Earlier Collection Time · 13 January 2010

As a result of the inclement weather, children can be collected from School/Nursery from 2pm today.

The FOG meeting that was planned for 3.20pm today will be rescheduled to a later date.

Thank you for your continuing co-operation.

Mrs Ellenby

Update from Mrs Ellenby · 10 January 2010

I would like to confirm that Goodrington School and Nursery will re-open at 8.45am tomorrow morning (Monday 11 January 2010).

Please take care on your journeys to and from school, particularly in Walden Road which may still be icy. Please ensure that pupils wear appropriate footwear for their journey into school and that extreme care is taken.

Should the weather severely deteriorate during the school day, please be prepared that the school may have to close earlier than normal. We will, of course, update you of this on the school website and via Parentmail.

Lastly, we have made the decision not to resume the extra-curricular clubs until week commencing 18 January 2010. Club letters will be distributed to pupils tomorrow, and reply slips and payments will need to be returned by Friday 15 January 2010.

Thank you for your continuing support and co-operation.

School Closure Update · 7 January 2010

As a result of the icy conditions, Goodrington School will be closed tomorrow (Friday 8 January 2010).

Please check back on this website for further updates.

In the meantime, do continue to keep safe and warm.

School Closure · 7 January 2010

Please note that due to the adverse weather and the treacherous icy conditions on the roads, as well as on foot, the school will be closed today (Thursday 7 January 2010).

Please check back on this website for further updates.

In the meantime, please keep safe and warm.

Message from Mrs Ellenby · 6 January 2010

Firstly, we hope that you have all had a wonderful Christmas and a relaxing break.

Please be advised that as a result of the adverse weather conditions, the school may be closed tomorrow (Thursday 7 January 2010). Please check the school website for a further update tomorrow morning, when we will endeavour to make a final decision by 7.45am.

In the meantime, please ensure that you stay safe during these wintry conditions.

Newsletter · 16 December 2009

Dear Parents

Welcome to our latest newsletter with all the news and events of the past half-term.

Transport For London: School Accreditation Scheme

We have now received our Bronze Sustainable Level Accreditation certificate and plaque in the TFL STAR scheme. The certificate is on display on our Travel Plan notice board and the plaque will be erected in a suitable place for all to see in the near future.

Reception Teacher

Having re-advertised and interviewed a number of applicants for this post, I am pleased to announce that Mrs Cheryl Carter has secured this position and will be joining the school on January 7th 2010. A letter has previously been sent to all parents.
Mrs Carter came into school on November 27th to meet with everyone and organise her planning for next term.

Courses

The following members of staff have recently been on training courses in order to keep up to date with the latest information:

Mrs Richardson and Mrs Ellenby have attended a course run by Havering Council on Sexual Exploitation and Child Trafficking.

Mrs Ellenby attended a Lighthouse course on Leading and Managing Staff.

Mrs. Terry attended a Makaton for Beginners Course and a Problem Solving, Numeracy and Reasoning course.

School Trips

These are in the process of being organised and so far the following year groups have been booked:

Years 2, 3, and 4 will be visiting The Wimbledon Museum on Wednesday 17th March 2010.

Details of all other trips will be given to you nearer the time.

Washing hands

With illnesses in the school prior to the end of term, it is vital that pupils continue to wash their hands thoroughly. Whilst the staff do their very best to instil good hygiene practice in the pupils, there are still a number who do not wash their hands after using the toilet. Please remind pupils during the holiday of this very important part of hygiene to help us all avoid the many infections/diseases that can be spread in this way.

Contagious Illnesses/Absence Notification

Please ensure that you do not send your child to school with a contagious illness or a bad cough or cold, as being in a small community, germs and viruses are easily spread to other pupils and staff.

If your child is absent from school, please ensure that you inform the school office by 9.30am, and then send in an absence letter addressed to your child’s teacher upon their return to school.

Medicine in School

If you require your child to be given medicine during school hours, please ensure that you take the medicine to Mrs Williams or Mrs Ruyten in the office who will ask you to complete and sign a Medicine Form. Medicine cannot be administered in school, without firstly obtaining a parent’s signature. Under no circumstances, may medicine be placed into a child’s book bag or lunch bag for them to administer themselves.

