The Chronicle

Our Stars of the Week this week are:

There was plenty of excitement when Junior 1 went to the Coventry Transport Museum this week to find out more about all manner of man-made 'propelled vehicles', to inform their cross-curricular studies in History, Science and English.

The children participated in an informative seminar and practical activities on the history of bicycles, hosted by Sara, who looks after the Museum's historic pedal collection. They tested out riding wooden and rubber wheeled scooters over a bumpy surface to establish why the materials used for wheels changed over time. They constructed bicycle frames to test which shape was the strongest, and wore goggles to carry out further science investigations. They heard of Coventry's important role in the design, development and manufacture of cycles, beginning with the Boneshaker of the 1820s, moving on to the Penny Farthing and the tricycle of the 1880s and the safety bicycle of 1888. At the museum supercars, buses, bikes and electric vehicles were all eagerly explored.

Upon returning back to school the children have written up their own TripAdvisor recounts and started to design and create their own moving vehicles.

Well done Junior 1, we are very proud of you.

On Monday 21 January Junior 5 left modern day Britain behind and travelled back in time to the Tudor era.  Children, staff and even parents came to school dressed in costume and enjoyed a memorable day exploring life in the 16th century.

They began in the court of King Henry VIII in the year of our Lord 1536. Despite rumours and intrigue surrounding his second wife, Anne Boleyn, the King’s household had plenty of tasks to attend to. Set out in Crackley’s great hall were typical Tudor professions and a range of crafts that included: Alchemists, Apothecaries, Barbers, Chandlers, Embroiders, Leatherworkers, Miniature Artists, Scholars (ink making and writing), Scent bag and Soap makers. The children all enjoyed taking part in the traditional Tudor activities, it was fantastic hands-on learning.

In the afternoon the children took on various roles at a mock royal banquet. Some were servants whilst others were entertainers, dancers and even singers. As they worked, more rumours swirled around the ill-fated Anne Boleyn. The background narrative really helped bring the Tudor era alive.

Sebastian from J5 commented, "Tudor Day was amazing. The man was very knowledgeable, he made history come to life." Amy, also from J5, added, "I thought it was fun and exciting. The stories of Tudor punishments made me feel glad I'm living now and not then."

Crackley’s Tudor Day was led by History Off The Page, a company who run historical workshops. The day was organised by teacher Sarah Lammas, who commented, “The children had an amazing time, immersed in history and surrounded by authentic replica artefacts. It was a day full of practical learning, storytelling and drama.“  Fellow Junior 5 teacher, Julia Roberts added, “History Off the Page were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. All of the children and adults thoroughly enjoyed the workshop, a huge thanks goes to all of the parents, who joined in the fun, dressed up and so ably assisted us.”

Five times a year Crackley Hall throws its doors wide open to welcome prospective pupils and parents into school. It is their chance to see what is so very special about Crackley Hall and what makes it a place that has been described as the ‘next best place to home’ by its pupils.

The latest Open Day took place this week on Thursday 24 January 2019 and the school was pleased to welcome 11 famillies with strong interest for Reception 2019 and Little Crackers Nursery.

Rob Duigan, Headmaster commented, “We were delighted with the level of interest in admission to the school. We know many families who already have children at the school will have recommended it to friends, and we were pleased to be able to show the school at its best."  

Pupils from Junior 6 took visitors on a tour of the school, confidently answering questions whilst they showcased the school’s fantastic facilities. Staff and pupils in other years continued with their normal lessons but welcomed visitors to their classrooms warmly. Parents were able to talk with staff and children and afterwards meet Mr Duigan.

Parents are reminded that the deadline for applications for admission to Reception in September 2019 is early next month, Monday 4 February. Parents interested in applying for places in other years, current Reception to Junior 6, are advised to contact Jenny Vaughan, Admissions and Marketing Secretary on admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk or 01926 514410 to enquire about availability.

Crackley’s next Open Morning takes place on Saturday 24 March from 10.30am to 12.30pm and will include tours, performances and activities showcasing the school.  

Some of Crackley Hall's pupils were among 80 young singers from local primary schools that enjoyed a super day of singing when they attended Princethorpe's Choral Fun Day. 

The Year 5 and 6 pupils tackled a variety of choral pieces from popular favourites such as Katie Perry’s Roar, classics such as Abba’s I Have A Dream and The Beatles’ Nowhere Man, traditional works such as Joshua Fought The Battle Of Jericho and The Sally Gardens, to the wonderfully corny hit Everything Is Awesome from the LEGO movie.

As well as rehearsing furiously, the visiting children took part in a musical team scavenger hunt and enjoyed lunch in the Refectory.

The day culminated in an impressive gala performance of their newly learnt pieces in front of an enthusiastic capacity audience of family and friends in the College's newly refurbished Clarkson theatre, followed by afternoon tea for all.

Commenting on the day, Princethorpe's Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw said, "We were really impressed by the children. They achieved such a lot in just a few hours, learning six songs and then taking to the stage to perform is no mean feat, well done to them all!”