Junior School Newsletter January 2009

Dear Parents

The festive celebrations seem a long way behind us and we have already completed a very busy few weeks since the beginning of the New Year. We have already enjoyed the school trip to the Pantomime; Lower 2 have visited St Paul's Church in Bedford and girls in Lower 3 have sat the assessment exams for entry to the Senior School.

As you may be aware, it is the time of year for entrance assessments and we are finalising the arrangements for the Junior School exams for new girls wishing to join the Junior School next September. I would like to point out that we will not be closing the Junior School for the day as we have done in previous years and as published in the school calendar. On Monday 2 February, the Junior School will be open as usual whilst the assessments take place. A letter will also be sent home to remind you and to confirm this arrangement. I do hope this change has not caused too much inconvenience for you.

The recent weather has prevented us from going outside at playtimes due to the extremely cold temperatures and icy conditions. The girls have been very sensible in protecting themselves against the cold weather when they arrive at a school by wearing scarves, hats and gloves. I would just like to remind everyone there is a school scarf that can be purchased from the school shop to wear on those very cold days, along with school hats and blue or black gloves that can also be bought! If it is cold enough to wear a scarf; a school scarf is to be worn please!

At this time of year, colds, coughs or a ‘bug' may require your daughter to be kept home from school. Please may I remind you that it is extremely helpful if you can advise the Junior School office before 10.30 am on the first day of absence if your daughter will not be coming into school for any reason. When your daughter has returned to school, please can you send a letter informing us as to the reason for her not attending school as we do legally require written notification from you outlining the reason for her absence.

One important date for your diary is the Parents Consultation Evenings for all parents of girls in the Junior School (Form 1, Lower 2, Upper 2 and Lower 3). This will be held on Monday 2 March and Wednesday 4 March. More information about booking an appointment with your daughter's form teacher will be sent to you very shortly. If at any time during the school year, you have a concern or wish to speak to your daughter's form teacher, please do not hesitate to contact the Junior School office by telephone or email.

A date which takes place later on in the year that you may wish to known is School Exam Week. This is scheduled for the week 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 is expected that your daughter will be in school during that week.

We have, as always, much to look forward to this term: the Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama; World Book Day; the School Music Festival as well as trips and visits planned to complement what is taking place in the classroom. It looks like it will be a very busy term ahead - as usual!

With best wishes, as always

Corinne Royden
Headmistress of the Junior School