Pupil Profile Week

The Pupil Profile books were added to by the pupils in Reception and up to Year 6, and were sent home on Friday 13th November. Judging from the feedback on the enclosed sheets in the books, I can see you enjoyed reading the work covered by your child and that you could see an improvement from the last time they were sent home. This exercise will be repeated again in approximately six months time.

Library visits

The following visits to Hornchurch Library have been arranged for the following year groups:

On Tuesday 19 January 2010, Years 3 and 4 will visit at 9.45am.

On Tuesday 26 January 2010, Years 5 and 6 will visit at 9.45am.

These are to reinforce the visits made earlier in the year on the general workings of our local library.

Librarian, Margaret Harris, will visit the school on Tuesday February 2nd 2010, where she will be speaking to the Nursery, Reception, Yr 1 and Yr 2 on a class by class basis.

Anti-Bullying Week

This ran from 16th to 20th November with the theme of Cyber-bullying. An assembly covered this issue and staff reinforced this further during their PSHE time.

Children in Need

This was held on Friday 20th November. The pupils and staff embraced this fund-raising to wear something yellow or spotty on the day. Once again, your generosity for this event raised £82 which has been duly forwarded to the BBC charity. Thank you everyone for your support and contributions. A certificate thanking us all for our achievement will arrive in school in due course.

Christmas Tree

The tree was erected by the side entrance on Friday 20th November with Yr 6 pupils decorating it. As always, they created a very pretty and colourful tree to greet us all when coming into school in the mornings.

Christmas Fayre

A decision was made not to hold this event due to a lack of support. There really was just too much for the committee to do in the remaining time before the event. More parents are still needed to help when events are organised. Please support FOG in whatever way you can, so that functions can go ahead in the future.

Parking

There have been a number of issues lately with parking and I recently sent out a letter to parents. Fridays now seem to have more problems than in the past and I am monitoring the situation. I now have to deal with more and more complaints from the local residents. It is becoming increasingly difficult for me to diffuse the situation between the neighbours and the school, and I would ask again ask you to be extremely mindful of your driving and parking in Walden Road.

Tracking Tests

These tests took place for Years 3-6 in the week beginning 7.12.09. The tests were in Numeracy and Literacy, along with a teacher assessment for Science. The results allow staff to ensure their pupils are ‘on track’ with their learning.

Lost Property

Since the beginning of the Autumn Term, a number of items that are not named have been placed in the lost property box. Please come into school and check the box if your child is missing any clothing.

School Uniform

During the holiday, please check all items of your child’s uniform to ensure that each piece is clearly and securely labelled. If you have items that have been passed on from other pupils, please ensure that your child’s name is clearly marked on the item.

The holiday is also a good opportunity to have your child’s blazer cleaned, ready for the new Term.

P.E. Kit

All pupils need the school’s grey sweatshirt and jogging bottoms now the weather is colder. These items should be purchased from Kinda’s, the school outfitters in Upminster.

Carol Concert Cover Competition

Our annual competition was held in November in preparation for the programmes to be printed. The winners were Felicity in Year 6 (front cover) and Grace in Year 1 (inside front cover). They received a set of colouring pencils and felt pens respectively. Congratulations to them both and thank you to all those pupils who entered.

Nursery/Reception Christmas Party

These classes held their Christmas Party on Monday 7th December. Thank you to all the parents who supplied food and drink. Everyone had a good time with music, games and a surprise visit from Father Christmas who handed each of the pupils a present.

Queen’s Theatre Carol Singing/Pantomime

This was held on Friday 11th December for Reception to Year 6 with the Nursery pupils joining us at the theatre for the pantomime. Parents, family, friends and the general public joined in with traditional and non-traditional carols in the foyer to put everyone into the festive spirit. Thank you to all the parents who helped escort the pupils to the theatre and to those who contributed the amount of £135 for St Francis Hospice.

It was helpful after the show for the pupils and helpers to remain in the auditorium, so that parents could collect their children from there. It avoided any confusion with the general public and made sure that every pupil had gone home safely.

Thank you to FOG who purchased a lolly for each of the pupils during the interval

St. Andrew’s Carol Concert

Our annual Carol Concert was held on Monday 14th December at 6pm. This event is one of the highlights of the year, with all pupils from the Nursery to Year 6 participating. A traditional format of carols and readings and the ever delightful Nursery and Reception acting the Nativity Scene made for a very special evening. This year, the Year 6 pupils under the direction of Mrs. Wiltshire, performed ‘Sing a Happy Christmas Song’ using percussion instruments.

