Updates

Monday 20th July, 2026

Volunteers Needed

Are you looking to make a real difference to children’s progress?

Would you like to develop new skills, gain valuable experience, and help young learners build confidence in reading? Maybe you have retired from working in a school, but would still like to contribute in some way?

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who can spare a few afternoons each week to support children in learning the fundamentals of reading. Full training would be provided, and you would have the opportunity to volunteer alongside our fabulous and supportive team.

We use the Read Write Inc. Phonics programme and are seeking committed volunteers who want to help children who need a little extra one to one support on their learning journey.

If you would like to find out more, please express your interest by contacting newdale.primary@taw.org.uk

(Full safeguarding checks would be carried out inline with our policies)

Friday 17th July, 2026

Finance & Personnel Governor Involvement

Finance & Personnel Governors met on Monday 13th July. They reviewed the final staffing structures for both the nursery and school and were pleased to note that the support team remains strong despite ongoing budget pressures. Governors examined the budget and future projections in detail, recognising the increasing financial pressures associated with recruiting additional staff to support the growing number of pupils with SEND needs.

The Pupil Premium Lead shared the work undertaken this year and the positive impact it has had on children. Governors acknowledged the importance of this work and agreed that it should remain a key priority within the School Development Plan next year.

Governors also reviewed the parent survey results and discussed the actions that need to follow. They were delighted to read so many positive comments from parents about the school.

Finally, they considered staff wellbeing and reviewed the measures planned for next year to ensure that all staff feel valued and supported.

Friday 17th July, 2026

Class Dojo

We will be sending Class Dojo invites out via our Arbor system.

Please click on the relevant link (your child’s new teacher will be named) and follow the steps to link to your child.

Please note that Class Dojo is free. It may ask you to sign up to the paid subscription, which you do not need to do.

Many thanks

 

Friday 17th July, 2026

Reminder – Y6 Leaver’s Festival – today!

Dear Parents/Carers,

Year 6 will have their leavers’ assembly and festival on Friday 17th July from 1-3pm. Please wait outside the schools’ main entrance ready for the assembly to start at 1pm.

We would like to thank parents for your kind donation to put towards our exciting end-of-year celebration. We have organised activities such as bubble football, a silent disco, a quiet area and garden games.

This year, we will also be providing food and drink which can be purchased on the day. This will be cash only please, coins where possible, we have very limited float. Food includes: hot dogs, chocolate crunch, ice cream and drinks (prices range from 50p to £1.50). Please rest assured that vegetarian and gluten free options will be available for the children with dietary requirements. Please bring picnic blankets and foldable chairs should you need a place to rest.

Please speak to your child’s class teacher if you have any questions.

Kind regards,

The Year 6 Team

Tuesday 14th July, 2026

A Reminder About Labelling Belongings for September

As we prepare for the new school year, we’d like to remind all families about the importance of labelling children’s belongings – including clothing, water bottles, bags, and any other items pupils bring into school.

Every September, we are very quickly overwhelmed with unnamed jumpers, coats, bottles and lunch bags. Despite our best efforts, a large number of these items end up in recycling simply because we cannot identify their owners.

To help reduce waste and ensure belongings make their way back to the right children, we will be introducing a new approach from September:

  • If an item arrives in school without a name label, staff will write the child’s name on it using a permanent marker. This will help us manage lost property more effectively and prevent the growing pile of unclaimed items we see each term.

Clear labelling makes a huge difference – it saves time, reduces waste, and ensures children don’t lose the things they need each day.

Thank you for your support in this.

 

Monday 13th July, 2026

Uniform alterations this week

We are ever watchful of the weather forecasts and enjoying the reasonable temperatures today at least!

Tomorrow does not look too bad either, so please can children come in school uniform unless they have PE scheduled.

On Wednesday we have the England Match at night and the temperatures seem to rise again, therefore it will be a Football shirt or PE kit day.

We are still looking at the end of the week and will let you know of the arrangements soon.

Regards

Miss Cook

 

 

Monday 13th July, 2026

Important Notice – School Access Arrangements for the Final Week of Term

We would like to inform parents and carers of a temporary change to school access arrangements during the final week of term, starting this afternoon.

From pick-up time today, the Phase 3 gate (by the Year 6 classrooms) will be closed and out of use due to boundary improvement works that are taking place over the summer holiday period. The contractors are beginning this week.

To access the main playground, please use the gates located by the staff car park through the quiet area. These gates will remain open for drop-off and collection times while the works are underway.

We kindly ask all parents and carers to allow a little extra time and take care when entering and leaving the site.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we carry out these important improvements to the school grounds.

Monday 13th July, 2026

Crossbar – Happy, Healthy, Active Holidays!

Looking for fun, active activities this summer? The Crossbar Foundation are offering HHAH places, giving children a fantastic opportunity to get moving, make friends and enjoy the summer programme.

Get ready for a summer of free, fun activities with Happy, Healthy, Active Holidays! 

Bookings are now open, with FREE activity sessions for children in Reception to Year 6 who are eligible for income-related free school meals.

We are offering HHAH places at the following venues:

Newdale Primary School – Tuesday 28th July to Friday 31st July and Tuesday 4th August to Friday 7th August

Activities include: various sports, arts and crafts and themed activities.

A free nutritious meal is included at every session.

 

Book now via this link: https://orlo.uk/pj0jQ 

 

Any questions please contact Jack Morris at jack@thecrossbargroup.co.uk