Newsletter Autumn 2009

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.14

December 18th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

School will close on Monday next week for the Christmas holiday and it will be a non-uniform day for all classes. We ask that the children bring £1 each to go towards support for Billy, the little boy with multiple health problems.

School will re-open on Monday January 4^th 2010.

Church Services

All Saints Church, Ockbrook – December 20^th 6.30 p.m. Nine lessons and carols.

Christmas Eve Midnight Service starting at 11.15 p.m.

Christmas Day 8.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m.

St.Stephen’s Church, Borrowash, Christmas Eve - Carols around the tree 6.00 p.m.

Parent Association

Over the last two weeks the P.A. has made strides in fund raising. Below is a summary of their achievements.

Christmas Bazaar and Raffle £ 797.00

Calendars and recipe books (after Bazaar) £ 40.00

Disco £ 273.00

Bags 2School Clothing Recycling £ 208.00

------------

£1318.00 clear profit

All this money will eventually be used, in one form or another, for the benefit of all the children in the school. We thank Sam Palmer and Karen Boa for all the hours of work they have put into fund raising but we also realise that it is you, the parents, friends and children who continually support the school and we say “thank you” to all of you.

An extra thank you goes to Mrs.Chambers and Mrs.White for the work they put into making up the recipe books, to Mr.Bourne for his work on the calendars and the parents who helped out at the disco.

Christmas Around the World

Thank you for your attendance at church on Tuesday and Thursday. Through our retiring collection £171.00 was raised which will be donated equally between Rainbows Children’s Hospice and Treetops Hospice.

Pantomime Visit

“Cinderella”. A wonderful afternoon’s entertainment was enjoyed by parents and children. The trip to the Assembly Rooms was a huge success, so much so, that the Parents’ Forum has pledged to repeat this outing next year. Our thanks go to Mrs.Chambers and Mrs.White for planning and arranging everything.

P.T.O.

School Texting Service

Please will you check your mobile phones to make sure that you are receiving our text messages. We find that some messages are going onto a husband’s or partner’s phone which is perfectly acceptable if this is what you wish. But if you prefer to receive on mother’s or carer’s phone please will you make sure that we have the correct number. Thank you for your cooperation.

Anti-Bullying

You may recall that we recently held a competition among the children to design an anti-bullying poster. The response was good and the winners in each group were:

3/4W – Chloe I, 3/4LJ – Kayla M, 5/6EB - Aimee H, 5/6G – Jessica C,

5/6JB – Megan W. The overall winner was Niamh H. Thank you to all the children who took part.

School Nurse Visits

Wendy Bennett, our school nurse will continue with her “drop in sessions” on the following Thursdays: January 7^th, February 4^th and March 11th. If you have any concerns about your child please feel free to come along and speak to her or you can contact her on

01332 288782.

The Ockash Trust “Festival of Light Walk” will take place tomorrow December 19^th. Starting from The Royal Oak, Ockbrook, at 6.00 p.m. it will proceed down to Borrowash Methodist Church where there will be carol singing, (our school choir taking part), and afterwards hot drinks and food will be available

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6EB who had the highest attendance, for the week December 7^th to December 11^th.

It only remains now for us to wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a bright New Year.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Co-Headteachers

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.13

December 11th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

A reminder that Monday December 21^st is not an INSET day for this school. We are open as normal and will close at the usual time of 3.25 p.m. Monday December 21^st will be the last day of term and we re-open on Monday January 4^th 2010.

School Improvement Plan

We will be working on the following for the next two years:

1. To continue to raise standards of teaching and learning in literacy and numeracy.

2. To implement and embed Assessing Pupil Progress techniques on literacy and numeracy teaching linked to the National Primary framework..

3. To develop the use of the learning platform to support pupil achievement.

4. To update and develop the Anti-Bullying Policy and Behaviour Policy.

5. To develop and embed community cohesion.

Choir at the Westfield Centre

On Monday December 7^th our school choir took part in a competition at the Westfield Centre in Derby where they sang three Christmas songs. Although the children sang extremely well and were a credit to the school we did not qualify for the final. However, it was an enjoyable experience and our thanks go to Mrs.Sarah Cresswell for giving so freely of her time to coach the children over the past weeks. Thanks also to the parents who went along to support the children; it really is appreciated.

School Nurse Visits

01332 288782.

Christmas Concert in Church

Come and celebrate “Christmas Around the World” with us at Borrowash Methodist Church on Tuesday December 15^th or Thursday December 17^th at 10.00 a.m. We do ask, that due to numbers, you attend on one day only to give everyone the opportunity to see our performance.

Christmas Disco

The disco for the children will be held on Wednesday next week from 6.00 to 7.30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased before the day as no payment can be taken on the door. Please note that we need an emergency telephone number and all children must be collected by a responsible adult.

P.T.O.

Christmas Craft Morning

Thank you to all the parents who attended the Christmas Craft morning today. Your support is always appreciated.

