Fairlight Primary and Nursery School
WEEKLY UPDATE
Each week on Friday there will be an update on all things to do with Fairlight.
Please read and click on the links to find out what is going on.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SUMMER TERM
WEEK 4
A lovely week in terms of the weather as well as with all of the learning (and testing) going on in school.
We finish for the half term break next Friday (23rd May) and return to school on Monday 2nd June 2025.
YEAR 6 SATS
This week our Year 6 children have succesfully completed their Key Stage 2 SATS.
These official examinations give the children the opportunity to show us all of the learning that has taken place in their time at school so far.
This is the first time for many children that they would have experienced "test conditions".
I can report that our Year 6 did really well this week with all the tests had to throw at them.
Now they move to the final run in at Primary School with shows, assemblies, The Apprentice, lots more writing and of course transition to secondary school.
SUMMER TERM TRANSITION
We have started working on our transition plan for the school year this term and it will take full flight next term.
Please check out the above information as well as making a note of the date when you get to meet your child's new teacher.
The Summer Term is a busy term for transition as we prepare the children for changing classes- and our older ones for changing school.
Lots of PSHE work around friendships takes place as well as lots of work around resilience.
On our Transition page it sets out what we are doing and why as well as which classes will be mixed up to form new classes.
FOOTBALL UPDATE
This week our School Team took a trip to Mile Oak to play in another cup game.
Arriving after a long journey we were greeted with a very unusual football pitch- definately with a down hill advantage but also some unusal markings and a bus parked next to it (and not in front of any goal as you might expect).
A slow start as we got used to conditions meant that even though we were playing down hill meant we were quickly 1-0 down.
A few tweeks and alterations resulted in a stronger performance and a couple of spectacular goals meant we went in at half time 3-1 ahead having worked out the conditions and the pitch- as well as the ref.
The second half started with us holding out and defending the down hill attacks that Mile Oak were mounting.
A sloppy goal brought them back to 3-2 and with the added confidence a spectacular header pulled them level to 3-3 with just minutes to go.
We defended strongly and a last second break away up the hill nearly led to a goal.
However the final whistle went and the prospect of dreaded penalties now loomed.
The 3 penalty takers were choosen- 2 willingly and 1 reluctantly. And our goalkeeping giant was reminded to "look big".
A tense start meant both teams scored their first 2 penalties- our 2nd one of the post.
Then Mile Oak missed their 3rd penalty and the pressure was on our final penalty taker.
Up stepped our Captain who smashed the penalty away and then wheeled to run the length of the pitch (and their school field) with the rest of the team.
On to the 1/4 finals we now go against Patcham.
And Mr Jordan and Mr K are advertising their penalty skills (2 competions and 2 victories) to the England team preparing for future tournaments.
STANDING ON THE RAMPS AT THE END OF THE DAY
The end of the day is quite busy around the school gates.
Increased numbers of parents are waiting on the ramps for their children.
This is quite a small space and really only room for 2 people to pass. If then parents are waiting on the ramp it means there is no room to pass and the ramps block up.
Please can parents come down in to the playground to wait or wait outside the gate.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SUMMER TERM
WEEK 3
Four days however feels like months.
And next week our Year 6 children will be focussed on showing us their learning in their time at Fairlight as they undertake their SATS.
Good luck to them all.
We have lots to tell you about this week below but also to let you know Brighton Player Matt O Riley visited the school this week as part of Disabilitiy Awareness Week. We will share more once the film/article is released!!!!
CHILDREN'S PARADE
There is little more we can say about how amazing Fairlight is at the Children's Parade.
I say it every year but we were clearly the best. The loudest. Most colourful. And of course most original.
If anyone has any photos of videos please let us have them so we can update our Children's Parade page.
And once again thanks to Mr Starks and his team for their hard work in making it happen.
RUBBISH
Our new rubbish removal contract is now in place.
