SCHOOL INFORMATION - DUE TO CORONAVIRUS

16.7.2020

RE: The return to school for all pupils at the beginning of the Autumn term following the school’s partial closure due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Dear Parents,

I am writing to inform you of the steps we will be taking to fully reopen to all pupils this September and share what you need to know to help your child prepare for their return to school in the new academic year.

We understand that the return to school is vital for your child’s education and wellbeing; therefore, we will ensure that all pupils can return in the Autumn term and do so safely. While the risk to children becoming severely unwell due to coronavirus is considered to be very low, we will continue to put control measures in place, in line with the results of the relevant risk assessments, to help keep all members of our school community safe.

We appreciate that there may be some of you who have questions regarding return to school. Should you have any queries or concerns after reading the information in this letter, please contact school at info@newtown.derbyshire.sch.uk and we will reply to you as soon as possible.

When the school will reopen

The school will reopen fully on Thursday 3^rd September to all pupils in all years, and any previous arrangements to limit school places during the coronavirus pandemic will no longer be in effect. 

Attendance

In line with National guidance, attendance for all pupils is mandatory from the beginning of the Autumn term. The usual rules regarding term-time absence requests will also be in place. Pupils who are self-isolating due to presenting with symptoms of coronavirus, or have been exposed to somebody presenting with symptoms of coronavirus, must not attend school until the self-isolation period has passed or they test negative for coronavirus. If your child presents with coronavirus symptoms, the self-isolation period is seven days; if a member of your household presents with coronavirus symptoms, the self-isolation period for your child is 14 days.

How pupils will be grouped

Consistent groups will be enforced when pupils return to school at the start of the Autumn term. We aim for this arrangement to help reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission by limiting the number of people pupils encounter throughout the school day. Enforcing strict group arrangements will also help us reduce the number of people who will be asked to self-isolate should a member of the group become ill with coronavirus.

From September, pupils will be grouped into Class Bubbles until further notice. The classes will not be permitted to mix at this time, including during breaktimes and lunchtimes. We will continually review the effectiveness of enforcing these groups, as we understand this arrangement may present educational and logistical challenges.

Should any of the above group arrangements change at any time, the school will notify you as soon as possible.

Recovery Curriculum

When we return to school our daily timetables and learning programmes will be a little different to usual. There will be a focus on both core Reading, Writing and Maths skills as well as a provision for supporting well-being too. Classes will be outdoors more, with a wide range of other activities that will help the children with their learning and development. As always, we will put fun and enjoyment at the top of the list too.

Contact with school

Please avoid face-to-face conversations with members of staff and ask that you email school, instead. If you need to speak to Mrs Barlow directly, use the updated INTERCOM at the main entrance. Please use cashless payments where possible and remember school meals need to be paid in advance. Dinner money prices have increased to £2.20 per meal / £11 per week.

If your question / information is for the class teacher and not urgent – you can contact them directly:

Class One via Tapestry

Class Two via Seesaw

info@newtown.derbyshire.sch.uk (Subject – FAO CLASS THREE)

Teachers will reply as soon as they are possible.

Getting to school

We have introduced some changes to arriving / picking-up from school, to allow for effective social distancing and infection control. Please see the table below for information for each class.

There are several rules we need everyone to follow at arrival and pick-up times to ensure we do not have to introduce more staggered timings that will shorten the school day:

• One adult per family, if possible
• Do not linger
• Maintain some social distancing
• Be prompt and keep to timings – if late you will need to come to the Reception door

It is important that children are not dropped off at the entrance to school, or on the school car park. We have thirty children and their parents / siblings in Class One using the drive to get to school and their safety is paramount.

Infection control and social distancing measures as of September

It is important that we maintain proportionate infection control and social distancing measures when we welcome back all pupils and staff from the start of the Autumn term. To ensure everyone’s safety, we will be enforcing the following (amongst other measures) as part of our risk management plan:

• Anyone who is unwell and displaying symptoms of coronavirus will be asked to stay at home for seven days.
• Robust hand and respiratory hygiene practises will be encouraged and enforced.
• Enhanced cleaning will be undertaken as necessary, including cleaning any frequently touched surfaces throughout the day.
• The NHS ‘Test and Trace’ system will be actively used and followed.
• Limitations will be placed on the number of people staff and pupils encounter during the school day.
• Large gatherings will not take place, e.g. assemblies, after school clubs, events involving other schools, educational visits to busy public spaces.
• Pupils will be grouped together and asked to remain in these groups.
• Contact between groups will be avoided.
• Where possible, pupils will be asked to maintain some social distancing, avoid sitting face-to-face, etc.
• Abide by any rules outside of school too.

