The Chronicle

Dear Parents 

I was quite excited walking to school at the start of the week, being greeted by wonderful birdsong and a slightly lighter walk in. However, it all changed rather suddenly with the heavy rain. Let’s hope that we start to have some good weather in the next few weeks.

It looks as though all the pupils had an amazing experience during One World Week and they have been sharing some truly captivating stories about their visits to the various places of worship. This annual event is an exceptional opportunity for our children to expand their horizons and gain a deeper understanding of different religions and cultures, as well as to cultivate empathy and respect for others. By exploring the beliefs and practices of other religions, the children acquire valuable insights into other ways of life and belief systems, which can help to promote tolerance and understanding in our wonderfully complex and culturally diverse world. 

The pupils also embraced the spirit of One World Week and explored the crucial topics of climate change and sustainability with the expert guidance of RISE Theatre. With an assembly that kickstarted the day, the Reception to Junior 6 classes were introduced to the themes that would be threaded throughout the day. Class teachers led tailored art and science activities, intertwined with rehearsal workshops, that inspired the pupils to think about our impact on the planet. In the afternoon, the entire school gathered in the School Hall for the God's Planet show, which provided a breathtaking journey across the globe, from the lush rainforests to the frigid expanses of Antarctica, and even to the reaches of space. By using song and action, the pupils learned how each one of us can become a planet hero by using our unique skills and abilities to protect and care for our world. 

As parents, it's natural to feel concerned about the reports of head lice among different age groups. Yet, it's important to remember that this is a common occurrence during childhood. Fortunately, there are straightforward yet impactful steps we can take to prevent its transmission. By adhering to the guidelines we've presented, we can join forces to curb its spread. 

On Wednesday, we bid a sad goodbye Mrs Vaughan’s mother who was in years gone by, a very familiar face and part of the Crackley family. It was heartwarming to see her family and friends wearing her favourite colour, yellow, at her celebration of life at Oakley Wood, which seemed quite fitting as we welcome the arrival of the beautiful yellow daffodil season. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. 

I am pleased to announce that the latest edition of the Minnacle has been published, featuring an array of exceptional work from our pupils. The magazine's newly appointed editorial team, comprised of Julia Lindsay, Jo Evans, and Sarah Duran, has undertaken a redesign of both the Minnacle and the Pinnacle. I trust that you will appreciate the revisions they have made. The Minnacle is a tribute to our students at their finest, and this edition boasts numerous examples of their outstanding achievements. In addition, the Pinnacle contains equally impressive work by students at Princethorpe College. It is an honour to showcase the talents of our pupils. Printed copies of the magazine have been sent home with pupils, and a digital copy of The Minnacle is available for viewing on our school's website.  

We are challenging everyone to join the Sustainable Portrait challenge and showcase your creativity by crafting an artwork that is entirely your own. Use recycled and sustainable resources to create a portrait of yourself or someone you admire. By doing so, families can earn house points while exhibiting their willingness to contribute to the future of our planet. Remember to bring your work to school and submit it to Ms Holmes by Thursday 21 March. I am excited to see your masterpieces! Check out the Chronicle for more details. 

The outpouring of generosity and support from everyone who contributed to our recent appeal for socks, filled with essential items, has been truly inspiring. Thanks to your kindness, we were able to donate a significant amount to the Helping Hands charity in Leamington. Jo Merrick, the charity's Project Operations Manager, came to our school to collect all the donations, which will be distributed to those in need in the local area. We are grateful for your kindness and your willingness to help those less fortunate. 

Congratulations to our Stars of the Week who received their certificates at assembly: Nursery - Isabella and Sohan; Rec – Felix and Charlotte; J1 – Tianna and Sam; J2 – Bevan and George; J3 – Harry and Harriet; J4 – Nieve and Teo; J5 – Ryan and Jacob; J6 - Patrick and Fergus. Well done to all of you. Congratulations to Hollie for playing the piano so well at assembly – it was fantastic! Well done to the pupils who received stars and also those who received Da Vincis. We also had a number of pupils performing so well in activities outside of school.