A Date for Your Diary

The Ockash Trust “Festival of Light Walk” will take place this year on Saturday December 19^th. Starting from The Royal Oak, Ockbrook, at 6.00 p.m. it will proceed down to Borrowash Methodist Church where there will be carol singing, (our school choir taking part), and afterwards hot drinks and food will be available. Everyone will be welcome, so come along, with a lantern or a light and see Santa Claus riding his pony and trap.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6EB who had the highest attendance, 100%, for the week November 30th to December 4^th. A non-uniform day is the reward for 100% and this will be taken on Friday next week December 18^th along with Class 5/6G who had 100% attendance the previous week.

There will be an extra non-uniform day for the whole school on the last day of term, Monday December 21^st. This will be to support the fund for Billy, the little boy who has multiple health problems.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.12

December 4th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

Choir at the Westfield Centre

On Monday December 7^th our school choir, coached and led by Mrs.Sarah Cresswell will be taking part in a competition with other schools at the Westfield Shopping Centre in Derby. If any parents are in the area (top floor of the Centre near to the food hall) or can come along to support the children we would be delighted to see you. We expect to

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.13

December 11th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

School Improvement Plan

We will be working on the following for the next two years:

1. To continue to raise standards of teaching and learning in literacy and numeracy.

2. To implement and embed Assessing Pupil Progress techniques on literacy and numeracy teaching linked to the National Primary framework..

3. To develop the use of the learning platform to support pupil achievement.

4. To update and develop the Anti-Bullying Policy and Behaviour Policy.

5. To develop and embed community cohesion.

Choir at the Westfield Centre

School Nurse Visits

01332 288782.

Christmas Concert in Church

Christmas Disco

P.T.O.

Christmas Craft Morning

Thank you to all the parents who attended the Christmas Craft morning today. Your support is always appreciated.

A Date for Your Diary

Attendance

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

perform at 12.15 p.m.

Reminders: A coach will pick us up from school at 11.30 a.m. and bring us back again after the performance. The children will need a packed lunch and a drink and school uniform, school shoes not boots, to be worn please. Can we ask that the children taking part bring with them a Santa hat and a woolly hat to wear during one of the songs.

Pantomime Visit – Saturday December 12^th

The coach, for those who have paid for the pantomime, will pick up on Victoria Avenue, outside school and leave promptly at 12.30 p.m.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

All parents and family members are invited to come into school next Friday December 11^th to work alongside the children on Christmas crafts. There will be the opportunity to meet staff and other parents while having refreshments in the staff room at break time. The children really enjoy this event and we hope you can join us.

Christmas Concert in church

Christmas Disco

Our Parent Association has arranged a disco for the children. It will be on Wednesday December 16^th from 6.00 to 7.30 p.m. and all age groups will attend together. The cost is £2 per child and refreshments will be available to buy. A permission form will be sent home early next week.

Christmas Dinner

A reminder that our school festive Christmas dinner will be next Friday December 11th. Many children who normally bring a packed lunch have ordered a school meal for that day.

P.T.O.

A Date for Your Diary

Year 3/4 Project

A reminder from Miss Weaver that the Boudicca project which the Yr 3/4 children are working on is due to be handed in on Monday next week, the 7^th.

Poppy Appeal

The amount raised in school from the sale of Remembrance Day Poppies was £38.54. Thank you to everyone who supported this very good cause.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6G who had the highest attendance, 100%, for the week November 23^rd to November 27^th. A non-uniform day is the reward for 100%. The date, for this class only, is Friday December 18^th.

Fund Raising for Billy

We are pleased to tell you of two more wonderful achievements by children. Olivia Smith walked round Carsington Water raising £350.00 and Maizie Derrick rode the cycle path from Elvaston to Derby raising £100.00. This money will go to help Billy, a little boy with multiple health problems. Very well done Olivia and Maizie!! Also to support fund raising for Billy, school will have a non uniform day on Monday December 21^st for which we ask a donation from each child of £1.

Teachers to Parents Text Messaging Service

We have purchased and begun using a texting service. You should all have received a text but if you have not it may mean that the message is “in transit” or failed. This will be a good opportunity for you to keep us informed of new and up to date mobile numbers. Please contact the school office or send a note in if you didn’t receive a text so that we can update your records.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.11

November 27th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

Mrs.Glover

Mrs.Glover finishes school this Friday to begin her maternity leave. We would like to thank her for all the extra work she has done to ensure a smooth transition for her class and for the rest of the school’s sporting activities and clubs.

We send her our best wishes for the future and look forward to hearing all her news after Christmas.

Fund Raising for Billy

Billy is a 15 month old little boy who suffers with multiple health problems. Courtney

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.12

December 4th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

Choir at the Westfield Centre

Pantomime Visit – Saturday December 12^th

The coach, for those who have paid for the pantomime, will pick up on Victoria Avenue, outside school and leave promptly at 12.30 p.m.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

Christmas Concert in church

Christmas Disco

Christmas Dinner

A reminder that our school festive Christmas dinner will be next Friday December 11th. Many children who normally bring a packed lunch have ordered a school meal for that day.

P.T.O.