I don't know if people realise however we have to pay for all of the rubbish removed from the school.
This includes food waste as well as rubbish.
And the cost is a fixed cost with additional costings based on weight.
I wanted to explain this so parents understand why we send home lunchbox waste. Why we are so particular about school dinner ordering.
Also consider this when sending anything into school or any packaging.
Or ask about the things we send home with the children.
Please also consider this when you are donating things to the school.
MATHS OPEN AFTERNOON- a date for your diary Reception Parents.
PARENT SUPPORT
Check out our Parent Support page for a couple of workshosp you may be interested in.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/aboutus/inclusion/support-for-parents
SCHOOL STREETS
You may have seen articles in the local press that the School Streets project in Brighton and Hove has been approved to consult about using CCTV Cameras to monitor and enforce the system.
I have met with the School Streets team and outlined what we do at Fairlight but to also share my support for this.
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/25135570.cctv-installed-outside-schools-brighton-hove/
Brighton & Hove City Council is asking for your views on plans to apply for new powers that would help us to better enforce School Streets schemes, improving safety for children, parents and our school communities. If granted by the Department for Transport (DfT), these powers will allow the council to use CCTV cameras to enforce the timed restrictions at our School Streets locations.
The consultation survey opens Friday 2 May and will be live for six weeks. The survey, as well as additional information regarding the council’s plans for School Streets enforcement, can be found on our Your Voice consultation website at www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/school-streets-enforcement You can also access the website by scanning the attached QR code. The closing date for responses is Sunday 15 June.
If you would like a paper copy of the survey or require additional assistance, please call 01273 295 890 and leave your address or email parkingprojects@brighton-hove.gov.uk.
SCHOOL NURSE DROP IN
Our School Nurse Kate will be in school on Friday 20th June 8.30am-10am for parent drop ins.
If you have anything medical you want to discuss with her- about your children and not you however- then either book a slot at the office or drop in on the day.
She has previously supported parents with sleep, toileting, eating habits, allergies, accessing GP's as well as many other topics.
CRICKET CAMP
Check you PING for information about upcoming Cricket Camps.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SUMMER TERM
WEEK 2
Enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend everyone.
A short update this week.
In simple it is the Children's Parade and we were amazing.
Thank you to everyone who took part but also the amazing staff who made it all possible.
If you have any photos or videos please send them to the office so that we can update our Children's Parade Page.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SUMMER TERM
WEEK 1
Welcome back to another amazing term at Fairlight.
This half term is very "stop start".
This week is 4 days. Next week is 5 days. Then a Children's Parade. Then another 4 days. Then two 5 day weeks (including Year 6 SATS week) and then half term again. And that doesn't include all of the other amazing events and learning that will be taking place in school.
ARCHITECT OR SUCH WANTED
We are planning some changes to some rooms in the school to be used as Inclusion spaces.
We have got lots of great ideas and thoughts however we want to just be sure that the ideas work and that "Mr Jordan deciding to knock down a few walls" is a good idea and not the first line of a new disaster movie!!!
If you are an architect, know an architect or could offer us some construction advice or guidance then please speak to Chris or Mr Jordan.
LOOSE PARTS
We are on the hunt for some loose parts for the EYFS outside area as well as the playground.
If you have any of these then please can you bring them to the School Office.
- Barrels- wooden or plastic
- Crates- milk crates or other types
- Cable drums/ wheels
- Tubes / guttering
- Tyres- various sizes
- Material
FRIDAY FOOTBALL UPDATE
Check out the Friday Football page for this terms plans.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 12
And we are done. Celebration Assemblies this week were great to be part of and to hear about so much amazing learning that has been taking place.
We finish on Friday 4th April for the Easter Break and we are back for a very, very busy Summer Term on Tuesday 22nd April 2025.
I hope everyone has a good break and that the weather holds so we can all get outside in the fresh air. Don't forget to explore some of the new clubs we have to offer - book your place now!