The Six Nations sees another round of fixtures with the Calcutta Cup being contested in Edinburgh. Even if Ireland wins the competition, which seems likely, the match between Scotland and England this weekend will give bragging rights to the victors for the next year. I am not confident about Liverpool winning the League Cup Final against Chelsea this weekend, seeing their lengthy injury list to key players and having to play a midweek game. Anyway, at least the fans will get to Wembley. It will be interesting to see how India and England get on in the next test match that has just started. England have made a reasonably good start in their first innings in Ranchi.

I hope that everyone is managing to adhere to their Lenten commitments. We are called to focus on prayer, almsgiving and some fasting or abstinence. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to reflect on what we could do better as people of God.

I would like to wish everyone a most restful and happy weekend. 

God bless,

Rob Duigan 

"Students don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care." - John C Maxwell

We would like to inform you that there have been cases of head lice identified across the school.

Although head lice are not harmful, they can easily spread. Therefore, we recommend that you check your child's hair on a weekly basis and treat as necessary. We recommend that long hair is tied back to prevent them spreading so easily.

For further information, please visit the NHS website here.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Our Stars of the Week this week are:

Congratulations to them all!

The Chinese year of the Dragon began on 10 February. The dragon is many Chinese people's favourite animal from their Zodiac of 12 different animals. Many believe that people born in the year of the Dragon share common characteristics, such as: passionate, honest, brave and soft-hearted, but somewhat stubborn, very healthy and energetic, intelligent, gifted and a perfectionist.

The children have been learning about how Chinese people get ready for the New Year and what they do and eat to celebrate the event. 

Pupils in Key Stage 2 compared Chinese and British culture and found there are lots of similarities. For example, both the Chinese and British do lots of food shopping and cooking before the festivals and family is important in both cultures.

May good health, happiness, peace and prosperity be with your family in the year of the Dragon!

On Wednesday, as part of One World Week, we enjoyed a fantastic, interactive day with the amazing RISE Theatre exploring themes on climate change and sustainability. 

Children from Reception through to Year 6 were first introduced to the topics in assembly. That was followed by age appropriate eco themed exciting art and science classroom activities led by class teachers, all interspersed with rehearsal workshops.

In the afternoon, we gathered in the School Hall to watch the God’s Planet show. Everyone joined in the actions and songs enthusiastically, as they were taken on a journey around the world, from the rainforests to Antarctica, and even into space to discover that we can all be planet heroes and play our own unique part in taking care of God's Planet Earth.

After all there is only one world. 

A huge thank you to all who responded to our appeal for socks full of essentials for local Leamington charity, Helping Hands. The charity's Project Operations Manager, Jo Merrick, visited school on Wednesday morning to collect all the donations and they will be shared locally with those in need.

The latest issue of the Minnacle has just been published, showcasing yet more of our pupils' excellent work. The magazine's new editorial team, Julia Lindsay, Jo Evans and Sarah Duran, have given the Minnacle and Pinnacle a bit of a revamp and they hope you like its restyle.

The Minnacle celebrates our pupils at their best and this edition includes plenty more examples of their outstanding efforts. 

The Pinnacle includes equally impressive work by Princethorpe College pupils too. It's wonderful to celebrate their talents.

Printed copies have been sent home with pupils or you can read a copy of The Minnacle on our school website here.

The deadline for the acceptance of places for September 2024 Year 7 entry to Princethorpe College is fast approaching. 

Parents wishing to accept their child's offered place are reminded that they need to send their signed Confirmation of Acceptance Form and £300 deposit back to Mrs Catherine Rogers, the Registrar, by Tuesday 5 March 2024 please, to secure their child’s place.

Over the last few weeks, a high number of acceptances have come in and the College has told us that it is looking to be a tremendous Year Group. Please be aware that Princethorpe College only guarantees places that are accepted by the above deadline date.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to get in touch with Mrs Rogers and Mrs Holt, their friendly Admissions Team. They can be contacted on 01926 634201 or 297 respectively or you can email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

On Tuesday 5 and Thursday 7 March we will be holding in person Parent Consultation Meetings in the school hall, between 4.15pm and 6.35pm.

Booking instructions are be found here and appointments will be available to book as below, until 11:00pm on Tuesday 27 February.

Nursery
One 10 minute appointment with your child’s teacher.

