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31 Jan Newsletter – Edition 56 – 31st January 2025

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1738328572340{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,St Paul’s Cathedral ServiceYesterday, eight St Mary’s children teamed up with children from Kentish Town Primary School to perform in a service for the LDBS schools at the amazing St Paul’s Cathedral. There was an audience of approximately 1700 children, staff and special visitors from the LDBS community and yet the band performed confidently and beautifully, unphased by the audience, vast space and grandness of the Cathedral. It was a privilege watching our children perform pieces on their instruments and it made me immensely proud. It is not every day that such an opportunity arises and I hope that the children carry that memory with them into the future. Mrs Peacock and I will continue to seek opportunities to do similar things as they arise. If you have Instagram, please take a look at the photographs and video - @stmarysschooln8 or on our website here St Paul'sThe Start Of The School DayA reminder for all parents at Rectory Gardens that the main gate opens at 8.35am for a soft school start, allowing parents 10 minutes to visit their child’s classroom if they wish. The main gate closes at 8.45am and children are expected to be in their classroom ready to learn at this time. At Church Lane the gate opens at 8.45am for a soft start and closes at 9am when the children are expected to be in their classrooms ready to learn.SMART Phone Free MovementFollowing my last newsletter, some parents have asked about the SMART phone free movement and whether I could share some information. If you are interested in finding out more, you may wish to look at a grassroots organisation called SMART phone free childhood. Many parents are choosing not to give their children a SMART phone because of the challenges and dangers associated with them. Take a look and see what you think. As a headteacher and a parent, I recognise the multiple challenges for our young people and would certainly recommend that you take a look, especially as so many of you are raising concerns around children’s social media and internet use.  Some schools are recommending phones like these from Argos: Basic PhoneHave a lovely weekend and we will see you on Monday,Best wishesJane O’BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1738341256933{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 31st January - Y4 to Natural History Museum
• Wednesday 5th February - PSA Cake Sale @ RG - please bake, bring and buy - PSA Cake Sale Feb 2025
• Thursday 6th February - Y3 Emerald & Y3 Jade Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 6th February - PSA Cake Sale @ CL - please bake, bring and buy PSA Cake Sale Feb 2025
• Monday 10th February - Animal Encounters - Nursery & Reception
• Tuesday 11th February - Y5 to Kew Gardens
• Tuesday 11th February - Y1 to London Zoo
• Thursday 13th February - Y1 Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Thursday 13th February - Y3 to Muswell Hill Synagogue
• Thursday 6th March - Science Day
• Friday 7th March - World Book Day
• Friday 7th March - Reading Stay & Share - after drop off CL & RG
• Friday 7th March - Adult Bingo Night @ RG 7-9pm
• Friday 21st March - PSA Disco at Rectory Gardens
• Monday 24th March to Friday 4th April - Big Walk & Wheel Fortnight
• Tuesday 25th March - Year 1 Monuments of London Walk trip
• Thursday 27th March - Y2 Marigold Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Thursday 3rd April - Y2 Buttercup Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Saturday 5th April - PSA Easter Hunt & Craft Fair @ CL 12.30-2.30pm
• Tuesday 29th April - Y6 to Natural History Museum
• Thursday 1st May - Y4 Crimson Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 8th May - Y4 Scarlet Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 15th May - Reception Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Wednesday 21st May - PSA Cake Sale @ RG - 3.15pm - please bring, bake & buy
• Thursday 22nd May - PSA Cake Sale @ CL - 3.30pm - please bring, bake & buy
• Thursday 26th June - Y5 Topaz & Turquoise Class Assembly - 2.40pm
• Saturday 28th June - Summer Fair @ CL - 12.30-2.30pm
• Friday 11th July - End of Year BBQ @ RG - 6.30-8.30pm

For Your Information

• Coash Joel who runs the Boxing Club at Rectory Gardens is running a half term boxing camp - please see here for details Jab First Boxing Half Term February Boxing Club
• Request from After School Club - After School Club would very much like a Monopoly set, if anyone has one that is going spare. Please email swalker@stmarysn8.co.uk if you do! Thank you.
• Mthr Clem is holding a special Teaching Eucharist at Hornsey Parish Church on Sunday 9th February at 10.30am. "On Sunday 9th February, we are having a teaching Eucharist as our 10:30am parish service. This is an All-Age service in which the we shall explain the main parts of the Eucharistic as we pray and worship together. All are welcome to come and learn more about our worship life" Teaching Eucharist 09 02 25
• Our Toddler & Parent Group on Monday mornings is becoming very popular - if you'd like your under 3 to attend (or know of someone) email lchristou@stmarysn8.co.uk to book a place
• CLUBS - Spring 2025 It's time to book your activity clubs for the Spring Term - click here to have a look at what's available HERE CL All Clubs List Spring 2025 RG All Clubs Spring 2025