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/in-the-classroom/clubs-at-fairlight
EXCITING CRICKET OFFER
As we move to the end of the football season some children move to other sports.
One such sport is cricket.
In the local area there is a great tradition of cricket.
That might be playing or even watching- there is nothing better than a day in the sun watching a game of cricket.
Below is an amazing opportunity to join a cricket club and get discount on this that is only open to a few children.
SO GET IN QUICK!!!
HOUSE POINT WINNERS
This was announced today in Assembly.
- Your water pistols/guns (don’t forget to load them up!)
- A change of clothes that you don’t mind getting soaked.
NUTS AND CHOCOLATE
We have seen an increase in children bringing snacks into school for breaktime. Whilst we encourage this it is important that these snacks are healthy and definately are nut free.
We have several children in school who are severely allergic to nuts. Some are so severe that even the smell of nuts might cause them to have an allergic reaction.
We have also seen children starting to bring in Chocolate bars- including Mars and Snickers and bags of crisps. We know this is happening as the increase in wrappers in the bins at playtime.
After half term if we see any children with chocolate or sweets these will be confiscated as it is not safe for them to be in school.
MATHS OPEN SESSION
SCHOOL UNIFORM
As we move to the Summer Term please remember that you child needs to continue to wear the correct uniform.
If it is not on the uniform list then please do not buy it over half term for the children to wear. They will be asked to take it off and it will be sent home with them.
If you are unsure then please check the School Uniform List.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/aboutus/important-school-information/uniform
WHO'S YOUR ROCK?
FOOTBALL UPDATES- including a 16 goal thriller for the B Team and 5-4 Victory
All those professional footballers moaning about 2 games in a week are still behind the busy schedule of the Fairlight Football teams- and we have to go to school every day and don't get paid £100K a week!!!
Last Friday the A Team took on the Bilingual School in the Baker Cup. A tough fought game which was end to end resulted in a 5-4 victory for Fairlight who now move to the next round against Mile Oak.
The A Team are still waiting to play their 1/4 final game in the Fitzgerald Cup against Balfour which will take place after half term.
The B Team took on Cottesmore in the Geerts Cup at Manor Gym (our home pitch) with a much changed side due to absence and illness and selection changes.
An end to end first half ended 5-4 to Cottesmore however in the second half their fitness and positional sense took effect and despite us continuning to fight hard and scoring a couple of bangers including a Diab Hat-Trick the game finished 10-6 to Cottesmore.
Well done to all who played in the games and please bring the kit back to the office.
There is no football this friday and the schedule for after half term is on the Friday football page.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 11
One week to go!
We finish on Friday 4th April 2025 for the Easter Break.
We are back for the mega busy Summer Term 1 on Tuesday 22nd April 2025.
CLUBS UPDATE
Some new clubs have been added for the summer term.
There will also be an update posted here for a new Football Club for Reception.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/in-the-classroom/clubs-at-fairlight
Go check them out and follow the instructions on how to book.
CROSS COUNTRY
Fairlight children took part in the Brighton Schools Cross Country earlier this year and all did well.
Ismail qualified due to his position in the Brighton Schools Cross Country for the County Cross Country which took place this week in Crawley.
Teams from across all parts of the County took part. A hundred plus children in total.
Ismail started the race strongly and was mid way- around 50th or so as they headed into the country.
He returned from the country stretch in the top 20 and then put on a burst of speed into the finish line.
A finish of 11th place was the final result and he was in touching distance of 10th.
A proud Mr K who took him and his equally proud mum were delighted and almost as exhausted at the end.
CONNECTED HUB @ FAIRLIGHT
Thank you to those parents who have responded positively to the PING sent earlier this week regarding the Connected Hub @ Fairlight.
It was good to read this article from The Department for Education and The Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP and know that at Fairlight we were already all over this.
PARKING AND SCHOOL STREETS
There have been a few developments around School Streets projects in Brighton and Hove.
