Cheriton Bishop Community Primary School

Snippets from the Classroom and Beyond

No W56 March 2007

In this month’s offering I am including a couple of photographs which, perhaps, should have featured in an earlier edition. They didn’t, mainly because I hadn’t seen them. Both I think are important in showing different aspects and relationships within our school. The first is a farewell photo of Carole Smith and Sue Satchell which includes a couple of bouquets of flowers. Our head Teacher, Sue Leyman, stands with them. They left us at the end of last term. The school will overcome the gaps they leave in its usual, inimitable fashion, and the childrens’ education will continue apace. But, with our school, when we lose two members of staff, we lose two friends, hopefully not for ever. This I think is one of the strengths we have in CB – it’s a friendly school with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. May it ever be so.

The other photograph is of the children involved in the Nativity Play in the church at the end of last term. It was a delight to witness their performance and to see the efforts they, and their parents, had made. Now, whether you are a practising Christian or not, it does no harm for our children to be involved in what has been one of the building blocks of our society and learning about both Christianity and other religions. The photo appears on the second page.

I understand that the visit to the Royal Opera House went very well indeed. It was a tremendously long day for the children involved, starting as it did with the coach leaving at 0445 and returning at 2100, and they must be congratulated on their stamina and good behaviour. They had a good tour of the Opera House behind the scenes and even saw some star ballerinas limbering up. The opera “Carmen” was a wee bit long but most lasted the course. Thanks are due to Covent Garden for offering this opportunity to the children. Now we expect an absolute masterpiece from the children.

Still on a musical theme, Years 3 and 4 were invited to take part in a singing programme under the Crediton Learning Community Wider Opportunities Proposal at Landscore School in January. A Second part to this proposal is learning to play the ukulele which will be held later. Whilst still on the music, the Musical Assembly went down very well and was very much appreciated. Well done all the children involved

Reporting from last month’s Snippets, the children raised a massive £55.00 for Unicef . That is a magnificent total. Well done to all who got involved. The next big charity event is red Nose Day on 16^th March. Goodness only knows (nose) what will happen on that day!!!

I confess, I haven’t got any photos (yet) of the residential Course down at Grenville House. I can say that a fantastic time was had by all who attended. The outdoor adventure activities never fail to draw out the best in the children and give them a new found self confidence. Please can I go next time – age would no doubt preclude!

Those of you who have been paying attention over the last few issues will have noticed a growing interest in Cross Country Running with more events appearing in the calendar. There has already been an event at Tedburn St Mary on 7^th February and there will be a mile to run at St Luke’s School, Pinhoe. Other events consist of a tournament at Blundells, And the Childrens’ Great West Run. I have to say that I admire those who can enjoy Cross Country Running. I could never stand it and found every excuse under the sun – more usually rain – to avoid it!

Now for a small deviation. The Daffodills. Yes, my favourite bunch of daffodils have budded along Dabby Lane. In their present protected site, it looks as though they have every chance of putting on their usual brave display. All I ask is that they be allowed to bloom and share their beauty with us all and that nobody selfishly picks them.

19^th-27^th February – Half Term

1^st March – World Book Dressing Up Day

3^rd/4^th March – 3D Dance – “A Chance to Dance” – Barnfield Theatre

8^th March – Cross Country Tournament – Blundells

12^th-16^th March – Science Week

14^th March – Swimming Gala

16^th March – “Red Nose Day”

22^nd March – Rotary Concert – QECC (Class 3)

5^th April – End of Spring Term

24^th April – Start of Summer Term

6^th May – Great West Run (details to follow)

24^th July – Summer Term Ends

Any of you who have got your hands on previous editions of the “Cherry B” school newspaper will be glad to know that the current editorial team are working hard to ensure that this term’s edition is up to the usual high standard.

PGR