Our thanks go to Parish Youth Worker, Mrs Pat Miller, who took part in our concert. The retiring collection of £220 was raised for St. Andrew’s as a thank you for letting us host our Carol Concert in the beautiful church.

F.O.G Christmas Raffle

Thank you to all those parents who donated prizes and bought raffle tickets. The draw took place yesterday morning and the raffle raised a fantastic £217.00. Congratulations to all the lucky winners!

Nursery Places for September 2010

Nursery places for September 2010 are filling fast. If you have a child who has reached the age of 3 by 31st August 2010 and you would like to reserve a place, please ensure you complete a registration form as soon as possible. Goodrington continues to participate in the Nursery Funding Scheme, which is available to all 3 and 4 year old children.

Please contact Mrs. Williams in the office for further details regarding the availability of sessions for September 2010.

Information Evening – Nursery to Reception Transition

I would like to give Nursery parents advance notice of a meeting to be held on Wednesday 20th January 2010 at 7pm, regarding the transition of Nursery children into our Reception class in September 2010.

It is an opportunity to learn about how the Reception class is run in the main school and for parents to see the benefits of their child progressing into our Reception class. If you would like to reserve a place for your Nursery child, it is essential that you attend this meeting, as we have an existing waiting list for Reception 2010.

Stamps

We are continuing to send stamps off to The Royal Mail for their chosen charity, Barnados. Please collect your stamps from your Christmas mail and give them into the office when we return after the holiday, when they will be sent off by the end of January.

Collecting Pupils

It is very important that the school are informed if your arrangements change for collecting your child at the end of the day. Ideally Mrs. Williams should be telephoned prior to 2.45pm, so that the relevant member of staff can be informed. Thank you for your co-operation in this matter.

Passports

If you wish to review your passports, I am more than happy to complete the relevant documentation for you. Please drop the form and photograph into the school office and Mrs Williams will ensure that it is passed onto me to complete. Due to my teaching/office commitments, I would be grateful if your form could be brought into school in good time.

New Pupils

I am delighted to welcome Jimmy and Sahara to Goodrington Nursery in January 2010. We wish them every success and a fulfilling education at Goodrington.

Chess Club

As we do not have any after school club activities on a Monday evening at present, I have been trying to organise a chess club. This has taken me quite some time and despite being in contact with a number of chess federations and local clubs, I still have not been able to source a tutor. If any parent knows of anyone who would be willing to make a commitment to tutor the older pupils from 3.30pm until 4.30pm each Monday evening, please let Mrs. Williams know in the office on our return in January. I have to point out that in line with current government regulations anyone who is offering to take on this tutoring would need to have no objection to having an enhanced CRB check, as they would be working with pupils of the school.

Year 4

Bradley plays football for County Park and won a trophy for Man of the Match on 13.12.09, against Ridgeway Rovers.

Year 3

Tami received her Brownie Holiday Advanced Badge, after having already received a Brownie Holiday Badge. Tami had to make a poster showing her favourite things about Brownie holiday, help organise an activity with her Brownie friends and be kind and helpful to Brownies who had never been on holiday. Tami also helped plan the holiday and learn all about the Country Code, Green Cross Code and the Water Safety Code.

Past Pupil Achievements

Mark Weatherup (1991-1999)

Having finished university in June, Mark had the opportunity to carry out work experience for Ferrari’s News Agency, The Sun, and The News of the World. In October, he started work as a reporter on the Ilford Recorder. He has covered a wide range of stories and achieved his first front page splash in November.

Simon Weatherup (1993-2001)

Simon left Coopers in the Summer with 2 ‘A’ Levels and is now taking time out travelling. He left for Bangkok in early November, made his way through Thailand to Singapore and is now in Australia. He will continue onto New Zealand and finish with 2 weeks in Fiji before returning home in March.

Lucy Weatherup (1996-2004)

Having passed 11 GCSE’s with A* to C grades in the Summer, Lucy is now at Cooper’s Sixth Form where she is taking ‘A’ Level Psychology, Geography, P.E., Business Studies and General Studies. Lucy was thrilled to be made school gymnastics captain in September which involves running and choreographing the U13,16 and 19’s gymnastic teams. Lucy achieved her senior gymnastics colours and was awarded the Gymnast of the Year trophy at the recent School Sports Presentation Evening. Lucy continues to dance, do cheerleading and club gymnastics in her spare time and after recently auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent with her Cheerleading Squad, Pulse, is hoping to get through to the televised auditions in February.

