Ravenstone Primary School - newsletters

Headteacher's Newsletter 2nd October 2009

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:27:49 +0000

Content:

NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWS 2

NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWSLETTER 2 NEWS2

Friday 9th October 2009

Dear Parents/Carers,

We are very pleased with the way that all of our new children have settled into life at Ravenstone. We hope you and your families enjoy a long and successful relationship with the community of Ravenstone. This has been a very busy half term for all of us:

Summary:

Headteacher's Newsletter October 2009

Harvest Festival, Gardening Club, Goodbye Mrs Hampson, Golden Weeks, Walk to School and Diary Dates!

Headteacher's newsletter 21st May 2009

Thu, 21 May 2009 09:25:23 +0000

Content:

NEWSLETTER 11 Thursday 21st May 2009

Dear Parents/Carers,

SPORTS NEWS: A) SWIMMING GALA: At the regional swimming gala at Putney Baths on 16/5/09 our children again excelled. Seven schools had entered and only the top four boys and top four girls teams would progress to the Wandsworth Grand finals on Saturday 6 June. Our squad of 24 Y3-6 children were excited and nervous as the girls and the boys both made it through to the finals: the boys missing out on first place by a narrow three points. Many congratulations to the team, thanks to our wonderful supporters and especially Sarah Austin and Laura Hurley who coach the team every Wednesday. B) On 20/5/09 Richard Huie took a team of Y4/5 children to compete against pupils from 32 different local schools in a football tournament at Wandle Leisure centre. Our team were superb, winning their league and finishing a magnificent third overall.
PTA FOUNDATION STAGE PARTY: Many thanks to Clare Fraser, especially, and Katherine Harvey, Y6 pupils and all others who helped at the Foundation Stage party on 20th May. We had a visit from Vauxhall City Farm and many pupils enjoyed meeting a range of animals. It was also great to meet some of our new Reception children and families. The sun shone on what was a brilliantly organised, successful and happy event! Vauxhall City Farm is a great place to take the kids: only five minutes from Vauxhall tube and it’s all free!
DINNER MONEY: The cost for the final half term is £58.80 (28 days at £2.10 per day). Check the diary to see if your child is out on any trips etc. All children, apart from Nursery, will require a packed lunch on Wednesday 24th June, Sports Day. Please remember to pay in advance on Monday morning: £10:50 per week.

During the summer more children tend to opt for packed lunches, but could we please remind you all to ensure that your child’s lunch is in a secure container (not a carrier bag) and clearly labelled. Thank you for your support.

Summary:

School Trips, Swimming and Football Championships, Early Years Garden Party

HEADTEACHER'S NEWSLETTER 10 27/4/09

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:26:06 +0000

Content:

***Spring Golden Awards, Spring Music Concert, Chess News, Spring Tea, Car Boot Sale etc.***

Welcome back after what I hope was a wonderful, restful Easter holiday.

SPRING GOLDEN AWARDS: the following children are the recipients of last term’s Golden Awards for consistently outstanding work and behaviour all term:

Reception: Ibrahim M, Charlotte D T, Reuben L, Evie G

Summary:

***Spring Golden Awards, Spring Music Concert, Chess News, Spring Tea, Car Boot Sale etc.***

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 09

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:05:11 +0000

Content:

Monday 30th March 2009
1. LOTS OF SENSATIONAL SPORTS NEWS: a) FOOTBALL: Our Y5/6 football team resumed our matches in the local league and began on 12/3/09 with two games, a 9:2 victory and a 1:1 draw both against Sellincourt. On 19/3/09 we played three more games, drawing 3:3 and 0:0 with Belleville and beating Eardley 7:2. Thanks to Richard Huie and Anthony Turi who coach the team. b) SPORTSHALL ATHLETICS: On 17/3/09 we entered a team of 28 children from Y3/4 in the borough Sportshall Athletics competition featuring the following schools: Honeywell, Holy Ghost, Furzedown, Wix and Brandlehow. This was the first time that our younger children had ever competed in such a way against children from other schools. They were all rather nervous and very excited. On another fantastic day we again were CHAMPIONS! Absolutely brilliant and again thanks to Morris who has been coaching the Y3/4 at lunchtimes. As a reward for our Y5/6 girls being County Champions, Morris arranged for a surprise trip in a stretch limousine on 18/3/09. We told the girls that we were organising a photo shoot and in fact they went off around London (with Emily Richardson) on a superstar tour! They absolutely loved it! Joseph G and Candice J (Y5) were awarded medals for being part of the Wandsworth U/11 Athletics Team of the Year. c) VOLLEYBALL Our Y5/6 team of 14 children entered a competition at Ernest Bevin School on 26/3/09. Out of 9 local schools our boys finished second (having reached every single final in the last three years!) and our girls were third. d) SWIMMING: After Easter we will be competing in various galas and our squad continue training with Sarah Austin and Laura Hurley on Wednesday after school. They are shaping up well. [All U/16 are now entitled to free swimming at Balham. Register your children at Balham Leisure centre asap. You will need proof of age e.g. Passport or birth certificate. This starts in April] I am very pleased and proud that so many of our children are enjoying participating and achieving in so many different sports. Long may it continue.
2. ANNUAL SPRING MUSIC CONCERT: Our second spring musical extravaganza featuring all children from Years 3-6 takes place at St Mary’s Church, Balham on Saturday 25th April at 3:00pm. This will be an event not to be missed!
3. ‘BANDWORKS’FIRST MUSIC CONCERT: On 12/3/09 18 of our Y3/4/5/6 children participated in a short music concert. We had children playing a variety of instruments: trumpet, trombone, electric guitar, bass, drums, clarinet, piano etc. The children practise with children from another local school every Thursday and this was their first performance. They were wonderful!
4. BOOK AMNESTY: Could you please help us by encouraging your child to check their bookshelves, under the bed etc. and have a good look for any school books: library books, class books, guided reading books. Last week one mother returned 31 books worth over £200. We are just simply delighted to have them back!
5. SAINSBURY’S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS, TIMES BOOK VOUCHERS, TESCO VOUCHERS FOR SCHOOLS: Please keep sending all vouchers to the collecting boxes in the main office. We really make good use of them all.
6. WAITROSE LOCAL FUND: Thanks to Jo Turner we were one of three charities/groups selected by Waitrose, Balham, for a share of £1000. We eventually received £280.
7. RED NOSE DAY ‘09: We had lots of fun and the children’s costumes were amazing. Everybody entered into the spirit of what was a great day for all. Thank you so much for your support and help. We all know the state of the economy but we were delighted to raise just under £1400 (aided by support from the Wednesday ESOL class) for Comic Relief! That is incredibly generous and a massive ‘Thank You!’ to you all!
8. FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES: We are all so pleased to see so many of you attending Friday worksharing and celebration assemblies: Thank You. Unfortunately there will be no assembly this Friday 3rd April, last day of term, since we have a whole school assembly instead. There is simply no room!
The timetable for next term is as follows:

