“Developing the whole child, spiritually, mentally and physically in a caring Christian environment through close links to the Church and Community”

Friday 16^th January 2026

Dear Parents and Carers,

This week we were delighted to welcome the senior Trust personnel from Mitre as we continue our school’s journey towards academisation.  During their visit, there was an opportunity to walk around classrooms - during learning time - where our children confidently shared their work and spoke proudly about what they are learning. It was a pleasure to see such positive engagement across the school.

At the beginning of every term, we reset our expectations for behaviour. Here at St Annes, we have five ‘Golden Rules’ that underpin our school values and guide how we learn and work together.

Our Golden Rules

Children are reminded of expectations for learning in class, moving safely and sensibly around school, correct uniform and PE kit, and positive playground behaviour. Of course, there are occasions when children may need support to help them make the right choices, and we kindly ask that parents continue to work in partnership with the school to reinforce these expectations.

The Spring Term is a particularly important time for learning.  During this term, children continue to engage with new topics and concepts, whilst also placing a strong focus on the consolidation of key skills. This balance helps to deepen understanding and ensures learning is secure before moving on.
Reading at Home

In order for a child to become a fluent reader, regular reading at home is essential.  For children in the younger year groups, daily reading is strongly encouraged.  For children in other year groups, reading at least four times per week will help them to stay on track and continue to develop fluency, comprehension and vocabulary.

As this year is the ‘National Year of Reading’, we encourage parents to spend just five minutes a day sitting with your child, listening to them read, talking about the text and sharing enjoyment in books. These small, regular moments make a significant difference and help children to become the best readers they can be.

Mathematics Practice

Regular practice on Times Table Rock Stars (TTRS) will greatly support our Key Stage 2 children.  Secure recall of multiplication facts underpins much of the maths curriculum and helps children to work with confidence and efficiency in lessons. Setting personal challenges and practising little and often can have a big impact.

Handwriting and Letter Formation

In school, we are placing a strong emphasis on letter formation, as poor habits can quickly form and become difficult to correct over time.

Correct letter formation and secure pencil grip are essential foundations for the progression to joined handwriting.

We ask that parents encourage children to hold their pencil using a triangular grip, rather than a fist grip or alternative hold, as this supports control, comfort and writing stamina.

Developing good habits early will support children as their writing becomes more fluent and extended.

Safeguarding and Online Safety

Safeguarding remains our highest priority.  We remind parents of the importance of discussing online safety regularly with children. As technology and AI continue to develop, children may encounter content that is not appropriate for their age.  Please ensure parental controls, privacy settings and monitoring systems are in place.  With the way online content is constantly changing, it can be quite daunting.  The Children’s Commissioner for England has published some online guidance for parents to help them navigate the many challenges which exist. Please visit (link available on the website newsletter):

https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/resource/what-i-wish-my-parents-or-carers-knew-a-guide-for-parents-and-carers-on-managing-childrens-digital-lives/

Further guidance and resources for parents can also be found on the NSPCC and UK Safer Internet Centre websites.

‘Getting Outside’ Ideas

Whilst we appreciate it is a bit chilly, it is still important for children to be outdoors.  The BBC have provided a list of suggestions for a ‘walk outside’ with ways in which language can be developed along the way.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people/articles/zwbmg2p

Time is running out to sign up to ‘The Big Garden Bird Watch’ – find out more from www.RSPB.org.uk - who can see the most varieties of bird in their gardens? Come and share it with us!

Uniform and PE Kit

A reminder that children should attend school in the correct uniform each day, including appropriate footwear (please leave Christmas ‘colourful’ trainers at home).  

On PE days, children should come to school wearing their full PE kit. This supports readiness for learning and promotes a sense of pride and belonging within our school community.

A note from last week….

We shared that Donny Dog visited – here are a few pictures of our pupils lifting the trophy!

  

Plastic Bottle Tops – Last Call!

We are still collecting plastic lids!!  We are about to begin our mural.  Please have a look around for clean plastic lids and drop them in the box in the office reception area.

Please ensure all lids are clean, dry, and free from any product residue before donating. Thank you!