This has included the approval for the installation of cameras to monitor and read number plates for cars who are not adhering to the notices.
The application for a specialist parking space outside school for taxis to use and for disabled access.
And a review of the rules around where the road is closed and from what times.
We will continue to monitor the impact on air pollution and safety at the school gate.
FOOTBALL UPDATE
Please see the Friday Football page for dates for the Summer Term and the plan for the disruption due to the Fair and Circus.
As you will see on the page there is no Friday Football next week.
THE START OF THE SCHOOL DAY
Just a reminder that the area outside of the school gate is not a playground before school despite the road being closed.
Also that parents remain in charge of their children and they should be supervised.
There have been several complaints. Some damage to cars and property and concerns raised by neighbours and other parents about how early children are arriving as well as who is supervising them.
NEXT WEEK- A FEW UPDATES/ REMINDERS
- We welcome parents to our Celebration Assembly. Those parents whose children will be getting the Spring Term Awards have been notified.
- 100% Attendance Secret Discos take place on Thursday for children who have 100% attendance this term.
- PTA Raffle drawn on Monday at 8am. Check to see if you have won a prize.
- Maths Open Morning for parents on Tuesday.
THIS WEEK WE HAVE BEEN DANCERS
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 10
Dance at the Dome and a Spring Fair along with the warmest March day for ages have been the highlights of this week.
DANCE AT THE DOME
Our Dancers were amazing this week as they took to the stage at the Brighton Dome as part of the annual Brighton and Hove Lets Dance.
We were also very lucky to get a performance in the playground to the whole school on Friday afternoon to show us how amazing they looked and how amazing they danced.
Official photos and film is avaliable however below are a few images to give you a flavour.
Thank you to everyone who took part but also to all of those who helped put this together and also those who came along and supported the dancers.
PARKING OUTSIDE FRONT DOOR OF THE SCHOOL
A few parents continue to park outside the front door of the school on the double yellow lines.
This is making access to school for children and parents tricky and unsafe as they cannot cross the road safely and at the correct spots to cross.
As you know we teach the children road safety and how to safely cross the roads around school and they are taught the safest spots to cross where they have the best vision and not to cross between cars.
The yellow lines at the entrance the former children centre is where we also have several taxis drop off children to school.
You may not be aware that a number of our children come to school in taxis. These are not taxis that parents have organised. These are local authority organised taxis for children who come to our school because of our amazing inclusion provision.
The reason we also use this particular spot for drop off is because of the proximity to the accesibility entrance to the school as we also have children attending school who are in wheelchairs. And I am pleased to say because of how inclusive we are at Fairlight this may increase in the future.
I am continuning to discuss with the council the need for designated drop off spots outside school however as you would expect this is not as straightforward as you would have thought.
I would however ask that anyone dropping around this area of school considers the needs of others but also challenges anyone they see who is not being considerate.
Thank you in advance for those who are.
SCHOOL STREETS UPDATE
I have been in communication with the School Streets team to discuss the needs for drop off points outside school and at the same time have been discussing and reviewing our School Streets Scheme.
In the coming weeks and months we will be carrying out reviews of the impact on the safety around the school as well as looking at the impact on pollution.
I can already report how well the scheme is working and how well it is being respected and followed.
We do occasionally get people (and it is not always parents) who move the barriers and don't replace them or think they have the right to drive along the road.
They are often reminded that the road signs at the end clearly state when the road is completely not accesible and that anyone using the road is breaking the law.
One of the key things we will be reviewing is exactly where this boundary might be best placed.
Another key area to be reviwed is the installation of permenant cameras to monitor this and the use of number plate recognition so that anyone not following the rules can be reported and fined without the need for a parking warden or the police.
We are however extremely pleased at how well everyone has adapted but also how much safer it is outside the school gate. And how well everyone is working together to keep it this way.