Should any of the above protective measures change at any time, including the need to close the school due to a local lockdown, we will contact you as soon as possible.

If your child becomes unwell

If your child becomes unwell at school and develops a new, continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss of, or change in, their normal sense of smell or taste, they will be sent home immediately. They will be told to self-isolate within the school and supervised, as necessary, until they can be collected. The school will contact you as soon as possible should your child need to go home. It is therefore vital that we have your up-to-date contact details, please contact us  as soon as possible to notify us of any changes.

If your child becomes unwell at home and is presenting with symptoms of coronavirus (listed above), we ask that your child does not attend school and instead stays at home for the next seven days or until they test negative for coronavirus. We request all parents whose child is presenting with coronavirus symptoms to get their child tested (see information at the end of this letter) and, where required, their family. Please contact the school office before 8:20am to notify us that your child will not be attending. We also ask that you send us as soon as possible the text with the result of the coronavirus tests that have undertaken.

From September, school has to contact our Local Health Protection Team for advice following confirmed cases of CV19. They will inform us of the next steps the school has to take – these may include individuals needing to self-isolate ; partial or class bubble isolation or whole school lockdown. As of writing this letter, we have still had no confirmed cases of CV19 for pupils or staff at either school.

Catering arrangements

School kitchens will be fully open from the start of the Autumn term and will serve both hot and cold food. There may be some variations in menus to aid more effective serving of foods. Free school meals (FSM) will be provided as normal.

Pupils will be asked to remain in their designated groups at lunchtime and will eat their lunches in the hall. Infection control and social distancing measures will be enforced during lunchtime and we ask that pupils do not share food, utensils, or cups at this time.

School uniform

The school expects all pupils to wear school uniform from the beginning of the Autumn term. To reduce close contact between staff and pupils, elasticated waist trousers / skirts and Velcro shoes would be preferred. For younger children, get them to practice dressing, undressing and changing into and out of uniform into PE kits, putting coats on and off, etc. As always, please name everything! We will continue to engage in much learning outside, so please ensure your child has appropriate coat / sun hat, etc. depending on the weather. We also ask that PE kits are provided for both indoor and outdoor use. We encourage any new footwear to be ‘worn in’ as we will be taking children for walks and don’t want them to struggle with uncomfortable shoes / trainers. We will also be visiting our Secret Garden every week, so have a pair of wellies ready for September too – ideally, these would need to stay in school.

Foxes’ Den

Friday 17^th July is the last day to let Miss Williams know if you require use of Foxes’ Den from September. Please read the letter on the Newtown Home Page for details.

Reading Books

We are aware that we have many Reading Scheme books still at home – please send them back in September.

Mathletics

Your child’s Mathletics account will be refreshed on Monday 27^th July 2020, ready for the results from the next school year and results and progress bars will be reset. Your child’s Avatar, certificates and Live Mathletics scores will still be there, ready for another exciting year of Maths!

Recipe Book

The Newtown Recipe Book, packed with many brilliant recipes from the children, is now available to buy. If you would like a copy please send £8 via PayPal to         amybarkerchildminding@hotmail.co.uk referencing Newtown Book. Please email your order along with your address for delivery.

Many Thanks, Newtown PFA.

2020-21 Term Dates

These are attached to this letter.

A Few Words

I would like to thank you for your continued hard work and co-operation during the coronavirus pandemic. We are committed to supporting you and your child as they transition back into school routine and we are looking forward to seeing everyone again in September. I also wish to thank all the staff for their dedication, care and resilience – they have been phenomenal.

We hope you and your family stay safe and well.

Mr Parry and the Newtown Team

2020-2021 Academic Year Term Dates

Thursday 3rd September 2020 – Thursday 22nd October 2020
Monday 2nd November 2020 – Thursday 17th December 2020
Monday 4th January 2021 – Friday 12th February 2021
Monday 22nd February 2021 – Wednesday 31^st March 2021
Monday 19th April 2021 – Friday 28th May 2021
Monday 7th June 2021 – Wednesday 21st July 2021

INSET DAYS:

WEDNESDAY 2^nd SEPTEMBER 2020

FRIDAY 23^RD OCTOBER 2020

FRIDAY 18^TH DECEMBER 2020

THURSDAY 1^ST APRIL 2021

THURSDAY 22^ND JULY 2021

Bank Holidays

25th and 28th December 2020
1st January 2021
2^nd April 2021 (Good Friday)
5^th April 2021 (Easter Monday)
3^rd May 2021
31^st May 2021 (Spring Bank Holiday)
30^th August 2021 (Summer Bank Holiday)

Test and Trace

Information for parents and carers

GOT SYMPTOMS? GET TESTED NOW

Do not leave home, except to get a test.

