Category Archives: Children and Family

School News – April 2020

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It seems very strange to write this as I sit with the five children that are still coming to school during these challenging times. Who would have thought this would have been the case as we started the academic year in September.

Another reason that this time feels strange, is that this will be the start of my final term here at Dorchester, St Birinus – however with the lockdown in place, I may have had my final assembly in school in March – which was a surreal moment and not really how I thought my final term would go after over nine years at the helm.

As this may be my final contribution to the Dorchester News, unless we are allowed back to school before the end of the school year, I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone that has supported the school from the village throughout my time here, it has always been most appreciated and welcome. A particular thank you to DADs, who have welcomed me into their productions as the pianist – this association started within about two weeks of being in post as someone found out that I played the piano and I have loved every moment.

Thank you to the governors, who have supported me and the school in all our various challenges and successes – with special mention to the chairs and vice-chairs who took on an amazing responsibility. To the parents, whether on the PTA or just being part of our brilliant school community – thank you for your patience and willingness to work with us.

My special thanks goes to my amazing team of staff, who help to make my life easier and provide great experiences for the children in their care – it has been a pleasure to work with them. And finally, all the children over the last nine years – I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you, being a part of your formative years and sharing your successes and challenges. I am always thrilled to hear of your adventures as some of you now are at the A level stage of education.

So in September, I move on to be the Headteacher of Ducklington Primary School, I am looking forward to this new challenge but will miss the excitement here, but maybe not the gritting of the playground. Hopefully there will be an opportunity to say goodbye properly, but will have to see! As you read this, the news regarding the lockdown maybe different.

I can tell you that the governors managed to appoint a new Headteacher on the last day before the lockdown started.- we shall look forward to finding out who this is in due course.

Keep safe and thank you.

Russell Leigh
Headteacher

Volunteers needed: Could you help a child to read and change their life forever?

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St Birinus Primary have a need for ARCh Reading Helper Volunteers to support a number of their older children (aged 7 and above) who are not heard reading at home, and need the real boost that trained ARCh volunteers provide.

Could you help a child to read and change their life forever?

Volunteers needed

ARCh (Assisted Reading for Children) is a local registered charity which operates in Oxfordshire primary schools to help children who are struggling with reading.

All it takes is one and a half hours twice a week during the school day as an ARCh volunteer in a primary school near you.

Full training is given and we provide ongoing support and reimburse travel expenses.

To find out more, visit our website www.archoxfordshire.org.uk

Or telephone us on 01869 320380

The charity obtains enhanced DBS checks on all volunteers before placement

Registered Charity Number 1146276

Pre-School News – September 2017

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The summer term ended on a high with a successful sports day (thankfully done in the dry of the village hall), and the graduation ceremony for children leaving Pre-School mostly as they start at their ‘big schools’ in September. It was lovely to see another cohort leave the Pre-School as confident and happy children having blossomed under the care of Helen Morris and her team. We wish them well as they move onto the next stage of their education, for some just a few steps across the playground at the primary school. I’m sure they will be popping back regularly to keep Pre-School up to date with what they’re are doing.

As this edition goes out, the new school year will have begun and there will be new faces starting their Pre-School journey. There are still places available, and working parents with children turning 3 this term will be eligible for up to 30hrs funding from the government from January. Please contact Helen at Pre-School for further information.

Louisa Margison,
Pre-School Committee Secretary

St Birinus School News – September 2017

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Our summer term certainly kept up a good pace as we reached the end of term in July – here are some of the highlights:

  • Once again, the weather was kind to us for our Sports Afternoon – Well done to all the children (and parents) who took part in the races – it was great to see the enthusiasm. This year had the added excitement of the Sports Cup, which was won by the Yellow team – well done to all groups for supporting each other throughout the races. A big thank you to the Governors for organising the family event and to the PTA for providing refreshments during and after the sports day.
  • Over the term, four Year 5 & 6 children had been completing their cycling proficiency training and an external examiner came to test them on their skills. Well done to Tommy who achieved their Level 1 and to Amelie, Tabitha and Tom who achieved their Level 2. Thank you to Mrs White and Mrs Bristow for their help throughout the training.
  • At the end of term, each class held their topic afternoons for the their parents
    • Hedgehog Class performed a small play about Jack and the Beanstalk
    • Squirrel Class had an African Drumming Workshop
    • Fox Class had a Roman afternoon that even included some marching
    • Owl Class had a Rocket Car afternoon, where they were able to build their own cars and then watch as they shot across the playground – it was amazing to watch.
  • Kings and Queens Day saw everyone dress up as someone from in and around court life. The costumes as always were a wonder to see. As we did with our pirate day last year, we split the school in to mixed age groups and each group were able to try their hands at jousting, collage portraits, illumination and Tudor dancing. It was a great day helped with the fantastic weather
  • In the Abbey on the last day, we held our Leavers service dedicated to the Year 6 children as they prepared to leave us. I certainly wish them well for their next exciting adventure. During the service Dr Boakes kindly gave a book to each of the group for their work with him over the year. As always I would like to thank Dr Boakes for all his work with the Year 6 children each year – it is very much appreciated. This is the fifth year to present the Luke Chadney Cup for Enthusiasm and Contribution, which was generously donated by Mr and Mrs Chadney in memory of their son, Luke. This year, the cup was awarded to Megan Sadler, who the staff felt had made a valuable contribution to school by willingly helping others in need of a friend. Well done Megan – well deserved.
  • Finally, we awarded our annual 100% Attendance Certificates – this year the following children have achieved 100% attendance – Poppy Line and Tom Brooks. A fantastic effort!

As you read our news, we will be preparing to start a new term on Wednesday 6th September and as always we are certainly looking forward to another exciting year at school.

Russell Leigh
Headteacher
Dorchester St Birinus CE Primary School