Junior School Head’s Blog 09 December 2019

What a wonderful time we all had; ‘Aladdin Trouble’ was an outstanding example of what we do well – involving everyone! The Christmas Production is something that remains very close to my heart and gives me great joy to watch. The children were absolutely fantastic and special mention should go to Mrs Pacyna who was the driving force behind the whole event, along with all the staff directly involved, without whom the show would lose a lot of its magic. Excellent teamwork reigned, involving all the staff and children in the Junior School (plus a few extras from the Senior School too – thank you!).

This week is the final week before we break up for a much deserved rest. However, it is not a gentle saunter to the end of term, more of a frantic gallop to the finish line. It begins with the annual Christmas Shopping experience run by our wonderful BMSPA volunteers. An email has been sent out detailing how the children can participate, but please be assured that it is not compulsory; it just gives the children a chance to do some ‘secret’ shopping of their own without parental involvement.

On Monday evening our choirs will be taking part in the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Paul’s church in Bedford. I look forward to seeing any families who are attending and the children who are expected to arrive at 6.15pm, with the event usually finishing around 7.45pm.

Thursday is the day when the children can wear their Christmas jumpers to school and I am sure that it will provide us with a sparkly end to the term – all donations will be sent to Save the Children who are organising this national venture. During the morning we will be settling down to compete in the House Quiz, this year organised by Mrs Leydon, Mrs Toumazou, Miss Barlow and Mrs Harpin. This will be a great opportunity for the children to have their fingers on the buzzers and there will be no opportunity for a nap! They have been asked to wear their house t-shirt in the morning so please make sure they wear this under their Christmas jumper.

This will be followed, after imbibing their Christmas lunch, with an extended Christmas Assembly which will give us a chance to calm things down.  This is led by Mrs Gale and will give the children a chance to hear the Christmas story and sing some carols as a timely reminder of the real reason for Christmas.

On Friday we have just the morning in school and the holiday begins at 12 noon. Please make sure you collect your children promptly so that they can begin their much deserved break.

A reminder for your diaries – Following on from the first parent information events back in September, another one will be offered in January to take you through similar themes for the spring and summer terms. The dates and times will be:

Year 3           Wednesday 08 January       4.30 – 5.15pm

Year 4           Thursday 09 January           4.30 – 5.15pm

Year 5           Wednesday 08 January       5.15 – 6.00pm

Year 6           Thursday 09 January            5.15 – 6.00pm

And finally, thank you to everyone for your support this term be that at concerts, on the sports’ field, supervising homework or sending us encouraging messages. We really appreciate it. I do hope that you have a lovely family time over the festive season and, as I always say to the children…don’t forget to come back in the New Year!

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.

Mrs J Rex
Head of Junior School