect the children whilst they are in school, please can you send in:

  • A good size water bottle that can be refilled during the course of the day.

  • A sun hat (preferably wide brimmed) that will protect them when outside.

  • A small bottle of sun cream that the children can reapply during the day. The staff in school cannot apply sun cream for safeguarding reasons. Please make sure your child is smothered in it before coming in, staff will then supervise them reapplying it. Each class can have a sun cream station! Just a small bottle or roll on sun cream is ideal - labelled with your child’s name. Part of our health education is sun awareness so this is a perfect learning opportunity.

  • No sunglasses please. These can be dangerous when the children are outside and playing with each other.

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much

As mentioned above, there will be a lot of opportunities to get involved in school life this half term. On Saturday 8th July, St Annes Carnival will be taking place. There are a couple of ways that we will be getting involved as a school and parish. Firstly, we have been asked if we would like to walk the processional route which we have accepted. The school will be combining with the parish to walk together. Many of the children will be representing their various clubs and organisations but we would really like a strong Our Lady presence. If your child is wanting to and available to walk this year with us, please can you complete the form below so we can gage numbers for planning.

We will also be entering the collaborative art competition as a school. Miss Neves will be putting together a team of artists to work together. Don’t worry if you aren’t selected, there is an opportunity to enter the event as a solo artist. Please have a look at the competition below for your chance to be a part of it.

Extra-Curricular Sport

It really is a Summer of Sport! There are some great opportunites to get involved, and hopefully represent the school teams. There will be clubs on at lunch time as well as after school Please visit the SPORT page on the website to sign up to the clubs on offer:

  • Year 5 & 6 cricket

  • Year 1 sports club

  • Year 5 & 6 swimming trials

Judo will also be taking place for Year 1 and Reception children. Text messages will go out for that club tomorrow.

Finally, please can I ask that the children do not use the trim trail after school at the end of the day. There are risk assessments in place for them during the school day, but not once the school bell has rang. Can I also ask that the school garden is too kept free. There are lots of times when the children visit during the school week and now with our lovely allotment there, they will be there even more. Thank you kindly for your co-operation with this.

We are really looking forward to spending the summer term with you all. Let’s hope that the end of the year is just as successful as the year we have already had.

God bless

Mrs Gregan

"Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.”

“The Eucharist is the sacrament of love: it signifies love, it produces love.”
— St Thomas Aquinas

Over the past two weeks we have seen our Year 4 children receive the body of Christ for the very first time. Together with Arthur in Year 6 and other members of the parish, the children received Jesus into their hearts, through a pure act of love. It was lovely to see the church so full for each occasion; filled with song, prayer and scripture. The Holy Communion is such an important event for the school and the parish together. Thank you to Father Peter for being so involved in the programme, for children and parents, and to Mrs Lyons, Mrs Nel, Mrs Webster, Miss Lavelle and Miss Hennessy who have supported the children every step of the way.

Feel the fear…and do it anyway

I have had the absolute pleasure of joining Year 6 on their residential week in Coniston. This photograph epitomises everything that I saw. Team work, cooperation, dedication, communication, resilience, courage and laughter.

We are so proud of this group of exceptional human beings. Throughout the week, the children have tackled new challenges and achieved new heights. The weather has certainly helped this week, it has been glorious. A huge thank you to all of the staff who have given up their time to support the children and take them away. We are grateful for your love and compassion.

Role Models of the Week

Our Whole School learning Role Models for this week - we will add Year 1 later on!

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 6! Our whole school attendance this week is 98.1%

Office News

We have news of 2 vacancies which have arisen in our lovely school workforce community.

We need a a Caretaker for 10 hours per week, Monday to Friday to open up school at 7am; there will be various ancillary duties with this job and the caretaker will work one hour in the morning and one hour, late afternoon and be responsible for locking up and securing the school building and the site.

We also need a cleaner for 10 hours per week to join our excellent cleaning team, which would then become a trio. Ideally we would have someone who could work 2 hours per day, Monday to Friday from 3:30pm.

