Week 37

Dear Parent/ Carer,

Kilmorie

Coming soon

Fairlawn

Our week began with the Year 1 classes visiting The Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green as part of their seaside topic 'Ahoy Me Hearties'  They all had a fantastic day investigating different toys.  They took part in a workshop, where they learnt about the life and toys of victorian children.  The children and staff had a wonderful time.

Tuesday Ms Clark treated our Pupil Parliament to pizza and games as a thank you for all their hard work and contribution this year.  They discussed ways of moving forward next year.

4N took a trip to Sydenham Woods on Tuesday.  They looked at local history and found out about the old railway line and folly.  They took photographs of different scapes and shapes for their art work.

Wednesday Year 6 blew the roof off with their production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  They have been working so hard over the last few weeks and it really paid off.  The performance, acting, singing, and dancing really was of Westend production standards and truely amazing, with Ms Ryans commenting that it was 'the best' Year 6 production she had ever seen!

Thursday was Challenge Day at Peckham Rye Park, and regardless of this glorious hot sunshine everyone achieved their best and worked extremely hard.  A fun time was had by everyone!

Friday Art Academy took a trip to The British Museum to look at the variety of art work that they do not usually experience.  They visited several rooms and saw a tree made from gun parts, a giant sculpture from all over the world.  They had a lovely time and the children were wonderful.

Haseltine

18 Year 5s started the week with a bikeability course in the playground, they then cycled on the road for the rest of the week.  They all learned a lot and feel much safer on their bikes.

Year 4s Saxon Day was on Monday- they were sewing, building and cooking the vegetables they had grown on an on an open fire in the garden.

2B had an exhibition of their learning prior to the parents open evening that night, the children were so proud to show off their learning.

Years 1-5 visited the Bank of England Museum this week - who knew that notes are made out of cotton? Haseltine children do.

Our gardening club visited the Chelsea Physics Garden on Thursday.

Finally, Haseltine had a lovely sunny day on Friday for their Summer Bounce - the children enjoyed the many inflatables and we all had a lovely day.

Week 36

Dear Parent/Carer,

Haseltine
Another great week at Haseltine. Our community police officer visited the nursery children on Monday- they were very excited and learned a lot about the job.

Tuesday was a big day for year 2 as they spent the day at the seaside- what lovely weather they had. Year 5 were also out that day at the French Institute to watch a French film (their French is very good). 3M spent the day on a river cruise- how lucky the children are at Haseltine. Most exciting of all on Tuesday we opened our brand new library- nearly all our children now have their library card which can be used in any library in Lewisham and it gets them into swimming free. Many children came back the next day having read their books already. Fantastic.

On Wednesday the nursery children went to the allotments to see how we grow things and several children from Key Stage 2 went to a farm to pick strawberries- they have now used them to make jam for the breakfast club. Pupil Parliament met with Mr Wilson and Miss Brumby to talk about this years successes and ways forward for next year whilst eating pizza and garlic bread!

The sun shone on Thursday for our postponed sports day. How fantastic it was- we are especially proud of our key stage 2 children who organised their own time when selecting events to take part in. A great day was had by all.

The fun didn't stop on Friday: year 6 went to the Laban to take part in a 'Moving on Up' project; meeting children from other schools who are going to the same secondary school as them whilst doing various activities. 4JB did a fabulous performance for their class assembly- the parents were very proud.

A busy week but a very happy one at Haseltine.

Fairlawn

We began our eggciting...... week off with the hatching of our first chick, then a further 10 more hatched across our Year 2 classes!  The children will continue to await the last few arrivals with eagerness and excitement.

On Monday we had an invasion of Year 1 pirates.  The children and staff spent the day dressed as pirates as part of their 'Seaside' topic. They looked wonderful and a fantastic fun time was had by everyone.

Our Year 6 classes have been busy practicing extremely hard for the production of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' I'm sure the final result next Wednesday 17th  July will be of theatrialcal standards.

Wednesday all the children got to meet with their new class teacher for September.  It was a very positive day and enjoyed by all.

Wednesday our Wind Band children preformed for the whole school in assembly. They played fantastically. Parents, staff and children watched with pride and admiration. 

On Friday Fairlawn was one of six local schools that had the opportunity to spend the day at the Laban Centre in Deptford.  The aim of the day was to provide a fun way for pupils to meet other children who are going to the same secondary school as them, and to help with the transition.  They experienced a dance workshop, a music workshop, and circus skills.  A fun time was had by everyone.

We ended our week with Class RH's assembly. They brought the house down with their fantastic dancing and acting skills. A real pleasure to watch.  

Kilmorie

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was the highlight of the week at Kilmorie: What a great production! Children in both Key stages enjoyed watching the dress rehearsals on Tuesday and Wednesday, when it was evident that this was going to be our best show yet. Daisy and her team of staff and parent helpers have worked incredibly hard developing the children's acting, vocal skills and of course, musicality. The stage set was all created by children in art club and children were also the 'back stage crew', so the whole show was a real collaboration between several groups working together. The cast and crew were really professional, we have some real talent in our school, it was a pleasure to watch, No doubt we will spot some of these faces on bigger stages one day!
Throughout the week we have welcomed our new reception parents and children as they come to meet their new teachers and find out amount life at Kilmorie, and our current 'Bears' class took a trip to Woodlands Farm on Monday, which they thoroughly enjoyed.
On Thursday it was the turn of Y5 and Y2 to take a trip out of school; they went to Hyde park to see The Golden Cowpat and Superhero Snail Boy – which are both co-produced by Greenwich theatre and will play at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Once again, it is great to see so many of our classes making the most of all that London has to offer.

Week 35

Dear Parent/ Carer,

The news from our three schools this week....

