Week beginning 9 September 2024

A Foreword from the Headmistress

Dear Parents,

The first day of the academic year is always a mixture of excitement, anticipation and wonder as friends greet one another with smiles, and newcomers are made welcome.

This has been a very special and happy week for me as the new Headmistress of Wellesley Haddon Dene. The children, families and staff have been incredibly welcoming and understanding as I learn to navigate the intricacies of this incredible school. It is a privilege to be the Head of this school and I will do my utmost to inspire  and support our community.

We are making plans for a busy and exciting Autumn Term, with a strong collaboration between school and PFA.  

The teachers have described their first week below and they have also been keeping you up to date on Dojo. It is heartwarming to see your children happy and confident.

We ended the first week with an uplifting assembly on Friday, in the form of a webinar arranged by ‘Picture News’. The topic was ‘Celebrating our Differences and Overcoming Adversity’ and there were thoughtful discussions, interesting insights and valuable contributions from children in hundreds of schools around the UK; including our own. Amongst the hundreds of comments added into the chat facility, we were delighted that the message from WHD Year 1 was read out! .

Katie from Picture News writes –

“Hello everyone.

I wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for registering for this morning’s webinar. We were joined by an incredible record-breaking 501,310 children from all across the UK.

We were blown away by your insightful thoughts and contributions. It really highlighted what a wonderful future generation we have!

Wishing you a pleasant week.

Mrs Harries

2024 WILDER KENT GOLD AWARD FOR WELLESLEY HADDON DENE

Everyone at our school is incredibly proud to be, in some small way, part of the vital work carried out to preserve the Kent countryside by encouraging the ‘wilder side’ of nature! Mrs Sabin-Dawson and Ms Clayden have been diligent in ensuring that everyone’s good work achieves well deserved recognition. We are very grateful to them for their hard work and commitment, striving to achieve the highest standard; the GOLD AWARD, with which we have been presented. The awards, which were supported by the Marsh Charitable Trust, saw 87 organisations shortlisted and their efforts resulted in a staggering 120,000 people in the county receiving the nature benefits from the actions taken by the entrants.

The finalists covered four categories, businesses, community groups, schools and villages, towns and cities. 18 received the highest accolade of gold, 23 silver, 27 bronze and 19 awarded commendations. Mrs Sabin-Dawson and Ms Claydon were presented with our award at a special ceremony at Canterbury University on Saturday, 20th July, hosted by TV presenter and producer of Talk on the Wild Side podcast, Rob Smith.

The Wilder Kent Awards were set up by Kent Wildlife Trust in 2020 as a way of recognising and rewarding the positive actions that groups across Kent are taking in order to protect wildlife and safeguard nature for future generations. 

It is indeed an honour to be given this award and I would like to thank everyone involved. Let’s make sure we build on this recognition by working towards achieving the Trust’s recommendations.

School Last Week 

Little Denes

This week marked the exciting return to nursery for our youngest children after the long summer holidays. It’s been a joyful time, filled with new experiences and the comforting routine of familiar faces. The children have settled back into the nursery environment wonderfully, exploring their surroundings with curiosity and enthusiasm. For some, it was their very first week in nursery, a big step in their young lives. They’ve started to form new friendships, engage in playful activities and adjust to being part of the group. The week was filled with lots of creative play, outdoor exploration and lots of fun times .We’re thrilled to see how quickly they’ve adapted and can’t wait to support them as they continue to grow and learn.

 

Reception

Reception class has had a wonderful start to the term. They have already been wowing their teacher’s with their knowledge and enthusiasm to learn. Mr Huggles, the class bear, is already a firm favourite with the class. The children were all so eager to share their holiday news with him.

They have been getting stuck into maths and literacy already as well as their specialist lessons. Reception children have really enjoyed getting to explore their classroom, their garden and the field. We’ve had such wonderful play and learning both indoors and outdoors, and so much fabulous team work. The children worked so well together whilst using the parachute playing ‘Bouncing Teddies’ and lots of fun was had. On Thursday, as part of their Understanding the World lesson, we looked at our local area by going for a walk around the school fields using our senses. It was very windy but at least the rain stayed away! On Friday, the children enjoyed their first weekly beach session. 

