The Chronicle

Dear Parents

It has been a positive and warm start to the Spring Equinox and I am hoping that the sunshine will continue into the weekend. 

This week we welcomed old friends, parents, children, parishioners, past-parents, past-pupils and visitors to our St Joseph’s, Feast Day Mass which was preceded by a Memorial Service for Mary O’Farrell and Marlene Head.  I am pleased to say that the weather was very kind to us that day and allowed Father Kevin to conduct the moving service in our Prayer Garden before returning inside for Mass.   The families of both Marlene and Mary spent time in school before the service and certainly intend to return at times in the future to spend time in the Prayer Garden on the special benches that were unveiled on Tuesday.  I would like to thank all those involved in helping to prepare for this day including Father Kevin, Mrs Jackson- Mayne, Mrs Simmonds and our Catering, Estates and Office Staff.  Our parents were also most helpful in serving tea to our visitors.  The children were treated to the tradition of celebrating our Feast Day with a cupcake at the end of the day whilst guests enjoyed their afternoon tea in the Hall.

Some children made their Sacrament of First Reconciliation on Monday in St Augustines's Church and I was delighted to be able to be present at this occasion.  Please take a moment to look at some of the photographs later in the Chronicle.  My sincere thanks are extended to Father Kevin, Mrs Jackson-Mayne and Mrs Simmonds for arranging this event.  It is wonderful that parents and family members, as well as classmates, were able to support the children.

Congratulations to our Stars of the Week: Beatrice, Shuvan, Ettienne, Phoebe, Lawson, Sebastian, Alfred, Milana, Noah, Woody, Henry, Lily, Caitlin, Cecilia and Jared.  Dillon is our gymnast of the week – well done young man, keep up the good work.

Many children had their LAMDA examinations yesterday and today.  I hope all those who took part enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to receiving their results.  I know that so much hard work by staff and children alike goes into each exam and whilst it can be quite daunting the first time, confidence grows quickly and it is a wonderful experience for the children.  Best wishes to those who will be undertaking their examinations next Thursday.

A busy week of sport has ended, with some very good performances and results along the way.  I am impressed by the number of pupils who took part and I am sure that all benefitted immensely from their participation.

I am looking forward to the Quiz Night this evening and I know that all participants will take part in the best spirit of competition.  May the best team win!  I’d like to thank the PTA members for preparing for tonight and hope that everyone has a lovely time.

Congratulations to Wales on their superb performance against Ireland and on winning the Grand Slam!  I hope you all enjoy a relaxing weekend with your families.

God bless,

Robert Duigan

J3/4 hockey club will be cancelled on the 2nd April due to the Easter Production being held on that day.

Choral group will be cancelled next Tuesday (26 March) due to music exams taking place.

Thursday 11 and Friday 12 April, Monday 15 - Thursday 18 April and Tuesday 23 - Friday 26 April 2019

Tuesday 28 May - Friday 31 May 2019

If you struggle for child care during the school holidays, then look no further. The Crackley Hall Holiday Club will be taking place during both the Easter holidays and May half-term holiday.

At Easter, it will commence on Wednesday 11 April and run until Friday 26 April 2019 (Please note that school will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday). Thursday 18 April has now also been added.

In May, it will commence on Tuesday 28 May and run until Friday 31 May (Please note that school will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday).

There will be exciting crafts, games and activities taking place at school between the hours of 8.00am and 6.00pm. Children are kept busy with baking, arts and crafts, films, team building activities, party games and trips to the park or common. There is always lots of fun to be had!

Please be aware that places are limited (due to staff ratios), and are allocated on a first come first served basis.

We do occasionally get fully booked on certain days and so you are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.

Please follow the link to book a place https://princethorpecollege.parentseveningsystem.co.uk/

A Leavers Celebration for the Junior 6 children is planned for Saturday 29 June 2019 from 3.00 to 6.00pm. Please make a note of the date, further details will be provided in the coming weeks.

If there are any Junior 6 parents who would like to be involved in helping to organise the party celebration or who have useful contacts, please contact Stella Kelly on stella@chapelfarm.me.uk

Also, thank you to the Junior 6 parents who have already provided their contact details. If you have not yet submitted your contact details (i.e. email and mobile number), could you please send these through to Stella.

Many thanks

J6 Leavers Team

Our Stars of the Week this week are:

We’re delighted to announce that our new look websites for Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery have been officially launched!

Developed in conjunction with website company e4education, the sites have a lighter, brighter look and feel and includes features such as a News and Stories wall with social media feeds, an interactive direction map and a live subscribable calendar.

Current parents, pupils and staff can easily access school systems via the Portals tab in the top right hand corner of each of the school sites.

The Admissions pages give prospective parents all the information they need at their fingertips, including forthcoming open event dates and deadlines for applications.

We hope that visitors will enjoy browsing the new site and finding out more about the rich and varied life of the School.

To visit the new websites go to www.crackleyhall.co.uk or www.littlecrackers.co.uk

To go straight to the portals page use the link www.crackleyhall.co.uk/parents-area-crackley

We were delighted to welcome so many friends, former staff and past pupils of Crackley Hall and St Joseph’s to our St Joseph’s Feast Day events on Tuesday 19 March 2019.