Kilmorie
Rehearsals for our end of year production, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, have been in full swing this week at Kilmorie. The children (and Daisy) have been working incredibly hard, showing true dedication and commitment to the show which is already looking good! On Tuesday, Y4 visited Down House, the home of Charles Darwin, while two of the Reception classes, the tigers and lions, took a trip to Woodlands Farm. Great days out were had by both year groups and once again the children were great representatives of the school. On Wednesday the parent voice met for a coffee morning and had a chance to chat with Liz about curriculum, homework and general life at Kilmorie. Thursday the football team took part Iona Forest Hill schools tournament and our week ended with the annual F.O.K barbecue which was a wonderful community event. This year was bigger than ever with crafts, hand made items for sale, face painting, beauty treatments, photography, and the highlight - the great Kilmorie bake off! Thank you to all who came along to support and especially to those parents who have given up so much if their time to organise, bake and run stalls.

Haseltine
As always it's been an exciting week at Haseltine.  We held yet another parent tour as the school continues to grow in popularity and in pupil numbers.  We were delighted to receive lots of positive feedback, referring to our high standards, great teaching and good behaviour.   People always comment on how eager our children are to share their learning with them.   We are blessed to have such wonderful, giving, helpful children.  Thursday was a busy day with Year 5 spending the day at Sedgehill to get a taste of life at a Secondary school. They all enjoyed the day and have a much better understanding of what lies ahead for them in Year 7.  A big thank you to Sedgehill for hosting a brilliant day.   The children in 4A performed a very interactive class assembly on Thursday morning, presenting us with different periods of time and asking the audience to choose their favourite - the Tudors won!  We were particularly proud of them because they wrote the performance themselves - Well Done 4A.   On Friday, we were privileged to take a delegation of teachers, staff and Governors to the TES Excellence Awards as one of only six schools nationally shortlisted for the Primary School of the Year Award.  Sadly, we didn't win... but it was an honour to have been shortlisted - a lovely recognition for the staff, parents and children who work so hard. 

Fairlawn

We have enjoyed a busy week at Fairlawn this week!  Our Summer Fair last Saturday was a huge success.  Great fun was had by all, and the weather was very kind to us!  We started our week off by saying 'Bon Voyage' to Year 6 children who went on to have a fantastic fun-filled week in France.  We look forward to hearing about all their exciting experiences on Monday.  Year 6 Home School Journey have also  been having just as much fun, with trips to Chessington World of Adventures, Ice Skating, Bowling and lots more.   Our Year 4's visited The Tate Modern Gallery on Monday.  They had a wonderful opportunity to use an unusual medium to inspire their numeracy work on ratio.  They concentrated on the work of the artist Mark Rothko, and had a thoroughly fantastic time.  On Wednesday, we had the pleasure of meeting our new Reception children who will be joining us in September.  They enjoyed a 'Play and Meet' session with their new class teacher and class friends. 

On Thursday, four Year 4 children represented Lewisham at the London Youth Games at Crystal Palace.   They competed against thirty three other London Borough teams. They came third in their group and progressed to the 'plate' competition, where they beat Ealing 3-1 and were then defeated 3-1 by Bexley.  The four children were had a wonderful time and showed great sportsmanship throughout.  On Friday, 2C took advantage of the beautiful sunshine and had a picnic and games in Horniman Park as a special 'marble jar' treat.  They were joined by parents and had a wonderful afternoon.  RF sang and preformed beautifully on Friday at their Assembly.  Parents and staff were extremely proud.  We said goodbye and thanks to our three Year 10 students from St Dunstan's College and from Sydenham Girls who were with us all week on work experience.   We are sure they have enjoyed their time with us, and wish them the very best of luck for their futures.

 

Have a great weekend,

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher

Week 33

Kilmorie
Kilmorie have missed Y6 this week.  They have been away on School Journey to Wrotham.   The week passed by smoothly and lots of fun was had by all.   We look forward to seeing and hearing all about it at Leavers Assembly which in past years has always been a highly amusing and entertaining highlight of the school year.  In school the week began with an Assembly about kindness and a reminder from Emma that what we reap we sow.  Also on Monday, we proudly showed new parents around the school as parents are busy deciding on Primary Schools for Reception children.  Not all of our Year 6 went away on School Journey.  Those that remained behind also had an eventful week of Spanish learning with Will.   They have learnt some Spanish words, looked at culture and cuisine and have done a lot of drama.   The Home School Journeyers went to visit the Tate Modern on Wednesday to explore in more detail the artwork of Picasso in preparation for creating their own cubist paintings and had a Latin American themed party on Friday, including freshly made biscuits and a piñata!  Also on Wednesady, it was the turn of Y3 and Dominic to show us what they had been learning by putting on a Class Assembly.  This was a brilliant success!  The children had all written their own scripts to re-enact the story of Krindlekrax which they are currently reading in class and performed a great dance to the Monstermash.  We have interviewed for new staff this week, ready for next year, and on Wednesday evening Liz attended a Parent Voice 'Meet and Greet' session to mark the re-naming of this group, previously known as Parent Council.  This group provides a forum for all parents to express their views, thoughts and concerns about school life.  All are welcome.

Fairlawn

We started our week with a wonderful Whole School Celebration Assembly at which certificates were shared and musical achievements were celebrated.  On Tuesday, Year 6 pupils were invited to watch a performance of the 'Sustainable Transport Live Concert, at the Catford Broadway Theatre, a one hour show put on by the 'Big Green Machine Theatre Company' regarding the enviornment and how to be greener!  On Wednesday, four Year 6 pupils were chosen to represent Fairlawn in the Primary Maths Challenge at Dunraven School.  They competed against other gifted mathematicians from across the Lewisham borough.  They worked incredibly hard as a team and did very, very well at the event.  Well done to them all.  RH and 5E had an arrival of caterpillar larvae on Thursday.  They children will be closely observing the caterpillars as they go through their metamorphosis.  Year 2 classes welcomed the arrival of their chicken's eggs.  The eggs are currently warm and cosy in the incubators, where they will stay for the next three weeks while we await their hatching!  Year 6 are busy rehearsing for their final production... We look forward to seeing the end result.  On Friday we held our Class Reps meeting, which was very useful and construtive.  It was nice to see so many parents... and speaks, once again, of the great support, the great spirit and the great community that we enjoy at Fairlawn.  We ended our week with a Key Stage 2 sharing assembly.  Certificates and Stars of the Week were shared.  

