Our weekly message comes one day early this week. That’s because tomorrow is a training day so school will be closed.

On Monday, we welcomed a special visitor. Mrs Abi Clay visited to inspect St James’ CE Primary under the SIAMS Framework. We’ll let you know the outcomes of the inspection as soon as we can. Thanks to everyone for their messages of support.

Choosing our new school charity

The first week back after the half-term holiday is the first of two themed weeks here at St James’ CE Primary. This time, the theme is Me and My Community – look back to our Weekly Message from Friday 09 October for more about that.

One of the themed week events is to choose a new school charity.

For this week’s Talk Time homework, we’re asking children to consider a shortlist of five charities. These were nominated by Reception teachers across Sphere Federation. Following a discussion in class, our new Junior Leaders will meet meet to debate and decide the new school charity. Here’s the shortlist:

Alzheimer’s Research
This charity’s mission is support that will help us find a cure for dementia through investing in the best research and powering the most forward-thinking scientists.

Leeds Hospitals Charity
This is to make a donation specifically to the ‘Play Team’ which funds play specialists in Leeds hospitals and provides toys and games in children’s wards

Zarach
Our mission is to end child bed poverty and therefore help children get a good night’s sleep and the chance to thrive at school. Children in Sphere Federation schools have benefitted from Zarach’s work.

Book Trust
Book Trust aims to change lives by getting children and families reading. It recognises that a love of books changes lives: children are likely to do better at school, as well as be more socially, culturally and emotionally prepared for life.

Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
From helping children build confidence and independence to empowering adults with practical and emotional support, Guide Dogs aims to help people with sight loss live the life they choose.

Talk with your child about the merits of each charity.

Free school meals

Did you know that eligibility for Free School Meals has been expanded?

All households receiving Universal Credit now qualify for Free School Meals. You could save up to £592 per year.

Apply using this link or calling in to any Council One Stop Centre or local Housing Office, or phone 0113 222 4404.

For more information, read our guide.

Thank you…

Over the course of the year, your child enjoys three opportunities to prepare food.

Thank you to those of you who have contributed towards the cost of ingredients this year. We’ve received donations totalling £234. This will help to ensure we can continue to offer this opportunity to learn important kitchen skills. It also makes life easier for you by buying the food in bulk rather than asking for children to bring in their own ingredients.

It’s not too late make a voluntary donation. We’ve set up Arbor for quick payments of £6, but you can also call into the office with any donation amount – we’d be grateful for any amount to contribute to costs.

For more about our Cooking curriculum, please check out our Cooking and Nutrition Guide – this includes the food preparation skills children will practise (this is Year B).

We’ve reached the end of the first half-term of the school year at St James’ CE Primary. As always, have a happy and healthy weekend and enjoy the October half-term holiday. Check out Visit Leeds and We Are Child Friendly Leeds for some half-term activities.