Caitlin Terry (left July 2009)

During the October half-term Caitlin entered a handy Pony competition at the riding school she attends. Caitlin took first place in the competition after competing with 25 other children. Well done, Caitlin.

Caitlin is now attending Brentwood County High School and is thriving, consistently achieving excellent academic results.

Presents to Staff

Your generosity once again to the staff at this time of year is overwhelming. Where possible, staff have thanked you personally for the gifts they have received. Inevitably, at this busy time, some of you may have been missed. May I thank you all via this newsletter for being so kind.

This term has rushed by. No sooner have we started the academic year in September, when Christmas is suddenly upon us. It is a wonderful time of the year and is magical for the younger and older pupils alike.

Season’s Greetings to each and every one of you and thank you all for your continued support.

I look forward to seeing you all when we return on Thursday 7th January 2010 at 8.45am with prompt registration at 9.00am.

Yours sincerely

Mrs J R Ellenby
Head Teacher

Newsletter · 16 October 2009

Dear Parents

Welcome to our latest newsletter with all the news and events of the past half-term.

Transport For London: School Accreditation Scheme

We have recently achieved and been awarded Sustainable Level Accreditation in the TFL STAR scheme. The awards ceremony is at the Emirates Stadium on October 23rd and we will receive our award after the event. Thank you to everyone who continues to embrace the school’s Travel Plan Strategies. Your support is invaluable.

Barrier

The new roadside barrier was erected outside the school on Monday 21st September and I am sure you will agree this replacement is a great improvement. Mrs. Richardson re-attached the pupils’ posters and the Walk to School banner the following day, only to find the main banner had been ‘stolen’ overnight, when she came into school early on the Wednesday morning. I ordered another one immediately from the School Travel Plan Team and this is now on display.

Unfortunately, younger siblings of pupils at the school have recently been seen tugging and partly pulling off the laminated posters that the pupils have designed and worked hard on. Whilst waiting for pupils to come out of school in the evening, please ensure that these posters are not touched and damaged. Pupils have been disappointed to see their work spoilt in this way.

School Car Park

Please may I remind parents not to use the school car park at any time of the day. I recently had to attend a very important meeting straight after school, and had difficulty leaving promptly, as parents had blocked a number of staff cars in the school car park.

Furthermore, we have to account for all cars in our school grounds, and recently a car was left in the car park all day while the parent went off elsewhere. Please do not use our grounds as a source of free parking for the day. In future, I will need to inform the Police if a car is left in the school car park. Naturally, if you have an emergency and the office has been informed, there will not be a problem.

Younger Pupils

Younger pupils must hold the hands of their parents/carers when coming to or from school. A member of staff narrowly missed knocking down a pupil recently when she ran in front of her car.

Ordering Books

Older pupils occasionally need to purchase a book or two to continue their studies at school. May I suggest that once the IBSN number; along with the title and author have been forwarded onto you, you place the order with Swan Libraries in Upminster. They have an excellent service where you can order and pay for your book(s) over the telephone and it will invariably be available for collection the next day.

Christmas Cards

The pupils worked hard designing the front cover of their cards to be sent off to the printers, so they can be returned in time for Christmas. They will be returned and distributed to the pupils after half-term. Thank you to all those parents who purchased the cards, which has also raised £100 for the school.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Linzi Coppick for all her help in organising this project once again.

School Photographs

The individual and siblings photographs were taken on 30th September 2009 and once processed will be with us after half-term. Thank you in advance for every purchase which will help to raise valuable funds for the school.

Photograph Albums

Miss Keens worked tirelessly during the summer holidays to collate and mount photographs taken over many years at Goodrington School. They are now located in the library for you to view, should you wish. We will now add to these albums as new photographs are taken of the various events held at the school.

Collecting Stamps

As mentioned in the welcome back letter in September, The Royal Mail are collecting used stamps for charity. Whilst many letters these days do not appear to have stamps, please do collect the ones you receive so they can be sent to their depot. This is ongoing, so do keep collecting and sending them into school.