Reception to Junior 3
One 10 minute, academic progress appointment with your child’s form teacher.

Junior 4 and Junior 5
Two 5 minute, academic progress appointments, with your child’s English and Maths teachers.

Junior 6
One 10 minute, pastoral progress appointment with your child’s form teacher.

There will also be the opportunity to speak to the following teachers, on the day, should they be available. No appointments are available to be booked.

Mrs Olden (Music), Mme Westerman (French), Mrs Clarke (Art and DT), Mrs Holmes (Art and DT) are available on Tuesday, and Mr Vaughan (PE) on both Tuesday and Thursday. 

If you wish to meet with Mrs Huang (Mandarin) she will be available on Monday 4 March only. Please contact her directly to arrange this, at helenhuang@crackleyhall.co.uk.

When you arrive for your meetings, please park on the school field, and make your way to the school hall via the Gables.

Should you require aftercare for your child/children on either Tuesday 5 or Thursday 7 March, please ensure that this is booked through the school office by Tuesday 27 February at the latest, in order that we are able to staff aftercare appropriately. As aftercare is likely to be extremely busy, if you are able to arrange alternative childcare it would be appreciated.

Please note that the following clubs will not be running on Tuesday 5 and Thursday 7 March, due to Parents Evening taking place.

Tuesday

Junior 3 and Junior 4 Hockey

Fencing Club

 
Thursday

Junior 3 and Junior 4 Netball

Junior 3 and Junior 4 Rugby Club

Junior 5 and Junior 6 Gymnastics

We will be celebrating World Book Day on Thursday 7 March. Children and staff will be dressing up as their favourite character from a book. There will be lots of fun activities on the day and the children will all receive a book voucher to redeem at a bookshop. Please put the date in your diaries.

Saturday 9 March - 10.30am to 12.30pm

We are holding a Nursery and whole school Open Morning on Saturday 9 March. Come and find out why Crackley Hall School has been judged 'Excellent' in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. It's a great opportunity for prospective families considering Crackley Hall School or Little Crackers Nursery to come and have a look around and get a feel for the Nursery and school. There will be opportunities for visitors to speak to pupils, key members of staff and to meet Mr Duigan, Headmaster.

To find out more and to book your visit to Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Nursery visit our website here.

Little Crackers Nursery are now accepting registrations for September 2024 onwards. If your child is turning two, get in touch and come and take a look around our Nursery or come along to our friendly Stay 'n' Play Toddler Group on Wednesday mornings in term time.

Please do share this information with family and friends. 

On Saturday 9 March, some of the Crackley Hall school councillors will be helping at the St Francis of Assisi Parish Centre Charity Spring Fayre to raise money for Save the Children. Please click here for more information.

On the morning of Tuesday 12 March, all children in school will be taking part in our annual Skipathon. 

The children are invited to hop, jump or skip for charity, and this year we will be raising money for the Air Ambulance. The children will be bringing home their sponsorship forms on Friday 23 February - see here for a copy, and we ask that these are returned, with any raised money, on the day of the Skipathon, up until Friday 15 March.

During the time of Lent we reflect on God’s great love for us and look for ways to share that love with others. We ask that pupils in Junior 3 and 4 donate items for our local foodbank.  Please can pupils bring in any of the items on the below list by Friday 22 March.

Thank you

Long life milk
Long life fruit juice
Tinned vegetables
Instant mash
Instant noodles
Pasta Sauce
Tinned fruit
Tomato sauce/brown sauce
Shower gel
Toilet rolls
Deodorant
Washing up liquid

We love to celebrate our pupils' talents, so every week in Celebration Assembly we hear of the childrens' successes and achievements and we watch performances by some of our pupils. Here are some photos from this morning.

A huge well done to all!

As part of our whole school 'One World Week', Junior 6 have been learning all about Sikhism. We learned how Sikhism first began and the life of its founder Guru Nanak and his stories. We found out about the Sikh philosophy and the importance of treating everyone with compassion and love but, most importantly, as equals. Our week culminated in a fantastic trip to the Gurdwara in Leamington. It was a fantastic morning out and we learned so much about the Sikh way of life as well as their customs and values. We were impressed by the Gurdwara’s generosity and warmth during our visit and the food they shared with us was delicious! We also had a fantastic time on Wednesday with the theatre company, learning about how we can protect the earth. Well done Junior 6, you approached this week with open minds and great curiosity.