Summary:

Monday 30th March

LOTS OF SENSATIONAL SPORTS NEWS! ANNUAL SPRING MUSIC CONCERT! BANDWORKS FIRST MUSIC CONCERT! BOOK AMNESTY! VOUCHERS! WAITROSE FUND! RED NOSE DAY! FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES! BIKES! MATHS SURGERIES! EASTER RAFFLE! EASTER HOLIDAYS!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 08

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:53:38 +0000

Content:

Friday 6th March 2009

After the joy of the snow, spring is on the way:
1. WONDERFUL SPORTS NEWS: WE ARE BOROUGH CHAMPIONS!! On 10/2/09 we competed in the borough finals of the Sportshall Athletics at Battersea. Out of over 40 schools who entered we were through to the top 6, including local rivals Honeywell. On the day, re-arranged because of the snow, our girls finished as borough champions whilst our boys were second! This meant that overall we were joint first with Sacred Heart primary and are the delighted holders of a huge shield. This is an absolutely amazing feat and we are so proud of all of the 28 Y5/6 athletes who have trained so hard during lunchtimes for over twenty weeks. Emily Richardson and Morris Tolaram who coached the team stated that their sporting behaviour and overall teamwork was a joy to behold. Many congratulations to them all.
NOW OUR GIRLS ARE COUNTY CHAMPIONS: The girls’ squad were then chosen to represent Wandsworth in the Central London championships at Brixton Hall on 2/3/09 and emerged as COUNTY CHAMPIONS! The Y5/6 team of Candice J, T’Yahna S, Maya R, Michaela L, Mia T-B, Ruby S, Szcherezade M, Romy I, Daniella T, Elsa K and Ellie defeated all the borough champions from the other areas of Inner London. Absolutely amazing! Joseph G (Y5) was invited to be part of the Wandsworth boys’ all-conquering team.
2. ANNUAL SPRING MUSIC CONCERT: Our second spring musical extravaganza featuring all children from Years 3-6 takes place at St Mary’s Church, Balham on Saturday 25th April at 3:00pm. Put the date in your diary now!
3. MUSICIAL PERFORMANCE: Some of our Y4 violinists: Jevontae H, Josh H, Oliver B, Elizabeth K, alongside Y6 Ellie H, Zoe D (Clarinet) and Mae F (Flute) performed at an orchestral day at Thomas’s Clapham on 28/2/09. The organisers informed us that they were all brilliant!
4. YAMERIGA VISIT: The intrepid travellers have returned and will be sharing their experiences with the whole community in a variety of ways over the next few weeks. The group met the Yameriga PTA, School Council, taught rhymes and signing to the two nurseries, distributed gifts, read stories and discussed future developments. We are already exploring the opportunity of sending another group in February 2010 and anyone who is interested in supporting or being part of a visit please talk to Mary Hargeaves or Jane Hampson.
5. CHARITY SALE: On 10/2/09 Romy I, Mia T-B, Shaneeze H and Tijani B (Y6) held a cake and toy sale in aid of Streetlytes, a charity which helps the homeless. They raised £36.50. Very well done to them all.
6. SAINSBURY’S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS/TIMES BOOK VOUCHERS: Sainsbury’s are again running the Active Kids voucher scheme and we are again participating. Last year we collected over 46, 000 and all children throughout the school were able to benefit by having additional expert sports coaching in a diverse range of activities. In addition we are participating in the Times book voucher scheme. Please send all vouchers to the collecting boxes in the main office.
7. RED NOSE DAY: Next Friday 13th is Red Nose Day and we will be organising a variety of fun fund-raising events. We will be sending out a separate letter but please note that THERE WILL BE NO FRIDAY ASSEMBLY THAT DAY.

