Hillside Avenue Highlights

Dear Parents and carers,

Now that we are a few weeks into the school year we can clearly see the things in school that are working really well. The children have settled into their new classes really quickly and learning started straight away. The new carpets, rugs and furniture through the school has really given our learning spaces a lift and the overall atmosphere in the building is calm and purposeful.  The new ‘Orchard Class’ has made a great start to the year with children making good progress and routines being established whilst the ‘Basecamp’ wrap around provision is often fully booked and is even expanding out to include a holiday club in October. 

A big driver of the successes that we have seen in school over the last couple of years has been the result of a continual drive towards greater consistency. This week I have spoken with adults and children to hear their views about the areas of school life that need a bit more clarification as it is often uncertainty and variability that leads to confusion and maybe even upset. These are the topics that were raised:

• Squishies / toys / key chains etc:  There is no need to bring these into school. If they get broken or lost then children tend to get upset. (Some children with SEND have individual plans in this area.)
• Bracelets / jewellery / make-up etc:  These are best enjoyed at the weekend and during school holidays. Stud earrings are OK and so are (non-smart) watches. 
• Waterbottles:  Named please and only water inside. 
• Snacks:  Younger children get fruit at school, older children still enjoy a snack though, the healthier the better. 
• PE kits:  Our approach to uniform is very inclusive, but does not include wearing football kits. Save these for non-uniform days please.
• Parking:  There are solid lines to prevent parking close to the school, this is to keep our children safe. Thank you to all parents who park a little further away and walk. 

If any further clarification is required, please let me know.

Mr Hutchinson

From the school log:

30th September 1997: Friends of Hillside A.G.M. Chairperson, Treasurer and Secretary were elected. The A.G.M. of the current Friends of Hillside Avenue is coming up in the diary soon. They are always looking for more parents who are willing and able to contribute some effort and time through committee meetings, discos, bingo nights and of course, Hillfest!. Each year the Friends contribute to a wide range of additional activities and experiences that really make a difference to the children of the school. I am sure that they would welcome any new volunteers! 

Notifications/ Reminders:

Allergy aware school - a reminder we are an allergy aware school, so if families could  be mindful of not adding nut products to their child’s home pack lunch, this also includes nut based spreads like Nutella.  We also ask that children do not share their food with other children. Thank you for your understanding.

Macmillan Coffee Fundraising - we look forward to seeing as many parents as possible on Friday 25th September.  Please check class Dojo/Tapestry for individual class times. Donations to be made online only as we are a cashless school.  There will be QR codes to use in class.

Harvest Festival - on Monday 28th September Fr James will be joining us for our school assembly to talk about Harvest Festival.  As per previous years we will be supporting Norwich Foodbank and asking if children can bring in a tin of food or other dry packet food like cereal or pasta.  

If you would like more information on Norwich Foodbank or know a neighbour or family who could benefit from the scheme please click here Norwich Foodbank Website for more information.

Smith’s Shelves - (new book newsletter) see attached 

‘’I thought I’d start sending these this year as a way to communicate book recommendations for different year groups. Hopefully, this will help your children find something new to read or something to rediscover together as a family. Happy reading!’’ 

Mrs Smith year 5 teacher