 

Haseltine

We started the week at Haseltine with our affirmation 'I will treat everyone fairly.'  The children showed a good understanding and concluded that treating people fairly doesn't always mean treating everyone the same.  3W had a trip to the Maritime Museum on Monday as part of their topic on the Titanic and they enjoyed every second of it.  Year 6 went to the Broadway Theatre on Tuesday to see The Big Green Machine. They learned a lot about looking after our planet.  Ms Brumby led yet another Parent Tour on Tuesday as Hasletine becomes a popular school of choice amongst parents. There was a great deal of positive feedback, especially about how friendly our children are.  Friday was a very exciting day at Haseltine.  Courtney and Kevin from 3W reported something strange in the top hall to Ms. Brumby.  An emergency assembly was then called where we found a portal to another universe - just in time the gatekeeper arrived to help us.  In the corner of the Hall we found a PUP - a parallel universe person - who was very scared and could hardly walk.  The children asked her a few question and found out that we needed to spend the day writing/drawing/acting/singing and generally being creative to help identify the PUP's parallel universe.  The children had a fantastic day and came back together at the end of the day to share everything they'd done.  They were so amazing that the PUP returned to her universe through the portal.  What clever, creative children they are at Haseltine!

 

Have a wonderful weekend,

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher

Week 32

Dear Parent/ Carer,
 
This week at Fairlawn,  Mrs Clark began the week with an E-Safety message in our Assembly.   Our Pupil Parliamentarians launched a dance competition across the partnership on Tuesday.  Key Stage 2 have been busy rehearsing for this exciting event.  On Wednesday, class 1N visited The Horniman Museum as part of their topic.  They played with toys from past and present and from around the world.  Year 4 pupils took part and won the Tennis Tournment for Lewisham Festival at Sydenham Tennis Club, beating St William of York 3-1 in the final.  They now have been invited to represent Lewisham in the borough finals at Crystal Palace in July.  On Thursday, class 6A visited the Nursery to take part in 'The Egg' related activities, related to the discovery of the mysterious egg found in our gardens last week.   Nursery children also enjoyed inviting their parents in to share their learning this week.  On Friday, Key Stage 2 children ate breakfast with their dads at Dad's Breakfast.  1R performed and sang exceptionally well at their Assembly.

 

At Haseltine our affirmation for this week is 'We tell the truth and we are honest.' The children all showed an understanding of this in discussions in their classrooms.  Years 5 and 6 waved goodbye to their parents on Monday as they went on their School Journey to Arethusa.  They are having a great time climbing ropes, going out on motor boats and doing archery.  On Tuesday 4JB and 3M went to Catford to 'Meet the Grower.'  They learnt how to grow food and made a pizza each from scratch.  Film Club were treated to a very special screening on Wednesday.  They watched their film on the big screen in the middle hall with bean bags, pop corn and lots of excitement.  Friday was a very special day with RW showing off their learning for this term.

 

At Kilmorie, we are looking forward to our School Journey, Sports Day, our end of year trips and, of course, our phenomenal end of year production which the children are busy rehearsing for.  Children have begun auditioning this week for the 'inter-federation' Dance Competition "Got to Dance."  Auditions took place throughout the week.  On Wednesday, it was the turn of Year 4 to indulge in a musical treat as they were entertained at a concert at the Festival Hall whilst in school Lorna's Year 1 children had their Class Assembly during which they showed us all there fabulous learning about Farmer Duck and told us about their zoo trip.  On Friday, it was Year 2's turn to visit London Zoo.  Another great day out was had by all as the children had the opportunity to bring their rainforest learning to life.

Have a great weekend,

Mark Wilson

Executive Headteacher

 

Week 31

Dear Parent/ Carer,

This week at Kilmorie we welcomed our new School Direct teacher trainees who will be working with us full time from September.  Having trainee teachers in school is a valuable learning opportunity for both sides and we are impressed by the hard work and dedication that our new colleagues are showing.  Children really benefit from the enthusiasm and additional support that this training route provides.  There are School Direct trainees in all three of our schools and we also employ a Premises Apprenctice.  As a partnership of schools, we are committed to providing career pathways for members of our community.  Meanwhile, back at Kilmorie, Year 6 have been busy preparing for their Secondary Schools.  Transition meetings have begun this week with the Year 6 boys meeting their secondary tutors. Year 6 also had visiting speakers this week to talk to them about gangs, whilst their parents were invited to a meeting about the Wrotham School Journey.  On Thursday all three Pupil Parliaments were involved in learning walks across the federation. The children were looking at ways we learn best and will be feeding back their observations next week.
Our week ended with the Year 1 children going to see an orchestral interpretation of Giraffes Can't Dance at the Barbican.

It was a fantastic start to the half term at Haseltine.  Teachers and governors met on Monday to review the year and set new priorities for next year.  This weeks affirmation is 'I say sorry if I'm wrong.'  This was discussed in assembly... Ms. Brumby needed to apologise to Mrs Wylie after an accident.  The children taught Ms. Brumby how to say sorry properly.  We had another chance to show off our amazing learning during a parent tour on Tuesday.  On the same day, Year 4 went to the Museum of London to choose and plan their Topic for this Half Term.  Ms. Brumby and Mrs Jolley went to City Hall on Wednesday to meet London Headteachers to discuss Breakfast Clubs and how to develop them.  The food at Haseltine's Club is paid for by the Mayor's Fund.  Mentors from Forest Hill School came in to meet the Year 6 children who are going there next year.  Year 6 have had a huge treat for the last three days working with Translation Nation.  Parents, children and staff have been telling stories in different languages, writing plays, learning sign language, writing stories and finished the week with a performance to the rest of Key Stage 2.  Friday morning was a very special time at Haseltine as the year 4 ukulele group played to us and the Haseltine Band played.  The children have reached a new heights with the music at Haseltine.  It felt like we were at the O2!  The biggest treat of all this week happened when representatives from the Pupil Parliament Learning Committee visited Kilmorie and Fairlawn.  They brought backa whole series of good ideas from both schools which we will be using here at Haseltine.  One boy said,  'This is the best school trip ever.'