   

Year 1

We have had a wonderful first week back to school in Year 1! The children have settled into their new routines very quickly and have got on straightaway with the work expectations. We have started looking at part-whole models and number bonds in Maths, written an independent story about a lost character in English, learnt about everyday materials in Science, created some amazing sunflowers using paints in Art and had great fun in our other specialist lessons. Children have also treated us to a show and tell of their adventures during the summer – I am looking forward to reading these diaries in more detail over the next few days. I have been so impressed with the behaviour and manners of the class, especially the kindness and respect shown to everyone. 

 

Year 2

We’ve had a marvellous return to school after the long summer break. The class have settled well and are getting used to the new class rules, routines and high expectations that the Year 2 curriculum demands. In our English lessons we are studying the book, “Meerkat Mail”. We followed clues and discussed their relevance and importance when trying to learn about the main character, guessing successfully that it was an animal living in a desert (the footprints in the sand were a big clue!). The class then completed their Cold Task by writing their own short journey stories! In maths we are revising numbers to 100 in both numerals and words. We are also studying Place Value, using our knowledge of tens and ones to position different values on Place Value Charts. In PSHE we’ve welcomed a new class member, Rainbow, the Worry and Thoughts Monster. Using British Values, the class suggested names and then voted for their favourite. It was a three-way tie so we voted again to secure a winner. Rainbow is sitting proudly in our room, eager to devour our worries or suggest ideas and hopes from the class. 

Year 3

Year 3 have got stuck in straight away with their new English topic ‘Conquering the Monster’. The children were met with a disaster on Wednesday when their class worry monster, Bubblegum, had disappeared and the classroom left in disarray. The children had to gather evidence left by the culprit to solve the mystery. They discovered that Smok, a dragon from Poland, was responsible and luckily Bubblegum was returned unharmed. Smok is the main character from our model text this term and the children are looking forward to finding out more about him and what he gets up to!

  

Year 4

Children have had a flying start to year 4. They have all settled very well, getting used to the routines and the longer days. It is lovely to see them walk in each morning with a smile on their face and showing such  enthusiasm for their learning. Such positive attitudes set a strong foundation for the rest of the year. 

The children were exceptionally good in both English & science lessons this week and were particularly good when we took a silent ‘Sound’ walk to listen carefully to what noises were in various areas.

Year 5

Year 5 have made a positive start to the year and have warmly welcomed Zahra into the form. They have been especially thoughtful and helpful with Prince, who unfortunately broke his leg in the holiday. They have also enjoyed the good weather – making the most of the beautiful school grounds this week, in games sessions and at break times, long may it continue! 

 Year 6

The children are working very hard and are incredibly focused on the Kent Tests, which are taking place this Thursday. A great start to the term in Art too, with some pupils working towards designing name portraits, as well as some surrealism art and reference to Rene Magritte.  Year 3 started their Art with some observational drawings and produced some wonderful pieces. 

 

PE

We have had a wonderful first week back, teaching PE and games across the school. The children’s enthusiasm has made it all the more enjoyable. We are looking forward to teaching the children new sports and skills this term. 

Staff News

We had a very productive INSET DAY at which all staff received refresher training from the NSPCC on Safeguarding and Child Protection, based on the document Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024. 

Mrs Ryder has been in school this week to ensure French lessons are fully planned and ready to go, while she continues her maternity leave this term. We are very pleased to welcome Mrs Diamond, who will be teaching French from Nursery to Year 6 until Mrs Ryder returns in January 2025. Some of you may know Mrs Diamond as she taught French at Haddon Dene for many years.

Art Teacher Mr Parfitt, will not return to us this term however, we have many teachers who are also talented artists, Mrs Elliott being one of them. She becomes the Art Lead for the school while also teaching Art to Years 3 to 6. The lower years will be taught by their class teachers.

REMINDERS

The finishing time for Years 4, 5 &6 is strictly 4.30 each day. They should not be collected earlier.

Thank you

Future Events for your diaries

Class assemblies this term (Old Hall) starting at 9am. Parents will be invited to their child’s class assembly via a message on Dojo from the class teacher.