Find out how to get a test at

nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119

• Anyone, whatever their age, who develops symptoms can get a test.
• Book a test within five days of experiencing a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or loss or change to sense of smell or taste.
• The test involves taking a swab of the nose and throat. Children aged 12 or over can use the swab themselves or can have help. Children aged 11 or under will need a parent or carer to do it for them.
• If you or someone in your household tests positive for coronavirus you’ll be contacted by the NHS Track and Trace team. You’ll be asked where you have visited and who you’ve been in contact with. It is important that you give the correct information to keep everyone safe.
• Your close contacts will be asked to self-isolate at home to stop the spread of the virus. If you are traced as a close contact you must stay at home.
• We’re all in this together. By doing the right thing you are helping to protect your friends and family and things can get back to normal more quickly.

FOXES' DEN - SEPTEMBER 2020 ARRANGEMENTS

Dear Parents / Carers,

We are keen to provide before and after school care. However, as we stand at the moment, the Government guidelines advise that all children need to stay in ‘Class bubbles’ to reduce risk. To help us adhere to this, I need to know when you require your child(ren) to attend. Please could you inform us by Friday 17^th July 2020 if you require a place either before school, or after school, stating the times you need. Please reply by email to Foxesdencare@hotmail.com or 07968870278 with your requirements (not the school office). Please be aware that there are limited spaces available.

We will also need to adhere to some changes in provision (whilst current guidance is in place). It is crucial that children should only attend the before and after school club when it is essential; furthermore, we cannot accept children booking in at the last minute as this will affect staffing levels and it is not currently possible to bring in staff at short notice.

 All payments must be made a month in advance.

 New rates are detailed below. Unfortunately, we have had to increase prices in order to ensure that we meet Government guidelines correctly.

 Closing time will now be 5pm.

Kind Regards,

 Judith Williams

Foxes’ Den Manager

New Price List

19.6.2020

Update

Dear Parents,

We hope you are all well.

Below are a few updates for your attention:

Return to school of other year groups

The Government guidance update on Monday allowed for schools to permit other year groups to attend, if there was capacity. Our Y6 bubbles have a smaller number of children, so we have invited Y5 pupils to join them from Monday 22^nd June. Y5 was chosen as the children are more able to walk to / from school independently, allowing less pressure if there are siblings still at home and they also have formed good friendships with Y6 pupils over their time at school. We have made adaptations to the classrooms to allow for the extra children do join us and still be in line with guidelines and risk assessments.

Return to school for other year groups

At the moment, the guidance doesn’t allow us to invite children from other year groups, as we do not have the space or staffing to do this safely. We do not anticipate any further changes to the guidance before the end of term for this particular respect. We are planning for all the children to return in September, but that is dependent on several changes to the guidance being introduced.

Following social distancing out of school

As some relaxations to the rules have been introduced and also seeing images of rallies of people, queues at non-essential shops, etc. it is all too easy to forget that there are still strict rules about social distancing. Remember, time can be spent outdoors with up to six people, whilst maintaining 2m distancing. If there is only one adult in a household (with/without dependent children), you may form a ‘support bubble’ with only one other household. It is really important everyone continues to follow this guidance as we increase the number of children in school. Please note, if one person within a bubble does test positive for Covid19, the rest of the bubble then need to self-isolate for 14 days.

School reports

Teachers are preparing school reports ready to go out at the start of July. The reports will be briefer this year, but also give the opportunity for you to let us know how the last few months have been too. The children will be able to let us know their thoughts as well. We will be offering a phone conversation with your child’s class teacher towards the end of term. It will explain on page two of the reports how to let us know you would like a phone conversation.

Are there plans for opening in the Summer?

The government have suggested there may an arrangement of ‘clubs’ to provide sporting, play or cultural provision. However, there is no detail yet and it is getting close to the Summer for this to be arranged. School will not be opening in the Summer as staff need a deserved break – remember, they have worked through the Easter and Whit school holidays. This is in line with the decision of all the local schools and gets the complete support of DCC and our school governors, who have staff well-being as a priority.

Will children get extra support when they come back to school?

We are aware that there will be a wide difference in the effect the last few months will have had on pupil’s learning and well-being. We are planning our usual exciting topics with some flexibility, so we are better able to respond to the needs of the children. We do know that for the children who have returned to school, they are pleased to be alongside friends and are very much enjoying the return to school. We would anticipate this would also be the case when we welcome back all of the children.