Summary:

Friday 6th March 2009

WONDERFUL SPORTS NEWS! ANNUAL SPRING MUSIC CONCERT! MUSIC PERFORMANCE! YAMERIGA VISIT! CHARITY SALE! VOUCHERS! RED NOSE DAY!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 07

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:16:24 +0000

Content:

Wednesday 4th February 2009
The worst weather for nearly 20 years leads us to half way through this school year:
1. CLOSURE DUE TO SNOW: We regret the closure due to the adverse weather but are very glad to be open again. I attempted to keep everybody informed as soon as possible via the website (www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk) and the phone/ansafone and hope that you weren’t inconvenienced too much. Thank you.
2. THE PARTY: Many thanks to all of you for partying the night away on 24/1/09! There are too many individuals to thank but in particular I would like to mention Sue Metcalfe and everyone who prepared the hall at lunchtime, the Millingtons: Paul Metcalfe, John Metcalfe and Martin Pannett, Morris for the disco, all who prepared food and also those who came in on Sunday to help us tidy up. Finally a massive thank you for my gift of John Lewis vouchers and the various other gifts I received. I am overwhelmed. It was a wonderful evening and full of surprises! We also raised over £1200.
3. PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTIONS: We (Rubina Gillani, Dan Russell and myself) held the count on Monday 26th January and I am pleased to report that the following parents were duly elected: Freddie Morrison, Henrietta Bainbridge, Thomasina Szemalikowski, Sam Dutton and Alex Frean. On behalf of the staff and children can I please thank all of the candidates for offering their help. It is amazing that so many people are willing to get involved and continue the journey of improving and developing Ravenstone.
4. SPORTS NEWS: ATHLETICS: On 20/1/09 Emily Richardson and Morris Tolaram took a team of 28 Y5/6 to Tooting Leisure Centre to participate in the regional Sportshall Athletics against 13 other local schools. On a fabulous day both our boys’ and girls’ teams finished first, comprehensively defeating all! The grand borough finals were scheduled for 3rd February, but will now have to be re-arranged.
CHELSEA FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: On Tuesday 13th January, a group of 10 children, from Y6/5/4, participated in the Chelsea Schools’ Under 11 tournament at the Wandle Recreation Centre. Although the team didn’t make it to the final stages, there were some very encouraging performances, the highlight of which was a closely contested draw in the derby against local rivals Belleville. Mr. Turi was very pleased with the behaviour and skill of all of the members of the team: Alex S and Thomas C (6JL); Abdirazak S-M, Zain G, Zian B and Josh S (6MF/AB); Joseph G, Blyth W and Ezio C-B-C (5FC), and Josh H (4NW/RH)
5. TREES: You may be aware of the mess that the builders Buxtons have made when they severed the roots of a beautiful mature healthy tree near the pond. The tree was unsafe and therefore had to be cut down and removed. Buxtons have agreed to replace it with a ‘similar’ tree, after sterling work by Elizabeth Mc Farlane (Chair of Premises committee), Alex Frean (Chair of Governors) and Mark Clews (Maia, Y5). One, possibly two new semi-mature trees will be supplied and planted in the very near future.
6. RAVENSTONE BLOGS: Please look on our website: www. ravenstoneschool.co.uk to see Stars of the week etc. We have an ancillary site which features work produced on the Apple Macs including animation, film of last year’s music concert, cartoons etc. This can be accessed by clicking on Ravenstone Blogs on the left hand menu. Please have a look.
7. RAVENSTONE TRAVEL PLAN: I would like to thank Anthony Smith (Eleanor, Y1) for the wonderful detailed work he has undertaken to produce the latest comprehensive Travel Plan. Richard Huie has assisted Anthony in developing the document that covers all aspects of how our community travels to school, traffic in the local area etc. We will soon be entitled to funding from WBC that will be used to improve the cycle racks etc.
8. YAMERIGA VISIT: Not long now till Carole, Patrice, Elizabeth, Katherine and Freddie set off for Ghana! Last week the five held assemblies to talk about what their plans at school will be and to encourage children to bring in any spare flip-flops, pens, pencils, sharpeners and rubbers for the children in Yameriga: collection boxes are around school.
9. SCHOOL DINNER MONEY: Last week we were owed over £800 by over 40 families for meals that their children have already eaten. We are totally fed up with chasing parents who owe money for food that their children have consumed. The admin staff are wasting massive amounts of time and money sending letters, making phone calls pursuing debt. This has to stop. From now on, if you do not pay in advance then your child will not receive a meal. Meals cost £2.10 per day. Envelopes are available from the office. Please give your envelope to your child to give to the class teacher or place it in the box provided in the main office.
10. HALF TERM: A reminder that we break for half term on Thursday 12th February (Friday 13th is an inset day) and the children return on Monday 23rd February.

Summary:

Wednesday 4th 9th February 2009

CLOSURE DUE TO SNOW! THE PARTY! PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTION! SPORTS NEWS: ATHLETICS! CHELSEA FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT! TREES! RAVENSTONE BLOGS!