We are keen to make Joshua (6) winning design a reality.  It will eventually become part of the North Notts Bid Mural Trail, before returning to school for display. Well done to our other art winners:

• KS1: Rebecca (1)
• Y3/4: Jasper (3)
• Y5/6: Heidi (5)

Afterschool Club Activities

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading
Just Dance	Dodgeball	Musical Games	Fun Fit Thursday	Biscuit Making
Lego Creations	Arts and crafts	Playdough Creations	Floor is Lava	Colouring and Board Games

Please remember pre-booking is essential to enable the school to plan for adult/child ratios.

News from the Classes

Reception

Class Reception have continued their work on the traditional tale The Little Red Hen. They have been learning about hens and can now name many of their features,

including a wattle, comb, and beak. The children enjoyed using their senses to explore and describe a range of different breads and were able to confidently share their likes and dislikes when tasting them.  In Maths, they have been exploring different ways to make the number 5 and have been focusing on finding one more and one less.

Class One

This week, Class 1 have started exploring observational drawings as part of their Art. They have been developing their pencil control, practising how to use gentle pressure to create light, careful strokes when sketching. The children have been encouraged to look closely at flora and fauna, focusing on specific areas of detail and noticing shapes, lines and textures.

Class Two

In Class 2, the children have been immersing themselves in the story of ‘George and the Dragon’. They have been writing expanded noun phrases and looking at things that can contribute to story openers.  In maths, they have been continuing to look at shapes, looking at lines of symmetry both vertical and horizontal.  In topic, the children are learning about Mining; looking at the jobs people had in the mines and what the conditions were like for them – do you have any local Manton Pit Memorabilia you could share with us?

In dance, the children have focused on mini beasts and creating movements to create new dances.  In Science, the children have been observing the seed in the classroom checking on its growth progress.  It has been a tricky one in phonics - contractions and possessive apostrophes – with more work to accomplish this!

Class Three

This week in Class 3, the children have been busy writing their haiku poems focusing on the 5, 7, 5 syllable pattern. The children have written some fantastic poems. In maths, they have been learning methods of multiplication, when multiplying larger 2-digit numbers.  In music, the children enjoyed learning to play G on the recorders.  In history, the class compared ancient Londinium to ancient Rome thinking about how the land was used, the structure of the buildings and the features of the city. In PE, the children have been working on their dribbling and passing skills in football.

Class Four

This week, Class 4 started a new text in English called Arthur and the Golden rope. The class have enjoyed reading through the book and discovering new and exciting vocabulary which they can use in their future writing lessons. The children linked it to their previous learning about myths and legends. They wrote a character pyramid for Arthur, thinking about what he looks like, what he likes and dislikes, his fears, worries, dreams and hopes.  As a class they shared some exciting ideas, taking inspiration from each other.

Class Five

It’s been a busy week in Class 5!  In math’s, we have been working hard to consolidate our understanding of 4-digit numbers multiplied by 2-digit numbers - we’ve all worked hard to understand this tricky concept.  We have been enjoying reading and discussing more of ‘Secrets of a Sun King’ and have used the events in the first few chapters to write a first-person diary entry, as the main character Lil.  In science, we have been learning about friction, how this is useful in everyday life and have made observations. We enjoyed finding out about and comparing the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms of Egypt, noting significant developments in each period. We have demonstrated excellent teamwork and competitive spirits in our Dodgeball sessions. In RE, we also thought about people who inspire us and what characteristics these people all share.  In PSHE, we have been amazed by the differences in salaries between different jobs and professions.  Congratulations to our classmates who attended the Athletics event this week.

Class Six

This week, Class 6 has engaged in a variety of enriching activities.  Children have been exploring the art of narrative poetry, focusing on structure and imagery to enhance their creative writing skills. In Maths, they have been improving their understanding of ratio, applying concepts through practical problem-solving exercises. During PE, the children have been developing leadership skills, working collaboratively in team-based activities. Additionally, they have started new units in RE and Science linking together the exploration of Creation and Evolution. The introduction of the DAaRT programme has begun, aiming to enhance digital literacy and responsible technology use among our learners.

Congratulations to our Stars of the Week this week

We are proud of the many achievements of our pupils, both in and out of school. Children are regularly recognised for their effort, positive behaviour and learning achievements.  Please continue to celebrate your child’s successes at home, as this greatly supports their confidence and motivation.