A Date for Your Diary

Year 3/4 Project

A reminder from Miss Weaver that the Boudicca project which the Yr 3/4 children are working on is due to be handed in on Monday next week, the 7^th.

Poppy Appeal

The amount raised in school from the sale of Remembrance Day Poppies was £38.54. Thank you to everyone who supported this very good cause.

Attendance

Fund Raising for Billy

Teachers to Parents Text Messaging Service

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.12

December 4th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

Choir at the Westfield Centre

Pantomime Visit – Saturday December 12^th

The coach, for those who have paid for the pantomime, will pick up on Victoria Avenue, outside school and leave promptly at 12.30 p.m.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

Christmas Concert in church

Christmas Disco

Christmas Dinner

A reminder that our school festive Christmas dinner will be next Friday December 11th. Many children who normally bring a packed lunch have ordered a school meal for that day.

P.T.O.

A Date for Your Diary

Year 3/4 Project

A reminder from Miss Weaver that the Boudicca project which the Yr 3/4 children are working on is due to be handed in on Monday next week, the 7^th.

Poppy Appeal

The amount raised in school from the sale of Remembrance Day Poppies was £38.54. Thank you to everyone who supported this very good cause.

Attendance

Fund Raising for Billy

Teachers to Parents Text Messaging Service

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.12

December 4th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Holiday

Choir at the Westfield Centre

Pantomime Visit – Saturday December 12^th

The coach, for those who have paid for the pantomime, will pick up on Victoria Avenue, outside school and leave promptly at 12.30 p.m.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

Christmas Concert in church

Christmas Disco

Christmas Dinner

A reminder that our school festive Christmas dinner will be next Friday December 11th. Many children who normally bring a packed lunch have ordered a school meal for that day.

P.T.O.

A Date for Your Diary

Year 3/4 Project

A reminder from Miss Weaver that the Boudicca project which the Yr 3/4 children are working on is due to be handed in on Monday next week, the 7^th.

Poppy Appeal

The amount raised in school from the sale of Remembrance Day Poppies was £38.54. Thank you to everyone who supported this very good cause.

Attendance

Fund Raising for Billy

Teachers to Parents Text Messaging Service

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Trusswell in Year 5 has done a sponsored swim to raise funds to support Billy. She raised £332.00 by swimming 44 widths of the pool. A wonderful achievement! Very well done Courtney and a big thank you to everyone who sponsored her.

Christmas Around the World

The children have started their journey around the world today visiting France, Scandinavia, Germany, Mexico and England as part of our themed learning. This will continue all next week. Lots of fun has been had.

A reminder that our celebration, taking the form of a bazaar, is to be on Friday December 4^th starting at 2.00 p.m. Donations of cakes for the stall and prizes for the tombola will be very much appreciated and you are all welcome to attend.

We would like to give a special thank you to the Year 2 and Year 3 parents and members of the Parents’ Forum who came into school this morning to meet up with us, have a tour of the school and see what our children were working on. We did appreciate your visit.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

We would like to take this opportunity to invite all parents, especially Year 3 and new parents who have never attended before to join our Christmas Crafts morning. Parents and family members are encouraged to come in and work alongside their children on a variety of Christmas crafts. You will also have the opportunity to meet staff and other parents while having refreshments in the staff room at break time. The children really enjoy this event and we hope you can join us.

Parent Association – Recipes

The response for recipes to be made into a book has not been as good as we had hoped.

We would like as many as possible, sweet or savoury, for inclusion in a book to be compiled for sale through school. All entries to be received in school please by next Wednesday December 2^nd.

P.T.O.

Blue Bags

These are for the collection of unwanted clothing, household linen, bags, belts, shoes etc. and will be picked up on Monday next week. Please bring them to school before 9.30 a.m.

Anti-Bullying Week

We have asked the children to design an “anti-bullying” poster. There will be a winner from each class and an overall Y3/4 and Y5/6, The poster needs to be A4 size, colourful and clear It can be done by hand or computer. Entries can be emailed to info@ashbrook-jun.derbyshire.sch.uk or brought into school.

The closing date for this competition isDecember 4^th and the winning entries will be reproduced and displayed around school to constantly remind children about the importance of telling others what we think about bullying, how to deal with it and who to tell.

The winners will be announced the following week.

Children in Need

Thank you to everyone who made cakes for sale and gave donations to support “Children in Need” last week. A special thank you goes to the Year 6 girls who dressed in costume and were sponsored by family and friends to raise extra money which made about £60.00. The final total raised was £230.45.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6G who had the highest attendance for the week November 16th to November 20^th.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No.10

November 20th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Around the World

As part of our themed studies, the children are learning about the traditions of Christmas in other countries. We would like to invite all parents to come to our “Christmas Around the World” celebration on Friday December 4^th at 2.00 p.m. This celebration will take the format of a bazaar. Refreshments and cakes and a variety of goods will be available to purchase and you will be able to tour the school, visit the stalls and see the results of all the children’s hard work. By joining in with us you will be supporting the children and helping to raise funds which ultimately go back, via our Parent Association, for the benefit of all our pupils.