Our St Joseph’s Day Mass, celebrated by Fr Kevin Hooper, was preceded by a very special service of commemoration in honour of two very important ladies in the history of the school, Mrs Mary O’Farrell, former Chair of Trustees and teacher, Mrs Marlene Head, who both sadly passed away in September 2018.

The touching outside service, which was attended by close family and friends of Mary and Marlene, fondly remembered the pair and recognised their huge commitment to the school over many years.  Prayers expressed the school’s gratitude to them both, for their kindness, laughter and devotion and asked for comfort and strength for their families.

The Chamber Choir sang The Lord’s My Shepherd, before Mr John O’Farrell and Mr Tom Head were both invited to unveil benches in memory of their dear wives.

The party moved inside for the Mass involving the whole school community. Rob Duigan, Headmaster, and Fr Kevin, welcomed the congregation, including former headteachers, Sr Philomena Bowers and Jane Le Poidevin, to the celebration of the Feast Day of St Joseph, the patron saint of the school. Both once again thanked God for the loving support and guidance Mary and Marlene had given to so many pupils, staff and parents over the years.

The beautiful Mass was a fitting tribute to both ladies, with stirring hymns and music from the Chamber Choir and Choral Group, thoughtful prayers and readings, communion and a sermon from Fr Kevin about St Joseph, husband of the Virgin Mary, and his role as model father, skilled craftsman and pious believer who receives grace at the moment of death.

Mr Duigan drew the Mass to a conclusion with best wishes to the families and friends of Mary and Marlene, thanks to Fr Kevin, the altar servers, offertory bearers, readers and singers who had all performed their roles so beautifully and to Mrs Jackson-Mayne, Mrs Simmonds and Mrs Olden who worked with them.

The Feast Day was rounded off with well-deserved cupcake treats for all the children and a delicious afternoon tea for our visitors in the school hall.

On Wednesday 20 March, Crackley Hall took an U11 and an U10 team to play in a small schools U11 Netball Tournament hosted by Warwick Prep.  The competition was split into two with Crackley’s U11s playing in the A team tournament whilst Crackley’s U10s took part in the B team event.

In the first round the U11s played five group games, they got off to a flying start defeating Kitebrook 7-0.  The second match against Kingsley was a far closer affair, but the girls held their own and the game finished in a 0-0 draw.  Having settled into their game the girls began to build momentum playing a strong attacking game to win their remaining three group matches, defeating Stamford 6-0, Bablake 3-2 and Carrdus 3-1.

They topped the table and went through to the semi-final against Sibford.  That proved a very closely matched game and despite making every effort it finished in a 2-2 draw; in extra time the girls just ran out of time and were disappointed to narrowly lose on the whistle 4-5.

In the play-offs they faced Kingsley again where another strong performance saw them claim third place overall with a solid 2-1 win.

The U10 team played up a year taking on U11B teams.  Their competition started with a round robin event.  The girls made a steady start with a 0-0 draw against the hosts Warwick Prep.  They then had a fantastic run of wins defeating Stamford 5-0, Bablake 7-0, Bluecoat 3-1, Eversfield 5-0 and Kingsley 4-0.  In their final match they were held to a 1-1 draw by Fairfield.

They finished top of the table jointly with Fairfield, but with the better goal difference were awarded the trophy and gold medal.

PE Teacher, Kat Vaughan, was delighted, commenting, “Well done to all of the girls for a great team effort, they played brilliantly.  Plenty of energy, commitment and organisation and  excellent game play.  What a great afternoon of netball.”

Playing in the U11 team were: Martha Harris, Caitlin Horan, Francesca Kelly, Annamaria Kordas, Madeline Lambeth, Amisha Modi, Isabella Osborne, Hannah Wildey (Capt), and in the U10 team: Constanza Alvarez Lujan, Amy Farquharson, Ajunee Gill, Daisymay Mcmurdo, Rosie Moreton, Martha Summers (Capt), Nancy Volpe and Isabella Ward. 

Some days life between the rugby posts can one of struggle, hard work and at times little reward. Those in the know will tell you that these are the days that test the character, and if willing provide the motivation and foundation of future winning teams. 

Needless to say, our brave U9 Boys Rugby team experienced one of 'those' days. We began with narrow losses to Heathfield Knoll and St Peter's, 8-4 and 4-1 respectively. Happily, we regrouped and now motivated by Mr Vaughan's team talk beat Stafford Prep by 5-2 and drew with Dixie Grammar 6-6.

The boys' last game of the group phase was pitted against the eventual winners Akeley Wood, who had previously beaten Stafford Prep 11-1. Crackley showed its fighting spirit but, given it was to be 'one of those days' again ended up narrowly losing by just three points at 5-2. To finish, a final flurry of rugby ensued against Highclare. The resulting scoreline of 6-3 against doesn't provide ample testerment to the collaborative spirit of our boys. Yet, their 11th placed position, which was oh so close to the top ten, shows the potential that they will surely harvest in the future.  

