This week in our values assembly, we took a moment to reflect on what it means to be part of our school community. Our school vision mentions that pupils should "take pride in their achievements and be successful" so we talked about what that might look like. At this half-way point in the year, pupils have also revisited the importance of excellent presentation in their exercise books, and teachers will be celebrating pupils for showing determination and respect in their work.

Lifeskills - Posting a Letter

Pupils in Year 1 took a walk up to the postbox this week, to each send a letter they had written. They have written to friends and relatives telling them all about inspiring people from history, specifically David Attenborough, asking them what they are doing to help the planet. We are all hoping they write back soon!

Recent Events in Bristol

Our city has been shocked by the loss of young lives over recent weeks. We know that you will have concerns, and that some members of our community are more directy impacted. Now, more than ever, is the time for us to come together to support each other and our children and to do so from a place of respect, positivity, and hope.
As part of this effort, please continue to check on your child’s social media activity. There are unhelpful social media posts going round, which are sharing misinformation or rumours. Our children are not the cause of this, but it is really important that they do not share, like or comment on such posts. We also strongly recommend that they leave any groups where such posts are being shared.

At school we are regularly updated by Bristol City Council with any information we need to know, or to pass on. Local agencies continue to work closely with all educational settings to ensure young people remain safe across our city and we will continue to pass on any relevant advice and information for parents/carers as and when it is made available to us. This week, we sent out a letter co-produced by Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Bristol City Council which is copied below in case you missed it. The letter is also translated into Urdu, Somali and Arabic. Please forward these letters around your communities and contacts if this is helpful.

World Book Day 2024

We are looking forward to celebrating World Book Day in school on Thursday 7th March. All children in Key Stage One and Two will be taking part in a workshop lead by a story teller as well as celebrating their love of reading through a range of activities in their classes. As always, the children and staff are invited to dress up as their favourite character from a book for the day, or they may choose to wear something comfortable and cosy which they like to read in. We are excited for the school to be filled with costumes, laughter and lots of book talk! 

(Remember - we don't expect anyone to rush out and spend lots of money on a costume; you could wear something you already own, or make a small prop to represent your character. Dressing up is optional - it's fine to wear school uniform on this day.)

Meet the Governors

Mella Waitt - "I moved to Bristol in 2008 and have lived in the area of Victoria Park for the past 9 years. I have school-aged children and recognise the important role schools have in creating a safe, nurturing environment for our children to grow and learn. Having completed my degree in atmospheric chemistry, I work in the environmental sector specialising in air quality policy. I have held a variety of voluntary roles with mental health charities, and am passionate about advocating for children’s mental health and wellbeing. I’m particularly interested in the benefits of exercise and time outdoors to physical and mental health. I am really pleased to become part of Victoria Park Primary School's governing body, and hope my contribution can help the continued success of the school."

Coffee and Chat for Parents of Pupils with SEND

A few parents have organised a coffee morning for parents/carers of pupils with SEND, taking place in the Community Room (middle playground) on Friday 1st March. Come from 8.45am (after drop off) until about 10.30am. "This will be an informal get together, a chance for parents of children with SEND, either with or without an EHCP, to meet each other with no fixed agenda other than to try and positively support each other, and hopefully feel less alone in our parenting of our SEND kids." There's no need to book, please just turn up if you can make it.

Together for SEND

A really exciting opportunity is happening in Bristol on Wednesday 20th March for parents of children with SEND. Come along to Bristol Parent Carers free event, SEND Together Family and Practioner Support, a whole day dedicated to offering solutions and connections for those navigating the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Bristol. With an extensive line-up of 30 informative sessions covering all areas of SEND, this event is an opportunity to share knowledge and a platform to broaden understanding and ensure all families and practitioners are aware of the diverse range of support available within our local community. Click here for more information.

Other Information

• Shine are running Easter holiday clubs in Southville, with a 20% discount if you book early:

• A fundraising Easter egg hunt is taking place on Wednesday 3rd April at Penny Brohn UK in Pill:

• Details of Relate relationship or parenting counselling sessions in Bristol, with an introductory offer:

• For 25% off tickets for the Bristol City Women v Tottenham game, you can use the discount code BCWFCRF25. With the discount, adults £10 tickets will be £7.50 and junior £5 tickets will be £3.75.

Red Nose Day is coming up on Friday 15th March. Like last year, the official Red Noses and other merchandise are only available to buy on Amazon. If you intend to support Comic Relief by buying a Red Nose, be sure to order early so there is time for delivery. Have a lovely weekend!