17 Jan Newsletter – Edition 55 – 17th January 2025

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1737130572108{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,We have been back in school for two weeks already and the Christmas break seems a distant memory. I hope that you all had a great holiday and that the new year brings you all that you wish for.Sporting EventsIt’s been a busy start to the Spring term and already groups of children have been Roller Racing, to indoor athletics and worked with the Middlesex Cricket Club. It’s great to see a range of different things taking place that go above and beyond the expectations of the National Curriculum offer. We are so fortunate to have Mr Oakley to not only deliver amazing lessons but to also organise the additional activities and events.Smart Phones and Social MediaIn previous newsletters I have written about the challenges and concerns that arise from primary aged children having smart phones and devices like tablets. Disappointingly, we have already had to deal with two incidents that have happened outside of school on social media, that have been brought into school. These incidents are all taking place on apps such as WhatsApp, Discord, SnapChat and the like, however these all have a minimum age restriction of 13+ years and so the children should not be on them anyway.If your child already has a Smart phone or device please monitor the content of communications and the apps that are being used. Keep track of what apps your child is engaging with, use parental controls to limit access and regularly review their digital activity.If you are thinking about giving your child a smart phone, you may wish to consider an alternative. If your child needs a telephone to contact you as they walk to and from school, many parents are now purchasing basic phones that can be used for calls, messages and simple games. If required, use a home PC, laptop or device for using apps. You can control this so much better, putting it in a central place at home and checking what your child is using it for.If you haven’t seen this already, I would urge you to watch the following documentary that aired on Channel 4 over the holidays, Swiped: The School That Banned Smart Phones. This three-week experiment studied the horrifying effects of the content that children can access 24/7 on their smart phones. As a parent, the realisation that I gave my children smart phones and potentially access to absolutely everything on the World Wide Web was both frightening and concerning. This is an education for parents! Let me know your thoughts if you manage to watch it.Please note that with the advances in technology, we now consider a smartwatch to have the same capabilities as a phone, and any brought in to school should be handed over to the class staff for the day, in the same way as a mobile phone.Leave During Term TimeSchools are committed to improving attendance in line with Local Authority and Government priorities. There has been a decline in attendance since Covid and there is clear evidence of the detrimental impact that absences can have on children’s education and well-being.Please be reminded that you should not be taking your child out of school during term time. In exceptional circumstances some time may be granted but these are usually unavoidable and one-off events. Examples may include close family members bereavements or religious observance for a ceremony. We will look at individual circumstances including looking at attendance and any previous leave when making a decision and may seek guidance from the Educational Welfare Service. Any request for exceptional leave must be made in advance to the school. We will then respond to let you know whether any exceptional leave has been granted. Holidays and the cost of travel are not exceptional circumstances and will not be authorised. Coming Up..We have many more sporting activities coming up as well as a wide range of trips which include the local synagogue, Kew Gardens, London Zoo, Natural History Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral and Pizza Express so watch out for communication about the trips that your child will be attending this term.Have a lovely weekend and we will see you on Monday,Best wishesJane O’BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1737644497103{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 31st January - Y4 to Natural History Museum
• Wednesday 5th February - PSA Cake Sale @ RG - please bake, bring and buy
• Thursday 6th February - Y3 Emerald & Y3 Jade Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 6th February - PSA Cake Sale @ CL - please bake, bring and buy
• Monday 10th February - Animal Encounters - Nursery & Reception
• Tuesday 11th February - Y5 to Kew Gardens
• Tuesday 11th February - Y1 to London Zoo
• Thursday 13th February - Y1 Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Thursday 13th February - Y3 to Muswell Hill Synagogue
• Thursday 6th March - World Book Day
• Thursday 6th March - Reading Stay & Share - after drop off CL & RG
• Friday 7th March - Adult Bingo Night @ RG 7-9pm
• Friday 21st March - PSA Disco at Rectory Gardens
• Thursday 27th March - Y2 Marigold Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Thursday 3rd April - Y2 Buttercup Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Saturday 5th April - PSA Easter Hunt & Craft Fair @ CL 12.30-2.30pm
• Tuesday 29th April - Y6 to Natural History Museum
• Thursday 1st May - Y4 Crimson Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 8th May - Y4 Scarlet Class Assembly - 9.00am
• Thursday 15th May - Reception Class Assembly - 9.15am
• Wednesday 21st May - PSA Cake Sale @ RG - 3.15pm - please bring, bake & buy
• Thursday 22nd May - PSA Cake Sale @ CL - 3.30pm - please bring, bake & buy
• Thursday 26th June - Y5 Topaz & Turquoise Class Assembly - 2.40pm
• Saturday 28th June - Summer Fair @ CL - 12.30-2.30pm
• Friday 11th July - End of Year BBQ @ RG - 6.30-8.30pm

For Your Information

• During this cold weather, Haringey Council are sharing details of Warm Spaces on offer for residents who may be at risk, or in fuel poverty - have a look at the link and pass to any people you think may be vulnerable Warm Welcome
• SEND Power in Haringey - SEND Power is a forum for parents and carers of children with SEN or SEND, offering support and information on local and national service - see here for more details SEND Power
• Are you the parent or carer of an SEND child? If so, you might be interested in the January Haringey SEND newsletter January SEND Newsletter
• We have been given the opportunity to offer families highly discounted tickets to the Super League Basketball Playoff Finals at a cost of £10 each, which is a discount of over 60%!The Playoff Finals take place on Sunday 18th May 2025 at The O2, London and will have two top teams from the Men’s and Women’s Super League Basketball battle it out to become the last team standing in the 2024/2025 season. You can find out more about Play-off Finals Day by visiting www.superleaguebasketballm.co.uk/2025playoffs/If you wish to apply for tickets, please use this booking link LINK FOR TICKETS
• CLUBS - Spring 2025 It's time to book your activity clubs for the Spring Term - click here to have a look at what's available HERE CL All Clubs List Spring 2025 RG All Clubs Spring 2025

20 Dec Newsletter – Edition 54 – 20th December 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1734699257632{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,Here we are, four days before Christmas and bringing the Autumn term to a close. This term has gone so quickly, however we have achieved so much, including our spectacular Christmas show!Christmas Around The World – A Nativity ShowI am super proud of all of the children who sang and performed with such joy and enthusiasm at the St Mary’s Christmas show. When we started to plan this, we were unsure how it would work, as the two sites had not come together before for such a production. It was a resounding success, with all the children performing together as they fed off each other’s energy and happiness, delivering an amazing festive event. If you were not in the Christmas mood before the show you would have been after! It was fantastic to see so many of you in the audience supporting the children, we hope that you enjoyed it. For a round-up of all our Christmas festivities, including the Nativity please click here Christmas at St Mary's 2024At the end of both shows we asked for donations, with all money collected going towards books for the class book areas. I am pleased to say that we collected a massive £231.70, so thank you very much.A Special VisitorSanta Claus visited Church Lane and Rectory Gardens yesterday delivering gifts to each of the classes. We were so surprised that Santa Claus found the time to visit us at what is an extremely busy time for him and his elves. Ask your children about his visit and the gift their class received. I managed to find time to share my Christmas wish list with him! The Joy of Giving – Santa Fun RunThe children at St Mary’s participated in their own Santa Fun Run last Friday. They raised £106 for the charity set up by her parents in memory of Esme Orike, an ex-pupil who sadly died this year. Well done everyone.On behalf of the whole staff team, thank you all for your kind words and gifts this Christmas, we feel very much loved and appreciated.Christmas is a time to come together with friends and family. I hope that during this festive season you have the opportunity to be with loved ones and to love and be loved.Sending you best wishes for a healthy and happy holiday and I hope that 2025 brings all you wish for.See you in the new year.Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1734689813690{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 20th December - last day of term (usual times but please note earlier closing of After School Clubs - see email sent with details)
• Monday 6th January - children back to school

For Your Information

• We have had such a wonderful Christmas build-up so we wanted to share it - see here for our piece in the Ham & High Christmas Traditions at St Mary's
• CLUBS - Spring 2025 It's time to book your activity clubs for the Spring Term - click here to have a look at what's available HERE CL All Clubs List Spring 2025RG All Clubs Spring 2025
• Interested in cricket? Middlesex in the Community are offering an indoor session on Friday 3rd January at their indoor cricket school - see poster below or click here Middlesex Cricket Winter Drop-In Sessions
• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