Head's Newletter 2008/09 06

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:35:54 +0000

Content:

Friday 9th January 2009

Welcome back after what I hope was a wonderful, peaceful and restful Christmas break:
1. GOLDEN AWARDS: The following children were the recipients of last term’s Golden Awards for consistently excellent work and behaviour:
Reception: Izzy R, Gabriela M, Anisa U, Tyrese B
Year 1: Louis S, Dora N, Anna F, Jack B
Year 2: David B-R, Jada O-E, Ethan B, Ann-Lucie V
Year 3: Amelia R, Joseph B, Clara F, Tane S
Year 4: Kai O, Francesca K-H, Alex C, Chezane W-S
Year 5: Dylan L, Kiran G, Annabel B, Arslan A
Year 6: Romy I, Thomas D, Sophia A, Bilaal A
Very well done and many congratulations to them all!
2. ACTIVEMARK 2008: Just before Christmas we received the excellent news that we have been awarded Activemark accreditation for providing high quality PE and Sport in 2008. This national award recognises the hard work of all the staff who have been involved in increasing the opportunities for physical activity at Ravenstone – in the form of sports clubs, both within the school day and after school, and the rota of lunchtime activities that is organised by Mandee Saxby and led by our Y6 Young Leaders.
3. SAINSBURY’S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS: Thanks to the vouchers that you collected last summer, over the next few weeks every class will be having additional PE sessions run by external specialist coaches: these include Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Fun Fitness and a variety of dancing: Street/Hip Hop, Disco, Salsa and Rock and Roll. Sounds great fun!
4. MANY CONGRATULATIONS TO ROCHELLE (Y6): for finishing second in her division, in a national non-contact karate competition in Reading at the end of November. Rochelle has been learning karate for 6 years.
5. YAMERIGA EVENTS: We are planning to send up to five members of our school community (staff, governors etc) to visit our partner school in Yameriga over February half term. In order to assist this we are planning a number of fund-raising activities: You may recall the KS1 pyjama party last term. This Saturday there will be a January Sales crèche when children can be supervised in school. A separate letter went out earlier in the week. It is from 10am till 4pm (or a half day session). In addition we are holding a disco/party on Saturday 24th January 8:00pm till late. This will include a live band. Tickets will be on sale soon.
6. PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTIONS: I am sending out the information and ballot papers for the election of parent governors on Monday. We have thirteen nominations for the five vacancies that now exist. Once again, apologies for the confusion last term.
7. TIMES/SUNDAY TIMES BOOK FOR SCHOOLS: We are participating in this new scheme and would urge you to support us by sending in to the main office any vouchers that you (or family, friends) collect. They are available in the Times and Sunday Times starting January 11th.
8. FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES: We are all delighted that so many of you are able to attend our Friday worksharing and stars of the week assemblies, 10:00-10:15am. Some Fridays we have had over 70 parents attending. Brilliant!
Remember you may not see your child’s work, but you will see work from her/his class. This term’s timetable is as follows:

Summary:

Friday 9th January 2009

GOLDEN AWARDS! ACTIVEMARK 2008! SAINSBURY'S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS! MANY CONGRATULATIONS TO ROCHELLE! YAMERIGA EVENTS! PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTIONS! TIMES/SUNDAY TIMES BOOK FOR SCHOOLS! FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 05

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:45:06 +0000

Content:

CHRISTMAS NEWSLETTER 2008

Wednesday 17th December 2008

We have had a very busy and successful end to this wonderful term:
1. A VERY BUSY NIGHT: All of our Foundation Stage children (well, all who were well enough) were on stage singing and dancing for two wonderful performances of A Very busy Night at the end of term. Thanks to Rhian Robbins for the dance, MJ Paranzino for the music, Max Furnell for the set and Jo Lynch for the lighting, but special thanks to all the Foundation Stage children, the Y6 helpers and all Foundation Stage staff, led by Elaine Flanagan, for their help and encouragement. We collected in aid of the Age Activity Centre, Tooting and raised over £250. Thank you for your generosity. The show was filmed on 17/12/08 and DVDs will soon be available to order.
2. PTA CHRISTMAS FAIR: Another wonderful success on Saturday 6th December. Many thanks to all who helped and all who came long to make it such a special day. We made well over £4000! Special thanks to Jo Turner, Clare Fraser and Sarah Hill for the organising etc. Also thanks to Julie Noble for selling the Christmas trees: 56 sold and a profit of over £400, all collected in the pouring rain!
3. CAROLS IN THE LOWER HALL: Thanks to all who were able to join us for all of Y1-Y6 singing carols on Monday 15th December. Thanks to the PTA for providing mince pies and mulled wine afterwards.
4. PTA CHRISTMAS DISCOS: Thanks to Jo, Clare, Sarah and everybody who helped with organising and refreshments etc. on Friday 12th at the two discos. Special thanks to Freddie Morrison for spinning the discs at the second disco for the older children.
5. BBC OFF BY HEART: The poetry reciting competition on 5/12/08 was an amazing event. Over 70 children from Y3-Y6 took part and the quality was sensational. Fiona Mueller helped us judge and the year winners were as follows: Y3 Clara F, Y4 Khinar P, Y5 Georgina B, Y6 Zoe D. The overall school champion was Isabella D (Y6) who now goes through to represent Ravenstone at the regional heats. Thanks to Catherine Dowler for organising the event.
6. SNOWMAN PYJAMA PARTY: On 10/12/08 over 70 children from Reception to Y2 watched ‘the Snowman’ in the lower hall while parents chatted over coffee. This was all in aid of helping to send staff, parents and governors over to Ghana to visit our partner school, Yameriga, in the New Year. We raised £230. Look out for a similar event for KS2 coming soon!
7. CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS: the children had their Christmas lunch today and the parties will be tomorrow and the younger children may be visited by a certain special guest!
A reminder that we finish tomorrow THURSDAY 18th at 3:15pm. School re-opens for the children on TUESDAY 6th January 2009
On behalf of the children, staff and governors I would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and Happy New Year !