At Fairlawn, we began our week with a Training Day at which we welcomed our new teachers for September and continued the huge task of re-developing our curriculum in order to produce something that is exciting, stimulating, engaging, motivating and truly World Class.  We want our learners to have the best learning opportunities, provided by the very best teachers.  We are very excited about what next year holds for us at Fairlawn.  Our redecoration programme continues.  Years 3 and 4 returned on to the smell of freshly painted classrooms.  Tuesday saw the launch of our Fantastic Fairlawn Helpers project.  Our Pupil Parliament has devised and assigned responsibilities for children throughout the school, covering every aspect of school life, from Assembly Assistants to Dinner DJs, Good to be Green Gang and Playground Pals.  The children have already proved how fantastically responsible they are.   On Wednesday, Year 4 classes visited Horton Kirby Educational Centre and Farningham Village in Kent as part of their Geography and Science work this term.  They took part in lessons at the Centre, carried out a village survey that compared the area to our own and sketched landscapes.  A fun learning experience was had by all... and the sun shone brightly for them.  Meanwhile, there were strange happenings going on back at Fairlawn!  A huge egg appeared in our Golden Garden.  We called an emergency assembly that explained that the egg was being closely monitored for any cracks!  We asked everyone to keep a close eye on the website for updates!  On Thursday, two pupils from our Pupil Parliament Curriculum Committee met with Haseltine & Kilmorie Pupil Parliamentarians.   They all enjoyed a learning walk around each school.  They brought back many interesting ideas about how we might continue to enhance things at Fairlawn.  Also on Thursday all children were treated to some very special visitors - wild birds from Eagle Heights Wildlife Park.   The children were shown different species of wild bird that included eagles, owls, hawks and many more.  The birds flew and squaked their way around the Hall.   We ended our exciting week with a Key Stage 1 sharing assembly, which was followed by Key Stage 2 'Stars of the Week' and the Golden Ticket Class Winners Assembly.

 

We continue to build the momentum, build the energy and build the improvement in all of our schools.  There are no better places in the world to be when the sun is shining than Haseltine, Kilmorie and Fairlawn.  Do have a wonderful weekend,

 

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher

Week 30

At Kilmorie this week…  Our Year 6 children visited to the London Eye; an end of SATs treat as well as an extra dimension to their literacy learning as they are reading ‘A London Eye Mystery’.  Year 1 visited London Zoo on Tuesday and, as part of their topic on the Tudors, Year 5 went to The Golden Hinde and The Globe Theatre.  Fantastic days out were had by all!  It is great to see so many of our classes benefiting from all that our amazing capital city has to offer.  The attendance and welfare officer came in for a visit and was pleased to see an improvement in our attendance percentages. Nursery held a fundraising cake sale to raise funds to help enrich the learning experiences for our youngest children. Kilmorie football team played St Michaels and beat them 4-0.  The Pupil Parliament held a special meeting and children in Years 2 – 5 were invited to a special assembly to officially launch Mathletics across the school.  We all look forward to watching the progress as children begin to compete against each other on the maths challenges.  This week we also said goodbye to Ruth, our cook, as she begins the long and wonderful journey that will be her retirement.  She will be greatly missed and we wish her well.

We had a lovely start to the week at Haseltine with our affirmation: I am polite and show manners.  We began our Maths Week with a focus on money.  Yet again we had a parent tour (which is becoming a weekly event as Haseltine becomes the school of choice). All the parents were so impressed with the learners and their learning.  1N had a visit to Chislehurst Caves - they didn't find a bear this time though… unlike last week, when they went on a Bear Hunt in their fantastic Assembly! We also welcomed parents to our Maths Open Morning on Wednesday.  The children enjoyed their parents being learners with them in lesson and then we all met together to talk about how we have developed Maths across the school.  Maths Week continued with the Year 1 children using money to buy things from the Year 2’s and with Year 5 selling their projects to Year 4.  What a productive Maths Week we have had! Next Half Term, everyone from Year 1 to Year 6 will be visiting the Bank of England Museum.  Thursday was a special day with 1B showcasing their reading skills in their Assembly.  Parents were impressed to see so many of them reading chapter books already.  Very well done to them!  Our clarinet players performed at a concert at Conisborough College on Thursday evening - they were fantastic musicians.  Friday saw a very wet visit to London Zoo for our Year 3 children where they looked for animals they might find in a Rainforest.  For everyone else, the Passport Trip became a DVD with popcorn… as the rain stopped us from going to the park.

Our week at Fairlawn began with a Whole School Assembly during which the children got a taste (no pun intended!!) of exactly how much food does go to waste in our school daily and how throwing food on the floor at lunchtime impacts on everyone.  Mr Carter held a Year 1 Parents Phonics Information Workshop, covering the up-coming Year 1 Phonics Screening Check.  Mrs Clarke introduced the Fantastic Fairlawn Helpers - Restaurant Staff, Assembly Assistants, Playground Pals, Good to be Green Gang, Dinner DJ’s, and many, many more to come.  These children have key responsibilities around the school.  It is their job to make our school run more effectively, with more children at the heart of how it runs.  They get to wear cool badges, award Golden Tickets and more.  We look forward to the impact that these roles will have in school.  On Friday, Year 2 children dressed in their favourite costumes as part of their Rainforest Topic.  We saw some amazing animal creations.  During the day, they made tropical fruit juices, plasticine animals and had a truly tropical day.  A fantastic Half Term at Fairlawn ended with a spectacular Year 5 School Journey and Home School Journey Assembly.  The children performed brilliantly and our Hall was bustling with proud parents.