Suzanne Wiltshire

Our Music Tutor, Mrs. Wiltshire has been unable to come to Goodrington this half-term following an operation. Fortunately, she is on the mend and hopefully we will see her very soon. In the meantime, we have enjoyed having Mr. George Larkey, who has ably covered her Monday morning classes in her absence.

Community Police

Katie has recently replaced Colin Spash as our PSCO. We look forward to working with Katie and her colleagues over the coming months. The London Week of Peace was held during the week of 21st-25th September. Pupils worked on a number of issues around the subject and one of the Officers came into school on Friday 25th September to give a final talk and release some balloons which completed this mini project.

Bikeability

This course for Year 6 pupils took place on Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th of September. Many aspects of bicycle safety and riding bicycles were covered, including riding around the local roads. The instructors came to the school via contact with the School Travel Plan Team in Havering, providing superb information for the pupils.

Finger Guards

These protective guards have now been fitted to the doors which have the greatest use from pupils and staff, further enhancing everyone’s safety in school.

Sharing Assembly

The parents of pupils in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 came into school on Thursday 8th October to share in our assembly. Pupils were able to show and discuss the work they have undertaken since the start of the term. Parent feedback on this new venture was extremely positive and I know the pupils enjoyed sharing their work at this time.

Years 1 and 2 will be holding their sharing assembly on Friday 12th February 2009 and Nursery and Reception will be holding their sharing assembly on Friday 28th May 2009.

Lloyd Scott

Lloyd Scott visited the pupils in their assembly time on Friday 2nd October and gave a small presentation about his recent ‘Dinosaur Charity Walk’ from Lands End to John-o-Groats in the far north of Scotland. We felt very privileged, as we were the first school to see his DVD presentation since completing his 1000 mile walk only a few days previously. The eagle-eyed amongst you will know that this journey directly is not 1000 miles, but he assured us that his route took him a long way round.

He was able to promote our sponsored Dinosaur Spellathon which took place on Monday 5th October. I would like to say a big thank you to all your family and friends who gave so much to The Teenage Cancer Trust, a most worthwhile charity. We have managed to raise a fantastic £1020 which will be presented to Lloyd Scott during one of our assemblies after half-term.

Walk to School Week

This big event took place during the week of 5th to 9th October and you may well have seen a number of pupils from many schools walking to their ‘host schools’ with dinosaurs that had been made, for small events taking place. Our turn to walk was on the Friday and those taking part were Bradley, William M, William B, Yasmin, Megan, Amber and Aleera accompanied by Miss Keens and Mrs Murphy. Our ‘host school’ was Towers School in Hornchurch and the pupils thoroughly enjoyed their time there taking part in a Carbon Footprint Exercise. Many thanks go to Mrs. Richardson, who was able to create the most amazing dinosaur, to join the pupils in their walk on the day. Photographs are up on our events board for you to see.

Stranger Danger

A number of officers came into school on the morning of Wednesday 14th October to inform pupils about the danger of speaking to strangers. Pupils from Reception to Year 6 were most receptive to their talks, but I would also ask parents to continue to support the school by also reinforcing this very important subject at home.

Harvest Assembly

Mrs Pat Miller, from St Andrews Church, came to address the pupils at our Harvest Assembly this morning, and delivered a most entertaining talk. We had a wonderful display of produce, which will be distributed to the Collier Row O.A.P Club for the third year running.

You were very generous with your contributions and we know that the club members will be most grateful for your kindness. Apologies go again to parents for not being able to invite them, however, the hall space is always at a premium on these occasions.

Bulb Planting

Following the harvest, the bulb planting took place in the rear of the school grounds. Pupils are waiting with anticipation to see their bulbs shooting through next Spring. Again, thank you for donating your bulbs for the pupils to plant.

School Uniform

Please ensure that the winter uniform is worn on our return after half-term and that items are purchased from Kinda’s in Upminster.

It is vital that all items of clothing are clearly labelled/named so if they are mislaid they can be quickly returned to their owner.

Homework

Homework is set every evening and, unless specified, needs to be completed and returned the next morning. Thank you for supporting your child in this matter.

Holidays

Please avoid making holiday arrangements during term time. Your child will miss vital work which often cannot be covered with them once they return to school. Only under special circumstances will holidays be authorised, once the relevant form has been completed from the office.