The Government have announced plans to fund some extra support for children from September. This appears to be through use of tutors, to help the children whilst at school. As has been the case throughout the last few weeks, we read the headlines and then the details gradually follow. In theory, this could be a welcome provision and we would hope the details are provided before the Summer break, so we can plan sooner for its implementation.

Messages of support

I would like to say a huge thank you for the kind words that have been received - the positive impact on staff morale following such messages is huge. There has been a fantastic collective effort in very stressful circumstances and I am very proud of how our schools have done all they can to provide the best possible support.

Take care and stay safe,

Mr Parry and the High Peak Federation Team

10.6.20

Dear Parent,

Yesterday, the Government announced that the return of year groups other than R,Y1, Y6 and Key Worker / Vulnerable pupils is not to go ahead as planned. We now need to establish a settled provision and need any parents of children in the above year groups with children not currently attending to let us know if they require a place.

Based on conversations with parents this week, we will be at / close to capacity for most of the groups, so it is really important we know your plans. Depending on requests, this may take some time to organise if we exceed the maximum bubble size of 15 – please be patient as we work through this.

Please email school by FRIDAY LUNCHTIME with any requests (if you have not already contacted school this week).

Kind Regards,

Mr Parry and the High Peak Federation teams

9.6.2020

Addendum to current Privacy Notice for Newtown Primary School

Personal data of employees, parents or visitors to school may be shared with NHS/PUBLIC HEALTH AGENCIES where relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic.

29/05/2020

Dear Parents,

We are now in a position to welcome back pupils from Reception, Year One and Year Six (in addition to children of key workers and vulnerable pupils) following:

• announcement from Government that the five key conditions have been met for return to school
• both schools completing all necessary preparations and risk assessments
• the full governing body being satisfied that school has done all that is required

The following was included in last week’s letter:

• There will be three groups of children - referred to as bubbles: REC/Y1 (Monday to Thursday), Y6 (Monday to Thursday) and Key Workers / Vulnerable (KWV) (Monday to Friday).
• These groups will be of a maximum of 15 pupils, although most groups will be significantly less than this.
• Pupils will be kept in the same groups, with the same staff, in the same rooms and will not be interacting with any other group at all.
• Windows will be kept open to ensure fresh air is circulated.
• Dinners will be served to pupils in their classrooms. Due to produce deliveries not being as consistent at the moment, menus may differ to those expected, although children will be able to choose their meal at the start of each day.
• Only the correct number of chairs and tables will be in the room. All unnecessary furniture and items that can’t be cleaned thoroughly will be removed from all classrooms.
• Older pupils will have their own table, books and stationery.
• Parents, carers and guardians will be expected to practise social distancing when arriving at, and leaving, school to ensure our community stays safe. Please be patient and respectful, especially as people move up and down the steps to school and do not linger for conversations too. We would ask that if possible, only one parent drops off at / collects from school.
• Outdoor activities will be used as much as possible.
• Children should wear uniform from the waist up, but with joggers / shorts / leggings and trainers.
• There will be no before and after school provision, or clubs, until September at the earliest.
• Any pupils who are unwell will be sent home. Any pupils or members of the immediate family with a confirmed case of Covid 19 will need to isolate for 14 days and that group of children’s parents will be notified and those children will not be able to come into school for 14 days. It will be requested that all members of the families are tested.

       The main symptoms of coronavirus are:

1. a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
2. a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)
3. a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal

• Handwashing routines will be in place.
• The DFE guidelines, and also our advice, is that although every measure will be taken, we cannot guaranteesocial distancing in school at all times.   
• There will be some one-way systems established within school and break times and lunchtimes will be staggered to ensure groups do not cross.
• Appropriate PPE will be given to staff based on advice at the time and first aid will be administered by a member of staff in goggles, face mask, plastic apron and gloves.
• Home learning will still be provided for those children not at school. However, due to the additional time, commitment and vigilance required from staff to keep those in school safe, this provision may need to change. We hope any change is kept to a minimum.