As part of 'One World Week', Junior 5 visited the Birmingham Central Mosque where they learnt all about the different aspects of the Islamic faith. The children were curious, asking relevant and intriguing questions. They also enthusiastically answered questions and recalled the different names for places found inside and outside the Mosque. The children excelled in representing Crackley Hall and we were very proud of them. As part of the RISE Theatre activities, the children also learnt about how to look after our planet. Using plastic bottles, we created beautiful bottled fish, covered in stylistically placed tissue paper and created posters on the different types of pollution found on our planet, encouraging people to help make it a cleaner, safer place to live. They enjoyed taking part in the RISE theatre show alongside the whole school.

This week, Junior 4 have been learning about deforestation and the impacts it has on the local wildlife. We observed how to effectively recycle used paper to create new paper therefore saving the need to buy new paper and cut down more trees. We created colourful rainforest birds from recycled card that can serve as a constant reminder that even the smallest changes can make the biggest differences. As part of 'One World Week', we also visited the Birmingham Buddhist Pagoda where the children learnt about the origins of Buddhism and many aspects of the Buddhist faith.  

This week Junior 3 have loved celebrating ‘One World Week’. On Monday, we learned all about the story of Passover and how Moses freed his people from slavery. On Tuesday, we visited Singers Hill Synagogue in Birmingham and learned so much about what it means to be Jewish. The Synagogue was spectacular and literally took our breath away, with its domed blue and gold ceilings and amazing chandeliers. We saw the Star of David in so many places around the synagogue, from the gates outside to the tiled floors, and on the beautiful stained-glass windows. We found out about the many Jewish festivals and were especially interested in the one where sweets are thrown at children. Back in school, we have enjoyed a whole range of activities linked to Judaism and an exciting visit from the RISE theatre company. It’s been a great first week back.

Junior 2 have had an incredible ‘One World Week.’ Our trip to the Greek Orthodox Church was fantastic and the children were shown around by a gentle, welcoming priest who explained a lot of the images and artefacts in the church. Mrs Paphitis was married in this church and her son was christened there. She shared lots of photos and experiences from being a member of this community. Our day with the RISE theatre group was truly enlightening. We reflected on the beauty of God’s planet and expressed what we were thankful for. Our children are so mature in their responses and you will be pleased to know that they are very grateful for their families. The children went on to create a new creature from clay through their love for our planet. I’m sure you’ll agree, these would be welcome additions to our planet. Well done for your participation, enthusiasm and manners that you have demonstrated this week Junior 2.

We have had the most exciting week for our annual ‘One World Week’ celebrations. On Tuesday, we boarded the minibuses for a trip down the road to St Mary’s church in Warwick where we were met by two knowledgeable volunteers who showed us around. The children have been learning about Stained Glass windows and other features of a church, so it was wonderful for them to see all of these at first hand. We were all so proud of the respect the children paid during our visit and we were so pleased when their good behaviour was commented on. Well done, Junior 1 - you were a credit to Crackley Hall! Along with 'One World Week', we have been exploring the concept of measurement in Maths, using cubes to compare the length of different objects. Our Geography lesson took us to Scotland where we discovered landmarks in Edinburgh, and we then went back in time for our History lesson to learn about George Stephenson. Another busy week in Junior 1.

This week, Reception have had a wonderful 'One World Week'! We have been finding out about different people, religions, and traditions from around the world. We talked about the Lunar new year and explored the different ways it is celebrated around the world. We went on a super visit to St Augustine’s church and the children asked Father Kevin brilliant questions about churches around the world. To top it off, we had a wonderful day with RISE Theatre on Wednesday and thought about the world that God has made for everyone and how we can look after it.

We have been spending our week, ‘Down on the Farm’, so Nursery has been full of animal noises and farm yard smells!

The children have been distinguishing different farm animals from clever clues. They have identified the sounds which the livestock make, and they have practised naming the corresponding baby animals. They played a sniffing game to differentiate between topical smells, which caused a lot of laughter.