Have a most enjoyable half-term holiday. Should you be invited to, or indeed have an early firework party, please keep yourselves safe. I look forward to seeing you all when we return on Monday 2nd November at 8.45am with prompt registration at 9.00am.

Yours sincerely

Mrs J R Ellenby
Head Teacher

Newsletter · 8 July 2009

Dear Parents

Welcome to our latest newsletter with all the news and events of the past half-term.

Swine Flu

By the time you receive this newsletter, I am sure many of you will be aware that swine flu has now reached Havering.

Whilst school holiday activities for children and young people will mostly continue as normal this Summer, parents should remain vigilant. Any child presenting flu-like symptoms should return home as soon as possible, contact (not visit) their GP and seek treatment.

The Health Authorities will be monitoring the spread of infection closely over the Summer and I anticipate the re-opening of Goodrington School, as usual at the start of the Autumn Term on Thursday 3rd September 2009 at 8.45am.

I will be coming into school throughout the holiday to pick up any messages. Please inform the school immediately if you are sure that a member of your family has contracted swine flu or is in direct contact with anyone who has swine flu. I can then deal with the situation accordingly, through the correct channels.

Please visit the school website from 1 September 2009 for current information.

Havering School Uni 2009

I have been informed of many Summer holiday activities/courses which can be booked by visiting the Havering section of www.summerunilondon.org. These free activities for young people range from Circus Skills and Nature Detectives to ‘Mad Science’ – Light and Sound to a Football Academy.

You can also apply for other activities in other boroughs if you wish. Applications can be made either online or by post and those under 16 must send in a parental consent form before they can be considered.

School Fete/BBQ

This went ahead on Saturday 6 June. Considering the weather had been so dreadful leading up to this date, we were very lucky indeed to have a ‘window’ of good weather before the rain came again the following day. A good selection of stalls and activities made the fete a great success with approximately £700 profit made. My grateful thanks goes to F.O.G, parents, friends and relatives for all their invaluable help and support to the school.

Hornchurch Library

Librarian, Margaret Harris, visited the school on Tuesday 9th and Tuesday 30th June to finalise the Super Reading Library Scheme, hand out certificates and promote the Summer Reading Challenge. The pupils really enjoy these events, so do continue to encourage their enthusiasm during the holiday and see how many books they can read to achieve a medal and certificate.
Sports Day

Sports Day had to be postponed until 17th June because of the inclement weather. Once again we were very fortunate with this event being rain free (although windy) at Haynes Park.

Thank you to everyone who attended to cheer their children on. Wedlake were the eventual winners with a grand 70.5 points.

Peter Pan

On Thursday 18th June, Years 5 & 6 put on their performance of ‘Peter Pan’. Mrs Segrave rewrote the play to encompass everybody. The play was short but full of action, crocodiles, Pirates and Indians. Peter Pan was played admirably by Alex McLean-Nelson, and Caitlin Terry, as Tinkerbell, sparkled throughout her performance. The finale was ‘Lean on Me’ by Bill Withers, beautifully led by Nadine Cole, with the rest of the cast singing with gusto.

Well done to Years 5 & 6 for an excellent and lively performance.

Angela Watkinson MP

A visit from Angela Watkinson MP, the Member of Parliament for Upminster was held in the school library on Friday 26th June.

Caroline from Year 4 wrote:

Dear Mrs Watkinson, MP

We have really learnt a lot about MPs and the Houses of Parliament. It was very special that you came, because not many famous people come to Goodrington. I now know that if you are an MP you have to be very dedicated to your work. Mrs Watkinson, you really inspired me to be interested in politics. I want to thank my Head Teacher, Mrs Ellenby for organising you to come. As I said you have really opened my eyes in politics. Thank you for visiting our school.

Best wishes from

Caroline

Speech Day, Prize Giving and Open Morning

Our second Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony was held on Saturday 27th June 2009. Pupils and parents from the Upper School heard my report on the school for the 2008/09 academic year, saw pupils from Years 3 to 6 being awarded their prizes and listened to a most entertaining speech from one of our guests, Mr Lloyd Scott MBE, famous for his varied fundraising activities. Mrs Sonia King, our speaker from last year, was also a guest this year.

Following the ceremony, there were Basketball, Yoga and Music displays along with some delicious refreshments. The parents also had the opportunity to view displays of work around the school.

