Abbey Lens complete 2024-25

A celebration of the events on our school

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Special Excellence Through Partnership

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Abbey Lens 2024-25 SUMMER 2025

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to office@abbey-jun.sandwell.sch.uk or office@abbey-inf.sandwell.sch.uk

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. One Excellence Through Partnership

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Welcome to 2024-25 Our 11th Volume Edition and a refreshed website.

MEET THE STAFF

Fun, short pen portraits of the staff. These pictures are likely to change!

Meet the staff CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Planned out for the year, including a link to add the dates to your smart device. Calendar OUR CURRICULUM A detailed guide to the national curriculum and how we tailor it for our children.

Curriculum information

CLASS PAGES Year group pages and lots of great events that our children have taken part in.

Class Pages ON-LINE SAFETY

Advice and guidance for parents on keeping our children safe in the ever growing technological world.

On-line safety

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Two Excellence Through Partnership

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CASH FOR CLICKS

So far we’ve been paid £1275.33 for nothing more than signing up and clicking! All of the money goes to our PTA, Friends of Abbey, to be used for the benefit of all of the children! This week alone we’ve been paid £51.70 thanks to our community shopping online! A huge thank you to everyone who supports us. Want to get involved? Sign up to easyfundraising so your online shopping at your favourite retailers turns into much- needed funding for us. It'll take you two minutes to sign up: https:// www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/ abbeyinfantjuniorsch/?utm_medium=email-

BECOME A REPORTER

Our weekly Abbey Lens highlights our curriculum and school experiences. But we also love it when you write to us and shares what is happening in our community. Children love to see their picture on our lens and we’d love to receive your story!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Three Excellence Through Partnership

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A dog’s day! Best category

WOOF! Henry Griffiths from 1P (now 2S) and his much- loved rescue dog, Mindy, entered the Dog Show at Picnic in the Park in Warley Woods on July 7th. Mindy, a 6 year old greyhound, came third in the Best Rescue category! Henry is very proud of Mindy, who he and his mum re-homed from the Greyhound Trust three years ago this summer. Henry bravely handled Mindy during the show in front of the crowd and was thrilled that Mindy received a bag of treats as a prize. Mindy is an ex-racer but is now retired. She loves nothing more than getting fussed by all the pupils and parents outside school! [Ed - Great work Mindy & Henry! Thanks to Henry’s mum for the story] THEATRE Aya (4M now 5P) performed in the Little Mermaid shows by the Birmingham Youth Theatre at the Crescent Theatre over the last weekend. She enjoyed performing on stage - the fruit of all the hard work in weekly and late-night rehearsals! The Birmingham Youth Theatre is a well-known production-based youth theatre, and their next production is Snow White. Cast recruitment and rehearsals starts in September.

[Ed - Great work Aya!]

[We had so many stories we couldn’t get these out in July - but we had to celebrate!]

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11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Four Excellence Through Partnership

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Blue and white! Learning launch

SCOTTISH DAY In a whirlwind of blue and white, Year 2 students at Abbey delved headfirst into Scottish traditions on their recent Scottish Day. These eager learners were transported to the land of bagpipes and tartan as they engaged in a variety of exciting activities. They enthusiastically participated in Highland games, crafting delectable shortbread and exploring the vibrant world of Scottish art. With kilts swaying and laughter echoing, these young scholars embraced the rich heritage of Scotland, kicking off this term’s learning in Year 2. WHITES GO GREEN(PEACE) Barney and Xander White decided to use their bikes for a good cause. They love cycling and think that looking after the environment is really important, so they set themselves a goal of riding 100 miles to raise money for Greenpeace. At the start of the holidays, Simeon couldn't ride a pedal bike, so he supported them on his balance bike, but he wanted to join in the challenge so much that he set to and learnt how to ride a pedal bike! Over the holiday, they smashed through their original target of 100 miles and completed over 175 miles on their pedals, raising £340 for Greenpeace in the process.

We're very proud of their efforts!

[Ed - Great work Whites - pedal power!]