We hope to raise money to develop the non-fiction library and buy new shelving. The children have been asked in assembly today to come up with ideas for activities they would like to run in their classrooms. Any offers of help from parents for the afternoon will be greatly appreciated. Please let us know if you would be available.

We do hope that you will be able to join us on the 4^th. Donation of cakes for the stall and tombola prizes are all gratefully received. We hope to run a bottle tombola stall so any donations from wine to bubble bath will be appreciated. Cake donations are requested on the day. Bottle and tombola gifts can be brought in from next Monday. During the afternoon the raffle draw will take place at 3.00 p.m. – if you have not already bought your tickets or if you would like more please send in to school.

Christmas Craft Morning Friday December 11^th – 10.00a.m. to 12.00p.m.

Parent Association

Along with this newsletter we are sending home a template for a recipe. We are hoping that you and/or your child/ren will write, or type if your prefer, a favourite recipe (you can send more than one if you wish, the more the merrier) and return it by Friday November 27^thso that we can compile a recipe book. Copies will be available for you to view on the celebration day, December 4^th and orders can be placed, - and paid for please - for delivery before the end of term. We will let you know the cost as soon as we have all the recipes in. If you are unable to attend the bazaar an order form will be put on a future newsletter.

Blue Bags

The Blue Bags, for the collection of unwanted clothing, household linen, shoes, bags, belts etc were sent home last week. Please return them to school on Monday November 30^th by 9.30 a.m. but not before then please as we have no storage space available.

P.T.O.

Anti-Bullying Week

We are sending a questionnaire home today and ask if you will please complete it and return to school by Friday November 27^th. Thank you for your cooperation. We have also asked the children to design an “anti-bullying” poster. There will be a winner from each class and an overall Y3/4 and Y5/6, The poster needs to be A4 size, colourful and clear It can be done by hand or computer. Entries can be emailed to info@ashbrook-jun.derbyshire.sch.uk or brought into school.

The closing date for this competition is December 4^th and the winning entries will be reproduced and displayed around school to constantly remind children about the importance of telling others what we think about bullying, how to deal with it and who to tell.

The winners will be announced the following week.

Children in Need

Thank you to everyone who has made cakes for sale and made donations to support Children in Need today. A special thank you goes to the Year 6 girls who dressed in costume and were sponsored by family and friends to raise extra money for this. They raised about £60.00. We shall let you know the total amount raised next week.

School Council

Ashbrook School Council has been elected and was very closely contested. The Council has had its first meeting. Well done to all the children who took part.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 3/4 LJ who had the highest attendance for the week November 9th to November 13^th.

Sporting News

On Tuesday after school we had a friendly football match against Ockbrook Redhill. The score was 3 – 1 to Redhill and the game was enjoyed by all.

The last dates for sports club sessions this term are as follows:

Tuesday – Gymnastics 8^th December

Allan Cordwell’s football – 8^th December

Wednesday – Multi Skills 16^th December

Central Soccer Schools – Richard Smith – Monday football 14^th December

Monday Dance – 14^th December

Tuesday Girls’ football – announced next week

Friday – Multi Skills – December 18^th.

School will close for the Christmas holiday on Monday December 21^st which will be the last day of the term.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No.9

November 13th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Anti-Bullying Week

This will begin next Monday. All classes will have a range of activities and attend assemblies that support the children in learning how to deal with bullies and take care of themselves and their friends. The theme this year is cyber bullying and will be supported with work from CEOP (Child Exploitation and On Line Protection Centre).

www.ceop.gov.uk and www.thinkyouknow.co.uk are useful websites.

You will receive your questionnaire next week.

Blue Bags

The Blue Bags, for the collection of unwanted clothing, household linen, shoes, bags, belts etc were sent home this week. Please return them to school on Monday November 30^th by 9.30 a.m. but not before then please as we have no storage space available.

Raffle Tickets

Our apologies. You received information about the Christmas raffle yesterday but we have had to change the time of drawing it. We will let you know the new date as soon as possible. We are hoping to combine it with an opportunity for you to come in and share with our work on ”Christmas Around the “World. Details will follow later.

Parents’ Forum

Many thanks to the parents who attended the meeting last night (and those who sent their apologies). We discussed the questionnaire which had been sent out. 36 were returned – thank you to those who took the time to complete it.

The overall consensus was that most parents felt the most important function of the school was being happy.

Parents would like to continue with homework (85% thought this) but would like more support through relevant websites being provided and the possibility of parent workshops. Staff are working on this and will continue to do so.

The possibility of sending communication via email was raised. We were pleased to inform parents that governors have approved the purchase of Teachers to Parents, a texting service which will allow us to text you to keep you up to date. More details of this will follow once it has been purchased. We will also investigate the use of email.

Parents would like to come in to achievement assemblies so we will look at the possibility of this but are aware of the clash of time with the Infants.

There was a mixed response over information about clubs with the majority saying that they got information sometimes. We will endeavour to change and improve this.

P.T.O.

We looked at the behaviour policy and parents felt that it was good. The behaviour ladder was also discussed and the “indoor” room. The policy will be updated and taken to governors for approval and then distributed to any parents wishing for a copy.