Please let us know if you are interested. You can email to: head@ourladystarofthesea.lancs.sch.uk and an application pack will be emailed back. f you have any problems with getting hold of an application pack, you can leave a message on our answerphone -01253 726 015 or let us know on 12th June when school resumes.

The lunch menu for Summer half-term 2 and the early autumn is now on the website.

Our School Needs You!

We are currently looking at our wider curriculum for next year to ensure that the children have a wide range of knowledge in all areas. Part of this knowledge is experiencing enrichment opportunities to enhance their learning. This is where you come in! Are you involved in a job that you could talk to our children about? Do you have a hobby or a skill that you could use in school? For example, our Year 6 class are currently completing a unit of work on photography. Could you just help out with our garden or with some small projects? Our school really does need you. Please can you complete the form below with some information then the teachers and staff have a pool of people that they can call on.

One of our wonderful Year 3 pupils is taking part in a production of the much-loved family musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at Blackpool Grand Theatre between 31st May to 3rd June this coming half-term with the Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company (BFLOC). Tickets are still available for you to show your support and have a really good time at this show in one of the country’s most beautiful theatres.

This morning, we had a visit from the Scouts to tell us about all of the opportunities that will come our way! There is an open evening on the 12th June for all children to attend. Have a look at the flyer above for more information.

Miss Bassett has shared the most wonderful news this week with her class that she is expecting her second baby. I am sure you will join us as a whole school community in congratulating her and her family on this joyous news. I know the children have been very keen to be involved in the baby’s name. What an exciting time!

Have a wonderful half term with your families and loved ones. We return to school on Monday 12th June. Please ensure that you have checked the school calendar for dates of sports days and key events during the final half term in school.

God Bless

Mrs Gregan

"If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself,"

Yesterday we went to church to celebrate the Feast of the Ascension. We know that Jesus had completed his work on earth and that it was time for him to return to his father in Heaven. As a school, we have been thinking about the work that we still have to complete. This may be work in our classes, ready for next year. Work as a human, to be the best versions of ourselves. We know that we are never done, but always looking for ways in which to grow.

It has been another big week for our Year 6 children in school. After finding out about the play last Friday, the children took part in auditions for their end of year play on Monday. What a cast we are going to have! They were superb. Then on Thursday, the children came into school in their smartest wear to be interviewed by myself and Mrs Harrison. The children will be carrying out jobs around school after half term. We are unbelievably proud of the confidence that has been shown.

The excitement continues next week as our Year 6s head off with some very kind staff for a week’s residential in Coniston. We wish you all a wonderful time! I am currently looking at some different options moving forward for our Year 5 class and their residential next year. I will be in touch in the coming weeks with more information.

Reception’s Campaign

When you are out and about this weekend, keep an eye out for our Reception Class’s wonderful art work. Whilst working with the Fylde Ranger Team, the children produced some posters to keep St Annes clean. We are so proud that they have been used across the Fylde in lots of different locations. What a great message from so many younger children!

See if you can spot them and take a photo of you with them! Send them in so we can set up a trail!

Role Models of the Week

Role Models who have demonstrated virtues this week.

Our Whole School learning Role Models for this week.

Our Weekly Attendance

Well done to Year 5 & Year 6! Our whole school attendance this week is 97.2%

Our School Needs You!

We are currently looking at our wider curriculum for next year to ensure that the children have a wide range of knowledge in all areas. Part of this knowledge is experiencing enrichment opportunites to enhance their learning. This is where you come in! Are you involved in a profession that you could talk to our children about? Do you have a hobby or a skill that you could use in school? For example, our Year 6 class are currently completing a unit of work on photography. Could you just help out with our garden or with some small projects? Our school really does need you. Please can you complete the form below with some information then the teachers and staff have a pool of people that they can call on.

Ten Ten is the resource we use in school to teach our HRSE programme. They are looking for STARS! Could you be the person that they are looking for?