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS September 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Five Excellence Through Partnership

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Bootcamp! Learning launch Y6

WW2 DAY

Pupils at Abbey emerged themselves into WW2 with themed day! Year 6 took a thrilling leap back in time on with their WW2 day. Dressed in authentic wartime attire, pupils transformed into young soldiers, ready to tackle the challenges of the 1940s. The excitement was palpable as students handled replica weapons, giving them a unique taste of history. But it wasn’t all about the past; they also got their hearts racing in a 1940s boot camp! This energetic session had them jumping, running, and sweating like true recruits while learning about the resilience and spirit of that era. One enthusiastic pupil exclaimed, “Dressing up and doing the boot camp was the best! I felt like I was really part of history!” Teachers praised the event for making history come alive, proving that learning can be both fun and engaging. With laughter, learning, and a dash of nostalgia, Abbey’s Year 6 showed that history isn't just about dates—it's about experiencing the past firsthand!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS October 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Six Excellence Through Partnership

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Oh Mummy! Y5 Digging it.

EGYPTIAN DAY Children at Abbey had a thrilling day of Egyptian immersion, stepping through portals to the past. The event kicked off their learning with a hands- on exploration of ancient artefacts and clothing, allowing the young scholars to connect with history in a vibrant way. They delved into the art of the ancients, crafting their own pieces with reed pens, while a mini archaeology experiment put their skills to the test. The day wrapped up with engaging board games and hieroglyphic riddles that challenged their minds. Children and teachers alike praised the event as a fantastic launch into Egyptian studies, igniting curiosity and excitement among the students. With laughter and learning intertwined, it was a day to remember at Abbey! COME TOGETHER IN YELLOW Every year, thousands of schools, companies and communities come together to make World Mental Health Day that little bit brighter by wearing something yellow and donating to YoungMinds. Right now, the world is a really tough place for children and young people to grow up in. We want young people to know that they don’t have to go through this alone. Things can get better.

On 10th October Abbey will turn yellow to support and promote World Mental Health Day.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS October 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Seven Excellence Through Partnership

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Harvest Festival! Boxing clever

DOMINO KINDNESS This year at Abbey, we decided to ask for boxes of cereal for donations so that we could complete a giant game of dominos and knock them all down! We received a whopping 364 boxes of cereal along with other food donations. Thank you very much for your generosity, it really is appreciated. These donations will be going straight to the Smethwick Food Bank, a local charity who provide food packages to support families around our school.

So, over to the fun part – the big knock down!

The anticipation and build up was like no other. When the moment came to tap that first box, the halls at both schools filled with excitement as we watched them fall to the ground.

Have a look at the video below to watch the momentous moments!

https://vimeo.com/1017075903/f014dd7f4a

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11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS October 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Eight Excellence Through Partnership

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In the woods! Forest School

CONKER SPIDERS EYFS is having a great time in their weekly forest school session. All classes get to experience two lots of six sessions across the year - all seasons and all weathers. This week our Abbey Lens is shining a light on EYFS Forest school. The morning was filled with curiosity and creativity! Some children teamed up with Mrs. K to craft conker spiders using a palm drill, while others got their hands dirty in the mud kitchen. We had budding birdwatchers making feeders to hang in the trees, and imaginative builders constructing masterpieces with loose parts like planks, tyres, and crates. The excitement didn’t stop there! Children explored the water station with pumps and guttering, hunted for worms in our digging area, and created beautiful leaf confetti using hole-punching tools.We also introduced the slack line, which many bravely tried out! After such a busy morning, we came together as a team to tidy up before enjoying a snack and story in the bell tent. This week’s tale was “The Leaf Thief,” sparking even more discussions about nature. See the Forest school blog for more! https://www.abbeyfederation.co.uk/news- and-events/blogs/forest-school

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11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS October 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Nine Excellence Through Partnership

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Double Trouble! This week we have a two page edition.

LET’S GO TO THE BEACH! Year 2 had a blast on their first trip to Weston-Super-Mare! The children were buzzing with excitement as they arrived at the iconic seaside resort. Some had never seen the ocean before, making the day extra special. They enjoyed donkey rides along the sandy beach, giggling as they bounced up and down. A delightful picnic followed, with sandwiches and snacks enjoyed under the warm sun. To top it all off, everyone savoured delicious ice creams! This unforgettable adventure left smiles on every child's face, marking a perfect day at the seaside! HEART DISSECTION In a thrilling science lesson, Year 6 pupils bravely dissected a real heart, diving into the wonders of anatomy! The young scientists eagerly explored the heart's four chambers, learning how they pump blood throughout the body. “It was gross but super cool!” exclaimed one pupil. “I never knew the heart had so many parts!” Teachers praised the hands-on approach, saying it brought learning to life. Who knew science could be so heart-pounding?