06 Dec Newsletter – Edition 53 – 6th December 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1734003814564{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,With only 2 weeks left of school this term, we are in the midst of the Christmas season, making us all feel festive. We still have so much planned for the next two weeks so please ensure you have the diary dates at hand so you don’t miss anything.Christmassy ThingsThe Naughty Elves have again made an appearance at both Rectory Gardens and Church Lane. They are up to mischief and entertaining the children with their antics so ask your children if they have seen them.EYFS went to a Christingle making workshop last week, we have had our Advent Assembly, the choir sang at Alexandra Palace, we have displayed the Christmas hoops (made by each class) and switched on the St Mary’s Christmas lights. Hopefully you will be attending the Christmas Fair this evening between 5.30pm and 7.30pm and we are looking forward to the whole school Christmas nativity on Wednesday 18^th December. Please see the Christmas Programme for all events Christmas Dates 2024The Joy of Giving – Santa Fun Run and Hornsey FoodbankThe children will again be participating in our own Santa Fun Run and this year are raising money in memory of an ex-pupil, Esme Orike, who sadly died of a rare form of cancer in September aged just 13. Her mum was the school’s Chair of Governors for a while, only stepping down when Esme became ill. The children are asked to bring in a donation on the day of the Fun Run for the charity or, even better, make a donation via their JustGiving page Santa Run for EsmeDuring such difficult times with a cost-of-living crisis, we know that many families will struggle this Christmas. If you are in a position to do so, please could you donate food items to the Hornsey Foodbank, details can be found here  Christmas Food Bank Appeal.Maths Stay and Play & Baby & Toddler Drop InIt was great to see everyone who came to the maths Stay and Play this week. I was at Church Lane and we had so many parents and carers attend that we were running out of chairs!! The children thoroughly enjoyed having fun completing maths activities and games.Did you know St Mary’s are now running a Baby and Toddler drop-in on Monday mornings from 9.30am to 10.30am? If you have a young child who is not at school, come along for a play, tea or coffee and a chat.It’s important to call into school if your child is absentEvery school has a statutory duty to account for children who are not at school in accordance with Government guidance on Children Missing Education. What does this mean for you?

• Parents need to contact school and tell us why their child is absent from school on day 1, so that can be recorded
• If parents do not contact school, we will try to make contact using all details that are on the school system
• If by day 2 we have been unable to make contact with parents, school is required to do a home visit and seek advice from Children’s Social Care
• If on day 3, after these steps we have still not had contact, the last resort is calling the police

These systems are important to help safeguard children and we ask for your cooperation in reporting absences.Important Information for Whole School NativityOn Wednesday 18^th December, we will have our whole school Nativity and all children will be based at Rectory Gardens for the day. Please look out for a separate letter with details of how this will work.After School Club (ASC) Updates – Last Day of Term & Nativity DayIf your child/ren attend After School Club please look out for communication coming your way. One letter shares some information about ASC on the last day of term and the others will share information about ASC on the day of the whole school Nativity.It looks like it’s going to be a wet and very windy weekend so please stay safe,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1733494973621{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 6th December - please come along to our wonderful Christmas Fair - 5.30pm-7.30pm at Rectory Gardens - click HERE  to volunteer
• Tuesday 10th December - Violins concert @ RG 11am
• Wednesday 11th December - Christmas Dinner Day + Christmas jumper (let the office know if your packed lunch child would like a Christmas dinner)
• Thursday 12th December - Trumpets & Trombones concert @ RG 10am
• Thursday 12th December - Rectory Gardens to Horrible Christmas Histories at Ally Pally - due back 3.45pm
• Thursday 12th December - Trumpets & Trombones concert @ RG 10am
• Monday 16th December - collection for Hornsey Food Bank Hornsey Food Bank Christmas Appeal 2024
• Wednesday 18th December - Nativity performance for KS2 (Y3, Y4, Y5 & Y6) at Rectory Gardens 10.00am
• Wednesday 18th December - Nativity performance for EYFS & KS1 (Nursery, Reception, Y1 & Y2) at Rectory Gardens 2.00pm
• Thursday 19th December - whole school to Hornsey Parish Church
• Friday 20th December - last day of term (usual times but please note earlier closing of After School Clubs - see email sent with details)
• Monday 6th January - children back to school

Or click here for a full stick-on-the-fridge round-up of Christmas at St Mary's Christmas Dates 2024

For Your Information

• It's time to book your activity clubs for the Spring Term - click here to have a look at what's available HERE RG All Clubs Spring 2025
• It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! We have a full programme of events, starting right now up until the end of term - have a look and make a note of the dates or print it out for your fridge Christmas Dates 2024
• Help for Hornsey Food Bank this Christmas - please help make someone's Christmas a little brighter by donating to the Hornsey Food Bank (collections from 16/12) - see here Hornsey Food Bank Christmas Appeal 2024
• Year 1 and Year 2 Parents - please help us by completing this Sport England survey, which will raise money for sporting equipment in school - link SPORT ENGLAND SURVEY
• Interested in free rugby for your 8+ daughter? Please see here for details of Saracens Sonic Club Free Rugby for Girls 8+

• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

22 Nov Newsletter – Edition 52 – 22nd November 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1732296494396{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,The weather has certainly turned colder this week and it looks like we are set for a very wet weekend. It is definitely time to dig out the woolly hat, gloves, scarf and waterproof coat. Keep warm and dry everyone!Return of Ms GordonWe are pleased to let you know that Ms Gordon will be returning from maternity leave on Monday 9^th December, working with Ms Fernandes in Topaz Class. We are very grateful to Ms Vidic, our EAL teacher, who stepped in as a familiar adult for the children to cover Ms Gordon. We thank her for all of her hard work in the class this term.Parent ConsultationsThanks to all of the parents who attended Parents Evening last week. I hope that you found it useful meeting with your child’s class teacher, looking at strengths and areas that need working on. We had 75% of parents attending meetings, which is good, however we would like to see all parents meeting with class teachers because we know that when we work together, we have the best impact on your children’s development. We hope to see more people in the Spring Term.Book FairYou purchased an amazing £866.00 worth of books, at the Book Fair last week, which means the school gets 40% off all book purchases we make to buy new books for the classrooms. Thank you!WrapUp LondonThank you for all your donations of coats. You brought over 100 coats which Mr Jenkins has dropped off, to help make the winter a little warmer for some people.Communication and Contact DetailsI wanted to remind everyone of the many ways in which St Mary’s shares information so that you are always fully informed. Please note it is your responsibility to update the school office should you have a change of contact details, and is very important.We provide information through:

