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Friday 21st March

Messages from the Principal, Miss Jarrett

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Dear Parents

It is amazing to think that we are approaching the end of the Spring term already!

This term has been characterised by a plethora of educational excursions, providing our children with invaluable opportunities to extend their learning beyond the confines of the classroom.

Our Year 2 cohort embarked on an enchanting forest school day at Black Park, immersing themselves in nature's classroom and fostering a deeper connection with the environment - they particularly loved toasting marshmallows on the campfire! Meanwhile, half of our Year 1 children have already ascended the iconic London Eye, gaining a bird's-eye perspective of our capital's magnificent skyline. For those who have yet to venture out, rest assured that the final fortnight of the term promises equally exciting expeditions, ensuring that every child benefits from these formative experiences.

In addition to our academic pursuits, we have celebrated the rich tapestry of our school community through our recent Iftar event. This gathering served as a testament to the inclusive and diverse nature of Phoenix Infant Academy, bringing together families, staff, and children in a spirit of unity and shared celebration. See some photos from the event later in the newsletter.

As we look towards the conclusion of the term, I must draw your attention to several important notices. Firstly, please be reminded that school will conclude at 1:30pm on the final day of term. This day will also be a non-uniform day, where we invite children to don their "celebration" attire, reflecting the multitude of festivals observed during this season, including Eid, Easter, and Navratri. Furthermore, we have planned a disco for all children on this last day, underscoring the importance of attendance right through to the term's end.

In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and engagement in our school community. Together, we are crafting an educational journey that is both enriching and memorable for our children.

Miss Jarrett

Principal

SAFEGUARDING

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As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our children safe, we want to take a moment to address the important topic of e-safety. In today’s digital age, it is crucial that we work together to ensure our children are protected from inappropriate content online.

Understanding E-Safety

E-safety refers to the practice of protecting children from potential dangers associated with their online activities. This includes exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and inappropriate interactions with others. As parents, your involvement is vital in guiding your children’s online experiences.

Inappropriate Content: Sprunki and Squid Games

Recently, there has been an increase in discussions around certain online games and shows, such as Sprunki and Squid Games, which are not suitable for children in an infant school setting. These programmes often contain violent themes and inappropriate content that can negatively impact young minds.

Key Points to Consider:

Age Appropriateness: Many of these shows and games are rated for older audiences and may not be suitable for young children. It is essential to check age ratings before allowing your child to engage with any media.
Emotional Impact: Exposure to violent or distressing content can lead to anxiety, fear, and confusion in young children. It is important to ensure that the media they consume is age-appropriate and promotes positive values.

The Importance of Parental Controls

To help safeguard your children from inappropriate content, we encourage all parents to utilise parental controls on devices. Here are some steps you can take:

Set Up Parental Controls: Most devices and platforms offer parental control settings that allow you to restrict access to certain content. Familiarise yourself with these settings and customise them according to your child’s needs.
Monitor Online Activity: Regularly check the apps and games your child is using. Engage in conversations about their online experiences and encourage them to share any concerns they may have.
Educate About Online Safety: Teach your child about the importance of not sharing personal information online and the potential dangers of interacting with strangers.
Create a Safe Online Environment: Encourage your child to use devices in shared spaces at home, where you can easily monitor their activity.

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS:

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Celebrating our Children!

Children in Reception have been writing stories and have been amazing us with their progress! Check out Adam's story below.

Children across the school took part in Show Racism The Red Card's school competition. The school had to select 2 school winners to enter in the national competition and congratulations go to Angelpreet and Zofia, who's winning entries are below along with a selection of others. This is a really important message for our children to help them have confidence and understanding when it comes to racism.

Half of Year 1 visited the London Eye on Friday and had a wonderful time finding the London Landmarks they have been learning about in class. They equally enjoyed waving at each other in the 2 pods!