PTA SPRINGFEST
An amazing turn out and the weather held out for our PTA Springfest.
Thank you to everyone who came along and supported and to those who did all of the organising and ran stalls on the day.
A quick count showed around £900 raised and of course there is still the amazing raffle to go.
Tickets are still avalible but hurry as it closes on March 31st.
https://fairlightpta.charityhive.co.uk/raffle/1/springfest-raffle
CHECK YOUR PING ON WEDNESDAY
There will be a Ping sent on Wednesday to give you some exciting information about future developments at Fairlight in the coming weeks and months. Please keep an eye out for this.
It is also a good chance for us to see who is using the Ping System as we continue to review our Communications with parents.
TIMES TABLE ROCKSTARS FINAL RESULT
The results are in and the prizes have been given.
Well done to everyone who took part.
We came 7th overall with Stingray performing the best of any of the Fairlight classes.
And some notable results from Summer, Casper and Louis who all did great.
Keep up the hard work everyone.
A more detailed breakdown of the results is below.
Times Tables Rock Stars Brighton and Hove FINAL Results
THIS WEEK WE HAVE BEEN SCIENTISTS
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 9
SCIENCE, SCIENCE, SCIENCE, SCIENCE.
This week in school has been Science Week. Children have been learning about a diverse range of Scientists, taking part in a range of amazing Science lessons and been lucky enough to have real life scientists talking to them and sharing what they do.
A range of photos and examples of the amazing learning will be appearing on the Science Week page now and next week.
IMPORTANT MATHS NEWS
BIKE IT BEN FIXING BIKES- CAN HE FIX IT? YES HE CAN. AND IT IS NEXT WEEK.
Bike it Ben will be in school on Wednesday 19th March to fix bikes that might need a little bit of TLC.
If you bring your bike in to school on this day and it needs a fix then Ben will either fix it with the child or see what he can do with some of our older children.
SOMEONE TRYING TO BE AS FAMOUS AS MR JORDAN
Hector in Year 5 (and his mum) will be on a short children's radio quiz show segment this Saturday. It will be on at 8:20am on BBC Radio Sussex.
Listen and see if he is going to be on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire soon!!!
FOOTBALL UPDATE
For an update on "Someones Putting a Fun Fair and Circus on our Football Pitch" see the Friday Football page.
Also some exciting news about a football training camp.
B TEAM NEWS
Our B Team played its first match of the Season against Coldean last week.
For many it was their first time representing the school and also for many the first time they have played in a competitive match.
As ever when we venture to play our local rivals at Coldean it was a big pitch and they fielded a team with experienced football players- many in bright orange boots!!!
A tough opening playing towards the top of Coldean Lane meant we were under intense pressure for long parts of the game and new keeper Alfie was quickly clearing the ball only for it to appear back near his goal.
Occasional break outs meant we kept them busy and worried about a break away goal.
A half time team talk about using the hill paid off.
A solid performance at the back from Luke, Hugo and Warren meant we knew we could attack.
Driving runs from Diab supported by Ossie, Charlie, Louis, Finley and Stanley resulted in us bundling in a goal to lead 1-0.
Strong teamwork and solid defending was then needed to keep out Coldean.
The final whistle was music to our ears and meant we had survived to win 1-0.
FOOD HYGIENE RATING UPDATE
Our Breakfast Club and After School Club recieved their visit this week to assess and give them us our rating.
As anyone who works in food will tell you it is a surprise visit and quite tough.
Lots of looking at the room and kitchens as well as the paperwork.
I am however pleased to say that we go a 5 STAR HYGIENE RATING to join the already 5 STAR rating for our kitchen.
PACKED LUNCH CUTLERY- AS WELL AS READING BOOKS AND SPORTS AND FOOTBALL KIT
A number of children bring packed lunches to school that require cutlery- spoons or forks to eat soup or rice or pasta.
Many children bring in their own cutlery which is very helpful. and something we would encourage.