It was a most successful event which is now a permanent fixture in the Goodrington School Calendar.

The staff worked so hard to ensure that this event ran smoothly. They have been personally thanked by me and planning is already underway for next year’s ceremony.

Inter House Rounders

This took place between the house teams on the afternoon of Wednesday 1 July with Mrs Cast assisted by Mrs Richardson, Mrs Segrave and Mrs Ellenby.

Well done to Wedlake who won with 14 rounders. The winners received the cup in assembly the following morning.

Vera Lee

Mrs Lee, Head Teacher of Gidea Park College, is retiring at the end of this academic year and last Saturday I was invited to her Retirement Luncheon. On behalf of the staff, pupils and parents I passed on our sincere best wishes for a long, happy and healthy retirement.

Second Hand Uniform

Vicky Dorrington held a second hand uniform sale on Wednesday 1 July in the library after school. Approximately £50 was raised for the F.O.G. funds. Thank you to parents who continue to send in good quality, clean items to sell. Please leave any donations with Mrs Williams in the school office.

School Uniform/PE Kit

In preparation for the start of school in September, please ensure that ALL items of clothing are labelled clearly and that they still fit your child. Plimsolls, in particular, must be checked.

Summer uniform can still be worn until the October half-term, but if the weather is persistently cold or inclement, I will advise you when the winter uniform should be worn.

Please remember that Reception and Year 1 have PE on a Tuesday afternoon, and Years 2 to 6 have PE on a Wednesday afternoon. It is, therefore, essential that the children have their full PE kits on these days.

As always, in order to maintain standards and consistency, the uniform must be purchased from KINDA’S SCHOOL OUTFITTERS, 23 STATION ROAD, UPMINSTER, ESSEX, RM11 2SJ. TELEPHONE/FAX 01708 223421.

Reports

Reports were sent out to you all last Friday 3rd July, along with a Report Response Form, which was due to be returned by yesterday. If you haven’t already done so, please send it into school as soon as possible, as this provides confirmation that you have received your child’s report.

Attendance/Holidays

Once again, following the annual attendance calculations for the reports last Friday, it was clear that some pupils need to improve their punctuality and attendance, with effect from September.

I am informing all parents that any pupil who is absent, for whom a call has not been made to the office, will receive a call to ensure their child’s whereabouts by 9.30am.

I am duty bound to inform Havering Authorities of any pupil who is causing me concern, and they will take the necessary steps.

This in turn, will also apply to any holidays that are taken during term-time, without my authorisation. Havering are extremely hard on parents, regarding their child’s attendance, and are well known for fining and prosecuting parents whose children have poor attendance records.

When your child returns to school following a period of illness, please ensure that you send in a covering letter, even if you have telephoned the school.

Highest Attendance

This accolade goes to Grace Cook in Reception this year. What a wonderful achievement for a pupil in the lower school to have 100% attendance. Congratulations, Grace from the staff and pupils. Grace receives the Attendance Cup and will have been presented with a shield to keep.

Leavers Assembly

Our leavers and end of year assembly took place this morning and was enjoyed by all.

Our best wishes go to the following Year 6 pupils, who will be leaving to start their new secondary schools in September:

Funmi – Frances Bardsley
Nadine – Brentwood Ursuline
Phoebe – Emerson Park
Peaches – Forest
Acacia – Frances Bardsley
Harrison – Gaynes
Alex – Campion
Amy – Brentwood Ursuline
Caitlin – Brentwood County High

Our goodbyes and best wishes also go to the following pupils, as they leave Goodrington:

Caleb – Reception
Ben W and Zechariah – Year 1, Caleb,
Samuel – Year 2
Esme, Louis, Ellie, Mia, Patrick and Jessica – Nursery

Pantomime

I am pleased to advise you that the 2pm matinee performance of the pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, has been booked for all the pupils for Friday 11 December 2009 at the Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch. Further details will be available in the Autumn Term.

Mrs Wilder

I am sure you will all join with me in sending your very best wishes to Mrs Wilder, as she leaves Goodrington to spend more time with her family. Mrs Wilder has been a wonderful member of staff and will be missed by the pupils, staff and parents alike.