We have sung jaunty farm songs and rhymes to help embed the vocabulary associated with the topic, and there have been ample opportunities to collage and trace.

A corner of the classroom now houses a ‘Curiosity Cube’ for the children to explore and to ask questions about the contents. This week it contains a variety of farm animal products: eggs, milk, butter, wool, bacon, etc. Moving forward, each week the cube will contain topical items for pupils to think about and to discuss with their teachers.

Outside there was a challenge set – the slide was wrapped with camouflage to create a covered chute. Who would be brave enough to take the risk? Some children launched themselves with gusto, others watched first, until the squeals of delight from their friends reassured them that it was worth testing out the tunnel.

There was also a midweek surprise: we were invited to watch a production and workshop by Rise Theatre, a Christian drama group, who were visiting as past of 'One World Week'. This included audience participation and so went down a treat. The theme was ‘Caring for Creation’.

Mr Duigan led the Monday Mission Assembly and welcomed the pupils back after half-term.  He talked about Ash Wednesday and Lent, explaining that Lent is a time when we can look at how we can be better people by asking God to help us. In the Christian church we can do this during Lent by self reflecting and being strong and determined, like Jesus was in the desert, when He was tempted. We could also pray more often and take up almsgiving to help the poor, as well as fasting, giving up something, or taking up a task which will help others.

Please click on the link below for this week's Weekly Mission:

Weekly Mission 

Please find information below:

Children's Liturgy

Second Sunday of Lent (B)
God says, "This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to Him." How do we listen to Jesus in our lives?

Activity Sheet

 Please remember to check team sheets and find further fixture information on www.crackleyhallsport.co.uk

Strong, courageous, vibrant and full of good fortune, these might be some of the words used to describe Lego Club, but they are also words which could describe this year's Chinese Zodiac animal.  Can you guess what it is? As we say farewell to the Year of the Rabbit, Lego Club prepared to celebrate the start of the Year of the Dragon. With one of the five elements associated with each year - earth, wood, fire, metal, and water - wood takes the centre stage in 2024, making this the Year of the Wood Dragon. The Chinese New Year is the largest and most colourful event in Chinese culture and, with this in mind, Lego Club were awash with a vibrant collection of reds, pinks, blues and greens. We built dragon dances, festival parades, fireworks and we welcomed animals from previous Zodiac years who were keen to make an appearance, including the rabbit, rat, ox, tiger, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, pig, and a couple of pandas. Happy Year of the Wood Dragon, everyone!

200 Club

It's back and better than ever! Thank you to all who have supported us and signed up to the new format 200 Club. This half term's winner will be announced in the next Chronicle.  We have three more half-termly draws and the end of year £200 super draw so please sign yourself up to raise funds directly for the playground climbing wall. Every little helps and we thank you for your support. Please click here to buy a ticket.

PTA Pre-loved Uniform

Many thanks for all the donations that have been sent in this year - without these we literally could not operate!

Please continue to use the containers in the foyer to drop off any donations rather than dropping into the office staff. We are especially grateful to receive good quality sports items - particularly tracksuit bottoms!

Please email us at: uniform@pta.crackleyhall.co.uk stating your child’s name and class and we will get all orders sent home for you.

Save the date! Our next in person pre-loved sale will be held in The Gables on Friday 15 March - 8.20am to 9.30am.

Please see the attached menus for the Lent Term. These rotate on a four weekly basis. 

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4 

The school provides a designated car parking area for Accessible badge holders only, which we also allow Pregnant mothers the freedom to use.

If you require an additional accessible parking area, please do not hesitate to contact the office.

Please click here to view the term dates for 2023/24.

We have been made aware of planned works by HS2 which will result in the road closure of Dalehouse Lane between Common Lane and Stoneleigh Road from 12 February to 1 March 2024.

A full road closure will be in place during these dates. Please use the signed diversion route during the closure.

Please click here for more information or visit https://www.hs2.org.uk/work-items/road-closure-on-dalehouse-lane-kenilworth/

Please take note of our new phone number for Aftercare and Holiday Club services outside of normal hours: 07543 164 779

Due to club and activity changes, permanent Aftercare bookings are only valid for the current term. 