Occasionly and at the moment quite frequently children borrow cutlery from the kitchen however the children are putting these into lunch boxes and taking them home.
It would be good if you could have a look at home and if you have any school cutlery then please bring it back.
We started the year with hundreds of spoons and we are now missing hundreds.
Also when you are having a hunt or look under beds could you see if you have any school sports kit or missing reading books.
A good spring clean and return would be very helpful.
TIMES TABLE ROCKSTARS
The CityWide Competition closed at 7.30am this morning.
We will update you on how we did once they start announcing winners and places.
I know that one of our classes appeared in the TOP 10 list earlier this week.
PTA SPRINGFEST
Next Friday 21st March is Springfest.
On this day children will be able to wear non uniform in return for bringing in a bottle for the World Famous Bottle Tombola!!!
WORLD BOOK DAY 202
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 8
"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you'll go" Dr Seuss.
Some amazing costumes on World Book Day as well as a range of reading and book actitivities all week in classes. And the book fair took over £1000 meaning around £500 for the school to spend on books. Thank you to everyone who made a purchase.
BIKE IT BEN FIXING BIKES- CAN HE FIX IT? YES HE CAN.
Bike it Ben will be in school on Wednesday 19th March to fix bikes that might need a little bit of TLC.
If you bring your bike in to school on this day and it needs a fix then Ben will either fix it with the child or see what he can do with some of our older children.
HAF
Information about how you can book onto the Easter HAF Programme at Fairlight as well as at other venues is now on our website.
You will see from some of the data on this page that the Half Term Holiday Clubs are extremely popular and offer an exciting range of activities and opportunities for all children. But are also accessible to those who are on Free School Meals.
COMIC WINNERS
What a talented bunch of children we have at Fairlight!!
The actual comics designed and made by the children have been published on our Comic Page to show you the excellent ideas the children have.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/beondtheclassroom/events/comic-designs-2025
PTA
Check out some new updates on the PTA page.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/pta
CIRCUS ON LEVEL
Have a read of a good old fashioned Mr Jordan rant about the Circus and Fun Fair that will be put on the Level for months and take over our football pitch.
Book Week Activities including reading with Younger Children
Book Week and World Book Day
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 7
Welcome back to everyone after the 1 week Half Term.
A busy term ahead has started full steam this week and we are on the TV again.
Next week we have Parents Evening as well as World Book Day and Book Week with lots of events and activities in school every day and of course our Amazing Book Fair. And the week after (information to come next week) we have Science Week. So lots going on.
FAIRLIGHT IN THE NEWS- AGAIN!!!
The term started very early at Fairlight- around 5am to be exact.
The playground and Mr Jordan were on the GMTV news not long after 6am and again at 7am and 8am.
OPAL Play and the amazing work was the key reason for this article and sharing the great work that we do already around Play.
On the day the space on the news was taken over by some other quite big news stories.
So Fairlight shared the limelight with Donald Trump, The Pope, Boris Johnson and the German Elections.
So quite important stuff.
If you missed it you can catch up here.
SCHOOL DINNER REMINDER
Just a reminder that school meals have gone up to £2.65 from £2.60.
PARENTS EVENING
Thank you to everyone who has booked up for this next week.
Don't forget to attend your appointment.
If you can't remember what time it is or what day then please come and check.
Entrance from Parents Evening is via the Front Door.
FOOTBALL UPDATE
Just to remind everyone there is no Friday football this week.
Also anyone else wanting to join Friday Football needs to complete the form on the Friday Football page.
Dates for the term are also on there.
FAIRLIGHT A TEAM FITZGERALD CUP GAME
The A Team took on Woodingdean in the first round of the Fitzgerald Cup. This is Cup Competition for all of the schools in Brighton and Hove.
A strong Fairlight lineup ventured through traffic to play on the Downs of Woodingdean on a very bumpy and muddy pitch.