• Arrangements for dropping off and picking up are:
• REC/Y1 – 8:55am – 3:20pm (large side gate to the right of the school into  the Class 1 playground)
• Y6 – 8:55am – 3:30pm (back door)
• KWV – Same arrangements to continue (Foxes’ Den door)

In addition, please read carefully this further information:

• Much of our learning will be outdoors, so children will need appropriate clothing for all sets of weather. Please ensure your child is sent with a sun hat. They should either bring labelled sun cream that they can apply themselves or have already applied a brand that will give protection for the whole day (e.g. Calypso Once-a-day). Sending a spare sun cream to stay in school may also be useful. They should also have a lightweight waterproof coat. If children arrive at school and they do not have appropriate clothing / sun cream they will not be able to engage with outdoor learning. If the group were all heading outside, you could also be asked to take your child home and return with them once they have appropriate clothing / sun cream / sun hat / coat.
• Children will also need to bring a labelled water bottle. It is important we can keep the children hydrated – especially as we will be outside for much of our learning.
• Please do not bring to school and bags, toys, drinks, hand gels, books or homework. If you have school reading books at home – these should be returned in a plastic bag on Monday and we will clean them before returning them to the class libraries. We will not be sending books back home.
• Although the fruit for younger children service has been suspended, we have organised fruit for all the children at morning break, so no snacks need to be sent in to school.
• Please ensure any communication with those at school is kept to a minimum and only if essential. We would ask you to phone / email any important messages to avoid direct face to face engagement.
• Please avoid using cash payments – we would much prefer use of the School Money system.
• We will provide a pack of tissues for children to keep in their drawer.
• Please talk to your children about how return to school will have much the same, but that there will be differences too. It is worth encouraging very regular hand-washing as this will be taking place throughout the school day.

Messages Specific to Classes or Bubbles:

Reception / Year One

• Do not bring anything for show and tell!

Keyworker & Vulnerable Children

We have been working as a group for some time now, but the following is useful information:

• Please let Mrs Jones / Miss Fitzpatrick know, by Thursday at the very latest, requirements for the following week.
• The day will be a little more structured than prior to June 1^st. Forest School and PAS will continue for our ‘bubble’.

Year Six

We are asking children to use the back door. Please wait at a 2m social distance until your teacher collects you at 8.55am. At 3.30pm you will also leave from the back door. Again, maintain social distances as you go home.

I know there’s a lot to read, but it is essential we follow the above regulations to maximise the safety for all.

I need to say thank you for the continued kind words you are sending to school – we really appreciate them. I also need to say a huge thank you to the staff who have worked through  half-term (as well as Easter) to support the KWV group and engage in a massive effort to get school ready for June 1^st.

Please take care of yourselves and stay safe.

Many Thanks,

Mr Parry and the Newtown team.

22/05/2020

Dear Parents,

I am sure you are all well aware of the announcement that Primary Schools in England may open for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 pupils from 01/06/20. Further guidance for schools and parents was issued on Monday 11/05/2020 and 150 further pieces of updated guidance have continued to follow.

Although we will be ready to open on June 1^st, please be very aware that this is still an aim based on the current guidance not changing and the five key indicators set out by the Government being met. You should have childcare contingency plans in place in case the position changes.

As expected, there has been a significant response from teaching professionals, NHS, unions and parents and advice has been changing rapidly. At Thornsett and Newtown Primary Schools, we want to welcome the children back as soon as it is safe to do so for pupils and staff. We have completed detailed risk assessments to ensure staff and parents feel all appropriate measures have been taken. We have been supporting the children of key workers and vulnerable pupils in school for the last two months and already have in place much good practice.

Although school will look and feel different to what the children are used to, our ethos will continue to be supportive and nurturing. The staff will do everything in their power to ensure the children feel safe and are well cared for, but as you will be aware, even by following all necessary safety protocols, it is impossible for any school to guarantee they will remain Coronavirus free.

Thank you to everyone for promptly replying to our initial request to email your thoughts about reopening. This has enabled us to plan and assess risk much more effectively.

Below are some of the arrangements and details regarding the provision, should we be open to children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 pupils, in addition to children of key workers and vulnerable pupils too, based on the responses we received:

• There will be three groups of children - referred to as bubbles: REC/Y1 (Monday to Thursday), Y6 (Monday to Thursday) and Key Workers / Vulnerable (KWV) (Monday to Friday).
• These groups will be of a maximum of 15 pupils, although most groups will be significantly less than this.
• Pupils will be kept in the same groups, with the same staff, in the same rooms and will not be interacting with any other group at all.
• Windows will be kept open to ensure fresh air is circulated.
• Dinners will be served to pupils in their classrooms. Due to produce deliveries not being as consistent at the moment, menus may differ to those expected.
• Only the correct number of chairs and tables will be in the room. All unnecessary furniture and items that can’t be cleaned thoroughly will be removed from all classrooms.
• Older pupils will have their own table, books and stationery.