Have a lovely half term,

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher 

Week 29

Dear Parent/ Carer,

A super week at Fairlawn began with our Year 5 children going on their School Journey and our Year 6 children ready to go for their SATs Week.  On Tuesday, Ms Ryans led a tour for new and prospective parents.  The parents were very impressed and very positive about the school.  Our lunchtimes continue to grow in popuality and in numbers, with teachers now joining the children to eat lunch together.  On Friday, our Year 4 classes visited Buddhapadipa Temple in Wimbledon as part of their RE educational studies.   The Buddhapadipa was first Buddhist temple in the United Kingdom.  Year 5 Home School Journey children have had a fantastic week with visits to The London Eye, a River Cruise, Bowling and much more and our Year 5 School Journey children returned on Friday from their week away at Arethusa in Kent exhausted and excitied to tell of their adventures.  Class 2G held a fantastic assembly on Friday to demonstrate their learning from their Rainforest topic.  All the children performed wonderfully well.

 

 

The week started at Haseltine with the whole of Year 6 arriving at 8am for a special breakfast ready for their SATs Week. A big, special well done to them for all their hard work. What clever learners they are.  Our affirmation for this week, I don't display bad behaviour, was shared and discussed in our assemblies.  On Wednesday Mrs Bernard met with our Year 1 parents to talk about the phonics test.  Parents now have a better understanding of the expectations in the test.  I know those children will shine too when they take the test the week beginning the 17th June.  Our morning Nursery children went to the farm on Wednesday.  Unfortunately, it was a very wet day so they were back early.  Our afternoon children had a much sunnier day on Thursday.  All the children had a great time learning about farm animals.  The week was appropriately finished off with a fantastic Assembly from Year 1 in which they shared their learning from this term.

 

At Kilmorie this week the Year 6 children arrived at school early to eat a hearty breakfast before their SATs tests.   The children were positive and good humoured throughout the week.  A particular well done to the children that took the Level 6 papers which involved six extra tests. The whole school applauded Year 6 in Assembly on Friday for their attitude and hard work.  Year 2 made the long journey to Kew Gardens on Tuesday to learn more about their topic.  They enjoyed a 'Rain Forest Experience' workshop in the tropical palm house followed by a tree top walk up into the canopy of the trees. They then had a brief roam around the rest of the gardens. Staff at Kew commented on how knowledgeable the children were about the Rain Forest.  On Friday Year 3 visited the British Museum to find out more about the Egyptians.  They had a fantastic time learning about, and looking at, the huge collection of artefacts.  They were fascinated by the mummies and sarcophagi and the visit  brought their topic to life.  In Celebration Assembly we said goodbye to Paula, the speech and language therapist, and wished her good luck in her new post.  On Friday the Friends of Kilmorie had a coffee morning to plan the up and coming fund raising events.  This weekend more willing parents are coming into school to continue their wonderful work on the school gardens.

 

Week 28

Dear Parent/ Carer,

Everyone enjoyed a lovely hot bank holiday weekend at Haseltine and we were all raring to go on the Tuesday with our affirmation for the week 'We Take Turns'.  Year 5 worked very hard this week with their tests for the secondary school bandings - well done to them for staying relaxed and doing their very best.  1B had a fabulous trip to Chislehurst caves on Wednesday where the children bravely walked through some of the cave without any light to experience what it was like for some of the families who used the cave as a shelter during World War 2.  Thursday was a day of excitement as we had our class photos taken plus some very special family pictures. Haseltine children certainly are good posers!   Friday was Year 4s turn for a trip - they visited the Horniman Museum to develop their understanding of habitats in Rainforests.

Kilmorie have again had a busy and productive week. On Tuesday, KS2 were entertained at a the music concert by a fantastic string quartet called the The Sacconi string quartet, these concerts are offered free by the company ‘Cavatina’ and children were not only an enthusiastic audience but it was a fabulous learning opportunity as children were invited to participate. We now have 2 young conductors in the making! Wednesday’s class assembly this week was by Funmi’s Y4 children who wrote and performed their own script to share their learning about WW2.  Also on Wednesday, we held two parents meetings to explain our new approach to Homework.  We are piloting a new approach that will support parents in home learning and should make homework more hands on. We had a very strong turn out at these meetings and look forward to the impact of these changes.  Y5s have worked incredibly hard on their Secondary transfer tests and we have been very proud of their attitude to these important tests. Just as we are of our Y6 children as they look forward to their SATs next week.  Look out for next week’s blog to find out how they got on!

At Fairlawn,  Year 5 children were treated to a visit from Josh our Basketball coach, who worked with the children on 'Hoops for Health'.  He spoke of the importance of healthy eating, regular exercise and the harmful effects of smoking.  The children played a fun basketball game at the end of the talk.   On Friday, Year 3 children displayed their singing and dancing and exceptional acting skills in assembly, based on their school journey to Rippledown House.  Our Home School Journey children also shared their experiences from the week.

Have a fantastic weekend,
Mark Wilson
Executive Head teacher

Week 27

Dear Parent/ Carer,

A brilliant week at Haseltine began with Ms Brumby conducting prospective new parents on a Parent Tour.  Haseltine is continuing to expand in pupil numbers as the word spreads about our fantastic school.  We have agreed again to take an extra ‘bulge’ class for Lewisham this year to help meet the local demand for Primary School places.  The parents who took the tour were very positive, one parent even called back later in the day to say that she had never seen such enthusiasm from teachers and that some of the learning she had seen hadn't even been taught at her Secondary School!  It was wonderful that this parent recognised that high expectations, expert teaching and a culture of celebration are key to the successes were are achieving at Haseltine. 

Once again teachers across the partnership met to look at how we develop our pedagogical knowledge and skill. This is having a huge impact at Haseltine.  Ms Incoom will soon be sharing the results of their research to the rest of the learning community.  The quality of teaching can clearly be seen in classrooms where there is a high level of reciprocal learning… children leading the learning with their peers in order to deepen everyone’s understanding.

All the staff at Haseltine developed their scientific understanding of the impact of being positive with children to improve learning behaviours through training this week - this training was led by the wonderful Mrs Bernard.

We spent two days interviewing for new teachers for our growing school.  We made some exceptional and exciting appointments that include Music and PE specialist teachers.

Finally 2B did the most fabulous performance for their Class Assembly. The Hall was full of proud parents as the children sang, danced, acted and shared the most amazing writing I have ever seen from Year 2 pupils.

