To all parents and carers,

What a wonderful week of learning we have had in school. The children have been focused on reading – a key focus for our school this year. I am delighted that over 95% of our school is currently reading 5 times per week as required. Our aim is to have 100% of pupils reading every day. Reading is so important to all subjects in the curriculum. Therefore, please keep completing this along with the weekly spellings and maths to support your child to achieve their potential. If you have questions about homework, come along to see the class teacher at the weekly drop in 3.30 – 4.00 on Fridays.

This week we begin our parent’s evenings. You will get a letter about a week before the date for your year group to book your appointment. Each appointment will be up to 20 minutes with the teacher. We kept with the new parent consultations as the parents positively supported them as the best change, we have made two years ago with 98% positive feedback. If you arrive 15 minutes before you could also have longer looking at your books.

Last week we have had some amazing trips out of school. Y6 have visited a Safety community event and some Y3-6 went to the Grow Festival.

I am delighted to say that Waterside is working closely this academic year with the Blackfriars Teaching school and Keele University. This links with my role as a National Leader of Education and Waterside as a National Support School. The Teaching school supports new teachers, offers training to teachers, teaching assistants and leaders and also trains people who want to become teachers. How exciting. 

We have updated our Safeguarding policies to reflect the new government requirements and documentation. Please look on our website for the new Safeguarding Policy, Attendance Policy and Early Help Policy. They are under consultation until the governors ratify the policies as school practices in one week.  Should you have any questions please do come and ask.

Mrs Knowles and the Waterside Team.