• The school website
• Texts
• Emails
• Newsletters
• Instagram

If you are unsure about an upcoming event or want to see what the children have been doing, please take a look!If You Have A ConcernWe work extremely hard to ensure that everything runs smoothly in school, however, as with life, sometimes things happen that we need to be aware of, or may need to address. If you have a concern or a complaint, you must follow the schools Complaints Policy. This clearly identifies the steps that you should take to resolve an issue.The Build Up To ChristmasIf, like me, you are yet to concede that Christmas is only just around the corner, the following will certainly be the wake-up call that you need!Christmas Dates 2024We look forward to seeing you at our Christmas events and enjoying the festivities!Wrap up warm and enjoy your weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1733220429736{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Tuesday 26th November - Y5 & Y6 Eucharist at Hornsey Parish Church 1.45pm
• Saturday 30th November - Hornsey Parish Church Christmas Market 1-4pm
• Monday 2nd December - Church Lane to Wizard of Oz on Ice @ Ally Pally
• Tuesday 3rd December - Maths Stay & Play - come along after drop-off to play some maths games with your child
• Tuesday 3rd December - Non Uniform Day for Tombola Donation
• Friday 6th December - our wonderful Christmas Fair - 5.30pm-7.30pm at Rectory Gardens - 4 weeks to go! See here for details  CHRISTMAS FAIR - 2 weeks to go
• Click here to book your ticket for Santa's Grotto at the Christmas Fair Santa's Grotto Tickets
• Tuesday 10th December - Violins concert @ RG 11am + choir, band and ukulele - PARENTS WELCOME
• Wednesday 11th December - Christmas Dinner Day + Christmas jumper (let the office know if your packed lunch child would like a Christmas dinner)
• Thursday 12th December - Trumpets & Trombones concert @ RG 10am PARENTS WELCOME
• Thursday 12th December - Rectory Gardens to Horrible Christmas Histories at Ally Pally
• Thursday 12th December - Trumpets & Trombones concert @ RG 11am
• Monday 16th December - collection for Hornsey Food Bank Hornsey Food Bank Christmas Appeal 2024
• Wednesday 18th December - Nativity performance for KS2 (Y3, Y4, Y5 & Y6) at Rectory Gardens 10.00am
• Wednesday 18th December - Nativity performance for EYFS & KS1 (Nursery, Reception, Y1 & Y2) at Rectory Gardens 2.00pm
• Thursday 19th December - whole school to Hornsey Parish Church

Or click here for a full stick-on-the-fridge round-up of Christmas at St Mary's Christmas Dates 2024

For Your Information

• Did you see our article in the Ham & High recently? We're so grateful to our parents/carers for putting their trust into us and allowing us to give opportunities to ALL our children Ham & High article
• Prince, one of our former pupils recently wrote us a letter, with some help from his mum - you can read it here Letter from Prince 15 11 24
• It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! We have a full programme of events, starting right now up until the end of term - have a look and make a note of the dates or print it out for your fridge Christmas Dates 2024
• We need your help for the Jolly Jars at the Christmas Fair - see here for details Jolly Jars November 2024
• Help for Hornsey Food Bank this Christmas - please help make someone's Christmas a little brighter by donating to the Hornsey Food Bank (collections from 16/12) - see here Hornsey Food Bank Christmas Appeal 2024
• Year 1 and Year 2 Parents - please help us by completing this Sport England survey, which will raise money for sporting equipment in school - link SPORT ENGLAND SURVEY
• Three Compasses Christmas Craft Market- are you a local crafter or maker who would like a table at the Three Compasses Christmas Market? Or would you just like to go along? It's on 29/11/24 - details here 3C Christmas Craft Market 29 11 24
• Interested in free rugby for your 8+ daughter? Please see here for details of Saracens Sonic Club Free Rugby for Girls 8+
• Are you the parent of a child with SEND? Please see the Haringey November SEND Newsletter here Haringey SEND Newsletter - November
• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

08 Nov Newsletter – Edition 51 – 8th November 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1731074936610{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,I hope that you all had a fabulous half term break and that you managed to find opportunities to spend quality time with friends and family in the busyness of life.Inset DayYou may wonder what staff do on Inset (In-service education and training) days. Inset days are built into the school year to provide time for staff to do a variety of things. These includes opportunities for staff to learn new skills, brush up on their existing knowledge and focus on key areas of development to help them promote learning and improve outcomes for pupils. On Monday 4^th November, St Mary’s joined the staff from other local schools to listen to two inspirational speakers, focusing on the modern challenges for the young people in our schools. Laura Bates, the founder of the Everyday Sexism Project and Jeffrey Boakye author, educator, journalist and broadcaster spoke about sexism and racism and intersecting inequalities. The feedback from staff was resoundingly positive. It made us stop and reflect on our own actions, open up difficult conversations and reflect on what we can do better in our schools. If you are interested in finding out more about the two speakers, please follow the links.Parent ConsultationsNext Tuesday and Wednesday you are invited to make an appointment to come and meet your child’s class teacher to discuss their progress, achievements and next steps. Research tells us that school and parents working together has the best impact on children’s wellbeing and outcomes. For this reason we would love to see you all. Many of you will have already booked your appointment but if you haven’t done so, please do so asap (link below).Book FairPlease make sure that you visit the school book fair next week. These will be open during Parent Consultations and may be the opportunity to purchase some Christmas gifts and get ahead with the Christmas shopping! Remember for every purchase, the school gets a small contribution to spend on books for the children’s classrooms.Music and Cultural WorkshopsNext week, the children across the school will be attending either African drumming or Steel pan workshops. This is something that the children and staff look forward to and the amazing sounds echo around the buildings bring joy to everyone who hears. Please ask your children about their experiences next week.Flood Works and Our Reflection AreaYou will have seen all of the works happening at the front of St Mary’s at Rectory Gardens. After a serious flood a few years ago, we have been fortunate to acquire some funding to carry out some works that will prevent the school from flooding again in the future. To you and me it looks like we just have a new fence and planting, however it is the science behind what is sitting underground, away from our view, that is fascinating and will help to protect the school. Similarly in the car park and at the back of the playground, works have been completed as these are the areas by which the flood waters travelled and sat. On top of the underground soakaways and pump, we have a new area for quiet reflection. This area consists of some seating, decking, planting and stepping stones in a relaxed and calming environment. There are still a few more jobs to be done in this area before the children can access it, however it already looks wonderful and we are very thankful for these additions to the Rectory Gardens site.Sarah Blakeley – Teaching Assistant - MemorialMany of you will remember the very sad news of Ms Blakeley’s death at the beginning of the term. Sarah was a much-loved member of the staff team and community who worked at St Mary’s for 18 years. You may be interested to know that staff, family and friends of Sarah came together on Thursday for a memorial service. Sarah leaves behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and professionalism but also a generation of young people and adults who she has shaped and influenced in one way or another. In the reflection and quiet space that I described above, we planted a tree to remember Sarah. The tree will provide shade and a place to “just be” in the playground in which she spent many years. Although the area is not completely finished, when it is, please go and take a look and maybe take a moment to be still and reflect, in what is often a very busy day.Wishing you a lovely weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1731496990508{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 8th November - Fancy Dress Disco @ CL, run by the PSA 6pm to 7.30pm - details Church Lane Disco 08 11 24 & tickets available HERE
• Monday 11th November - African Drumming Workshop - Church Lane
• REMINDER: Tuesday 12th November - Parent Consultations both sites - make your booking here Book Parent Consultations
• REMINDER: Wednesday 13th November - Parent Consultations both sites - make your booking here Book Parent Consultations
• Tuesday 12th & Wednesday 13th - Scholastic Book Fairs to coincide with Parent Consultations
• Wednesday 20th November - Y4 to British Museum
• Friday 15th November - Odd Socks Day - Odd Socks Day November 2024
• Wednesday 20th November - PSA Cake Sale @ Rectory Gardens - please bring, bake and buy to raise money for some special visitors
• Thursday 21st November - PSA Cake Sale @ Church Lane - please bring, bake and buy to raise money for some special visitors
• Saturday 30th November - Hornsey Parish Church Christmas Market 1-4pm
• Monday 2nd December - Church Lane to Wizard of Oz on Ice @ Ally Pally
• Tuesday 3rd December - Maths Stay & Play - come along after drop-off to play some maths games with your child
• Tuesday 3rd December - Non Uniform Day for Tombola Donation
• Friday 6th December - our wonderful Christmas Fair - 5.30pm-7.30pm at Church Lane - 4 weeks to go! See here for details THREE weeks to go Christmas Fair 2024
• Wednesday 11th December - Christmas Dinner Day + Christmas jumper
• Thursday 12th December - Rectory Gardens to Horrible Christmas Histories at Ally Pally
• Wednesday 18th December - Nativity performance for KS2 (Y3, Y4, Y5 & Y6) at Rectory Gardens 10.00am
• Thursday 18th December - Nativity performance for EYFS & KS1 (Nursery, Reception, Y1 & Y2) at Rectory Gardens 2.00pm