At Fairlawn, our week began by waving off our Year 3 children who went on their school journey to Rippledown House in Kent.  The children who were unable to go on the trip instead had an exciting time this week on their Home School Journey, visiting Howletts Zoo, The London Aquarium, picnicking in Peckham Rye Park and finishing the week off with a movie and popcorn.

We had a visit from The London Fire Brigade, who gave Year 5 and Year 2 a Fire Safety talk.  They watched slides and stories on how to stay safe and avoid the dangers of fires. Fairlawn's week ended with 1N's fantastic Assembly on Hansel and Gretel.  The Year 1 children did us proud with their exceptional acting and performing. 

Our new and improved lunchtime experience launch was a huge success.  Some children even commented that lunch in the School Lunch Hall was even better than being in a restaurant.  That is what we want to achieve and what we feel our children deserve.  We will continue to work to enhance the experience even further.

We made some fantastic staff appointments this week… appointing Ms Hania Ryans as Head of School and Mrs Kim Clark as Deputy Head Teacher.  I am very excited about the energy and dynamism that this new leadership team will bring to Fairlawn.

At Kilmorie this week, the Assembly theme this week was Love.  On Monday the children listened attentively to  'The Giving Tree' by Shel Silverstein – a very thought provoking story.  Pete Bulley and Clare Tooth were invited to Assembly to thank them for all their hard work and commitment to the school in their roles as Chair and Treasurer of The Friends of Kilmorie. They are stepping down after several years but will continue to be involved in events. The events that they have organised over the years have provided funds for resources and equipment across the school and have also provided wonderful social occasions. Jessica Ormerod and Jane Toussaint will be taking over their roles in The Friends of Kilmorie.

On Monday afternoon all the children with 100% attendance since September were invited by Liz and Emma to a Tea Party to celebrate their achievement. It was a fun event and the children really enjoyed it. The children who attended are all really determined to achieve 100% for the whole school year… a very creditable aim.  We discussed future ideas to reward and encourage fantastic attendance.

On Wednesday Marina's Year 3 Class Assembly shared in a most entertaining way all that they had learnt about the Egyptians.  All children contributed enthusiastically and a highlight was the sketch that gave practical advice about the process of mummification!

In the Key Stage Two Assembly on Thursday the children learned about the history of Kilmorie.  This was inspired by a collection of photos from 1989 when the Primary School first opened.  On Friday, Year 4 enjoyed a talk from a grandparent about the Second World War.

In Friday's Celebration Assembly the children and staff said goodbye to Roz Amat, Children's Centre leader. 

Have a fabulous Bank Holiday weekend,
Mark Wilson
Executive Head teacher 

Week 26

Dear Parent/ Carer,

At Kilmorie this week, our assembly theme was 'Relationships' and Monday's assembly focussed on friendship. The children shared their views on the importance of friendship and discussed quotes about aspects of friendship. In Celebration assembly, as well as rewarding fantastic learning, the winners of the last term's talent competition were presented with prizes.

This week saw the start of the after school clubs for the term. There is a good range of clubs for all year groups from Reception upwards. The lunch time art club is particularly successful and the children really enjoy using the art studio. This week they started a project using papier mache.

There have been several parent tours this week both for the nursery and reception. Visiting parents were surprised by the space both inside and out.

Friends of Kilmorie held an extraordinary meeting this week. Pete Bulley and Clare Tooth stepped down from their roles as Chair and Treasurer after many years great service. After electing new committee members( Jessica  Ormerod and Jane Toussaint) future fund raising events were discussed. On Friday parents held a cake sake in aid of the 'Save Lewisham Hospital ' campaign. 

On Wednesday auditions took place for the end of year production Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Members of the choir spent the day, in small groups, trying out for parts. All parts are now cast and the rehearsals will be underway very soon.

On Friday Year 2 visited went to the Horniman Museum to learn more about the Rainforest .  They visited the Amazon Adventure exhibition as well as having a talk and hands-on session about the people and animals.     

At Fairlawn, we welcomed our new Head of School in our whole school assembly on Monday morning.  Our focus this week was 'Keep Trying.' Ms Ryans spoke about St George's Day and told the story of St George.  We introduced our 'Top Table' at lunch time for all the Stars of the Week.  Our children have been telling us how our School Meals are improving at lunch time.  We held Singing Assemblies on Tuesday and Wednesday.  Year 1R and 1N visited the Devonshire Road Nature Reserve as part of their Literacy and Drama Week, based around the story of the Three Billy Goats Gruff.  On Friday our Year 5 classes had a visit from The London Fire Brigade on how to stay safe.  Indeed, the whole school had a visit from the Fire Brigade as the Fire Alarm went off.  We celebrated our KS1 and KS2 'Stars of the Week' at the Assembly on Friday.  Our stars have all had their photos taken and these will be displayed on our Stars of the Week board.

At Haseltine this week, 3W went to Horniman Museum on Monday and 3M went on Tuesday.  Our Year 5 pupils and parents went to Sedgehill on Tuesday morning to exhibit the pottery they made last term.  Year 4 investigated Ravensbourne River on Thursday and 2C shared their amazing learning in their class assembly on Friday.

A busy week for us all, filled with powerful learning and memorable learning experiences.

Have a great weekend,

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher 

 

Week 25

Dear Parent/ Carer,

Welcome back to the Summer Term at Fairlawn, Haseltine and Kilmorie.

The two terms before it passed with lightning speed.  This is indicative of the pace with which a school year seems to pass... and that is why we have to be prepared a term to a term and a half in advance of events and of key points throughout the year.  We are into our recruitment rounds in all three schools for September and are already well into our planning for September and beyond.  Recruitment gives us the opportunity for renewal and growth.  We are looking to appoint colleagues who are energy positive, who will add value for us, who have a growth mindset, who are committed to their own professional development and are committed to our children and communities.  Our new year's budgets bring us opportunities to continue to build on the enhancements that we have made in all three schools and to maintain that very important forward momentum... that firm sense of purpose that is essential to any successful organisation.

I hope that you are seeing, and will continue to see, those enhancements that are happening in our schools and that you will see the continuing benefits for your children.