A tough first half against a good team who all play together regularly saw us digging in however the half finished 3-1 to Woodingdean.
An inspirational team talk about "getting stuck in"- "lifting your head"- and "hitting it" from Mr Jordan sent the team out for the second half with an uphill struggle ahead- literally as well on the Downs.
Some strong tackles. Excellent team play. And taking a few more risks meant we managed to get ourselves level with 2 minutes to go and even came close to sneak a late winner.
Players from both teams shook hands at the end thinking the game was over however Cup Rules state that the game has to be decided (just like the FA Cup this year) and 3 penalties per team is the choosen method.
Our 3 penalty takers were selected with the instruction of "hit it".
Our Goalkeeper was given his clear instruction "look big"- and Ty did exactly that.
Ish took the first penalty and leathered it into the goal.
Looking big worked as the Woodingdean penalty taker dragged it wide.
Ryan then put boot to ball and smashed it in.
Ty then filled the goal and forced the penalty taker to hit it at him. It bounced out.
A relieved Stanley gasped a huge sigh of relief as well as the cheers from players as we had won on penalties.
Players shook hands and offered comisorations as well as 3 cheers for a great game.
We now move on to the next round.
RAMADAN AT FAIRLIGHT
We have an updated Ramadan page to keep parents informed about what we do at Fairlight and how they can support their children.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/in-the-classroom/other-classroom-information/ramadan-2025
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 6
We have reached the end of a very Spring Term.
Today we have our ❤️Valentines Disco❤️ which is great way to end the term and yesterday we held a very busy Open Afternoon.
Have a lovely break and we will see every on Monday 24th February 2025.
KEY STAGE 2 Time Tables Competition
We have signed up to take part in Brighton and Hove Top of the Rocks Competition!
This is an inter-schools competition.
Many schools and children across the city will be taking part.
All children have to do is log in to Times Table Rock Stars on Wednesday 12th March, Thursday 13th March and Friday 14th March between 7:30 am and 7:30pm.
Children can play any game mode and all correct answers go towards their class's and Fairlight's overall score.
Why not sometime over half-term to get practising in preparation for the competition?
Log in via the TTRS app or this web link: https://play.ttrockstars.com/auth/school/student/29164
KS1 New Maths Learning at home resource!
All children from KS1 onwards at Fairlight now have access to Numbots. Numbots is an engaging maths learning platform which helps children to practise recalling addition and subtraction facts. It helps children to become more fluent in mental addition and subtraction so that they move from counting to calculating.
The site is mainly aimed at children in KS1 but can be played and access by all pupils in KS1 and KS2. The games start at a level accessible to all and become more challenging as children progress through the levels. Log in details have been sent home to all children in KS1 this week. Children in KS2 can access the site using their Times Table Rock Stars log in details. You can access the learning platform via the web link below or the Numbots app.
https://play.numbots.com/#/account/school-login/29164
OPEN DAY
Thank you to all of the parents who joined us on Open Afternoon this week.
Around 190 sets of parents joined us.
Everyone got to see a huge range of amazing learning that has taken place this term.
The next chance to get into school will be parents evening which should be in your diary for 4th and 5th March. Booking will be released after we come back to school.
DOGS AT THE SCHOOL GATE
We have seen an increase in people who are bringing their dog to the school gate at pick up and drop off.
Also an increase in people leaving their dogs at the school gate tied up.
This is often fine however the area outside the gate is quite small and once you add in buggies and 400+ parents and children it can be a tight squeeze. So dogs do often get stood on or bumped in to.
Then we get children asking staff is it okay to stroke the dog if they are left. Which we don't know.
And then occasionally dogs who are distressed and waiting for their owners who cry and make noise which scares children.
I am therefore going to have to ask that dogs are not tied up on the school railings outside the gate.
And that dogs are not left or around the front gate.
If you do bring a dog I would ask that you wait on the other side of road or away from the front gate.