If you require either permanent or occasional Aftercare for the Lent Term, please make a new booking by emailing:

aftercare@crackleyhall.co.uk or receptionist@crackleyhall.co.uk

If you need to make a same-day Aftercare booking - please ensure you contact the school office no later than 1:00 pm that day. Any requests made after 1:00 pm will only be authorised at the Headmaster's discretion.

If you have booked an Aftercare session, letting your child know would also be helpful.

Any children not collected from the carline, for example, if parents are stuck in traffic, will be taken to Aftercare at 4:15 pm, when carline finishes and charged accordingly.

Aftercare runs from 3:15 pm until 6:00 pm, with charges being £5.00 per hour or part thereof.

Childcare vouchers can be used as payment or part payment for Aftercare.

The school office closes at 5:00pm, please call Aftercare directly on 07543 164 779 for collection. 

Crackley Hall School Office
01926 514 444
Email: post@crackleyhall.co.uk
Postal address: St Joseph's Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2FT
SATNAV: Use CV8 2FT

Office Manager/Headmaster’s Personal Assistant – Sharon Davis-Harris
01926 514 444
Email: receptionist@crackleyhall.co.uk

Little Crackers Nursery - Emma Birch - Nursery Manager
01926 514 456 - Email: post@littlecrackers.co.uk

After Care - David Johnson, Aftercare Manager
Collection contact no; 07732 036 625
Email: aftercare@crackleyhall.co.uk

Bills, Fees and Online Payment
01926 634 273
Email: georginamalin@princethorpe.co.uk

Registrar - Jenny Vaughan
01926 514 410
Email: admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk 
 
Princethorpe College General Office
01926 634 200
Email: post@princethorpe.co.uk
 
website: www.crackleyhall.co.uk
twitter: @CrackleyHallSch  
facebook: @crackleyhallandlittlecrackersofficial
instagram:@crackleyhall_littlecrackers

When dropping off in the morning, if you are using carline, please move round the roundabout before dropping off and do not leave your car unattended. Carline can cause traffic issues on the Kenilworth Road, so please be mindful.

If you are dropping off and wish to walk your child up to the school or are coming into school please use the Lower Playground or the Sports Field. Please remember to park considerately as parking is at a premium.

We would ask that if you use the lower playground at morning drop off, that you leave the school site promptly, as parking is at a premium, and it has been causing traffic congestion.

Please do not park on the Grasscrete Parking area or on the left hand side when you enter the school main carline, as these are both staff parking areas.

Where possible, please avoid parking on the local residential roads, and if you do, please park considerately and legally. 

When collecting in the afternoon, please adhere to the collection times, as if you arrive too early, this causes traffic congestion. If you are early, we would suggest parking on the Sports Field and walking up to school.

If someone other than yourself is collecting your child, please ensure you have notified the School Office by email/telephone no later than lunchtime that day. If you would like alternative collection arrangements to be permanent, please can you notify the School Office by email.

If you are unsure or wish to clarify any points, please call the School Office.

Please see below the carline locations and collections for the Lent Term:

Please see below collection locations for after games lessons (but not clubs):

To order uniform please use the electronic form.

New Uniform Order 

Please also note the following items are stocked in the School Office and can be added to your account. Do pop in to collect any items.

Winter hats
Scarves
Gloves
Ties
Swimming hats
Hair bands
Hair scrunchies

School Uniform Shop 
Tel: 01926 634272
Email: uniform@princethorpe.co.uk

Please ensure that all items of school uniform, equiptment and sports kit are named. Please can you also check that any items purchased from the PTA are renamed and old labels removed.

Could you please regularly check all uniform and sports kits at home and if it does not belong to your child, please return the items to the School Office as soon as possible.

Lost Property

Una B - Swim Bag

Charlie R - Sports Fleece 

We regularly recruit for a variety of roles, please do share news of the vacancies with interested friends and family. Current vacancies include:

Princethorpe College

• Digital Transformation Leader
• Teacher of PE and Games
• Graduate Teaching Assistant
• Payroll Officer
• Minibus Driver

Further information and application forms on all roles are available on the Foundation's website - www.princethorpe.co.uk/join-us