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS October 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Nine Excellence Through Partnership

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Double Trouble! This week we have a two page edition.

INTRA-SCHOOL SPORT COMPETITIONS

In a series of electrifying days of competition, pupils across the school showcased their sporting talents! Year 1 and 2 rolled into action with an exciting Boccia tournament, where teamwork shone bright. Meanwhile, Year 3 and 4 took to the metaphorical greens for a thrilling tri-golf challenge, mastering their swings and putting skills. The grand finale? Year 5 and 6 tackled the great outdoors in a nail-biting orienteering race that tested their navigation prowess! Laughter echoed through the school as friendships blossomed and skills were honed. Thanks Miss Hinton for organising the events. OUR VERY OWN SPORTING CHAMPS Laila won an Under11s Tennis tournament at David Lloyd and walked away with the Head Extreme Cup. She had to defeat 6 opponents in order to take home the trophy and she's really proud of herself! Thanks Miss Cowley for the story. Eden in year 5 and Sam in year 6 are proud of their achievement in signing a contract with Aston Villa Women's Academy. They have both worked incredibly hard and should be proud of what they have achieved since beginning their grassroots football journeys. Their self drive and belief will see the girls go far both in football and in general. Eden and Sam live by their football memo Eat, Sleep, FOOTBALL, repeat. Well done girls, keep working hard, pushing yourselves and following your dreams. Thanks to Sam and Eden’s moms for the story.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Ten Excellence Through Partnership

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Endangered! Adaptations, food chains and classification.

WE’RE ALL GOING TO THE ZOO! In a thrilling adventure that combined education and excitement, Year 4 students embarked on an unforgettable trip to Dudley Zoo, home to many of the world’s most endangered species. The visit was part of their Science curriculum, focusing on animal adaptation, food chains, and classification. The children were eager to explore the zoo's several walk-through exhibits, including Lemur Wood and Lorikeet Lookout, where colorful birds fluttered around them. Equipped with packed lunches and boundless enthusiasm, the students engaged in hands-on learning experiences that brought their classroom lessons to life. They participated in activities designed to help them understand the complex relationships within ecosystems, including how different species interact through food chains. As they wandered through the lush pathways of the zoo, they learned about the vital roles of producers, predators, and prey in maintaining ecological balance. The trip not only enriched their understanding of animal biology but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards conservation efforts for endangered species. With every lemur sighting and every colorful lorikeet perched nearby, the young explorers were reminded of the importance of protecting our planet's biodiversity.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Eleven Excellence Through Partnership

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Yes Chef! Essential life skills.

COOL COOKING! In an exciting twist, Year 5 children recently dove into the world of seasonal vegetables during their Design Technology lessons! The eager young chefs rolled up their sleeves and got hands-on, whipping- up delicious carrot soup and crispy croutons. This mouthwatering project not only delighted their taste buds but also taught them invaluable life skills. The children learned about the safety needed to cook their food and the importance of reducing waste in the kitchen. As the aroma of freshly made soup wafted through the hall, children gathered to savour their creations turning an ordinary day into a culinary adventure. Parents were thrilled to hear about this tasty initiative, hoping it would inspire their little ones to embrace healthy eating habits. Who knew that learning could be so delicious? Stay tuned for more tasty projects from our budding chefs!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Twelve Excellence Through Partnership

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19th Century! Recreated village

BLACK COUNTRY Year 1 travellers from Abbey got a taste of Victorian life as they stepped into the past at Black Country Living Museum. The pint-sized historians were transported to a world of gas lamps and horse-drawn carriages as they explored the museum's authentic 19th-century streets. The wide-eyed youngsters couldn't believe their what they saw as they encountered playthings from a bygone era. Wooden hoops, rag dolls, and spinning tops had the little ones utterly mesmerised Jaws dropped as the children peeked into meticulously recreated Victorian houses. They marvelled at the lack of T.V and microwaves, wondering how on earth people survived without Netflix.. The trip wasn't all fun and games, though. These pupils got a real education about life in the olden days. They learned how different (and sometimes difficult) daily life was for children their age over a century ago. The museum's 26-acre site proved to be the perfect backdrop for this historical adventure. With shops, houses, and workshops carefully reconstructed, the children got a proper immersion in Black Country life from the 1880s to 1940s. As the coach pulled away, filled with tired but happy little historians, it was clear that this blast from the past had been a roaring success.

