Dear Parents,

We have now received confirmation of closure days for the rest of this year and would also like to confirm dates for your diaries.

School will be closed for Inset on Monday 18th of February and also on Tuesday 6th May. It is also likely that the school will be closed on Thursday 1st May for County Council Elections. Other dates have been cancelled and the school term will now end on Friday 18th of July at 1.30pm. The dates below are now confirmed and replace all other previous lists. Secondary schools will have one different day which they will confirm directly.

We are encountering a great deal of illness at the moment with many bugs being generously shared amongst the children. We thank you for your support in keeping us notified of absence but remind all parents of Health Authority guidance that children should be "free of symptoms for 48 hours" before they return to school following sickness or diarrhoea.

We would also appreciate you help in a few other matters. Firstly we remind everyone that we operate a policy of no nut produce in school due to severe allergies of at least five children. This is with regard to both Tocyn (snack) and lunch time.

Secondly we are having a problem with children not bringing their PE kit on the appropriate days. We find that it is best if children leave a t-shirt, shorts and a change of footwear in a PE bag at school. This kit will then be sent home with the children every few weeks, this system ensures that children don't miss out and mums and dads don't receive frantic calls to bring kit in. Draw string PE bags can be easily stored on children's pegs and are available cheaply in sports shops or from the PTA.

Thirdly we are concerned by an increasing number of children who arrive in school particularly on Monday mornings too tired to learn effectively. Please ensure that children have enough rest and early bed times so that they are fit for their lessons.

Please also remember that it is parents evening next Monday and Tuesday and there are a few appointments still available.

We are also pleased to let you know that there will be some improvements to the Reception classroom over the coming weeks including toilet areas, decorating, and a new conservatory. We do ask for the support and understanding of all parents whilst the works are taking place.

As always, if you ever have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Yours sincerely,

Tom Fanning