• Arrangements for dropping off and picking up are:
• REC/Y1 – 8:55am – 3:20pm (large side gate to the right of the school into  the Class 1 playground)
• Y6 – 8:55am – 3:30pm (front door)
• KWV – Same arrangements to continue (Foxes’ Den door)

• Parents, carers and guardians will be expected to practise social distancing when arriving at, and leaving, school to ensure our community stays safe. Please be patient and respectful, especially as people move up and down the steps to school and do not linger for conversations too. We would ask that if possible, only one parent drops off at / collects from school.
• Outdoor activities will be used as much as possible.
• Children should wear uniform from the waist up, but with joggers / shorts / leggings and trainers.
• There will be no before and after school provision, or clubs, until September at the earliest.
• Any pupils who are unwell will be sent home. Any pupils or members of the immediate family with a confirmed case of Covid 19 will need to isolate for 14 days and that group of children’s parents will be notified and those children will not be able to come into school for 14 days. It will be requested that all members of the families are tested.
• Handwashing routines will be in place.
• The DFE guidelines, and also our advice, is that although every measure will be taken, we cannot guarantee social distancing in school.    
• There will be some one-way systems established within school and break times and lunchtimes will be staggered to ensure groups do not cross.
• Appropriate PPE will be given to staff based on advice at the time and first aid will be administered by a member of staff in goggles, face mask, plastic apron and gloves.
• Home learning will still be provided for those children not at school. However, due to the additional time, commitment and vigilance required from staff to keep those in school safe, this provision may need to change.

Next steps:

We have based the above plans on the responses from parents and carers for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 pupils, in addition to children of key workers and vulnerable pupils. If your thoughts are different from those you have stated previously, please let us know by midday on Tuesday 26^th May.

If your child is eligible for two different bubbles, DfE advice is they would be expected to be placed with their year group if possible. However, two of the groups are not running on Fridays and children have to remain in the same group. Please let us know by midday on Tuesday 26^th May if you would prefer your child not to be with their year group, but in the Key Worker / Vulnerable group.

School will be prepared for the new learning bubbles from Wednesday next week. We have already ensured our daily cleaning complies with all regulations and school will receive a further deeper clean at the end of next week.

There will be further information provided next week too.

We have all missed our pupils and their families and we would like to thank you for your support and hard work.

Please take care of yourselves and stay safe.

Many Thanks,

Mr Parry and the Newtown team.

May 12th Update

The following link gives details for parents and carers of the possible re-opening of schools from June 1st for children in Reception, Year One and Year Six (and beyond that for all children at Primary School). 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers/reopening-schools-and-other-educational-settings-from-1-june

We will be consulting DCC, PEGS colleagues, Unions and Staff during the coming days to put in place what we are able to offer. As I'm sure you realise, it will not be all Reception, Year One and Year Six pupils in addition to those at school already (children of key workers and vulnerable pupils) in school at the same time. 

To help us better plan, it is really important that we get some sense of the children that are likely to attend should we be able to open on June 1st. If we know the numbers of children expected, it will massively assist our planning.

WOULD PARENTS OF CHILDREN IN RECEPTION, YEAR ONE AND YEAR SIX PLEASE EMAIL SCHOOL TO LET US KNOW YOUR PLANS BY FRIDAY LUNCHTIME AT THE LATEST.

Next week, we will hopefully be able to let you know what provision will look like.

Many Thanks,

Mr Parry and the Newtown Team

April 27th 2020 Newsletter

Dear Parents,

We do hope everyone is staying safe. The current circumstances are providing lots of challenges to us all, but we continue to do our best in delivering the support expected of us. This newsletter will outline some additional clarification around Home Learning and answer some questions we’ve received, as well as an explanation about how to access a new initiative too.

Home Learning Questions

Setting remote Home Learning programmes is something new for us all. We have put a lot of effort into providing appropriate learning and are further developing the programmes as we receive feedback from children, parents and colleagues. We are very grateful for the messages of support and have also worked hard at answering questions related to home learning too.