Summary:

Wednesday 17th December 2008

A VERY BUSY NIGHT! PTA CHRISTMAS FAIR! CAROLS IN THE LOWER HALL! PTA CHRISTMAS DISCO! BBC OFF BY HEART! SNOWMAN PYJAMA PARTY! CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 04

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:25:04 +0000

Content:

NEWSLETTER 4 Friday 5th December 2008
Dear Parents/Carers,
The end of term is approaching and many festivities are upon us:
1. PTA CHRISTMAS FAIR: Tomorrow, Saturday 6th from 3:00-5:00pm. Loads of fun, gifts, the secrets room and a special visitor from Lapland! It will be crowded, so get there early!
2. CHILDREN IN NEED: Many congratulations to Michaela L and Daniella T (Y6) for organising two events in aid of BBC’s Children In Need on 14/11/08. The first was a blindfolded penalty shoot out and the second a toy/book sale. They raised over £50!
3. TIMES AND SUNDAY TIMES BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS: This starts in January and we are already registered. Please send in any tokens which you can start collecting in the New Year.
4. MJ PARANZINO HAS RETURNED: We are all delighted to see MJ back resuming her teaching at Ravenstone and inspiring us all with her dynamic and fun approach to music. Thanks to Caroline MacBrayne who kept music going in her absence. We are continuing with most of our traditional Christmas arrangements but unfortunately are not able to sing carols at Balham station this year.
5. POETRY RECITING COMPETITION: This afternoon we held the BBC’s ‘Off By Heart’ poetry reciting competition involving many children from KS2. The school champion will go forward to compete in the national event.
6. HEINZ CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION: Congratulations to Ellie H (Y6) who entered and won a national competition to design a Christmas card for Heinz.
7. SADIQ KHAN’S CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION: Many congratulations to Frankie R-S (Y2) who was the overall winner in our local MP’s annual Christmas card competition involving children from all local schools. Frankie has been invited to Westminster to meet the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, and be presented with her prize next Wednesday 10th December!
8. VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONS: Twelve local schools competed in a volleyball tournament at Ernest Bevin yesterday. The girls were runners-up and in a thrilling final the boys defeated Alderbrook to be overall champions. Thanks to Morris Tolaram for coaching and taking the Y6 team, and to the parents for your support.
9. ATHLETICS CHAMPIONS: In a four-school tournament at Battersea Youth Centre on Tuesday our Y5/6 team also emerged victorious. Thanks to Emily Richardson and Morris, and again all the parents for their wonderful support.
10. FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES: Thanks to the many parents who attend our Friday assemblies. We have finished now until January because the stage is up for the Early Years show and we are getting ready for the end of term. I will send a new timetable out in early January 2009.
11. CRB CHECKS: Many thanks to all of you who have submitted forms for CRB checks in order that you may accompany us on trips, visits etc. We have processed many forms and are now calling a halt to this for the foreseeable future.
12. SCHOOL DINNER MONEY: Could all parents/carers PLEASE ensure they have paid all outstanding money as soon as possible or at the very least by the end of term. We have to pay the money to a private company and we are wasting ridiculous amounts of administrative time (and money!) sending reminders, making phone calls, chasing families who owe for food their children have already eaten. Some people seem to find this amusing but we are very fed up! On average we are owed over £300 every week.
13. CHRISTMAS PARTIES: Individual class teachers will give you details concerning your child’s class parties asap.
14. SCHOOL AND LIBRARY BOOKS: Could all parents please check to see if they have any school or library books at home. We would be very pleased to have them back asap.
15. GOVERNOR ELECTIONS: Once again apologies for the difficulties with the parent governor election. We will send out new ballot papers etc. early January.
With Best Wishes

Summary:

Friday 5th December 2008

PTA CHRISTMAS FAIR! CHILDREN IN NEED! TIMES & SUNDAY TIMES BOOKS! 4. MJ PARANZINO HAS RETURNED! POETRY RECITING COMPETITION! HEINZ CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION! SADIQ KHAN’S CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION! VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONS! ATHLETICS CHAMPIONS! FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES! CRB CHECKS! SCHOOL DINNER MONEY! CHRISTMAS PARTIES! SCHOOL AND LIBRARY BOOKS! GOVERNOR ELECTIONS!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 03

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:01:05 +0000

Content:

