Monday 19^th October

Dear Parents & Carers,

We are nearing the end of the first term of this academic year and I would firstly like to say thank you all for the support that you have given to each other and our whole school community since September. It was always going to be a challenge with the new approach to how schools will be operating in the current circumstances and I have said on numerous occasions, it is like starting a new school with new rules and ways of doing things. Routines that in the past we have all done without really thinking, have had to be re-thought through, amended and re-learned. A challenge for us all. As Head Teacher of this amazing school, I continue to be bowled over with absolute pride about the way that you, as parents, your children and our staff have risen to this challenge of the re-organisation of the school We have developed new ways of delivering outstanding learning opportunities and we have ensured that all the children have returned in a safe and settled way. Thank you for playing your part in this. Your continued support is truly welcomed.

The children have settled well this term and have adapted to the new ways of working brilliantly. One of our key priorities continues to be reading. Please continue to support us by reading at home. Information can be found on our website https://www.cliftonvilleprimary.co.uk/how-to-help-your-child/   Please see the diagram below for information to help with remote learning.

Over this last term we have been developing our remote online learning provision so that when your child is having to isolate at home and is not able to come to school, they can continue with their learning.   Whilst developing this we have ensured that the technology (Microsoft TEAMS is available on all android and IOS systems, mobile phones, Ipads, tablets and computers) is accessible to everyone and the work is appropriate for the children to do at home.   Sometimes this work will be in the form of online programmes e.g. phonics play, My Maths etc. Some work will be provided through Microsoft TEAMS in the form of voiced PowerPoints and some lessons may be live on TEAMS. Children are currently being shown how to access TEAMS whilst at school and there will be a ‘How to Guide’ for parents on our website. You will also see on the front home page of the website a new tab where all remote learning can be accessed.

There will be an expectation that this work is completed to the best of your child’s ability. If you haven’t already done so, please let the school know if you would be unable to access this. All information about this can be found on the website https://www.cliftonvilleprimary.co.uk/topic/remote-learning

Can I also take this opportunity to signpost you to our wellbeing hub located in the ‘house.’ We have a large pastoral team working together to support the wellbeing of pupils and families. We are very lucky to have Emma Kaye, one of our Play Therapists, helping and supporting families with videos on a range of issues including, anxiety and separation anxiety. We will be updating these on our website regularly so please keep visiting https://www.cliftonvilleprimary.co.uk/socially-and-emotionally/

Finally, thank you for continuing to keep us informed and helping us to keep everyone safe. Cliftonville Primary and Pre-school continues to show its strength as a community.

Have a happy and safe half term break and we will be looking forward to welcoming you all back on Monday, 2nd November.  The start and finish times for all year groups will remain the same as Term 1.

Best wishes,

Claire Whichcord