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11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Twelve Excellence Through Partnership

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19th Century! Recreated village

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11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Thirteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Peaking! Determination and dedication

CLIMBING Ruqaiyah Najmi, in Reception, has achieved an incredible feat! Over the recent half-term break, this young mountaineer scaled the summit of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales. After a challenging 3-hour ascent, Ruqaiyah reached the peak, though the summit was shrouded in clouds, limiting the visibility of the breathtaking views the mountain typically offers. The descent took approximately 2 hours, completing a full day of adventure. This remarkable accomplishment showcases Ruqaiyah's determination, strength, and love for the outdoors. Her journey to the top is an inspiration to all, reminding us that age is no barrier to achieving great things. We are incredibly proud of Ruqaiyah and her amazing [Ed - Anhygoel! (that’s Welsh for amazing) and thanks to Ruqiyah’s mum for the story] CRICKETING The boys in Year 5 really enjoy their cricket. Jacob Harrison, James Davenport, James Hillman (5V) and Scott Ferguson (5R) all played for Halesowen Under 9s last season. They had a hugely successful season qualifying for the Under 9s County Finals for the second year running. Unfortunately, the wet and miserable weather in the Autumn meant that the Finals Day competition was cancelled twice and couldn’t be rescheduled. Their hard work and commitment was recognised at the end of season awards with Scott winning the award for Most Improved Player and James Davenport for Bowler of the Year. Well done to all of them! [Ed - Fantastic achievement - six!]

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Thirteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Peaking! Determination and dedication

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Fourteen Excellence Through Partnership

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What a performance! In the hall and on the road.

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND THEATRE BRINGS PANTOMIME MAGIC TO OUR SCHOOL! In a dazzling visit, the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre treated our pupils to a sneak peek of their enchanting Christmas Pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. The excitement was palpable as the actors performed lively snippets, leaving everyone in stitches. Did you know pantomime dates back to the 16th century? Originating in Italy, it’s a whimsical blend of comedy, music, and audience participation. With its vibrant costumes and hilarious antics, it’s no wonder pantos are a festive favourite! Our children were gripped from start to finish and loved every minute! YEAR 6 PUPILS PEDAL TO SUCCESS WITH BIKEABILITY Our Year 6 pupils have recently completed their Bikeability training and they were nothing short of amazing! Kicking off with fun activities in the playground to assess their cycling skills, the young riders quickly graduated to the roads, putting their knowledge to the test. Local residents were thrilled to see such sensible and responsible cyclists navigating the streets with confidence. With their newfound skills, these pupils are now ready to hit the roads safely. Well done, Year 6 - your hard work has truly paid off!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Fourteen Excellence Through Partnership

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What a performance! In the hall and on the road.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Fifteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Spooky science! Spectacular experiments

SCARY AND FUN Children in Year 2 had a spine-tingling time during their Spooky Science Day, filled with ghoulish experiments that thrilled and delighted! The young scientists conjured up a Witches' Brew, creating colourful concoctions that bubbled and fizzed. They crafted Loony Lava Lamps, watching as vibrant colours swirled and danced in mesmerising patterns. The fun didn’t stop there; students also made Fizzy Ghosts that erupted and crafted creepy Ghost Spiders that added a touch of fright. As a sweet treat, they experimented with Scattering Skittles, turning sweets into a coloruful science project. This engaging day not only sparked curiosity but also fostered teamwork among the children, making learning both fun and memorable. With laughter echoing through the halls, Abbey proved that science can be spooky and spectacular! HAIR RAISING TOO Over the half term holiday, Xander had a big hair cut!! His auntie had suffered with breast cancer and she lost all of her hair with the cancer treatment. Xander wanted to do something special to support and raise awareness, so he's been growing his hair out for over 2 years to get it long enough to donate to The Little Princess Trust. The Little Princess Trust provides real hair wigs, free of charge, to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or to other conditions such as Alopecia. The charity is also one of the largest funders of childhood cancer research in the UK. Growing it so long has been hard at times, but he's stuck with it and we're so proud of him! Well done Xander