NEWSLETTER 3 Friday 14th November 2008

Dear Parents/Carers,
1. OFSTED INSPECTION: I attach the Ofsted report after our latest inspection, which took place the Friday before half term. I have to confess that I was not really expecting Ofsted to knock on the door quite so soon (I was expecting the call after Christmas. We have the dubious honour of being the first school in the borough to have received two short notice inspections, whilst some are still awaiting their first) but nonetheless we are all very pleased that the inspectors have been and gone! At the verbal feedback the lead inspector described Ravenstone as a ‘fabulous school’ and one in which he ‘would love to work in, and send his grandchildren to’. Of course such statements do not feature in the report since they are not official ‘Ofsted language’. It is worth remembering that an Ofsted inspection is only a snapshot. At Ravenstone we are constantly striving to improve the quality of the educational provision for all of our pupils. Having said that, we are all very pleased that the report recognises our considerable achievements and agrees with our judgements about where the school is now, and how to continue improving. I would like to thank all parents and carers for your support and encouragement. We received over 200 replies to the Ofsted questionnaire- about three times the number most schools of our size receive!
2. US VISITORS: We were visited on 6/11/08 by five teachers from Dolby Elementary School, Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA. This was the day after the US elections and our children were very keen to discuss Obama’s victory with our guests. The visitors were overwhelmed by your children’s knowledge and enthusiasm and commented on the quality of the relationships between pupils and teachers, the working environment and the work on display in the school.
3. MJ PARANZINO: MJ is recuperating after her operation and intended to return straight after half term but is now on track to return before the end of November, just in time to co-ordinate our Christmas celebrations! In the meantime Mrs MacBrayne continues to keep everything ticking over. We intend to hold all of our normal Christmas events. Check in the diary for dates and times. The dates of the class parties will be announced later.
4. PTA AUTUMN TEA: Many thanks to Diccon Beeny for organising yesterday’s feast of cakes and biscuits.
5. PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTIONS: We now have vacancies for three parent governors. This is because their terms of office (four years) have expired. One, Freddie Morrison, will definitely stand again, but two are not now eligible since their children have moved on to secondary schools. I shall be sending further information out next week confirming all of the details and election procedures.
6. RAVENSTONE WEBSITE: Parents may not be aware that every Friday I immediately put the Stars of the Week on the school website: www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk . Please also have a look at the supplementary website, Ravenstone Blogs on p. 2, which features work by the children on the Applemac computers, including some recent Y6 School Journey Podcasts, photos and thoughts.
7. FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES: We are all delighted that so many of you come in to Friday assemblies but can I please respectfully remind you all to leave the playground by 10:25am at the very latest, for obvious safety and security reasons.
Looking forward to a very productive and enjoyable half term in the run up to Christmas.
With Best Wishes

Summary:

Friday 24th October 2008

OFSTED INSPECTION ! US VISITORS! MJ PARANZINO! PTA AUTUMN TEA! PARENT GOVERNOR ELECTIONS! RAVENSTONE WEBSITE ! FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 02

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:13:09 +0000

Content:

Friday 24th October 2008

Dear Parents/Carers,
We are very pleased with the way that all of our new children have settled into life at Ravenstone. This has been a very busy half term for all of us and me especially: I was at the LEA’s Headteachers’ conference for three days, followed by a very sudden bereavement and then a week at school journey.
Then Ofsted today, so apologies for a very brief (and rushed) newsletter.
I am looking forward to a quieter half term.

Summary:

Friday 24th October 2008

HEALTHLY LIVING WEEK! BIKE IT! YAMERIGA! GOLDEN WEEKS! SCHOOL JOURNET! CLUBS!PACKED LUNCH ROOM! PTA QUIZ! RAVENSTONE SINGERS CONCERT FOR DEMELZA! OFSTED!

Head's Newsletter 2008/09 01

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 06:42:27 +0000

Content:

Monday 8th September 2008

Dear Parents/Carers,
               Welcome back, after what I hope was a very relaxing and peaceful vacation. I would like to extend a particularly warm welcome to all of our new children and their families. I trust that you will enjoy a long and successful relationship with the community of Ravenstone. Despite the inclement weather, we are all settling in and enjoying the first few days with your children. There is much to share:
1.   GOLDEN AWARDS: The recipients for last term’s Golden Awards for consistently excellent work and behaviour were as follows:
Reception: Katie-Mae H, Joseph D, Jack M, Nawaal Y
Y1: Tara K-L, Amina K, Swaraa V, Ryan L
Y2: Owen L, Lia F, Kuba B, Jade S
Y3: Daisy H, Bee F, Emma D, Juan R
Y4: Jacob M, Phoebe H, Eshika K, Ollie G
Y5: Max V, Ruby C, Thomas D, Tijani B
Y6: Sascha S, Theo H-D, Kyle C, Shuruthi V
Many, many congratulations to them all.
2.   GOLDEN BADGE WINNERS, 100% ATTENDANCE: The following children were awarded Ravenstone Golden Badges for 100% attendance last year: Y5 Ellie H, Michaela L, Ben T, Abdul R, Y4 Shadena S, Amber S, Abubaker A, Blyth W, Y3 Josh H, Ryan D, Kai O, Ella P Y2 Lewis W-E. Congratulations to them all. I hope there are even more at the end of this year!
3.   FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES: Every Friday 10:00-10:15am we hold our work sharing/celebration assemblies. All parents are invited to attend and whilst you may not necessarily see your child’s work you will see some from her/his class. We will be delighted to see you, and so will your children! Come along. If you have young children, they are very welcome, only please ensure that they don’t get restless and disturb the assembly. The timetable for this term is as follows:
(Reception may not be participating until all children have settled. Look out for the notices by the reception classes)