The School Improvement Plan was also discussed and we are going to provide all parents with a simplified version so that they are aware of the school’s priorities.

The Forum meeting was very useful. Again, thank you for your time.

Sporting News

The last swimming lesson for this session will be next Wednesday November 18^th due to the changing rooms at the baths being refurbished. Two extra sessions for the current groups will roll over to Wednesday 6^th and 13^th January 2010.

A friendly football match against Redhill will take place here at Ashbrook after school on Tuesday November 17^th. All are welcome to come and support our team.

Children in Need

We shall have a non-uniform day on Friday next week November 20^th to support Children in Need. We ask that children not wearing school uniform each pay £1. Also if anyone can make some small cakes to be sold at 20p each at break time we would be very grateful.

Headbands/Scarves

Some of the girls have been wearing large cloth headbands/scarves and we need to point out that these are not part of the school dress code. If your child needs to keep her hair off her face please can you supply a traditional hair band. Thank you for your cooperation.

From The P.A.

We are thinking of making a school calendar and more information will be sent to you one day next week.

At the Parents’ Forum meeting it was suggested a book of the children’s favourite recipes (savoury and sweet) be compiled and will be available for you to purchase; the cost to be decided later. We will provide a template with next week’s newsletter so get checking those recipes.

Billy’s Fundraising Night

In addition to Hannah Hardy and Sarah Smith , Helen Fitchett is available for raffle tickets or any other information about the fund raising night for Billy.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6G who had the highest attendance for the week November 2^nd to November 6^th.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No.8

November 6th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Christmas Fayre - Cancellation

Unfortunately, due to lack of support in organising the Christmas Fayre, it has to be cancelled. However, we shall be arranging some smaller events during the next few weeks to help raise funds in which the children will be able to take part. We would like to thank the parents who had offered their help on the night of the planned Fayre and hope that their offers can be taken up at some future event .

As a result of the Fayre being cancelled the Topsy Turvy non-uniform day planned for Monday November 16^{th .} has been postponed.

Fair Processing Notice

This school, like all other schools, works with a range of partners and organisations. At times we may share a limited amount of information with these other bodies. A copy of the Primary Fair Processing Notice is being sent home with this newsletter.

PACE Project – Physical Active Children in Erewash

There will be six weeks training for Years 3 and 4 looking at healthy living, including both physical activity and healthy food, which the children will have the opportunity to make. This course is run by Derby County in the Community and began this week.

Anti-Bullying Week

This is the week commencing 16^th November. All classes will have a range of activities and attend assemblies that support the children in learning how to deal with bullies and take care of themselves and their friends. The theme this year is cyber bullying and will be supported with work from CEOP (Child Exploitation and On Line Protection Centre). www.ceop.gov.uk and www.thinkyouknow.co.uk are useful websites.

We will also use this week as an opportunity to gather children’s, parents’ and staff views on bullying to update the school’s Anti-Bullying policy to ensure children’s safety. More details to follow.

School Council Elections

These take place on Thursday November 12^th. The children have been informed who is standing for election to represent each class and the school. These children are preparing their speeches and election campaigns. The “children’s” polling station will be open on Thursday the 12^th only.

Meet Santa Claus

Risley Treetops Hospice has a Christmas Market arranged for Saturday 28^th November from 10.00 a.m to 2.00 p.m. Entrance is £1.50 for adults but children are free. In addition to the market there will be tombola, cake stall, raffle, mini manicures by Georgina and if you would like to meet Santa Claus it will be £2.00, which includes a present and a drink – and don’t forget to take your wish-list along.

The draw for the main Treetops Christmas raffle will take place at the Market at 11.00 a.m.

P.T.O.

Billy’s Fundraising Night

There is to be a special fundraising night to help Billy who is 15 months old and suffers with multiple health problems. This event will be held at The Moon Hotel, Spondon on Saturday December 5^th. from 5.00 p.m. There will be raffles and auctions on the night. Billy lives in Borrowash and needs specialist equipment and therapy. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated. If you would like raffle tickets or any other information please see Hannah Hardy or Sarah Smith.

Children in Need

We shall be arranging some activities in school on November 20^th to support Children in Need. More details on next week’s newsletter.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 3/4 LJ who had the highest attendance for the week October 19th to October 23^rd.

Parent Questionnaire

Staff are meeting with the Parents’ Forum on Thursday November 12^th at 5.30 p.m. to discuss the results of the questionnaires recently sent out. If you have not yet returned yours please will you do so. Please feel free to attend the meeting.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 7

October 23rd 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

School Closure

School will close today for the end of term and re-open on Monday November 2^nd.

MyMaths Sessions

We would like to thank everyone who attended the MyMaths sessions conducted by Miss Bower on Thursday this week. We hope that you found it interesting and beneficial.

Questionnaire

We are sending home a Homework Questionnaire today. Please will you complete it and return it to school by Friday November 6^th. Thank you for your cooperation.

Christmas Fayre

This is planned for Wednesday November 18^th from 6.00 – 8.00 p.m. We still need some adult helpers so if you are available, either before to help in the planning, or on the night please contact Sam Palmer on 01332 660576 or mobile 07979 233787.