For Your Information

• Please click here to see a letter from the Chair of Governors Governors Letter to Parents and Carers Nov 2024
• WrapUp London - we are collecting coats again as part of the WrapUp London appeal to keep people warm this winter. Use, good condition children & adult coats please - details of where to drop off are in this letter Wrap Up London 2024
• Year 1 and Year 2 Parents - please help us by completing this Sport England survey, which will raise money for sporting equipment in school - link SPORT ENGLAND SURVEY
• Tottenham Literature Festival - see here for details (plus discounts for N15 and N17 postcodes) including special Saturday Morning Family Festival  Saturday Family Festival   Tottenham Literature Festival 2024
• Three Compasses Christmas Craft Market- are you a local crafter or maker who would like a table at the Three Compasses Christmas Market? Or would you just like to go along? It's on 29/11/24 - details here 3C Christmas Craft Market 29 11 24
• Are you concerned about your child's (age 0-5) Speech & Language? Haringey are running free drop-in sessions with no need to book - see details of dates & locations here Speech & Language Drop Ins Autumn 2024
• Attention Reception & Year 6 Parents/Carers: Please complete the Haringey Schools Nursing Team Child Health Questionnaire to help plan support for families and help with individual needs Child Health Questionnaire 2024
• Are you the parent/carer of an SEND child? Please see the October Haringey SEND newsletter October SEND Newsletter
• New to English? Come along to our ESOL/English classes on Thursday mornings at 9.15am in Rectory Gardens and join other keen parents/carers in a friendly group to help your English. Plus there are English classes for parents/carers at Campsbourne Baptist Church on Monday mornings from 10-11.30am - see details here Campsbourne Baptist Church English Class
• Wood Green Community Arts Project - Collage Arts in Coburg Road, Wood Green hold low cost classes for children and young adults - drama, creative writing, digital arts, singing/songwriting - see poster below or click here for details Collage Voices 2024 2025
• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

18 Oct Newsletter – Edition 50 – 18th October 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1729184002107{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,It has been a busy couple of weeks with many things to share.Harvest Festival CelebrationThanks to everyone who donated food to the Harvest collection this year. The Hornsey and Holy Trinity Food Banks were extremely grateful for your contributions. You will have made a big difference to families in need, and given them some hope in what are tough times for many. It was fabulous seeing the whole school come together and having many of you there to celebrate the Harvest Festival with us. It certainly was a joyous occasion with wonderful singing. Year 6’s Residential Trip to Pendarren, WalesLast week seven members of staff joined all the children in Year 6 on their residential trip to Wales. Have you seen the photographs on the school website or Instagram page (@stmarysschooln8)? The children had amazing experiences climbing a mountain, at the beach, canoeing on a river and having many other adventures. This was a wonderful opportunity, so thank you to everyone who made it happen, the commitment of the staff team, the trust of our parents and the children that made it a memorable and fun experience.Communication and BehaviourIt would be fantastic if we all managed to sail through life with only the ups and never experiencing the downs, however we know that this not the case. All of our children are unique and, like us, as they go through their school journey, are likely to have their ups and downs and come across challenges. We recognise that at these points, this can be upsetting and worrying for parents. Please be reminded that we are here to help resolve and navigate a way through these things.Recently we have had a couple of incidents where parents have not followed the correct steps to resolve issues and have instead chosen to demonstrate behaviour towards members of the staff team such as shouting and aggression. I’m sure that you will agree that no one in a workplace should experience such behaviours. These incidents do not help resolve issues but rather complicate them, causing upset and distress. Please be reminded that the school and its Governing Board will not tolerate this type of behaviour. If you need clarification on how to raise an issue, please seek guidance in our Complaints Policy.Headteachers School Development Coffee MorningThank you to all of the parents who joined me at last week’s coffee morning where I shared the successes and progress we have made towards last year’s school development priorities. At this meeting I also shared the priorities for this year and the reasons why these were chosen. It is great to know that parents are on the journey with us as we go from strength to strength!Parent School Association (PSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM)Thank you to the parents who attended the PSA AGM this week. After three years of leading the PSA as Chair, Montse Bofil is taking a break to concentrate on other things. We thank her for all her hard work and commitment during this time, although I know she will still be there to give a helping hand. There are many PSA members who play a pivotal role in planning, organising and running events however we are always looking for new members to help. If you would like to help raise funds to support enhancing children’s school experiences eg pantomimes, trips, leavers hoodies and workshops such as steel pans please register your interest at the school office at either Rectory Gardens or Church Lane and they will pass on your details. Have a look here to see the new committee that was voted in at the AGM and find out how to get involved PSA CommitteeKim Tarrier – Breakfast Club and After School Club ManagerMany of you will know Kim, affectionately known as Kimmy to many children and staff, for the wonderful work she does managing the day to day running of our wraparound care and support at lunch times. You will be saddened to know that Kimmy suffered a stroke two weeks ago, impacting significantly on her eyesight. As with many people, there is no way to predict whether she will make a full recovery, however we remain ever hopeful and send Kimmy love and strength as she adapts to her situation, but also as she works towards recovery and improved sight. We will keep you updated on her progress.Wishing you a lovely weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1729850097253{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