Summary:

Monday 8th September 2008

GOLDEN AWARDS! GOLDEN BADGE AWARDS, 100% ATTENDANCE! FRIDAY ASSEMBLIES! PTA SOCIAL / AGM! OWARE CHAMPIONSHIPS! SUMMER SHOW! CLASS VISIT - CRB CHECKS! SEAL! MJ PARANZINO ABSENT. LINX XMAS CARD COMPETITION! DOGS! LOST PROPERTY! MATHS! HOMEWORK! DINNER MONEY! ATTENDANCE & PUNCTUALITY! PLEASE TALK TO US !

Head's Newsletter 2007/08 12

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:50:06 +0000

Content:

NEWS 12
FINAL NEWSLETTER OF THIS YEAR

Wednesday 16th July 2008

Dear Parents’/Carers’,
This is the last newsletter of this fabulous year with many, many successes to share:

Summary:

Monday 23rd June 2008

SUMMER PRODUCTION ! PTA CARNIVAL SUMMER FAIR ! SPORTS NEWS ! HEATHLY SCHOOLS AWARD ! WINNING HOUSE PICNIC ! CHESS AND OWARE CHAMPIONSHIPS ! POND DAY ! ICE CREAM SALE ! LONDON NIGHT SKY MURAL ! CLASSES FOR SEPTEMBER 2008 ! FOUNDATION STAGE GRADUATION ! SCHOOL MEALS ! ASSESSMENT RESULTS ! PACKES LUNCH ROOM & LOST PROPERTY ! YEAR 6 LEAVERS !OTHER LEAVERS !

Head's Newsletter 2007/08 11

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 08:49:54 +0000

Content:

Dear Parents’/Carers’,
The penultimate newsletter of this very exciting and productive year:
1. EARLY YEARS PARTY: Many, many thanks to all the parents and staff who helped to make the Early Years Garden Party such fun on 19th June. Particular thanks to Katherine Harvey and Clare Fraser. It was wonderfully organised and just great fun and a really good way to meet some of our new children and families! It also raised £260.
2. SPORTS NEWS: A) SWIMMING: At the borough gala final on 7th June our girls were fourth whilst our boys finished first for the second consecutive year! This is now the sixth consecutive year that both our teams have progressed to the borough finals. Not bad when you think that is out of over 70 schools! Many congratulations to the 20 strong squad who finished as overall borough champions again: Theo H-D, Matilda F, Louis M, Emily E, Liberty V, Walker H, Felix St, Gabriel M (Y6), Ellie H, Zoe D, Alex S, Nathan K, Ruby S, Thomas C (Y5) Flynn R-S, Claudia G-A, Edith S, Mara S, Joseph M and Annabel B(Y4) B) ATHLETICS: On 12th June we entered a team of 32 in the network athletics at Tooting track. We were weakened by the fact that all of our Y5 pupils were on a trip, but we still finished a very commendable third, with some outstanding individual performances. Today a squad of 14 are competing in an athletics event organised by Wandsworth Sports Partnership. I’ll let you know how they get on.
3. SAINSBURY’S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS: A massive thank you to all who collected the vouchers for us. This year we again amassed well over 40,000 which will be used to purchase equipment for the Foundation Stage and also coaching sessions for the rest of the school.
4. SPORTS DAY: This Wednesday 25th June at Tooting Track. You are all invited to come along and support your children at our annual sports day. Reception, Y1 and Y2 have their events in the morning and KS2 the afternoon. Hopefully we will not be deterred by rain!
5. SUMMER FAIR: Saturday 5th July: This year the theme is Carnival. Come along, have fun, help and spend money.
6. BOOK AMNESTY: As we approach the end of the year could you please all help us by having a search at home and returning any class books, guided reading books or library books etc. that you may inadvertently have at home.
Many thanks.
7. VISIT FROM MARK AND VIVIAN FROM YAMERIGA: Ravenstone children, staff, parents, governors and friends have had a wonderful time these last two weeks looking after Mark and Vivian from Yameriga Primary School, Ghana. A huge thank you to everyone for your generosity with both time and gifts. In two weeks they managed to visit the ITN newsroom, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, Apsley House, the National Gallery, the Festival Hall to see MJ’s choir, the London Eye, Tate Modern as well as the Ghanaian community at church and also Mr Oware’s restaurant. They visited a number of homes and tried many different foods. They went to every class, exchanged views with School Council and visited Emma’s ESOL class. Mark played in the final event, a staff v Y6 football match, and scored the first goal! The visit completed the British Council sponsored curriculum exchange. A wonderful final assembly marked the exchange of the School Partnership Agreement, which first began in 2002. Children sang and gave cards, Katherine Harvey presented gifts from the PTA and Freddie Morrison spoke on behalf of the governors. We must thank ex pupils Josh H (Y11, St Cecilia’s) for producing a short film of their stay and also Evelyn S and Katrina W (Y7, Graveney) for raising £100 and especially the PTA for their wonderful support.
8. Y6 SCHOOL JOURNEY: We recently returned from a fantastic activities week at PGL on the Dorset coast with Y6. We had a wonderful time at this venue and look forward to returning in October with current Y5. We have decided to go earlier in the year so as to give Y6 something to look forward to in September and to maximise team building opportunities etc. It is also considerably cheaper!
9. EDUCATION WELFARE OFFICER: Our EWO has been in school recently talking to the classes about the importance of regular attendance and also punctuality. Our attendance has steadily improved every year but we still have a few children arriving late or missing sessions.
10. VERONICA EMERSON: Mrs Emerson is retiring this summer after teaching for many years at Ravenstone. If you would like to contribute to a gift for Veronica then please send your donations in to the main office.
Looking forward to an exciting end of term.
With Best Wishes