• What should Home Learning include?
  There is no guidance, or expectation, about what Home Learning should include. We have taken advice from colleagues, mental health and education experts, the local cluster of schools and feedback from children and parents to put the Home learning together. We have tried to get the balance right, but the programme will continue to evolve over time as we learn more about what works best.
• Will all schools have the same programme?
  No. Whilst we are keen to share good practice, every school will have introduced their own Home Learning programmes.
• Can teachers communicate with children through Zoom?
  We have been advised that Zoom should never be used for 1:1 communication between teachers and pupils. As there are still some security / safeguarding issues with Zoom, DCC are advising us to use it only if necessary and following completion of risk assessments, gaining permissions, etc. At the moment, we do not feel using Zoom is necessary. However, we are introducing a weekly ‘video from my teacher’ from Sunday 3rd May (see below).
• How can we best communicate?
  Each class / school has their own system that seems to be working well, so carry on with these. We will let you know if any new communication systems are introduced? info@thornsett.derbyshire.sch.uk andinfo@newtown.derbyshire.sch.uk are checked every day.
• How do I find out about Home Learning for my child?
  Each class has already set out the best way to access the Home Learning. If you are   unsure, please contact school and we will offer our help.
• What if I find something I really want to do with my child, but it’s not been set by school?                                                           Do it! Please share with us if it went well, so others can have a go as well.
• What if I want to access learning in a different way?
  Every family’s circumstances are different. Teachers are working incredibly hard to provide an accessible Home Learning programme, but this won’t necessarily suit everyone the same. Find what works for you and your family and know it’s okay to change things if you need to. Some families have asked for practical outdoor learning, whilst others have requested learning that can be done sat down at a table. We are also aware that access to laptops, tablets and reliable fast broadband will vary hugely and this presents challenge too. It is not possible to create a Home Learning programme that meets everyone’s needs perfectly, but it is not practical, or fair, to ask teachers to create individual programmes too. Please remember, both schools have remained open (including over Easter) to support children of key workers and vulnerable families and staff have continued to be at work. Many staff have their own families that also need supporting, but they continue to focus on giving the best support they can.
• Is the BBC Bitesize learning programme useful?
  We got to see this only last Monday when it was launched, so had not been able to assess its usefulness until last week. Based on what we’ve seen so far it looks good.
  The advantages are:

• that the learning is well organised and covers not just Maths and English, but other curriculum areas too.
• that objectives do match those expected in each year group.
• the activities are well thought out and include some ‘celebrity’ teachers.

The disadvantages are:

• not all children are working within the objectives for their particular year group, so some learning may be too demanding / not demanding enough.
• the children may have already covered some of the learning – particularly Maths and English. However, this could be useful revision.
• Some of the activities require resources that may not be to hand.

If you feel like you would like additional set lessons it is worth considering, as long as you bear in mind the above.

Video From My Teacher

We are responding to messages that the children have really missed their teachers and would love to see them! So, from Sunday 3rd May a weekly ‘video from the teachers’ will be posted on the class pages of the website. The children will have a chance to put a question to their teacher and a lucky few will get their question answered.

Submit questions using the following link: https://forms.gle/K2stByxDtj83S5rW6

For security, we will make the class pages of the website password protected. We will text everyone a username and password on Friday that will allow access to their child’s class page.

An important message from the staff…

As we enter our second week described by many as ‘home schooling’, we just want to say for us this is NOT ‘home schooling’. Some children will be having a great time playing at home and might be appreciating the more relaxed pace of life. Children might be missing the structure of school and craving more routine or formal learning. Others will be feeling anxious, missing their friends and might need just to spend time with you to feel safe, without the pressure of continuous school work. We appreciate the differences in all of our children and that’s what makes them all so special and wonderful to teach. The learning we set is there for if you and your child needs it and we are very happy for you to share it too. Equally, if it’s a day that your child needs to chill out, dig up worms, or whatever else helps them to feel calm then that’s okay too. We are here to support our families in whatever way they need. School is about so much more than education and mental health must also be the priority here.

With love from the staff x

Finally

I continue to be immensely proud of our school communities as we work together in these difficult and challenging times.

Many Thanks,

Mr Parry and the High Peak Federation Team

MESSAGE FROM BEING OUTDOORS

Hi all,

Enter text...

NEWTOWN NEWSLETTER 16.04.20

 Hi All,

 As promised, the class teachers have put together an explanation of home learning plans for each class. Please read them carefully…

Class 1

Hello! I will be uploading some activities to Tapestry each week that the children might benefit from doing at home. Please don’t feel any pressure in completing all of these, but they are there if you want them. There will be two sets of activities - red and yellow. You will receive a text message on Friday evening to tell you which colour activities to aim for. I have also created a set of “just for fun” activities which might be appealing. If you are struggling to access Tapestry then I can email activation links again - please just text school or contact me on the Newtown PFA Facebook page. Feel free to share anything that the children have been getting up to on Tapestry by creating your own observation.

Looking forward to seeing the children’s efforts! 

Mrs Holt :)

Classes 2and 3 

Classes 2 and 3 will be setting work for children on a weekly basis and will be uploading the weekly activities onto Seesaw. Seesaw is an app which the children will be familiar with already, as we use it regularly in school Maths lessons. To download this app, you should search for Seesaw Class on the app store. You can also access this as a web page on a computer if you would prefer.  