Ed - [Great effort and such a selfless act - well done!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Fifteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Spooky science! Spectacular experiments

Ed - [Great effort and such a selfless act - well done!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS November 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Sixteen Excellence Through Partnership

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BCLM! Industrial revolution

BRIDGES Abbey pupils took a thrilling trip back in time as the Black Country Living Museum rolled into town! The little tykes got their hands dirty exploring the gritty world of the Industrial Revolution. Pint-sized miners delved into the dark history of coal, limestone, and ironstone extraction. The mucky mites even learned how children were once squeezed into tight mine shafts to fetch coal! But it wasn't all doom and gloom. The mini-engineers put their noggins to work, tackling the tricks of bridge- building with beams and triangulation. They got a taste of the backbreaking labour of hauling heavy loads, just like their ancestors did. From bricks and glass to the smoky skies of the Black Country, these pint-sized historians got a proper schooling in the roots of their industrial heritage. What a day! GOLD Azaya has had a busy autumn term training for her gymnastics tumbling and trampoline competitions. In the West Midlands Amateur Gymnastics Association Tumbling competition she was awarded gold medal for her flicks, whips and back flips. Then in the West Midlands Amateur Gymnastics Association Trampoline competition at Warwick University, she was awarded Silver for her straddles, turns and front flips. Azaya always gets so nervous before going to compete but said “I always just concentrate on happy thoughts and fun memories, sing my favourite song to myself and then the nerves turn into excitement and I’m ready to perform”. Azaya wanted to share with Abbey students “if you believe you can achieve!”

Ed - [Brilliant and thank you for sharing! We are really proud of you]

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS December 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Seventeen Excellence Through Partnership

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Tartan Time! Year 2 Parent Workshop

WEAVING WONDERS! In a vibrant display of creativity, Year 2 parents gathered for an exciting workshop on weaving, transforming colourful wool into stunning tartan patterns! Held in the heart of the school, the event saw parents laughing and learning alongside their little ones. Families discovered the art of weaving, crafting unique pieces that showcased their individual styles. “It’s a fantastic way to bond and learn something new,” stated one parent. The workshop not only celebrated creativity but also strengthened their Scottish topic. Who knew weaving could be so much fun? Tartan dreams are now a reality! ABBEY’S FOOTBALL FEVER In a thrilling showdown, Abbey triumphed over Langley with a spectacular 5-0 win in their first league match! The players showcased incredible teamwork and skill, leaving the crowd roaring with excitement. Goals flew in from all corners of the pitch, with standout performances from the whole team. “We played our hearts out!” said one player, beaming with pride. This impressive victory sets a strong tone as the league takes a winter break, resuming in the spring term. Fans can’t wait to see Abbey continue their winning streak! Go, Abbey! The trophy is within reach!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th EDITION

BBEY LENS December 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Eighteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Safety Training! Year 3 road

CROSSING In an exciting adventure, Year 3 students took to the streets for their pedestrian training walk! The eager youngsters learned vital safety skills, chanting “Stop, look, listen, wait!” as they approached the zebra crossing. Their eyes lit up as they spotted a road crew fixing the pavement with fresh tarmac, sparking curiosity about the vehicles zooming by. With Belisha beacons flashing nearby, the children practiced looking left and right, mastering the art of safe street crossing. Teachers watched proudly as each child confidently navigated the bustling road, reinforcing the importance of safety in their daily lives. This thrilling outing not only educated but also inspired a new generation of road-smart pedestrians! A BRIDGE TOO FAR In a jaw-dropping display of pint-sized genius, Abbey's Year 3 pupils wowed parents with their bridge-building prowess! The mini-engineers channeled their inner Telford, using mind-bending concertina techniques and triangulation wizardry to craft sturdy structures. Armed with woodworking skills that would make carpenters weep, these future industrial revolutionaries hammered, sawed, and glued their way to glory. Parents gasped as the tiny titans unveiled bridges strong enough to support a small army of teddy bears. Teachers beamed with pride, declaring the workshop a smashing success that would make even the great minds of the Industrial Revolution green with envy!

