Parents' Area

Updates

Friday 12th December, 2025

Free School Meals

Dear Parents/Carers,

We already have many families who enjoy the benefits after applying for Free School Meals and we urge you to reconsider if you meet the criteria listed below.

By applying for Free School Meals, very often parents think it is all directly linked to school dinners- it isn’t! If you qualify for Free School Meals, it also means that you are entitled to significantly reduced prices for school trips, breakfast clubs and after school clubs. There are many other benefits that your child could directly receive to potentially support them at home and if needed, with their learning at school.

Families with children in years Reception up to Year 6 can apply for Free School Meals if they are entitled to certain benefits and have an annual income of £16,190 or below.

Please follow the below link as this will take you to the Telford & Wrekin website where you are able to access more information and download an application form which will be sent directly to the team. Or alternatively, speak to a member of staff in the school office for support in applying.

Telford & Wrekin Council | Free School Meals

Friday 12th December, 2025

Achievement Assembly

Friday 12th December 

As the end of term approaches, the school has been buzzing with festive cheer and activity. On Monday, Year 3 enjoyed an exciting trip to Southwater, while Nursery delighted families with their Christmas celebrations in the hall. Midweek brought a splash of colour as children proudly wore their Christmas jumpers and gathered for a delicious festive lunch. The week concluded on Friday with Year 2’s wonderful nativity performance. We are incredibly proud of the children’s dedication with learning their lines and songs to create such a memorable performance and a big thank you to the year two team for putting it all together. 

House Points 

This week, Severn have taken the lead with an impressive 423 points – well done Severn! They are followed by Ironbridge with 375 points in second place and Wenlock closely behind with 364. In fourth place is Wrekin with 310 points. Next week, all the totals will be added to decide which house will have the house celebration next.  

Achievers of the week: 

Year 6 achievers: William for his superb effort, focus and attitude to learning.
Georgia for always listening carefully and being super helpful!  

Year 5 achievers:  Rochae for a real noticeable improvement in effort and enjoyment of learning. Jacob for a positive attitude towards your learning and trying very hard with your handwriting and presentation. Well done! 

Year 4 achievers: Lucas for following the BeSmart Code and being ready to learn, as well as trying hard in his learning this week! Maya for great focus and perseverance with symmetry this week.  

Year 3 achievers: Mrs Millington’s achiever for her consistently super handwriting joins –she is almost ready for a pen license, keep it up Arla! Noor for her lovely biography writing on Mary Anning and being a polite and respectful member of the class.  

Year 2 achievers: Archie for being an outstanding King Herod. You have had such amazing resilience and confidence. We are so proud of you! River for being brave and preserving in the Nativity. We are all so proud! 

Year 1 achievers: Milo for his fantastic Chance to Shine writing using his own ideas. He took care with his handwriting. Very proud. Finley for always working hard and trying his best. He has produced some super work to be proud of.  

Year R achievers: Hunter for showing great kindness to others and sharing our toys this week. Miss Hailey’s achiever for showing positivity and being a kind friend.  

Attendance Winners 8th – 12th December 2025

Winner of Reception, Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3

Mrs Evans & Mrs Sturrock = 98.62%

Winner of Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6

Mr Stubbs = 98.62%

Friday 12th December, 2025

Finance & Personnel Governor Involvement

On Wednesday, our Finance & Personnel Governors met in school. A key focus of their discussion was the Pupil Premium Strategy, which will be shared on our website very soon.

The Governors spent time looking at how our leaders and staff teams are working to support our most vulnerable learners. Like many schools across the country, we are seeing a growing number of children with SEND needs. This naturally means we must ensure we have the right expertise and enough staff capacity to meet those needs.

The Governors reviewed both current and future staffing requirements across the school and nursery and considered how this affects the way finances are allocated. They were reassured that staffing is being directed to where it is most needed, and that our inclusive school continues to provide a strong offer for all children.

Thursday 11th December, 2025

Year 2 Nativity – Friday 12th December

We cannot wait for parents and family to see our Y2 Nativity this Friday. We kindly ask that if you have a pushchair, or a young child, that you sit towards the back of the hall or at the side as this would make it easier for you should you need to pop out if they become unsettled. We also ask that you arrive promptly as the show will start at 1:30pm. Doors will open at 1:20pm.

Thursday 11th December, 2025

Clear Vision, Bright Future!

 Why Eye Tests Matter

  • Good eyesight is essential for learning and confidence.
  • Children often don’t realise they have vision problems.
  • Early detection prevents long-term issues.

 

Free NHS Eye Tests

  • Available for all children under 16
  • Free up to age 19 if in full-time education

 

Signs Your Child May Need a Test

  • Squinting or tilting their head to see
  • Sitting very close to screens or books
  • Complaining of headaches or tired eyes

 

Book Today!

Quick, easy, and free Visit your local optician

Wednesday 10th December, 2025

Curriculum Governors Involvement in School

The Curriculum Committee Governors met today to review a range of aspects linked to teaching and learning. As part of their visit, they spoke with a wonderful group of pupils from Years 1, 3, and 5 about their Literacy work.

The children shared how their learning is adapted to meet their needs. For example, they explained that they sometimes use word banks to support their writing, or that a teaching assistant may work with them before a lesson to help them feel more confident and prepared.

In addition, the governors placed a particular focus on Pupil Premium, reviewing the policy and spending plans for this year. They considered how funding is being used and the expected impact on pupils’ learning and progress.

It was fantastic to hear directly from the pupils and to see the governors’ oversight ensuring that strategies and resources are making a positive difference.

Wednesday 10th December, 2025

SEND Newsletter Autumn 2

Please find attached the SEND newsletter for Autumn 2.

Autumn 2 SEND Newsletter

As always, if you have any questions or concern’s regarding your child’s development, please contact their class teacher or the SENCO via newdalesendco@taw.org.uk

Kind regards,

Mr McFarland

Monday 8th December, 2025

Grapes and Young Children: A Safety Tip for Parents

Why Grapes Can Be Risky

Grapes are delicious and healthy, but their size and smooth shape mean they can block a child’s airway if swallowed whole. Because they are slippery, they are also hard to remove with first aid techniques.

Why Little Ones Are More Vulnerable

  • Toddlers don not yet have all their teeth and are still learning to chew well
  • Their swallow reflex is still developing
  • Their airways are smaller, so blockages happen more easily

That is why it is safest to cut grapes lengthways into halves or, even better, quarters before serving them.

How Long Should Grapes Be Cut

Children under five are at the highest risk, but even older children may still have small airways. While school‑age children are usually better at chewing and swallowing, there is not a set age when grapes suddenly stop being a hazard.

A Simple Habit That Helps

If you are packing grapes for nursery or school, always chop them into quarters. It is a quick step that makes snack time safer — and lets children enjoy grapes without worry.