Summary:

Monday 23rd June 2008

EARLY YEAR'S PARTY ! SPORTS NEWS ! SAINSBURY'S ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS ! SPORTS DAY ! SUMMER FAIR ! BOOK AMNESTY ! VISIT FROM MARK & VIVIAN FROM YAMERIGA ! Y6 SCHOOL JOURNEY ! EDUCATION WELFARE OFFICIER ! VERONICA EMERSON !

Head's Newsletter 2007/08 10

Fri, 16 May 2008 15:03:19 +0000

Content:

1. PTA AUCTION OF PROMISES: What a fantastic night on 9th May! We are all so grateful for people’s generous offers of services, skills, gifts and time. On the night we made in excess of £12 000 with another £1 700 on the internet auction! When you add in the bar and gate, we made well over £14 000. Absolutely amazing! Many thanks to Valerie McLean and her dedicated team: David Lewis (auction website), Richard Geraghty (posters, catalogue and slideshow), Claire Conway (avid procurer of lots), Annette McFadyen (catalogue) and Andrea Thompson, Mike Schwarz and Bridget Palmer (admin on the night). Plus all the members of the PTA, especially Katherine and Sue, those helping on the night with food and drink and the clearing up afterwards + Clare and David for counting the money!
2. SCHOOL JOURNEY: Y6 depart for their school journey to Osmington Bay, Dorset, on Monday. We shall spend a week enjoying a range of diverse sports and outdoor pursuits such as archery, abseiling, orienteering, fencing etc.
3. THE BRITISH LAND CHESS CHALLENGE 2008: Over 40 children entered this competition where they had to play seven rounds of matches each. The winner was Zain G (Y5), with two joint runners-up: Joel D-B and Toby R. Fourth, was Barnaby H (Y6), fifth Thomas C (Y5) and sixth Abdi Y (Y6). Toby went on to compete in the finals in Surrey and won 3 out of his 6 games against very experienced opposition. Many congratulations to them all and thanks to Ewa Stevens for organising the competition.
4. PTA SPRING TEA: Thanks to Diccon and Caroline Beeny for organising the spring tea on 1st May. Another great success, loads of cakes baked and consumed and £340 raised as well. The best ever!
5. ST MARY’S CHURCH BELLRINGERS: On Saturday 26th April, Toby R, Theo H-D, Barnaby H, William F and Lucy K (Y6) took part in the 200th anniversary celebrations of St Mary’s church, Balham, which involved them having the pleasure of ringing the bell 200 times!
6. BOOKWEEK SPONSOR MONEY: Many thanks for your generosity and support for the Readathon which raised over £1200.
7. HATS, SUN CREAM, WATER and SHADE: Now that at last the sun has arrived it is important that your child comes with a suitable sun hat and also having been ‘creamed’ as appropriate. We constantly encourage the children in class and assemblies to drink lots of water and also seek the shade during playtimes.
8. VISTORS FROM YAMERIGA: We are still waiting to hear about visas etc. but we are optimistic that two teachers from Yameriga will be coming to visit Ravenstone around the 9th June.
9. SPORTS NEWS: a) SWIMMING: Tomorrow we take part in the annual Wandsworth swimming gala at Putney Baths. The team of 20 Y4/5/6 are very excited and optimistic. They have been coached by Sarah Austin and Laura Hurley and we look forward to letting you know how they got on. b) MULTISPORTS: Next Wednesday Some Y3 children are involved in a multisport challenge at Chestnut Grove school. C) ATHLETICS: When we return on 3rd June we are competing in an Athletics tournament featuring local schools.
A reminder that we break for half term next Friday 23rd May and the children return on Tuesday 3rd June. (Monday 2nd is an Inset day). I hope you all enjoy a relaxing sunny Whitsun and I look forward to the final half term of this academic year: Foundation Stage party, four performances of the summer show, Y6 Prize-Giving and Leavers’ Assembly, Y6 Party, Sports Day, Class outings and trips, meetings for new Reception and Nursery parents, end of year reports and so much more!

Summary:

Friday 16th May 2008

PTA AUCTION OF PROMISES! SCHOOL JOURNEY ! THE BRITISH LAND CHESS JOURNEY ! PTA SPRING TEA ! ST MARY@S CHURCH BELLRINGERS ! BOOKWEEK SPONSOR MONEY ! HATS, SUN CREAM, ; WATER AND SHADE! VISITORS FROM YAMERIGA ! SPORTS NEWS