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

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BBEY LENS December 2024 Vol 11: Issue No. Nineteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Stir it up! Spoon Dolls

Y1 PARENT WORKSHOP With a display of creativity and family bonding, Abbey recently transformed its hall into a Victorian wonderland as parents and children came together to craft their very own Victorian Spoon Dolls. This workshop transported participants back in time to experience the joys of traditional toy-making. A Victorian spoon doll was a traditional handmade toy that originated during the Victorian era in the 19th century. Easily created by transforming a wooden spoon into a doll, using various materials and decorative elements. The doll's head was typically made by attaching a fabric or yarn ball to the top of the spoon. The body then crafted using fabric, often wrapped around the handle of the spoon to create a dress or clothing. Additional embellishments like buttons, ribbons and yarn are used to add details such as facial features, hair and accessories. Victorian spoon dolls were popular toys during that time period. Under the expert guidance of dedicated teachers and staff, parents joined their children in a hands-on journey through history. Armed with wooden spoons, fabric scraps, buttons and yarn, families set out to create their own miniature works of art. From carefully selecting fabrics to fashioning intricate hairstyles, parents and children poured their creativity into every detail. The dolls came to life, each one a testament to the imagination and skill of its creators. As parents guided their children through the process, they discovered the rich history behind Victorian spoon dolls and the significance of handmade toys in the past. Supporting the children in developing their sense of chronology and the past.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS December 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Excellence Through Partnership

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Stitch in time! Y6 workshop

CRAFTING In a recent Design Technology project, Year 6 children demonstrated their creativity and craftsmanship through a series of exciting sewing workshops. Guided by their teachers, the young learners delved into the world of stitches, learning when and where to apply them effectively. Armed with an array of fabric, sewing needles, threads, fabric glue and decorative embellishments, the children embarked on a mission to create unique sewn creations. Parents and carers were invited to participate in this hands-on experience, joining their children in bringing their designs to life. The workshops provided a valuable opportunity for families to bond while nurturing their children's design and sewing skills. The event was a resounding success, with the students proudly showcasing their finished products. The workshop not only fostered creativity but also honed their ability to evaluate and reflect on their work. The Year 6 sewing workshops were a testament to the school's commitment to providing a well-rounded curriculum. education, empowering students to explore their talents and ignite their passion for design.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS December 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty One Excellence Through Partnership

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Decorating! Y4 workshop

CRAFTING PART 2 Year 4 honed their sewing skills through a series of engaging workshops. Parents and carers were invited to join in the fun and assist their children in creating unique stuffed hanging decorations. Under the guidance of their teachers, the young designers showcased their creativity as they crafted vibrant ornaments, both Christmas-themed and otherwise. The workshops aimed to foster a sense of environmental responsibility, with participants encouraged to bring recycled fabric, trims, buttons and accessories to incorporate into their designs. Thread, needles and felt were readily available, ensuring that all students had the necessary materials to bring their imaginative ideas to life. The workshops not only nurtured their sewing abilities but also instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment as they proudly displayed their finished creations. The Year 4 sewing workshops were a testament to the school's commitment to providing a well-rounded education, combining creativity, sustainability, and hands-on learning.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS January 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Two Excellence Through Partnership

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Lighting up! Festival

ST HILDA’S The Festival of Light at St. Hilda's Church took place on Friday 12th December 2024. The children had worked tirelessly to plan and organise the festival, and they sang a variety of songs related to the topic of 'light', accompanied by heartfelt readings and more. The event was a resounding success, and we extend our gratitude to all the families and loved ones who joined us in celebrating the Festival of Light at St. Hilda's Church. It was a truly mesmerising experience that left everyone feeling happy. Thanks also to parents who volunteered to walk children safely to the church. CAP AND GOWN Year 1 children were transported back to the enchanting era of the Victorians with an immersive'Victorian Day' held on Wednesday 4th December 2024. The school was a sight to behold as children and teachers alike donned authentic Victorian attire, setting the stage for a blast from the past experience. The day was filled with Victorian-style lessons in the morning, providing a glimpse into the past, followed by a delightful array of Victorian games and activities in the afternoon. Boys sported dark trousers, waistcoats, shirts, boots, and flat caps, while girls looked charming in pinafore dresses with attached full aprons, boots, and either mop caps or bonnets. It was a truly unforgettable end to the topic.

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11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS January 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Three Excellence Through Partnership

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From the past to blast off!