Many thanks to parents and children, past and present and the P.A. for our all-weather playground shelter.. The shelter was erected on Wednesday and the children are very pleased, as not only will it protect them from the sun but also from the rain. It is only because of your tireless support that this has been possible. Thank you.

Sporting News

*Swimming will continue for all Year 6 pupils until Wednesday November 18^th. The pool is being closed on the 23^rd for refurbishment. We will inform you when swimming starts again for school.

*Derby County in the Community will run a multi skills club for Years 3 and 4 from 3.30 to 4.30 on Wednesdays, beginning November 4^th, for six weeks. Letters will go home today.

*A Gym Club will also begin next term. This is for Years 5 and 6, from 3.30 to 4.30, on Tuesdays, starting November 3^rd for six weeks.

*Mini Leader training will take place on Wednesday lunch times.

*Girls’ Football with Central Soccer Schools is changing from Monday to Tuesday lunch time.

All other sporting activities remain the same.

Lost Property

To parents of boys who attended Tuesday evening football this week . One of our boys has lost a pair of school trousers. We think that someone else has inadvertently taken them home, possibly wearing them, or with their belongings. Can we ask that you check your child’s P.E. bag and school bag please. Fortunately the trousers are labelled with the boy’s name.

P.T.O.

Dinner Money

For those parents who prefer to pay for the term in advance the total amount up until Monday December 21^st will be £66.60.

If you have credit dinner money a note will have been given to your child today. Please deduct that amount from your next payment.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6JB who had the highest attendance for the week October 12th to October 16^th.

Finally, we wish you all a relaxing break.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 6

October 16th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

P.A. News

We are starting a new Book Club this week. The Puffin catalogue, containing a good selection books for children and adults will be sent home today. All orders to be in by Thursday October 22^nd please.

Bags 2 School

Please remember to save your unwanted clothes, shoes, bags, belts, household linen, towels, etc for our collection in November. Details later.

This term’s Raring 2 Go magazine will also be sent home today. It is packed with information and if you look at page 11 – the section on “How can we work together” – you will see that by completing a questionnaire you can help to raise funds for our P.A. We do not have the questionnaires to hand but they should be here next week when we will pass them on to you.

Next week is “Travel Smart” week when we monitor the different ways in which the children travel to school each day.

Reminders

Year 6 Transfer to secondary school. The closing date for applications is next Friday October 23^rd.

My Maths workshops for parents will be held on Thursday October 22^nd. There will be three sessions, 8.30 a.m,. 3.30 pm. and 5.30 p.m. If you would like to attend one of these sessions but have not applied please contact the school.

Non-Uniform days

The whole school will have a non-uniform day next Friday October 23^rd and Class 5/6EB will have an extra one on Thursday the 22^nd. Both in recognition of 100% attendance.

Bonfire Day Lunch

Please note that no more orders can be taken for the hot dog lunch as our Cook has had to order all her supplies in advance.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 3/4 W who had the highest attendance for the week October 5th to October 9^th.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 5

October 9th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Harvest Festival

Thank you for all your kind donations of goods for the Padley Centre in Derby. We were delighted to see so many parents at our Harvest Celebration and the children really enjoyed sharing why “Harvest Rocks” Thank you for your support.

Music Rehearsal

South East Derbyshire Music Centre has an open rehearsal day on Saturday October 17^th between 9.00 a.m. and 12.00 p.m.at Ilkeston School. All students, parents and teachers are welcome to take an informal look round to see what they do each Saturday morning or better still take their instruments and have a go at playing. There will be sessions for various groups, Starter Recorders, Junior Wind Band, Young Singers, Training Strings and Guitar Group. Instruments, music and accessories will also be on sale. For more information please phone 07759 610349.

Reminder for Parents of Y6 Children

The closing date for application for places at secondary schools is Friday October 23^rd 2009 at 3.30 p.m.

P.E. News

A booklet, “Physical Education at Ashbrook Junior School” has been produced to inform you all about P.E. and School Sport including the Scheme of Work, after school clubs, swimming, the P. E. kit required for indoor and outdoor activities and much more. We hope you find it useful.

Ashbrook Junior School Football Team participated in a friendly match against Redhill Primary School. Both teams played well and showed good sportsmanship. The score was 2 – 1 to Ashbrook.

P.A. News

The coffee morning which we held last week raised £37.00. Thank you to everyone who attended for supporting us.

A Christmas Fayre is planned for Wednesday November 25^th from 6 - 8 p.m. To raise prizes for the tombola, e.g. toys, wine, chocolates, toiletries etc., we shall have a non-uniform day on Monday 16^th November, the theme being Topsy-Turvy. Raffle tickets will be available and if anyone would like to take some into their place of work please see Sam Palmer. If anyone would like a stall at the fayre, again contact Sam.

Bags 2 School

Please remember to save your unwanted clothes, shoes, bags, belts, household linen, towels, etc for our collection in November. Details later.

P.T.O.