 

• Friday 18th October - Y1 Saffron & Tangerine to Brands Museum
• Tuesday 22nd October - Y3 Emerald & Jade class trip - Thames Exploration
• Wednesday 23rd October - PSA Cake Sale @ RG - bring, bake and buy!
• Thursday 24th October - Y6 Amethyst & Indigo Pendarren Assembly - 2.30pm
• Thursday 24th October - Year 2 Tower of London trip
• Thursday 24th October - PSA Cake Sale @ CL - bring, bake and buy!
• Friday 8th November - Individual photos - Church Lane & Rectory Gardens - sibling who are on the same site will be photographed together during the morning. If you want a photo of sibling from different sites, please come to Rectory Gardens at 8.45am
• Friday 8th November - Fancy Dress Disco @ CL, run by the PSA 6pm to 7.30pm - tickets available HERE
• Monday 11th November - African Drumming Workshop - Church Lane
• Tuesday 12th November - Parent Consultations both sites - more details to follow
• Wednesday 13th November - Parent Consultations both sites - more details to follow

For Your Information

• Haringey October Half Term Activities - have a look at the activities available for children over the holidays including £1 swims at both Park Road and Tottenham Green. Many activities are free - including boxing and cycle training - have a look and book up Haringey October Half Term Activities 2024
• Virtual Parent Health Promotion Sessions: The Haringey School Nursing Team are offering a variety of virtual training for parents/carers for the next year - please see here for more details and to sign in: Virtual Parent Health Sessions
• Free Half Term Children's Holiday Club - run by Hornsey Churches Together at Campsbourne Baptist Church 11am-3pm. See poster for contact details Free Children's Half Term Holiday Club 2024
• Attention Reception & Year 6 Parents/Carers: Please complete the Haringey Schools Nursing Team Child Health Questionnaire to help plan support for families and help with individual needs Child Health Questionnaire 2024
• Are you the parent/carer of an SEND child? Please see the October Haringey SEND newsletter October SEND Newsletter
• Hornsey Parish Church would like your views - Fr Bruce and Hornsey Parish Church are doing a community survey to get some responses from the community to put towards their Open Door project which they are seeking to develop and fund raise for. He would be grateful if you could take a couple of minutes to complete this survey – whether you attend church or not – even just in relation to our school visits there Community Survey
• New to English? Come along to our ESOL/English classes on Thursday mornings at 9.15am in Rectory Gardens and join other keen parents/carers in a friendly group to help your English. Plus there are English classes for parents/carers at Campsbourne Baptist Church on Monday mornings from 10-11.30am - see details here Campsbourne Baptist Church English Class
• Wood Green Community Arts Project - Collage Arts in Coburg Road, Wood Green hold low cost classes for children and young adults - drama, creative writing, digital arts, singing/songwriting - see poster below or click here for details Collage Voices 2024 2025
• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

04 Oct Newsletter – Edition 49 – 4th October 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1728549643566{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,Time is ticking past so quickly, I cannot believe that we are already into October. It’s been a busy couple of weeks and we are planning and preparing for upcoming events, please make sure you have them in the diary.Harvest Festival CelebrationOn Wednesday 16^th October we will be coming together as a whole school for our Harvest assembly. This will take place at 9.30am at Rectory Gardens and we hope to see many of you there. To ensure our Harvest celebrations are a success we are asking you for donations for the Hornsey Food Bank. The food bank supports families in need and is a life line to many in these tough times, so even contributing one item, can make a big difference. This year the food bank is asking for washing up liquid, pasta, rice, lentils, instant noodles, biscuits, gluten free products and tinned fruit and vegetables, however all items are much appreciated. We look forward to seeing you there.PSA Annual General Meeting (AGM) 6.00pm @ Church Lane – We Need You!Also on the 16^th October, the PSA are inviting parents to attend the AGM. You can find out about the events that happened in 2023–2024 and the money that has been raised to enhance your children’s experiences at school. At the moment we have quite a small number of parents who lead on organising events and activities for the school community with slightly more offering their help and support on the day of events. We are looking for people who are interested in maintaining and continually improving the events that we offer so please can you spare some time to support us. Without a core group of people, we would be unable to offer the events that we do. We need you! Please come and find out more and if you can’t attend but would like to get involved, please talk to Sally Walker at Rectory Gardens.School Progress Coffee Morning – Tuesday 8^th October 9.15am @ Church LaneYou are all invited to a coffee morning next Tuesday at Church Lane to hear about the progress school made last year against the school priorities and what the school’s priorities are for this academic year. I’m looking forward to seeing you there.Did you know St Mary’s is on Instagram?To kelp you keep updated on the wonderful things that are happening at St Mary’s, we have an Instagram page where we post some of the highlights. If you are on Instagram please follow us and encourage others to do so too. Search for us using @stmarysschooln8Reminder about unauthorised absences and holidays during term timeAs you will know from previous correspondence, St Mary’s will be following the Government guidance with regards to fining families when a child has missed 10 or more sessions (5 days) for unauthorised reasons. Children should only be out of school for reasons that have been authorised. If you are unsure whether something will be authorised please speak to Bea Fenton, Home School Support worker, or someone at the school office. If you take time out of school that is not authorised you may be fined so please check with us first. We are here to support you and answer your questions.Wishing you a lovely weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1728557497506{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

 

