15th January 2026 | Issue 292
In the news this week...
This week in maths we have been calculating multiplying 2 -digit numbers by 1 -digit numbers using different methods. One of the methods we used was a part -whole model where we divided our number into 10s and 1s then we multiplied those numbers by the 1 -digit number. Then we added them together which is when we get an answer. Another method was using a 100s, 10s and 1s chart except with multiplying so then we multiplied the 1s by the 10s and the 1s by the other 1s and we wrote the answers down and then we added them together and then we had our answer. I preferred the second method.
On Mondays this term with Mr Mawn (Physical Literacy Lead) in the mornings we will be doing shuttle runs in the playground as our personal challenge. You have to run to the second line and back. We have 1 minute and our partner has to count how many we do. Then we swap roles. We are doing this to become more agile.
I have been to lots of clubs. This term in gymnastics we make routines and demonstrate these to the other pairs. The wall bars are great for your leg muscles and arm muscles. It is higher that you think it is, so it builds your confidence if you try and have a go and if you are worried that you might fall, there are good mats below.
Kiran, Benjamin and Sophie
Updates & Reminders
Message from OCC Admissions Team -
We are writing to let you know that applications for Reception places for children starting school in September 2026 is now open. The deadline for applications is 15 January 2026.
We strongly encourage families to apply online via the following link: Reception applications | Oxfordshire County Council
Children born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, who are eligible to start school in September 2026.
Key reminders for parents:
- Read the Starting School Guide on the website
- Apply on time – late applications won’t receive an offer on National Offer Day (16 April 2026)
- Update addresses – upload proof of address and inform current nursery/school (if there has been a change)
- Include sibling details where relevant
- List multiple preferences – up to four schools can be selected
Late applications are far less likely to secure a place at a preferred school, so it is important that parents apply on time.
Just a reminder we have children in school with serious allergies please do not send your child in with items containing nuts, this includes chocolate spread, peanut butter and products containing a chocolate filling like Nutella or chocolate bars containing nuts. We have had a few occasions recently where we have found items have been sent into school in packed lunches which contain nuts.
Dates for the Diary
- Thursday 15th January - Deadline for applying for a school place to start September 2026 for Children born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022.
Message from St Mary's Church
Message from the PTA
Some Dates for your diary for PTA events coming up this term:
PTA Disco - Saturday 7th February 2026 from 5.30-7.30 pm at the Sports and Social club. Tickets will be on sale soon.
Rags2Riches preloved clothing collection – Wednesday 25th February.
World Book Day - Thursday 5th March, book collection and sale, and school uniform sale.
Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday 22nd March (TBC)
Remember: Please be aware that we have children in school with serious food allergies. To ensure the safety of all of our children please avoid sending your child to school with anything that contains nuts this includes sandwiches containing peanut butter or chocolate spread.
Useful Links
Here is the NHS Is my child too ill for school information.
As parents and carers, there are ways we can support our children to give them the best chance to stay mentally healthy. Encouraging and guiding a child to think about their own mental health and wellbeing are vital skills you can teach them from a young age. Children's mental health - Every mind matters