Please see below for information on an orienteering event taking place on Abbey Fields on Saturday 30 March:

Charity Event

Pupils in Junior 4 are taking part in a ‘Walk of Faith’ on Tuesday 26 March, within their RE lesson. This will be a wonderful opportunity for pupils at Crackley Hall to form a link with pupils from St Augustine’s School.

We will be walking to the Common where the pupils will take part in a group activity to help them explore the themes of cooperation, spiritual and emotional wellbeing and the awe and wonder of the world we live in. Please could pupils bring trainers to change into as the Common may be a little muddy.

Parents are welcome to join us for the afternoon, we will be leaving school at 1.45pm and returning at 3.15pm.

A pdf copy of the Lent Term 2019 Calendar can be found below.

Please be aware that events are added as the term progresses, so remember to keep an eye on the Chronicle for any additions/changes.

Lent Term Calendar

Please click on 'View Gallery' to scroll through a few photos from this week's events.

Thank you to Junior 3 for supporting their friends who are preparing for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion at this time. They joined the parents of the ten children in supporting the pupils who received the Sacrament of First Reconciliation on Monday.

The singing and readings were beautiful and it was lovely to celebrate this Sacrament together. The pupils had written sorry prayers in the morning, asking for forgiveness and these were subsequently tied to helium balloons later that day. Happily, we watched them disappear (this time away from any trees) as we remembered how we feel lighter of heart when we share our worries with God.

J4 gathered together this week under the eaves of the Abbotsford outdoor classroom to undertake a joint Lenten Service. Ever the inventive and inspirational teacher, Mrs Jackson-Mayne, RE Coordinator and J4JM Class Teacher, switched the Service up through the use of a 'games show' format to create a thoughtful and engaging critique of life experience.

It was here that Mrs Jackson-Mayne became our hostess with the mostest, where the students greeted her energetic and enthusiastic delivery with whoops of delight. The simple format presented life experience and the choices that might be made as a result of it - make the right choice and you the contestant advanced around the coloured bases to home. We at the Chronicle are happy to report that Crackley students never fail to make the right choice, leading to smiles allround. 

We are pleased to announce that Dillon (J3V) is our gymnast of the week. 

What an exciting week we have had in nursery; not only did the police turn up to ‘have a few words’ on Tuesday afternoon, but Miss Anupa got all icy and frozen at her investigation station! 

PC Marie and PCSO Sarah Louise popped in for a visit and the children had an amazing time, playing in the van, watching the flashing lights and dressing up in the uniforms. 

We would like to say a huge thank you to both officers for giving up their time and sharing their information with such enthusiasm.  It may also be worth noting that the staff had just as much fun dressing up and playing in the van – until Miss Lisa was locked in the back just to stop her talking!! 

The scientific investigation proved very popular with all the children as they painted ice and watched what happened… the mixture of textures, the melting ice and the colours were all cause for delight and the children were able to explore and ask questions as the activity developed until eventually they made boats to sail on the melt waters! 

Have a great weekend everyone, remember to keep your scientific heads alert; stop, observe and keep asking questions!

Newsletter

Little Crackers Nursery was delighted to welcome PCSO Lithgow and PC Holt into school on Tuesday 19 March.

The nursery children have been learning all about people who help us, and the visitors were a great way to bring the topic to life. 

Our special guests explained to the children that police officers are there to help people as well as to catch the bad guys.  They told the children all about the uniforms they wear, the equipment they use and the vehicles they drive. 

After their short talk, the children all got the chance to dress up in police uniforms and high visibility jackets before taking a short trip out to see the Police van.  Everyone enjoyed climbing inside; some of the children even found themselves locked in the cells in the back. 

It was all great educational fun – a huge thank you to Warwickshire Police.

Save The Date - Family Fun Day!

The PTA Family Fun Day will be on Saturday 11 May 2019  from 1.00pm to 4.30pm - all welcome. 

Family Fun Day

Second Hand Uniform Shop 

As uniform changes over to summer, the PTA always welcome any good quality winter uniform for the second hand uniform shop. There will be a drop off point organised for second hand uniform, please look out for further announcements. As ever, parents' support is greatly appreciated. Thank you 

Celebration Assembly 

Crackly Hall PTA are trying to reduce the use of plastic. We would love it if you could help by bringing along your own reusable cup to celebration assembly each Friday (with lid).

Coffee Cup Reminder

Please can you look in your childrens' bags and return any school lunch bands that may have made their way home.

Thank you.

Please find a link below to the current vacancies available across the Foundation:

• Teacher of French
• Teacher of Mathematics
• Art Technician
• Facilities Assistant Manager
• Teacher of PE and Girls' Games
• Graduate Sports Coach

Full details of the roles and how to apply are available on the Foundation's website:

https://www.theprincethorpefoundation.co.uk/join-us

Lost

Holly (J3H) has lost her school hat

Mikey (J3V) has lost his football boots

Found

Silver Bracelet (found outside the Gables Entrance)

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Parents, please ensure that all school uniform and sports kits are named.

Could you please regularly check all uniform and sports kits at home – if any of it is not yours, please return it to the School Office as soon as possible.