VICTORIAN DAY Year 1 pupils donned their finest Victorian attire for a thrilling Victorian Day, transporting themselves back to the 19th century! With bonnets and waistcoats, the children embraced the past, engaging in lessons just like their Victorian counterparts. Armed with chalk, they practised their writing skills, giggling at the novelty of it all. The excitement didn’t end there! Pupils also rolled up their sleeves to create traditional toys, including spinning toys and the cup and ball game, discovering the joys of play from a bygone era. With smiles and laughter echoing through the corridor, Year 1’s Victorian Day was a resounding success, igniting a love for learning among the young adventurers! KIDS BLAST OFF INTO SPACE AT WONDER DOME Excitement soared as pupils at our school experienced the Wonder Dome, a fantastic small planetarium! Inside this magical dome, children were treated to captivating presentations and fascinating facts about the solar system. Our astronauts in training were absolutely thrilled, revelling in the sensation of being in outer space! “This is the best day ever!” shouted one enthusiastic pupil, while others shared wide- eyed wonder as they learned about stars, planets, and galaxies. The Wonder Dome proved to be the perfect launchpad for their new topic, sparking curiosity and joy that continues to shine bright in the classroom.

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BBEY LENS January 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Four Excellence Through Partnership

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Roaring success all round

PARK RUN Congratulations to Edie & Suzi from Year 4 who braved the freezing temperatures to complete their first Junior Parkrun this January. Both girls ran & walked with their parents to complete the 2km course and are eager to do it again! It's super easy for parents / carers to register via the Junior Parkrun website: https:// www.parkrun.com/about/join-us/junior- parkrun/. Wow! Well done Edie and Suzi, what a brilliant achievement! Thanks to Holly (Edie's Mum) for the story. JUNGLE FEVER The reception classrooms of Abbey Infant School transformed into a jungle paradise as reception parents joined their children for the much-anticipated "Let's Do It Day!” Armed with feathers, card and all sorts of crafty materials, families unleashed their imaginations to create stunning jungle masks. Laughter echoed through the classrooms as children proudly showcased their colourful creations, from roaring lions to cheeky monkeys! The event not only sparked creativity but also strengthened the bond between parents and pupils, making memories that will last a lifetime.

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11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS January 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Four Excellence Through Partnership

THE

What a blast!

SUBLIME SCIENCE

Year 1 pupils experienced a day of scientific fun during their Sublime Science Day! The excitement began with a hands-on workshop, where children created their own slime, learning about materials in a gooey, interactive way. They then delved into the mysteries of gravity by crafting helicopters, experimenting to see how they could make them fall faster. Outside, the thrill continued with the Water Wacky Rocket launch, where rockets soared high into the sky, filling the air with laughter and cheers. Back indoors, the pupils were mesmerised by a dry ice assembly, witnessing fascinating experiments that illustrated scientific principles in action. This day of exploration not only sparked curiosity but also fostered a love for science among the young learners, making it a truly unforgettable experience! EASY FUNDRAISING Don’t forget to download the app ‘Easy Fundraising’ on to your phone to utilise whilst online shopping. It doesn’t cost you anything extra but the school benefit significantly!

Thank you for your continued support.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk

11 th ANNIVERSARY

BBEY LENS January 2025 Vol 11: Issue No. Twenty Six Excellence Through Partnership

THE

Brave decisions all round!

YEAR 2 GOES WILD WITH THE ANIMAL MAN Year 2 pupils experienced an unforgettable day with a special visit from the animal man! As part of their Australia topic, the children were thrilled to meet a variety of fascinating animals native to the Land Down Under. With wide eyes and eager hands, the pupils learned about scorpions, kookaburras, and even snakes! The brave young learners took turns holding the animals, while some of the teachers braved it and joined in on the fun, showcasing their courage as they interacted with the exotic creatures. “It was amazing to see the animals up close!” exclaimed one excited pupil. “I even held a snake!” The Animal Man’s visit not only sparked curiosity but also deepened the pupils' understanding of Australian wildlife. LITTLE PRINCESS TRUST Florence, in 5P, has cut her long hair off to shoulder length and has donated her hair to the Little Princess Trust. They provide free, real hair wigs to children who have lost their hair through cancer treatment or other conditions. If you would like to do the same or find out more about the charity take a look at their website, www.littleprincesses.org.uk. Well done Florence, what a superstar! Thanks mom for the story.

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