UNCRC Article 14 (freedom of thought, conscience and religion).

During our visit to the Reform Synagogue in Newcastle, we learned more about Judaism and the importance of the synagogue as a place of worship for Jewish people. The children explored key features of the synagogue and discovered how it is used for prayer, learning, and community gatherings.

We also learned about some of the most important Jewish festivals, including how they are celebrated and why they hold special meaning within the religion. The pupils were especially interested in the various religious artefacts we were shown.

A highlight of the visit was seeing the huge Torah scroll, beautifully written by hand on parchment. Everyone was amazed to hear how long it takes to write a Torah and how carefully it must be treated.

To finish our experience, we enjoyed tasting grape juice and challah bread, foods often associated with Shabbat, giving the children a lovely, hands‑on insight into Jewish tradition.

Well done to all of the children who earned their next level in Lexia, or a highest score certificate on TT Rockstars/Lexia. It is lovely to see so many children accessing these at home and school.

UNCRC Article 31 – Right to take part in a range of activities.

Well done to Rowan and Chloe for earning their new badges in Rainbows and Brownies.

Well done to Emily in class 1, who achieved a certificate at her gymnastic club for “working super hard on her cartwheels”.

UNCRC Article 29 – Develop our talents.

UNCRC Article 28 – Right to an education.

A huge well done to all of the children who earned their head teacher award this week! We are so proud of the amazing work you have been doing in class. Keep up the good work!

We would like to make parents and carers aware of a recent incident of fly‑tipping at our Forest School site in Nettlesworth. The site was scheduled for planned Forest School sessions; however, upon arrival, a significant amount of dumped rubbish was discovered. This was understandably disappointing for the children, who had been looking forward to their outdoor learning experience, and it also impacted an important local environmental space that we value greatly.

The incident has been formally reported online to Durham County Council’s fly‑tipping team and we are hopeful that the rubbish will be cleared as soon as possible.

Our Forest School site is a valuable resource for our children, supporting outdoor learning, wellbeing, and environmental awareness. We hope that this was a one‑off incident and that the area can continue to be enjoyed responsibly by everyone in the community.

Thank you for your continued support.

***UPDATE 21.1.26

Today, our forest school site was kindly cleaned up by Durham County Council. The hardworking team spent time with the children who were taking part in their forest school sessions and shared an interesting talk about their jobs and careers.

The children really enjoyed learning about the different roles involved and asking questions, before watching the team clear away the rubbish and help look after our outdoor space. It was a lovely opportunity to link caring for the environment with real-life careers.

We would like to say a big thank you to the Durham County Council workers for their time, enthusiasm, and support in helping keep our forest area safe and tidy.

The children took part in a brilliant 5 Senses Workshop led by our school caterers. They explored and tried different foods using all of their senses — sight, smell, taste, touch and hearing. The children showed wonderful curiosity and bravery, with many trying new foods and talking about the textures, smells and flavours they noticed. This activity supported healthy eating discussions and encouraged open‑mindedness around food.

Well done to all of the children who have earned their TT Rockstar, Lexia or Numbots certificate this week. We were over the moon with how many children have been working hard over Christmas and this week! Keep up the hard work!

Well done to all of the children who earned their Headteacher Award this week! You have been doing some excellent work in class! Keep up the good work.

Our school disco was full of festive cheer as the children had an amazing time rocking around the Christmas tree! The excitement didn’t stop there—a very special visitor surprised every child with a selection box, making the evening even more magical.

A huge thank you to NSCG for their generous donations. Both the children and staff are incredibly grateful for your kindness and support.

Wishing all our families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🌟