Class Reception – Cassian and Aubree

Class One – Elsie and Lily-Rose

Class Two – James and Sebastian

Class Three – Flynn and Isaac

Class Four – Laurel

Class Five – Alexander

Class Six – Kyla

Tidy Classroom Award:  Class 2

Out of School Achievements:

Apparatus Level 2 Core Gymnastics – Ahmed and Jasper (3)

Explore Core Level 2 Gymnastics – Dominic F, Dominic C, Lucas and Nadia (3)

Apparatus Level 1 Core Gymnastics – Harry (1)

Explore Core Skills Level 1 Gymnastics – Grace, Azra, Maria, Szymon (1)

Level 4 Swim Stars – Lily-Rose (1)

Swim Level 3 – Penny (1)

Level 3 Little Splash 25m – Freddie

Stage 9 & 10 Swim, 1600m and 1500m and Medley – Felicity (4)

Swim Stage 4 – Jack F (2)

Grade 2 Piano – Cassie (5) 136/150 Distinction

Church Services

StA@10am with LLM Claire – The Journey of God’s People: Genesis 12.1-9 – God’s Promises

StA@6pm with ST

2025-2026 Attendance

Class	Attendance
R	93.33%
1	100%
2	100%
3	96.55%
4	96.77%
5	100%
6	100%
ALL: 98.08%

Regular attendance and good punctuality are vital for children to achieve their best. Every day in school matters, as learning builds progressively over time. We kindly ask parents to ensure children arrive on time and only miss school when absolutely necessary. If you are experiencing any difficulties that may affect attendance, please do not hesitate to contact the school so we can offer support.

Prayers from Oliver and Emmanuel (6)

Dear God,

May we have the best year, help us to be kind, caring and persistent.

Amen

 

Dear God,

Help us to be the best we can be.

Amen

A big St Anne’s welcome to Alice in Class 4; we know that your classmates will help you settle in quickly!

Mrs Middleton & the St Anne’s Team

Diary Dates

Key Dates to Remember in the School Year
Inset Days			Key Statutory Weeks (Assessment)
Friday 13 February Monday 27 July			Year 6 SATS Week – Monday 11 May to Thursday 14 May 2026 Year 1 Phonics Screening – Monday 8 June 2026 (2 weeks) Year 4 Multiplication Check – Monday 1 June 2026 (2 weeks)
Please ensure your children are in school during these times as their data will count even when absent.
Looking Ahead
January	19	Class Reception – Forest School
	22	Y4 Times table Meeting 3pm
	26	Class Reception – Forest School Y4 Hindu Workshop Y5 Islamic Workshop
	29	Y6 Mayan Workshop in school
February	3	Y4 VOCES8 Choral Workshop Strategic Governor Meeting
	4	Y2 National Coal Mining Museum
	6	Number Day
	9-13	Children’s Mental Health Week
	9	Forest School Young Voices Choir (t-shirts that have been ordered are in school)
	10	Safer Internet Day Parents Evening (3.20-6.30pm)
	11	Ash Wednesday Service 9am – all welcome Parents Evening (3.20-5.30pm)
	13	INSET DAY – No children in school
	16-20	HALF TERM HOLIDAY
	23	Admissions Governors Meeting
March	27	Swimming Gala (invited children only)
	3	Y3 Swimming starts every Tuesday from today
	4	World Book Day Y3/4 Rugby Festival (invited children only)
	5	Y3 Bestwood Romans Trip Y2 Class Assembly – 2.45pm
	6	Non-Uniform Day – pay £1 on Arbor (available nearer the time) Y3 Bikeability (more info to follow nearer the time)
	9-13	Science Week
	9	Bassetlaw Flag Raising Ceremony
	11	Mother’s Day Secret Sale 3.20pm
	12	Y5 Assembly 2.45pm Y1&2 Library Visit
	16	Y6 Parents SATS Meeting 3.30pm
	19	Y3 Assembly 3.45pm
	30-12	Easter Holidays
	25	Full Governing Body Meeting
	26	DAaRT Graduation 2.30pm