A New Book Club is coming soon. Puffin Book Club will run on the same lines as the school link club but which is no longer available.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6JB who had the highest attendance for the week September 28th to October 2^nd. Non Uniform Days The whole school will have a non-uniform day on Friday October 23^rd and in addition Class 5/6EB will have a non-uniform day on Thursday October 22^nd. Both of these are in recognition of 100% attendance.

World War II – Our War Heroes

A charity fun day, in recognition of our war heroes and to support the Poppies Appeal, has been organised by “Poppies Events” and will take place at the Gordon Lacey Hall, Ockbrook on Saturday October 10^th. There will be various attractions including hook the duck, tombola, tin can alley, splat the rat, home made cake stall (donations gratefully received) and more. Admission is £2 for adults and £1.50 for children and those over 60. Refreshment is included in the price.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 4

October 2nd 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Harvest Festival

Our Harvest Festival service will be held next Thursday October 8^th starting at 2.30 p.m. Parents and families are very welcome to join us. We are asking for contributions for The Padley Centre for the Homeless and on the reverse of this newsletter is a list of items which would be much appreciated by them.

Library Visit

On Tuesday October 6^th each class in the school will visit the local library. This is to introduce the children to the facilities on offer there and to do some poetry activities for National Poetry Day. Permission slips will not be required as the trip is covered by the form you signed when your child entered the school.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6EB who had 100% attendance for the week September 21st to September 25^th. This will entitle the children to a further non-uniform day, on a date to be arranged. It is in addition to that to be taken by the whole school on October 23^rd.

Forthcoming Events

Two evenings, October 13^th and 15^th , have been arranged for parents to discuss their children’s progress with the class teachers. Appointment forms are being sent home today. Please return them by Tuesday October 6^th.

OurChristmas Celebration will be held in the Methodist Church on Tuesday 15^th and Thursday 17^th December at 10.00 a.m.

Christmas Craft Morning

Friday December 11^th from 10.00 to 12.00 p.m.

Tigers Club will be available for child care through half term week, i.e. October 26^th to October 30^th. Please see Mrs.Bennett in the Infant School to make bookings.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 3

September 25^th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Term Dates and INSET days

At the end of this newsletter you will find all the dates for this academic year.

Help Needed by the Parent Association

We have a very small Parent Association Committee. Sam Palmer would appreciate help from parents to serve on the committee during the next year. So please speak to Sam or Karen Boa or let us know in school if you are interested.

There will be a coffee morning in the small hall from 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. on Wednesday October 2^nd. Please come along and join us.

Another recycling collection is planned for the end of November. Please start saving your unwanted clothes, shoes, household linen, handbags, belts etc., to help raise money for school. We received a cheque for £120.00 from the last collection. Many thanks to everyone for their donations.

Head Lice

We have had two cases of head lice this week in school and we ask all parents to be vigilant in checking their children’s hair. If you find evidence of lice, a recognised treatment is after shampooing, apply conditioner and comb through with a detector comb, (these are available from school at 25p each). Tea tree oil shampoo and conditioner (cheap from a well known supermarket) have been recommended for treating and keeping the hair free of lice.

Attendance

Congratulations to Class 5/6EB who had the highest attendance for the week September 14^th to September 18th

AshbrookInfant School is holding a Barn Dance on Friday October 9^th for families, from 6.00 to 9.00 p.m. Tickets are £2.50 each from Mrs.Bennett.

Tigers Club is in need of a cook to work from 3.45 to 4.45 p.m. Monday to Friday and through holiday periods. For more information please see Mrs.Bennett.

Forthcoming Events

Our Harvest Festival will be held on Thursday October 8^th starting at 2.30 p.m. Parents and families will be very welcome to join us.

Two evenings, October 13^th and 15^th , have been arranged for parents to discuss their children’s progress with the class teachers. More information will follow later.

OurChristmas Celebration will be held in the Methodist Church on Tuesday 15^th and Thursday 17^th December at 10.00 a.m.

Christmas Craft Morning will be on Friday December 11^th from 10.00 to 12.00 p.m.

Parent Forum

A reminder that the closing date to order tickets for the Cinderella pantomime is Monday September 28^th. Please be aware that all children must be accompanied by an adult.

P.T.O.

Non Uniform Day

As part of our attendance policy we reward classes with 100% attendance for a week with a non-uniform day.

In the first week of term we had 100% attendance for the whole school so all classes will have a non-uniform day on Friday October 23^rd.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

AshbrookJunior School

Newsletter No. 2

September 18^th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Forthcoming Events

Our Harvest Festival will be held on Thursday October 8^th starting at 2.30 p.m. Parents and families will be very welcome to join us.

Two evenings, October 13^th and 15^th, have been arranged for parents to discuss their children’s progress with the class teachers. More information will follow later.

Our Christmas Celebration will be held in the Methodist Church on Tuesday 15^th and Thursday 17^th December at 10.00 a.m.

Christmas Craft Morning – we will finalise the date of this as soon as possible

Mid-day Supervising

We are in need of a relief mid-day supervisor. If you are interested please phone the above number or call in at the school office.