This weekend Mrs Hodges celebrate a BIG birthday. We hope that the beautiful sunshine shines for the most beautiful lady.

Well done to Harcourt who have won this half term’s house points. Own clothes day for you next Friday.

God Bless

Mrs Gregan

"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples." — Mother Teresa

‘The Holy Spirit is given to each of us in a special way. That is for the good of all. To some people the Spirit gives a message of wisdom. To others the same Spirit gives a message of knowledge. To others the same Spirit gives faith.’ 1 Corinthians 12: 7-9

Following the death and resurrection of Jesus, our attention moves to His ascension and the arrival of the Holy Spirit - the most beautiful gift that we have been given. In Year 2 this week, the children have been looking at the story of Pentecost and times when we have needed the gifts of the Holy Spirit. As a school, we talked about how we know the way home; we always have someone to guide us. This is the same as Jesus. His father was calling him home. He is ‘The Way, The Truth and The Life.’

Tomorrow, some of our Year 4 children will be receiving the gift of Holy Communion for the first time. Half of the children from Y4 will be receiving the sacrament tomorrow and the other half of the class, together with Arthur from Y6 and some children from other schools, next Saturday. We pray that they all understand the true significance of what they are about to receive. Please keep them and their families in your prayers at this very special time. Thank you to our wonderful staff who have supported the children at every step of their journey.

Our Year 6 children

There is a group of children (and staff) in school who have shown enormous wisdom, knowledge and courage this week as they have sat down to tackle their end of year assessments. Our Year 6 children have come into school each day, determined to show what they can do. The hall has been a hive of brain power as they have moved from one paper to the next; one area of learning to the next. Together with their teachers, they have seen that the SATs are just a snippet of who they are as a person. Throughout the year they have continued to learn the wider curriculum, only turning their focus to their assessments in Spring. SATs measure many things, but they do not measure a child’s compassion, humour, creativity - a whole host of qualities which our children possess in bucket loads. We could not be more proud of them all.

Now their attention turns to the end of year play and service with a smile. Next week, the children will be auditioning for roles in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and also being interviewed for a job around school, part of their mission of service, to ‘give back’ to their community. Together, alongside Year 5, the children will have a wonderful time, preparing for the play and working as one big team to put on an end of year spectacular!

Celebration of our community

Change is inevitable, and in school, change happens on a minute by minute basis. Whether this is because of how a child is feeling, the type of morning that we have all had or simply the weather - the daily climate of a school is changeable. What does not change quite so easily is the culture. At Our Lady's the culture of embedded relationships, striving to be the very best version of ourselves and the desire to provide the very best opportunities for the children in our care, runs through us all. The culture of Our Lady's is ingrained in all of us and it runs deep. There is no doubt that the past year has been a time of change, but a time of growth too. We have welcomed so many new members to our community; children and families, staff and governors.

When OFSTED arrived to inspect our school, I feel like they came at just the right time. It was lovely for me to be able to share our vision moving forward and for the inspectors to see just how special the community of Our Lady’s is. During my many conversations with them, they constantly referred to the children knowing themselves and knowing that they could and will make a difference in the world. They spoke about the comments that our parents and families had made, demonstrating the strong sense of community that we have. They spoke at length to staff about their expectations in school. We are ambitious and we have high expectations of ourselves and our children. We all want the very best.

I am absolutely delighted to be able to share with you the OFSTED report. When reading it, it is hard to sum up our school in just two pages, but what it does do is capture the very essence of our school. The children do skip into school each morning, with a huge smile on their face. This report is testament to each and every member of our school community. Please do not underestimate just how hard it is to receive this judgement; it is not given lightly, in fact the number of schools receiving it is rapidly reducing. It is a validation of what we do in school, and an assurance that we are on the right path. We will never be perfect, but what we are is a learning community which grows and learns together - always striving to be the very best version of ourselves. Enjoy reading. I hope you too share my enormous sense of pride.