Reception Teacher

As we have been unable to fill this vacancy, I have reorganised the staffing for September and am pleased to inform you that Mrs Hastie will be undertaking the role of Reception Teacher on a temporary basis, while the post is readvertised. Mrs Hastie will be assisted by both Mrs Weatherup and Miss Keens.

Classes for 2009/10

The classes for the coming academic year will be organised as follows:

Nursery – Mrs Rogers, Mrs Terry, Miss Keens/Mrs Ruyten
Reception – Mrs Hastie, Mrs Weatherup/Miss Keens
Year 1 – Mrs Skelton
Year 2 – Mrs Richardson
Years 3 and 4 – Mrs Ellenby
Years 5 and 6 – Mrs Segrave

Parent Sharing Assemblies

I am delighted to advise you that we will be holding a Parent Sharing Assembly for each year group during the course of the 2009/10 academic year. This will give our pupils the opportunity to share some of their work with their parents/carers on the following dates:

Friday 9 October – Years 3,4,5 and 6
Friday 26 February – Years 1 and 2
Friday 28 May – Reception and Nursery

Bikeability Training

Bikeability training will be made available to our Year 6 pupils on 21st and 22nd September. Letters will be sent out as soon as we return in the Autumn Term.

Parking

I would just like to take this opportunity to remind all parents to park in a courteous manner when dropping off and picking up their children. Please do not park on neighbours drives or block their drives at any time.

Pupil Achievements

Reception

Cydney passed her Gold Medal Mime ballet examination.

William and Joshua passed their Karate Grading and were awarded their Yellow Belts.

Year 1

Amber passed her Silver Rose Tap examination.

Year 3

Bradley passed his Karate Grading and was awarded his Yellow Belt.

Year 4

Oliver was presented with the award for his commitment and his tackling at the end of the 08/09 rugby season. Oliver plays in the A team at Upminster and will be moving to the front row to play hooker next season.

Megan has completed her Grade One Tap Exam and Grade One Piano and made her first holy communion. Megan has also participated in Girls Squad of Hylands Tennis Club, gaining most improved player of 2008.

Britani has achieved Swimming Certificate Level 9 and Dance award for the Jive.

Year 5

Felicity was awarded bronze medals for tap and modern, with merits, and bronze medal for ballet with distinction. Felicity was awarded first place for both Essex Summer Dance Festival and Romford Stage Fesitival for the Sound of Music Medley. Felicity has also progressed to junior squad with her swimming club.

Xavier achieved Personal Survival 1 and 2 Swimming Badges, passed Level 9 at Swimming and received his Physical Recreation Cub Scout Badge.

Past Pupils

Jack Dorrington (2000 to 2008)

Jack was one of only three boys selected from Coopers to attend trials to play county rugby. Following a gruelling two hour selection process, where 120 boys were assessed on all core rugby skills, Jack scored full marks across the board and was selected for Essex Under 13’s and to train with the School of Rugby, sponsored by Saracens rugby club.

Simon Weatherup (1994 to 2002)

Having finished his ‘A’ Levels, Simon has just had the incredible opportunity of working at Wimbledon for the past two and half weeks. He was part of the official stringing team which him an all area pass in the All England Club. He was a regular visitor to the courts including Centre and Court 1, and also delivered rackets to the locker rooms. Simon met and chatted to all of the players including Federer, Roddick, Mary and Nadal. This is an experience Simon will never forget.

Mark Weatherup (1991 to 1999)

Having spent three years at Staffordshire University studying Sports Journalism, Mark has graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) Degree.

Well done to you all!

Have a wonderful Summer and we look forward to seeing you all at 8.45am on Thursday 3 September 2009 for a prompt 9am start.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs J.R. Ellenby
Head Teacher

Ofsted Inspection · 25 May 2007

On Thursday 10 May, we received a telephone call that Ofsted were coming to visit the school on Monday 14 May until Wednesday 16 May.

Mrs Jill Bainton was the Lead Inspector and was accompanied by Mrs Norma Ball. No stone is left unturned during these inspections and I am thrilled to inform you that Goodrington received a glowing report. Many complimentary comments were passed and Mrs Ball who was only with us on the Tuesday said she would have liked to stay but she had to be at another school on the Wednesday. In her summing up, Mrs Bainton said that parents were receiving very good value for money.

The published report is available for download:
Goodrington School_Report.pdf
A copy will also be available in the school office.

RSS / Atom