Junior School Newsletter February 2009

Dear Parents

"Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!"

I don't think anyone will be singing that song with such enthusiasm after the fortnight we have just had!! I am pleased that following the disruption caused by the severe weather event (as described by the Met Office) we will finish the week with full attendance and the normal timetable. However, as I write this it is snowing again, so who knows!!

Scholarships

As you may be aware, we have just completed our annual series of Assessment Days for new girls wishing to join the Junior School next September.  The standard was very impressive and we have now sent out the results of the places to all those who attended. Our Lower Three girls attended the Assessment Day for the Senior School. Many congratulations to all of you who have been offered a well-deserved place in the Senior School and many congratulations particularly go to following girls who have been awarded scholarships.

Sophie Allen                Headmistress' Award
Grace Cook                 Headmistress' Award
Iona Webster              Headmistress' Award
Alaska Simpson         Mathematics Scholarship

National Space Centre 

The Lower Threes had a fantastic day at the National Space Centre on Wednesday. The simulator seemed to be the highlight of the day alongside the visit to the planetarium. At the beginning of term, we had our annual trip to the panto. I am sure I enjoy it just as much as the children although secretly, I think I enjoy it more!

Absences and Illness

It is much appreciated when you write requesting permission for absence when you child needs to attend an appointment or will not be attending school for any reason.

May I also remind you to advise the Junior School office before 10.30 am on the first day of absence if your daughter is not coming into school if she is ill. When your daughter has returned to school, we legally require written notification from you outlining the reason for her absence.

I would like to remind you that if your daughter becomes ill during the school day or is too ill to remain at school, the nurses, Mrs Clinch or Mrs Lenehan will contact you to ask if you are able to come and collect them. We have reminded the girls that this is the procedure to be followed as is handing in any medicines that need administering during the school day.

Parents' Consultation Evenings 

One important date for your diary is the Parents' Consultation Evenings for parents of girls in all year groups will be held on Monday 2 March and Wednesday 4 March. More information about booking an appointment with your daughter's form teacher should have come home with you your daughter just before half term. Confirmation of your appointment time will be sent to you after half term.

Forthcoming Events 

We have, as always, much to look forward to after half term: the Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama and our visiting author for World Book Day. More trips and events are planned and many sports matches and tournaments will take place as we come to the end of the Winter Sports season.

Another important date for your diary is School Exam Week which takes place in the summer term from Monday 18 May to Friday 22 May. It is important that the girls are in school so they are able to complete their assessments at the same time as the rest of their form and year group. Therefore it will be expected that your daughter will be in school during that week.

The half term is a welcome break for us all from the wintry weather. Let us hope that Spring is just around the corner so I wish you all the very best for a great and restful half term holiday.

Corinne Royden
Headmistress of the Junior School