In the news this week...

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making Friday’s Harvest Service such a lovely occasion. Particular thanks to the parents who were traffic marshalls and to everyone who sent donations for Bicester Food Bank.

Reading the school records written by the headteacher in 1839, a very real problem was low school attendance at harvest time because the children were working in the fields… I am delighted to say that last week our attendance rate for this term was 97.1%

Similarly, a whole world of activities is quietly taking place once the school’s day finishes. The children in wraparound after school care wanted to share some of what they have been doing with our fabulous wraparound team…

Confirmation emails have been sent for all the children who are booked into clubs starting the first week back after half term. Tomorrow is inset so there will be no children in school and we look forward to seeing everyone back on Monday 3^rd November. Please order children’s lunches by tomorrow for the first day back.

Message from Tempest Photograph

Have you ordered your child’s portrait school photos yet? A polite reminder that the closing date for free delivery back to school is Sunday 26th October 2025. Order through the Tempest website using your unique link or visit www.tempest-orders.co.uk 

If you need any assistance in ordering your photos, feel free to contact Tempest on 01736 751555 (option 3).

Term 2 After School Activity Clubs

Booking has now closed. Spaces are still available at Cricket, Football, Gymnastics/Dance and Netball/Basketball if you would like to add your child to one of these clubs please email the school office.

Mondays - Cricket for 6 weeks from 03.11.25 up to and including 08.12.25, for Key Stage 2 pupils with Mr Mawn

Tuesdays - Football for 6 weeks from 04.11.25 up to and including 09.12.25, for Key Stage 2 pupils run by Ignite

Wednesdays - Gymnastics and Dance for 6 weeks from 05.11.25 up to and including 10.12.25, for Year 2 - 6 pupils run by Ignite

Thursdays - Art Club (Boxes, bags and paper craft) for 6 weeks from 06.11.25 up to and including 11.12.25, for Key Stage 2 pupils with Ms Nightingale

Fridays - Netball/Basketball for 6 weeks from 07.11.25 up to and including 12.11.25, for Key Stage 2 pupils run by Ignite

Waddesdon Manor Christmas Project

As our children took part in Waddesdon Manor's Christmas Display project, Waddesdon have made avaliable a code for each child. 

Each code gives you a free child grounds ticket, and half price grounds entry for 2 accompanying adults and 2 extra children (there are ticket options for both members and non-members).  The code will not work when trying to book the house, as it is a grounds only offer. 

If you would like your child's single use code, please email the school office. 

The Department for Education has published leaflets about the different assessments that Primary age children complete; see below for links to these.

50 Things Before You’re Five – Supporting Early Language in Oxfordshire

We’re excited to continue promoting the free “50 Things Before You’re Five” app again this year! The app offers families and practitioners 50 fun, low-cost activities to enjoy with children under five, all designed to boost early language, communication, and learning through play.  

Key benefits:

• Encourages talking, playing, and learning together at home and in settings
• Supports children’s speech, language, and school readiness
• Inclusive activities for all abilities and interests
• Links to local Oxfordshire events and resources

 50 Things to Do | Oxfordshire website and app link.

Secondary School Applications - Secondary transfer applications are now open for children who will be transitioning from Year 6 to Year 7 for the 2026/27 academic year.

To apply visit the Oxfordshire County Council secondary school webpages for all relevant information and to submit their applications online at: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/secondaryadmissions. The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 31 October 2025, and National Offer Day is 2 March 2026.

It's important to note that applications received after the deadline will be processed later in the year and are far less likely to secure a place at a preferred school. Therefore, timely submission is crucial.