All three schools held a Training Day for staff on Monday.  I spent time  at all three schools and was delighted to see the enthusiasm and energy with which our respective staff returned for the Summer Term.  In news from our schools this week:

Fairlawn

We warmly welcomed Hania Ryans as our Head of School for the Summer Term.  Hania is on secondment to us from Downderry Primary and already made a great impression at the school.  Hania is getting to know children, staff, parents and systems and will bring great capacity for us.  We have had a very enthusiastic responce to our adverts for teachers and leaders at Fairlawn and have had many visitors this week looking around and finding more out about the school.  On Wednesday, KS2 enjoyed a fun music singing Assembly.  Meanwhile, on Wednesday and Thursday our Year 4 classes visited Igham Mote,  a medieval moated manor house in Kent, as part of their Tudor topic.  The children had an interesting and fun learning experience during which they dressed as Tudors, toured the premises, and took part in a House Detectives workshop.  On Friday, our Year 2 classes visited the Horniman Museum as part of their Rainforest topic.  Later in the day on Friday, our KS1 children had their sharing assembly during which their outstanding and inspirational work from the week was celebrated.  Our KS2 children also held their new sharing assembly.

 

Haseltine

The signage in the local area celebrating Haseltine as an outstanding school is now almost complete.  Visitors to Sainsbury's can be in no doubt as to just how good Haseltine is and, by the time they have circled the roundabout and entered the Car Park, they will have read most of the inspection report.  We made a brilliant start to the week with teachers working together to look at how we can plan learning that is even more exciting, engaging and practical for our children.  We have met a lot of fantastic teachers this week who have been looking around the school in response to our advert for teaching posts for September.  There is a real excitement amongst teachers about the prospect of working at Haseltine.  The children came in on Tuesday to find explorers, people going to the beach and a gorilla to start their topics this term- they were very excited and have already produced the most exciting learning.  Our affirmations for this term are Respect, Politeness and Manners. We welcomed a range of visitors to our school on Wednesday.  All commented on how lovely the children's manners were in the Dining Room.  We held our Outstanding Party on Friday.  This was a super.... well-deserved... and memorable day for our school.  Thank you to everyone who was part of the event.

 

Kilmorie 

We held a welcome back Assembly for the whole school on Tuesday and introduced our Assembly theme for the week; Relationships.  On Wednesday, Year 4 had a World War II workshop in school. On Friday, children were presented with certificates for 100% attendance and those who nearly achieved 100% percent were given a pen.  Year 6 had a safety and citizenship talk from TfL.

Week 24

Dear Parent/ Carer,

Easter already!  It is incredible how quickly the school years passes.  I am certain that we all hope for an improvement in the weather after the Easter Break.  I was standing outside in the playground, in the cold during, with all of the staff and children at Kilmorie last week during a fire alarm.... as it began to snow once again... thinking 'Is it ever going to warm up?'  Let's hope so...

I had the pleasure on Monday of leading a tour of all three schools with a group from the Aspiring Leaders programme.  Aspiring Leaders is a pan-London leadership development programme for Deputies, Assistant Headteachers and teachers who aspire to Headship.  The group were suitably impressed by each of our schools.

 

At Fairlawn this week we began the week with a visit from Haseltine's wind group, who performed wonderfully for us at our whole school assembly.  It was great for our Haseltine children to visit Fairlawn to perform and it was great for me to see our children in a different context. Our Year 2 classes were out on Monday visiting London Zoo as part of their 'Rainforest' Topic.  The temperatures didn't afflict the visit too much.  When the classes visited at the same time last year, the temperature was in the 20's!  Some of our musicians played at Goldsmiths Great Hall on Monday evening... a very impressive venue for some very impressive young people.  On Tuesday, our Year 5 classes lived their day as Victorians.  Teachers and children dressed up, role played and had a great learning experience.  My thanks to our teachers for creating these memorable learning experiences.   The Spring Music Festival ended with a BANG... with a whole school drumming experience in Assembly.  Our girls Year 6 football team beat Kilmorie in the inaugural Fairmorie Cup 2-1 and our Boys Y6 football team lost on penalities after an earlier 2-2 draw.  We said farewell this week to Ms Christian, Ms Fields and Ms Daynes.  We wish all these colleagues our very, very best for the future.
  
Our Year 5 parents were cooking Somalian food with groups of children at Haseltine on Monday.  As mentioned above, our clarinet players went to play for the children at Fairlawn.  Our Reception children went to Godstone Farm for a visit on Tuesday.  Wednesday saw the whole school Passport Trip to the cinema and bowling and we ended for Easter with a Drumming Workshop for the whole of Key Stage Two.

Our Assembly theme at Kilmorie this week was Easter.  Our Year 6 parents attended a meeting about preparing for SATs on Monday.  Meanwhile, dancers from Reception and Year 1 visited Sydenham School to perform in the Dance Fest.  The Kilmorie Jazz Band performed in Live Winds at Goldsmiths Great Hall as part of the Lewisham Live events.  We had a Music Assembly on Tuesday with assorted Key Stage 2 soloists and a guitar recital after school.  Wednesday saw our Year 1's go on a trip to the Geffrye Museum of the Home in Hoxton for the Homes Then and Now workshop and the storytelling session A Chair’s Tale to support their history topic.  All our Recorder Groups went to Fairlawn to take part in a federation recorder jam.  At the end of the day there was a piano recital attended by parents.  To mark the end of the Spring Music Festival on Thursday, our Singmorie Voices and the infant choir performed in a music celebration. 

Have a fantastic Easter,
Mark Wilson
Executive Head teacher

Week 23

Dear Parent/ Carer,

Our Assembly theme at Kilmorie this week was ‘Inspirations’.  I was inspired by our Year 3 & 4 Singmorie Voices on Monday evening.  The children sang at Sydenham School alongside pupils from Haseltine, Fairlawn and other Lewisham schools.  The children all thoroughly enjoyed themselves and sang wonderfully.  As part of the fortnight long Songfest.festival of music, members of the Jazz Band gave a performance in the Assembly on Wednesday.  Our thanks to those parents/ carers who attended.  It is your attendance that makes these occasions magical for the children.  On Thursday, the Reception and Key Stage One classes enjoyed West African music and Dance workshops with Yaye Dib Sabar.  Also on Thursday, Year 4 Ukelele players attended Sedgehill School for Tune Up.   On Friday, our Year 6 Rock Band performed at Haseltine and we ended the week with an International Evening, complete performances from the Rock School Rock Band and parent bands.  Many parents brought along a national dish for what was a wonderful evening of celebration.