When you attempt to access Seesaw on the app or webpage, you will be asked whether you are a teacher, parent or student. Please click onto the student button. You will be sent 3 texts from 6pm on Friday with the access codes and which coloured sections to do.  Please use this code to log into the account. When you have logged in, you may be able to see some work which the children have done so far this year in Maths. Each week we will upload the weekly activities to the journal so that you can access these at home. Resources needed will be accessed through the ACTIVITY button.  Children can add pictures, drawings and written work to their journal at any point by clicking on the ‘add’ button. This is a secure way of showing the staff at school what your child has been up to at home. The work that you submit can only be seen by the staff and is added to your child’s journal. 

We have planned a week of activities linked to Numeracy and Literacy. The activities are colour-coded. We will direct you to the colour of the activities best suited for your child. You will receive a text around the same time as you receive the log-in code telling you which colour work to access. You may find that you are asked to work from a different colour for Maths for instance than Reading and Writing. New work will be added each Friday so that will give a week to have a go at activities for Numeracy and Literacy before the next week’s work is added. The extra activities for each class are at the end of the document after the coloured pages. Most children will need help to plan when to do work and how to do it. Year 5 and 6 are encouraged to work more independently where possible. We are very mindful of pressures on every family during these difficult times so please do as little, or as much as a family, you feel able to.  If you have any messages or feedback you can contact staff through Text2parents or the Newtown PFA Facebook page. 

Mrs McGuckian, Mrs Jones, Miss Fitzpatrick 

Many Thanks,

Mr Parry and the Newtown Team

NEWSLETTER APRIL 2020

Dear Parents,

We hope you are all managing. We are missing all the children, as school seems very quiet with only a handful of children here. The staff have been fantastic at continuing to provide care for the children of key workers and vulnerable pupils, as well as providing learning programmes and links for those at home. We have also ensured children entitled to Free School Meals have received vouchers and Easter hampers too. More vouchers will be issued for after Easter. Thank you to all those who have sent messages of support - they are really appreciated.

 As schools across the UK have closed, all parents up and down the country have faced the similar task of keeping their children healthy, happy and learning at home. At present we have no idea of when, and how, we will re-open. With this in mind, the teachers from each class will provide learning links for a fortnightly period at a time. This will include activities that we would ideally like to see the children engage with as often as possible, as well as a few extra ideas too. However, we recognise that every family dynamic is different and we do not expect parents to become full-time expert carers, teachers, fitness instructors and mental health practioners overnight - especially when managing the stresses of dealing with a pandemic! Everybody will need to find the routines and pace that work best for them. Some children thrive on sustained regular routined activity, whilst others cope better with short bursts of focus with more rest and it is important to make it work for all in the family. It is key to build in quiet time and rest - even superheroes need a day off once in a while!

All the Newtown staff would like to say a big well done for those who have engaged so well with home learning and shared your activities too - keep it up and take care.

KEY WORKER INFORMATION FOR CHILDREN

Thank you for helping us in responding to texts, phone calls and emails regarding provision for Key Worker's children. The staff have been brilliant in how they have responded to rapid change and uncertainty in putting a plan together.

The following information will help everything run smoothly:

Newtown Information

Foxes' Den runs from 8am to 9am, with a breakfast provided for children - this will be charged at £4.

Children should be in non-uniform that can get dirty and bring outdoor walking boots / wellies and PE kit.

Hot dinners will be provided, but children in Y3-Y6 will need to pay as normal for these.

School ends at 3.30pm.

Foxes' Den runs from 3.30pm until 5pm, with a snack provided - this will be charged at £4.50

There will be a teacher, teaching assistant and midday assistant on site each day.

NEWTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL

On behalf of the pupils, Governors and staff of the school I would like to welcome you to the Newtown Primary School (a member of the High Peak Federation) website.

Newtown Primary School is a place where all staff are dedicated to providing a stimulating and exciting environment where everyone feels valued and safe. Creativity and ideas can flourish and children can maximise their progress. By providing a varied and creative curriculum, which engages our children, and by promoting excellent behaviour, we aim to enthuse in all our children a desire to learn, a caring nature and a respect for one other.

Our Vision:

• WE ARE A CARING, CAN-DO FEDERATION.
• WE CREATE INNOVATIVE, EXCITING AND FUN LEARNING EXPERIENCES.
• WE BELIEVE THAT OUR CHILDREN CAN ACHIEVE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL THOUGH BEING ADVENTUROUS AND BRAVE.
• WE BELIEVE THIS GIVES OUR CHILDREN THE SKILLS TO THRIVE AND BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE.

Ofsted recognised this and judged us a 'Good' school in March 2018.

We hope you enjoy our website and are encouraged to visit us and join the Newtown community. 

Mr Ashley Parry (Executive Head teacher)