Role Models of the Week

Role Models who have demonstrated virtues this week.

Our Whole School learning Role Models for this week.

Our Year 6 Superstars!

Year 1 Certificate Winners

Attendance

Well done Year 4 with an attendance of 99.6% this week. Our whole school attendance this week is 97.5%

Office News

In the office this week, we have been tip-toeing around in the mornings due to SATs tests in the hall and we’ve had some lovely little walks around the school perimeter, taking children to other classes when returning from appointments. It was a bonus to have those little moments outside enjoying the fresh air!

We are currently checking records to ensure we have the most up to date information and we will send you all a text tonight using the first contact number. We’re asking class teachers to mention this on their weekly class blogs too so, if you don’t receive a text by 5pm, you will need to ring us on Monday with an updated telephone number.

And so we are back into a 5 day week next week - with just two weeks left until half term. After half term, our final one of the school year, we have our annual sports days, Gym-Jam Jog and end of year play. Please keep an eye on the dates section of the website to see what is coming up. Just to put a smile on your face, please see our wonderful Coronation Celebration video.

God Bless

Mrs Gregan

'Our life spreads light when it is given in service. The secret of joy is living to serve.'

It seems that there have been quite a few historic moments in recent years - things have happened that we have never seen before and may never see again. Today has been all about the Coronation; the legacy which Queen Elizabeth left and the position that King Charles will be taking up. As a school we have looked at the role of the monarchy and how important our new King’s role will be; not just in our country but in the wider world. These occasions are ones which bring great joy and celebration - we really love a good party in school!

As well as looking at our new monarch, we have been thinking about role models of faith. People who lead by example and are a beacon of light to others. We have been honoured to welcome Miss Hornby back into school today to present her with something so very rare, but so very well-deserved. When Miss Hornby made her decision to retire, Mrs Hotchkiss looked at how we could recognise her tremendous commitment to our Catholic faith, and to our community. As a group, we applied for her to receive The Benemerenti Medal - a papal medal awarded for service to the Catholic Church. This medal is awarded by the Pope. We crossed our fingers (and toes), waiting for a response. When the response came, she had not been awarded this medal, instead her award had been elevated to that of Dame of St Gregory. This rare and special honour is bestowed upon Catholics, by the Pope, in recognition of exceptional personal service to the Holy See and to the Catholic Church, through examples which have been set in their communities. There are only 13 Dames in our Country - we are so incredibly proud that Miss Hornby is now one of them and we could not think of a more deserving recipient. I am sure you will want to join us in congratulating Miss Hornby. For someone who does not like awards or fuss, and has always seen her role as one of service, we felt that she needed a little bit of ceremony today. It was a great joy to see her receive her insignia and certificate, signed by His Holiness Pope Francis, with the whole school family all around her.

Our Coronation Celebrations

Here is a small selection of our celebration today. I will collate photos from all classes next week and post a big tribute next week. We send special thanks to Jacqui, Sharon and Heather in our catering team as they made around 215 picnics today which were greatly enjoyed by everyone outside and the delicious food in red, white and blue boxes, made it all seem such a treat as we tucked in and enjoyed being outside in the fresh air.

Over the past few years, the local primary and high schools have been working together to create a vision where we can support families further. Last week, I took two ambassadors to the launch of this vision - The Coastal Collective. Lytham Foundation have provided funding for us all to be able to source further support for the pupils in our care. Whether this is behavioural support, family link workers or speech and language, we want to be in the position where we can access support when we need it. I have attached a letter below that explains the programme in a little more detail and the job opportunities that we are aiming to create for it initially.

Role Models of the Week

Role Models who have demonstrated virtues this week.

Our Whole School learning Role Models for this week.

Attendance

Well done Year 3 with an attendance of 99.1% this week. Our whole school attendance this week is 98.1%

Have a wonderful weekend with your families and friends. It is a moment in British history which does not happen very often - enjoy celebrating, however you choose to do so.

God Bless

Mrs Gregan