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Phoenix Iftar Celebrations

Our second Phoenix Iftar celebration was just as wonderful as the first. We had even more families joining us and it was a fabulous opportunity for our school community to get together and enjoy the delicious food everyone had prepared. Thank you to everyone who came along, everyone who helped set up and clear away at the end and all who brought food. Particular thanks to Mrs Hussain, Buzzard class teacher, who coordinated everyone's efforts and once again ensured a highly successful event! Thanks also go to Checkout supermarket who donated over 100 cups, plates, napkins and spoons for the event.

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Student Leadership

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Eco Council met last week and decided to donate part of their fundraising efforts from their Dress up as an Animal Day to Worldwide Wildlife Fund's Tiger Appeal. The school will be sent regular updates about the tigers and a cuddly toy tiger is on it's way to school as a thank you from the charity.

The Nest

Over the past few weeks, pupils in the Nest have been focusing on exploring shapes and sizes through hands-on activities and play. They have enjoyed discovering different shapes, comparing sizes, and experimenting with how they fit together in creative ways.

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Sporting Updates

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Slough School Sports Network's 'Busy Bees' Netball Festival - March 2025

A huge well done to our amazing team that represented the school with amazing success.

There were some amazing ball skills being displayed by the children and they all participated brilliantly; we even had 1 player praised by the England Netball representative for her incredible "defensive" skills.

Another great sports representation from our amazing children!

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Music Updates

The Snail and the Whale

On the 13th March we took 20 Year 2 children to the Royal Festival Hall to watch the London Philharmonic Orchestra play the music to the Snail and the Whale story. This was an amazing opportunity to watch a world famous orchestra perform live and they didn't disappoint. Our children demonstrated fantastic listening the whole day and we are so proud of them.

We have another 20 children going into London this coming week, before the last few children attend events in the summer term. We are aiming for all children in Year 2 to have the opportunity to experience something in London by the end of the school year - and already have plans afoot for next year's Year 2 so watch this space Year 1 parents and children!

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ATTENDANCE

Well done to all parents/carers who continue to ensure their children attend school regularly.

This week Year 1 has the highest attendance of any year group across the school - winning by 0.1%. Well done!!

The class winners in each year group can be seen below.

All attendance expectations can be found on our website.

Please do get in touch if you would like any support getting your child to school and on time.

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RECEPTION CLASS WINNER

Well done to Robin class who won the attendance trophy this week.

Keep it up!

YEAR 1 CLASS WINNER

Well done to Kingfisher class who won the attendance trophy this week with 98%.

Keep it up!

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YEAR 2 CLASS WINNER

Well done to Falcon class who won the attendance trophy this week with 96%.

Keep it up!

Reporting your child's absence for Eid al-Fitr

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After the success of the processes with Eid al-Adha last year, I wanted to share again the expectations around informing the school of your child’s potential absence due to celebrating Eid al-Fitr.

If Eid al-Fitr was to fall on Saturday 29th March 2025, your child would be expected in school on Monday 31^st March. If you, as a parent, have taken additional annual leave from work (for example the Monday) and your child will not be attending school – you must complete a Withdrawal from Learning Request form in advance of the date. Without this, no consideration can be given to authorising the absence. If you continue to go to work on the Monday and your child stays at home with other family members – the absence cannot be authorised.

If Eid al-Fitr was to fall on Sunday 30^th March your child would be expected in school on Monday 31^st March. If you, as a parent, have taken additional annual leave from work (for example the Monday) and your child will not be attending school – you must complete a Withdrawal from Learning Request form in advance of the date. Without this, no consideration can be given to authorising the absence. If you continue to go to work on the Monday and your child stays at home with other family members – the absence cannot be authorised.

If Eid al-Fitr was to fall on Monday 31^st March and your child was absent from school due to celebrating this, your child’s absence will be recorded as “authorised” only if a phone call is made to the school office on the day or an answer machine message left. Absence messages can be left at any time from Sunday 30^th March to allow early prayers to be attended without the need to call the school. If there is no communication – the absence will not be authorised. If you, as a parent, have taken additional annual leave from work (for example the Tuesday) and your child will not be attending school – you must complete a Withdrawal from Learning Request form in advance of the date. Without this, no consideration can be given to authorising the absence. If you continue to go to work on the Tuesday and your child stays at home with other family members – the absence cannot be authorised.