The choir at Haseltine made us very proud on Monday night when they sang at Sydenham School alongside the other choirs in our federation.  It was a brilliant night for all.  The children enjoyed having their individual photos taken by Andy of Say Cheese Please on Tuesday… it was lots of fun and I saw some beautiful photos.  .Also on Tuesday, Years 3, 4 & 5 had the privilege of listening to and working with the Thorne Trio.  What amazing musicians they are!  Tuesday afternoon saw some of our guitarists playing in assembly, along with two fabulous violin soloists.  On Wednesday our Key Stage One children had workshops with Rhythm Connections Trash Orchestra.  I saw the fun that the children were having making and playing instruments made out of everyday rubbish.  Thursday was a real treat when Fairlawn's Wind Band played at Haseltine.  It was the turn of the Kilmorie Rock Band to perform on Friday, with the children from both schools thoroughly enjoying themselves.

Songfest also continued throughout the week at Fairlawn.  Monday featured a whole school Woodwind Assembly.    As reported above, I was delighted to see children from Fairlawn and all three of our schools perform at the Songfest at Sydenham Girls School as part of Lewisham Live. The children sang with great passion and enthusiasm.  At Tuesdays afternoon assembly we had guitarists playing with violin soloists.  I began my day on Wednesday at the Nursery.  On my way back up to school, I saw our Year 6 classes walking down to the station on their way to The Horton Kirby Educational Centre in Kent for the day.  They took a trip back in time to 1942 and lived life as evacuees.  We also had a whole school String Assembly on Wednesday, and another on Thursday.  Our Wind Band visited Haseltine on Thursday and were very well received.  The band will be performing at Goldsmiths College on Monday evening next week.  I am very much looking forward to attending that event.  On Friday we had a whole school Brass Assembly and had drumming workshops for Years 3 and 4 throughout the day.  I joined in with Mrs Njoku’s class…. The children were all far better than I was!  It was a very lively and a very loud experience and everyone had great fun… which is what a quality education is all about.

We are looking forward to another action-packed week in our schools this week… and a reminder that we break-up a day early next week… on Thursday rather than Friday.

Have a lovely weekend,

Mark Wilson

Executive Head teacher

Week 22

Dear Parent/ Carer,

We approach Easter and still no break in the cold weather!  Temperatures are forecast to remain low for the week to come.  We all still need our coats for school!

My thanks to everyone who participated and who donated to the Children in Need Appeal all three of our schools, and my thanks to the staff who joined in to make it a fun occasion for everyone.

At Fairlawn this week, we had a visit from The Junk Orchestra on Monday at our Whole School Assembly.  The Orchestra performed with everyday household rubbish made into musical instruments. Years 1 and 2 got involved and experienced playing these instruments in a workshop. 
On Tuesday, we had a visit from Mr George and the James Dixon Primary School Steel Pan Band.  Years 5 - 6 had workshops with the Steel Pans.   Our String Ensemble played at Blackheath Halls on Wednesday evening as part of Lewisham Live festival of music, and on Thursday Year 4 classes met up with children from Kilmorie and Haseltine for the Ukulele Fest at Kilmorie.  On Friday, the Reception classes visited The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich as part of their Under The Sea topic.  They hunted for Captain Drake's missing treasure and investigated natural and manufactured treasures of the sea.  Also on Friday, of course, we wore red noses, pyjamas in some cases, and wacky and wonderful handmade Red Nose Day T shirts.  The South London Press came to record the day at Fairlawn.  Look out for a photograph in next weeks' edition. 

In sporting news from the week, Fairlawn played at home against Gordonbrock Primary School and drew 1 - 1.

Children at Kilmorie had an equally busy week.  Monday saw  our inaugural Spring Music Assembly and a performance by all Drum Fun and Djembe groups, which was attended by parents of the performers.  Years 3 and 6 also attended Beatbox workshops with Randolph Matthews.  On Tuesday, Year 5 parents were invited for a meeting to discuss the curriculum,  Year 2 had a visit from a scientist and Nursery were visited by a storyteller reading The Three Little Pigs and also The Bear Hunt, accompanied by songs with instruments.  Our Brass Band performed Live at Blackheath Halls on Wednesday and our Year 5 visited the Barbican to see a concert entitled The Mighty Sea performed by the London Symphony Orchestra.  Thursday saw Year 4 children from Fairlawn, Kilmorie and Haseltine joined together for the Ukulele Fest at Kilmorie.  Nursery and Reception children rounded off the day at a Mini Red Nose Disco.  The whole school celebrated Red Nose Day by wearing pyjamas, clothes back to front, something red or something funny for Comic Relief.  Nursery children made toast with strawberry jam.  The Haseltine Rock Band played at our assembly on Friday morning.  The final musical event of the week was a Violin Recital which parents were invited to attend.  Friday ended with a Red Nose Disco with all entrance fees being donated to Comic Relief.

      

This week has been Super Hero Week at Haseltine.  The learning throughout the whole school had a Super Hero focus for the entire week.  Children created some amazing Super Heroes with exceptional powers.  Year 4 made a visit to the Unicorn Theatre on Tuesday.  Year 1 visited Mudchute Farm on Wednesday... and encountered rain and even a little bit of snow.  Year 3 visited the Unicorn Theatre on Thursday while the Year 4 children from Fairlawn, Kilmorie and Haseltine joined together for the Ukulele Fest at Kilmorie.  Haseltine's Rock Band performed at Kilmorie on Friday, when everyone back in school dressed as a Super Hero for the day and gave money to Comic Relief.