• Monday 7th October - Year 6 to Pendarren
• Tuesday 8th October - School Progress Coffee Morning 9.15am @ CL - join us to talk about our priorities for the upcoming year
• Wednesday 16th October - Harvest Festival Assembly 9.30am - please see here for donation requests from Hornsey Food Bank Harvest Festival Assembly 2024
• Wednesday 16th October - PSA AGM at Church Lane 6pm - come along and help set plans for the upcoming school year. Many hands make light work! PSA AGM Agenda 2024 2025
• Friday 18th October - Y1 Saffron & Tangerine to Brands Museum
• Tuesday 22nd October - Y3 Emerald & Jade class trip - Thames Exploration
• Thursday 24th October - Y6 Amethyst & Indigo Pendarren Assembly
• Thursday 24th October - Year 2 Tower of London trip
• Friday 25th October - PSA Fancy Dress Ball - to be confirmed - watch this space!
• Friday 8th November - Individual photos - Church Lane & Rectory Gardens - sibling who are on the same site will be photographed together during the morning. If you want a photo of sibling from different sites, please come to Rectory Gardens at 8.45am
• Monday 11th November - African Drumming Workshop - Church Lane

For Your Information

• Interested in a Wild Club? There is a half term holiday camp in Highgate Wood that looks like lots of fun - see here for more details: Wild Learning October 24 Half Term Camp
• The Crouch End Craft Fair is on Saturday 5th October 11am to 4.30pm in Shepherds Cot, off Park Road - with lots of lovely local creatives Crouch End Craft Fair 2024
• Most of our activity clubs have spaces available - please see the details here Extra Curricular Clubs September 2024. Speak to the office, or the individual clubs for more details. If enough children from Church Lane are interested in the Friday Cookery Club, they will be walked down to Rectory Gardens, and will need to be picked up from there at 4.20pm.
• October 9th marks the beginning of Baby Loss Awareness Week and Alexandra Palace will be lighting up the mast in pink. If you have been affected by baby loss, there are various events taking place around the area and see the posters below
• New to English? Come along to our ESOL/English classes on Thursday mornings at 9.15am in Rectory Gardens and join other keen parents/carers in a friendly group to help your English. Plus there are English classes for parents/carers at Campsbourne Baptist Church on Monday mornings from 10-11.30am - see details here Campsbourne Baptist Church English Class
• Wood Green Community Arts Project - Collage Arts in Coburg Road, Wood Green hold low cost classes for children and young adults - drama, creative writing, digital arts, singing/songwriting - see poster below or click here for details Collage Voices 2024 2025
• Holidays in Term Time and Fines You may have seen in the news that the new government are still supporting and encouraging schools to take action when families take unauthorised holidays in term time. In line with guidance, St Mary’s will start issuing fines to families. If you were thinking of booking a term-time holiday, please consider that you may be at risk of a fine.
• We are working with our new partner Synergy to improve attendance and punctuality in school. Some of you will have received letters from them, and some of you may have been upset by the contents. Please be assured that we only have the best interests of the children at our heart and if you want to discuss any of the contents, please contact the school to speak to Bea Fenton, our School Home Support Practitioner.
• Make a note of our Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

20 Sep Newsletter – Edition 48 – 20th September 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1726820063541{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,Welcome back to the 2024/2025 academic year. I hope that the summer break was all that you wished for and that the start of the new term has been successful. As a staff team we are excited to be back, and the children have settled extremely well. We are very much looking forward to working with you to enable your children to flourish, and to enjoy the many community events that we have planned across the year.Teddy Bears PicnicThe rain didn’t stop our Teddy Bear’s Picnic with Ducklings and Goslings last week. Thankfully we were able to meet under the canopy until the rain had stopped. It was great to see parents, carers, staff and children chatting, introducing their teddy bear friends, enjoying their snacks, playing and completing activities.Curriculum Evenings and Year 6 Transition MeetingThank you to all of the parents who attended the curriculum evenings this week. We hope that you found it useful to hear more about what your child is learning and what routines and systems are in place. For those who were unable to make it, the information that was shown will be shared with you soon. As the Year 6 children and their families start thinking about transition to secondary school, we organised for five different secondary schools to deliver presentations to share information about their schools. We hope that this supports the Year 6 parents as they attend open evenings and make choices for their applications.Change In Term DatesWe wanted to let you know about a slight change in the term dates for this academic year. Please note the following:

• There will no longer be a Teacher Training Day on Friday 4^th April, so children will be expected to be in school on that day.
• Monday 21^st July will now be a Teaching Training Day. This means that the children’s last day of the academic year will be Friday 18^th

A revised copy of the term dates is attached for your reference. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.Holidays in Term Time and FinesYou may have seen in the news that the new government are still supporting and encouraging schools to take action when families take unauthorised holidays in term time. Like most schools we have many families who take their children out of school during term time and in line with guidance, St Mary’s will start issuing fines to families. If you were thinking of booking a term-time holiday, please consider that you may be at risk of a fine.Condolence Book For Sarah Blakeley, Teaching AssistantAs you will be aware from our previous correspondence, our wonderful teaching assistant, Sarah Blakeley died at the beginning of the summer holidays. From Monday 23^rd September until Friday 27^th September, the condolence book for Sarah will be in the main foyer at the Rectory Gardens site. If you would like to write a message in the book, sharing your memories, sympathy or thanks for the wonderful work that Sarah did, please visit Rectory Gardens and speak to Sally Walker or Rebecca Greensmith. This book will then be passed onto Sarah’s family. Please note the condolence book is not for the children to write in. Wishing you a lovely weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1726849050147{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

 

• Monday 23rd September - Year 5 to Science Museum
• Thursday 3rd October - Census Day - see below to opt to have a school dinner to help with funding for the school
• Monday 7th October - Year 6 to Pendarren
• Wednesday 16th October - Harvest Festival Assembly 9.30am
• Wednesday 16th October - PSA AGM at Church Lane 5pm
• Friday 18th October - Y1 Saffron & Tangerine to Brands Museum
• Tuesday 22nd October - Y3 Emerald & Jade class trip
• Thursday 24th October - Year 6 Pendarren Assembly
• Thursday 24th October - Year 2 Tower of London trip
• Friday 25th October - PSA Fancy Dress Ball - to be confirmed - watch this space!
• Friday 8th November - Individual photos - Church Lane & Rectory Gardens
• Monday 11th November - African Drumming Workshop - Church Lane

