There is not much news to report from school this week I'm afraid - everyone is heads down working/studying away. Routines have been re-established, students and staff have settled back into the rhythm of the school day; and school life is ticking along.
I don't usually share quotes, but I came across one this week, attributed to Aristotle, and it felt appropriate in the context of our values and ethos and relevant to share in light of establishing routines: 'We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.'.
January is often a month for quiet reflection and looking ahead. It is the perfect month to set out plans for the year and to take the time to declutter minds, workspaces and home. After busy days at school and work, the weekend days are perfect for this (especially in Winter when the days are often cold and grey).
Whatever your plans are this weekend, I hope they are fulfilling.
~Ms K Dooley | Head Teacher
Turtle Opera!
Turtle Opera is a FREE music and drama project for Autistic 11 to 15 year olds.
The project will run at the V&A Museum, South Kensington from Tuesday 18th – Friday 21st February 2025, 11am – 3:30pm.
The four days of workshops will involve participants creating their own stories and music for an informal performance, with a professional composer and director. A specialist team from Turtle Key Arts and the V&A will support the group, to help enable fun and friendships.
If you are interested please sign-up via the application form on Turtle Key Arts' website where you can also find more information. Applications close on 19 January!
Kingston Adult Education
As part of Kingston Council, Kingston Adult Education provides a range of courses to people aged 19 or over. A number of their courses are free, and take place in school hours.
They have a number of courses starting in January, including:
accredited qualifications in Bookkeeping; Childcare (from introductory courses through to teaching assistant and programmes for educators working with children with special educational needs); Community Interpreting; Counselling; Information, Advice and Guidance; and Understanding Mental Health
English, maths and digital skills, from entry level through to GCSE
A variety of courses to develop your creative skills, including stained glass making, painting and drawing, languages, creative writing, and upcycling clothes
A range of wellbeing courses to teach you how to take better care of your mental health, including tai chi and meditation.
See their latest prospectus for further details about these courses as well as their wider offering: bit.ly/KAE-2425prospectus
Their classes take place both online and at centres across the Royal Borough of Kingston.
For further information, please contact Kingston Adult Education directly on 020 8547 6700 or at adult.education@kingston.gov.uk
Barracudas Holiday Camps - 2025!
We're so grateful for the amazing support we receive from local schools like yours. Many of your families already enjoy our local holiday activity camp. We wanted to remind you that our lowest rates are available for bookings made by 31st January, with savings of up to £100 per week! Parents can secure amazing school holiday activities and childcare for as little as £4.42 an hour.
Plus, we'd love to extend a special thank-you with an exclusive school discount code. Simply share SCHOOL10 with your community, and parents will receive an extra £10 off (minimum 2 day booking).
Families can also take advantage of flexible payment options, including Tax-Free Childcare, Childcare Vouchers, and interest-free monthly instalments – making it easier than ever to secure their spot.