Year 4 – Tuesday 24 September

Year 5 – Tuesday 8 October

Year 1 – Tuesday 22 October

Year 3 – Tuesday 5 November

Year 2 – Tuesday 19 November

Year 4 – Tuesday 26 November

Year 6 – Tuesday 3 December

Kent Tests take place on Thursday 12 September

We wish everyone in Year 6 taking the tests the very best of luck.  🙂

Play and Discover Dates

For children from 18 months to 4 years to give a taste of sessions in our Little Denes.

More dates: Tuesday 15th October 2024; Tuesday 19th November 2024; Tuesday 10th December 2024.

Whole School Open Morning for Prospective Parents on Saturday 5 October.

We will hold this event on Saturday 5 October between 9.30 and 12.30. I would be grateful if the children in Years 4, 5 & 6 would attend to assist with tours around the school. More details will be sent to you nearer the time.

Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 27 September

We will be joining in with the biggest cake sale in the land. It will be held in the dining room straight after drop off at 9am until 10.30am. We will be asking for donations of cakes and cookies to sell in order to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. PLEASE do join us for cake, coffee and a good chat!

School Values Award

Year 1Monty Watson – For working incredibly hard in his English and Maths this week, showing quiet efficiency and calm determination to produce some excellent work. Well done.

James Gutierrez – James has lit up the classroom with his kind spirit and wonderful singing! His behaviour has been impeccable and he continually helps out around the classroom.

Year 2Elliot Palmer- Elliot has made an excellent start to Y2, overcoming his small anxieties after the long holiday. He is always one of the first to put his hand up and offer suggestions and answers in lessons. Well done! 

Eva Roberts- Eva has settled really well into the routines of Y2. As one of the first to arrive daily, she has helped set the routines of handing in homework and diaries. Really helpful!

Year 3Herb Halton- Herb has returned to school with a fantastic attitude towards his learning. He is focused in each lesson and has been completing his work to a high standard! 

Frederick Tipping- Freddie has made a great start in year 3. He has been working hard in each lesson and has also stood out for his manners and the respect he has shown towards both adults and peers. 

Year 4Juno – has made fantastic progress in coming into class overcoming anxiety and settling in brilliantly.That is a super achievement, Juno!

Louis – has made a fantastic start to WHD. He has settled very well into the routines and is getting involved in every part of the WHD life.

Year 5Zahra- for a really super start to her new school and class. 
Year 6All of year 6 with their focus towards the Kent Test and resilience and attitude to Kent Test revision.  They have been amazing this week and also when coming into school on the run up to the beginning of term.  

Year 6 were also nominated for Team of the Week

Specialist TeachersFrankie Mae Year 4 for coming back with a determined attitude and for her outstanding skill within our Netball practices. Scoring 4 goals in a practice game. 

Bella Perks Year 5 for being so kind and supporting Zahra who is new to the school. 

Special Mentions

Summer Reading Challenge

We are incredibly proud of Kody for being awarded a gold certificate. Well done. 

LAMDA EXAM RESULTS

Congratulations to the following pupils who achieved distinctions in their Lamda Exam.

Year 8 – Tate Sheppard; Kasper Lear; Platon Shatokhin; Lila Grady;

Year 6 – Suri Lear;

Year 4 – Langa Ngwenga-Robinson; 

Year 3 – Emilia Foster;

Year 2 – Arabella Dolan-Crowley

I would highly recommend that children study with LAMDA for a range of important benefits including empowerment and confidence in public speaking .

Teams of the Week

Year 1 for their wonderful engagement and excellent responses during the Live Assembly session and for getting one of their suggestions read out live!

Year 3 for their transition to Junior school, with great attitudes and determination. 

Menu

Our Catering Manager Mrs Green, has been working on a menu that will suit everyone.

You will find it attached.

Matches This Week 

Football – U11A vs Kent College – [away] 13.45 – 16.15 CT2 9AQ

    U11B vs Kent College – [away] 13.45 – 16.15 CT2 9AQ

If your child has been selected for a mid week fixture, we will contact you by each Tuesday morning with information regarding the recommended pick up time from WHD.

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