Parent Forum

A reminder that the closing date to order tickets for the Cinderella pantomime is Monday September 28^th.

Swimming will begin on Wednesday 23^rd September for Year 6 children.

Trainers

After consultation with staff and the Parent Forum we have decided that trainers will only be required for outdoor P.E. Children have traditionally changed into trainers at playtime and lunch break but we have noticed that it takes up far too much time and they often “forget” to change back. This will no longer be the case. A pair of plimsolls will be needed for indoor P.E. as our policy states, and should children get their outdoor shoes muddy during the bad weather they will be asked to change into these, NOT trainers.

Trainers will now be to be brought into school on the day your child had outdoor P.E. only, or kept in their P.E. bag inside the classroom. This will, hopefully, alleviate the issue of lost shoes and allow lessons to be started promptly. Thank you for your cooperation.

Brownie Help Needed

Last week there was a plea for a new Brown Owl and hopefully, a Tawny Owl, for a local Brownie Pack. Unfortunately, we said that the Borrowash Pack was in need but it should have read 3^rd Ockbrook Brownies If you are interested please contact Jane Gossage on 01332 733248 or 07770 925485. Our apologies for the error.

Music Tuition

There are some vacancies for Years 4, 5 and 6 children to learn a woodwind instrument. The cost is £4.20 for a 20 minute shared lesson but the first six are subsidised to £2.50 each. Application forms can be obtained from the office.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian

Ashbrook Junior School

Newsletter No. 1

September 11^th 2009 Phone 673785

Dear Parents/Carers,

Welcome back to everyone. We hope you have had a relaxing break over the summer. A special welcome to our Year 3 children and parents, also other children new to the school. We look forward to an exciting year together.

School Uniform

Thank you to all parents who have named their children’s items of clothing. We still have some lost property from last year. If your child lost something please come into school to check. We would also ask for children’s lunch boxes/bags to be clearly marked with their name and class. So many have the same containers and it is easy to pick up the wrong one and eat someone else’s lunch, as has already happened this term.

Dinner Money

As from Monday September 14^th the cost of a school meal will go up from £1.80 to £1.85 per day - £9.25 per week. It is a condition of the Authority that all dinner monies are paid in on Monday morning and we ask for your cooperation in this. For parents wishing to pay from September 14^th to half term, October 23^rd, the cost will be £55.50.

Year 6 Transfer to Secondary Schools

Pupils in Year 6 will be bringing home an information pack today. Please note that the closing date for receiving applications for a place at your child’s secondary school is 3.30 p.m. on Friday 23^rd October 2009. Any received after that will be deemed late.

After School Clubs

On Monday next week, September 14^th, Central Soccer Club starts again. This is for all ages and runs from 3.30 to 4.30 p.m.

Tuesday September 15^th *Orienteering Club is starting for Years 5/6. Sessions will be from 3.30 to 4.30p.m. Children to be picked up from reception area.

*Allan Cordwell’s Football Club will recommence on Tuesday September 22^nd and will run until November 24^th from 3.30 to 4.30 p.m.

* All places have now been filled for both these clubs.

Mrs.Sarah Cresswell has kindly offered once again, to take choir practice on Mondays and teach recorders on Wednesdays. Children are invited to go along to either or both sessions and see Mrs.Cresswell. Both sessions will be during the lunch break starting at 12.30. Children to bring in their recorders and books, if they have them, as they did last year.

Forthcoming Clubs : Multi Skills for all ages on Fridays beginning at 3.30 and Girls’ Football for all ages on Tuesday lunchtimes. Dates for each of these to be confirmed.

Other Sports News

Swimming will begin on Wednesday 23^rd September for Year 6 children. Letters will be sent home next week.

P.T.O.

Draycott Table Tennis Centre has an Open Day on Sunday September 20^th featuring a large range of displays and activities which include Table Tennis, Tae Kwon Do, Scouts and Army Cadets, Long Eaton Silver Prize Training Band, a free raffle, other fun games and BBQ. Entry is free and is open from 11.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

View their website www.tabletennisderby.com

School Nurse Drop-In Sessions

Are you worried or concerned about any issue regarding your child such as bed wetting, behaviour, hearing or vision, growth, head lice, eating habits or other health problems? If so why not come have a chat with Wendy Bennett, our School Nurse She will be available to speak to parents/carers on the following Thursdays : 17^th September, 8^th October, 5^th November and 3^rd December from 8.30 to 9.30 a.m. Wendy can offer confidential advice and support. No appointment is needed just call in at school on any of the above dates or you can telephone her on 01332 288781.

West Park School

West Park School at Spondon is again offering adult courses covering various subjects. If you are interested please call at this school office for an information sheet.

Help Needed

The 3^rd Borrowash Brownie pack needs a new Brown Owl and preferably a Tawny Owl as well. The present Brown Owl will be leaving at Christmas and the pack needs a new leader. Please ask around and consider being involved – it would be such a shame to see the group close. For further information please contact Jane Gossage on 01332 733248 or mobile 07770 925485.

J.E.Jaszczuk

M.Julian