For Your Information

• • Most of our activity clubs have spaces available - please see the details here Extra Curricular Clubs September 2024. Speak to the office, or the individual clubs for more details. If enough children from Church Lane are interested in the Friday Cookery Club, they will be walked down to Rectory Gardens, and will need to be picked up from there at 4.20pm.
  • Census Day - Thursday 3rd October is Census Day, where funding is decided based on children in school, and also receiving a school meal. If your child usually has packed lunch, please consider having a school meal to boost funding. See the posters below for details.
  • Census Day FLYER
  • Census Day Menu - Space Week 03 10 24
  • Why do some children have sensory differences? Does this sound like your child? If so, Haringey Occupational Health are running a series of free session. Click here Sensory Differences Seminar Details for details and here for the booking form Sensory Seminar booking information 2024 and 2025
  • New to English? Come along to our ESOL/English classes on Thursday mornings at 9.15am in Rectory Gardens and join other keen parents/carers in a friendly group to help your English.
  • Wood Green Community Arts Project - Collage Arts in Coburg Road, Wood Green hold low cost classes for children and young adults - drama, creative writring, digital arts, singing/songwriting - see poster below or click here for details Collage Voices 2024 2025
  • After School Club changes for 2024 - see here for information about some of the changes for ASC from September (including our new wraparound care for Nursery children) Club Changes from Sept 2024
  • We are working with our new partner Synergy to improve attendance and punctuality in school. Some of you will have received letters from them, and some of you may have been upset by the contents. Please be assured that we only have the best interests of the children at our heart and if you want to discuss any of the contents, please contact the school to speak to Bea Fenton, our School Home Support Practitioner.
  • Is your child in Y4 or above? Why not try Steel Pans - details here Steel Pans HLP - Sessions will start back on Wednesday 18^th September, and parents should contact hms@haringey.gov.uk if you would like further information.
  • Revised Term Dates 2024-2025 Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024

19 Jul Newsletter – Edition 47 – 19th July 2024

[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" css=".vc_custom_1645189557802{background-color: #ffffff !important;}" z_index="" el_class="newsletter-intro"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1721401370928{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]Dear Parents and Carers,I cannot quite believe this is the last newsletter of the academic year. I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year as Headteacher at St Mary’s and have been welcomed by everyone in the community at different milestones throughout the year. Highlights for me have been International Evening, the Year 6 production and getting to know the children and families across the school. It is with great pride, excitement and determination, that I say that I cannot wait for next academic year, to work with the community as we continue to flourish and demonstrate how St Mary’s is the place to be!Year 6 raise the roof with their fantastic production of Oliver TwistWow, what a show! There was an abundance of energy, commitment and talent seen at the two performances of Oliver Twist this week. The singing, both choral and solo, gave me goosebumps. The performances were fabulous, with great stage presence and confidence that captured the audience in this classic tale. We are so fortunate to have such an amazing staff team, parents, pupils and ex-pupils who volunteered to make it a resounding success. We thank them for bringing the extras to the show, for which we are very grateful. For the many people who attended the performances, thank you for supporting your children and the school and for those who didn’t attend, make sure you come along next year and have a look at some of the photos here Oliver - Y6 ProductionA very hot Olympic themed Sports DayHow wonderful was it seeing the whole school at Rectory Gardens today for sports day! The children put so much effort into their techniques and were quite determined to be the best they could be in the many events on offer. We had such positive feedback from the parents and family members who attended and joined in the excitement of the morning. I think it is fair to say that the way in which Mr Oakley set it up, the events he chose, and the organisation was great and we will aim to replicate this next year. Mr Oakley was a star, getting everyone on board to make this a brilliant morning for the children, staff and families. A big well done to Grove House who gained the most house points and won the trophy.Reminder - Book AmnestyPlease can you look at home for any books belonging to school and send them back in on Monday or Tuesday.Holidays in Term Time and FinesYou may have seen in the news that the new government are still supporting and encouraging schools to take action when families take unauthorised holidays in term time. Like most schools we have many families who take their children out of school during term time and in line with guidance, St Mary’s will start issuing fines to families. If you were thinking of booking a last-minute holiday, please ensure you will be back for the start of the school term on Wednesday 4^th September 2024.Reminder about Wraparound Care for Nursery from SeptemberSt Mary’s already offers Breakfast Club and After School Club to support busy and working parents of children in Reception to Year 6. From September, we will be offering this to children in our Nursery class too. If you are interested in your child attending Breakfast Club or After School Club, please speak to a member of the office staff.If you are attending the BBQ this eveing, I’ll see you there. If not, have a wonderful weekend and I will see you next week for the last two days of school this academic year,Enjoy your weekend,Jane O'BrienHeadteacher[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1726849131892{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}"]

Important Dates - please make a note

• Friday 19th July - End of Year BBQ at Rectory Gardens 5.30pm - 7.3opm
• Monday 22nd July - Tower Service for Rectory Gardens & Church Lane 9.30am
• Tuesday 23rd July - Leavers Assembly for Y6
• Wednesday 4th September - children back to school

For Your Information

• • Most extra-curricular clubs will start the second week back - click here to have a look at what is on offer for September Extra Curricular Clubs September 2024
  • After School Club changes for 2024 - see here for information about some of the changes for ASC from September (including our new wraparound care for Nursery children) Club Changes from Sept 2024
  • Are you the parent of an SEND child? This is the link to the July Haringey July newsletter Haringey SEND Newsletter - July 2024
  • Here are some family friendly events coming up in July in Haringey Fun In Haringey July 2024
  • Most extra-curricular clubs will start w/c 9/9/24. For a list of clubs running at Rectory Gardens please click here 
  • Haringey are offering £1.00 swims to children under 16 at Park Road and Tottenham Green Leisure Centre - £1 Swim Haringey Summer 2024
  • Are your children aged between 8 and 12 and interested in cookery? There are Cookery Workshops all summer at the Hornsey Vale Community Centre - see here for details Kids Summer Cookery Workshops Hornsey Vale
  • The Little Dance Academy based at Hornsey Paris Church has a Summer Camp for children aged 3-6. The Little Dance Academy are bringing holiday camps to Muswell Hill! Ages 3-6 years can join us from the 25^th - 31^st of July at Hornsey Parish Church Hall for a morning full of adventure and fun! Enquire by emailing missterri@thelittledanceacademy.com or see https://www.thelittledanceacademy.com/camps for booking. Poster below.
  • Sams Sports Solutions Summer Camp is in Priory Park over the summer - see here for details Sams Sports Solutions Summer Camp
  • Did you know we're now on Instagram? You can follow us @stmarysschooln8
  • We are working with our new partner Synergy to improve attendance and punctuality in school. Some of you will have received letters from them, and some of you may have been upset by the contents. Please be assured that we only have the best interests of the children at our heart and if you want to discuss any of the contents, please contact the school to speak to Bea Fenton, our School Home Support Practitioner.
  • Y5 going into Y6? Interested in Cola Highgate Hill - please see here for information on banding tests and open evening
  • Term Dates for 2024-2025 are now available Term Dates 2024-25 revised September 2024