Some of our children and parents are very hesitant about dogs and have to make quite a wide entrance or exit from the school gates to avoid them.
I don't want to have to start asking parents to completely not bring dogs or for them to be wearing muzzles however we need to ensure all children and parents enter and exit the school safely.
YEAR 3 AND 4 FOOTBALL TEAM
Year 3 and 4 played their first match of the season this week on a muddy Coldean pitch.
For all of the team it is the first time they have played for the school and for the vast majority the first time they have ever played a competetive football match.
A strong Coldean side started well however we withstood a lot of pressure and some amazing saves from our very own Chase the Cat as well as some key blocks from Jamil the Wall meant we went in at half time puffing and panting (it is a big pitch if you are used to only playground football) but only 3-0 down. Our new target was to win the second half.
Kicking downhill we started strongly and some substituions and changes to position meant we peppered the Coldean goal with corner after corner.
Eventually the ball broke in our favour and Dell smahed it into the Coldean net.
Teamwork and invidiual brilliance kept the score at 3-1 until the end.
Well done to them all and a great start to the Year 3 and 4 team and some have posed a question for Mr J and Mr K (and our assitant Luke) about if they need to join the A and B team of Year 5 and 6.
FAIRLIGHT AFFINITY GROUP
Our Affinity Group met with the Governors this week to share and present the Fairlight Racial Equality Policy that they have written and produced. Governors met with the team of Year 5 and 6 children who presented the policy. Explained the process they had been through and took questions from the Governors.
The policy will now be shared with Parents once it has been through Governor approval.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 5
We only have one week to go until half term.
School will finish on Friday 14th February 2025 and we will return to school on Monday 24th February 2025.
OPEN AFTERNOON
We would like to invite you all to attend our termly Open Afternoon this coming Thursday. Thursday 13th February 2025.
From 2pm you will be able to come into school and go to your child's class to see all of the amazing learning they have been doing in school.
You will be able to take them home from 2.30pm on this day also.
As I have shared on numerous occasions research shows that parents and adults who are positively and actively involved and interested in their child's learning make better progress in Primary School.
And an Open Afternoon is a good chance for you to actually see all they have been learning first hand.
Please come to the School Office on this day to sign in.
OPAL PLAY
We are continuing to update our resources in the Playground and to plan in a date when parents can come and have a play themselves.
We are also continuing to update some of the things in the playground ready for Summer.
In the meantime we are looking for a few resources:
- STAIR GATES
- GYM EQUIPMENT- EXERCISE BIKES/ ROWING MACHINES.
- LEATHER SOFAS AND CHAIRS
BREAKFAST CLUB
As you may be aware we run a very succesful Breakfast Club at Fairlight.
We are often asked what the children do at Breakfast Club.
The obvious answer is of course "eat Breakfast".
And then...
Click here to see some recent photos to give you an idea.
SOME CLUB UPDATES
Spanish Club 2025
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 4
Only two weeks to go of this term.
And to keep everyone up to date with Mr Jordan's current obsession.
I am currently seeing how many days in a row it rains between 8.35-9.00. And between 2.55 and 3.30. I am wondering what the phenomenon would be called that is "it only rains at the start and end of the school day when the gates open and close".
LATE PICK UP
We are seeing an increase in parents who are regulalry late for pick up at the end of the school day.
We are required to track and note late pick ups and to follow the same Attendance procedures as we would for late arrivals.
Those who have recieved Attendance Letters recently know that we are not talking about one off or exceptional circumstances. We are talking about persistent.
Having reviewed our procedures and what other schools do we will be reviewing our procedures and may be in contact directly with some parents.
Other local schools charge for late collection- some local nurseries charge £5 for every 5 minutes. This is because staff are needed to come and look after children and as this is outside of their working hours they need to be paid additionally.
We are also required to report late pick ups on to the Local Authority as it can often be an indicator of a range of other things.
Please try to ensure you are on time to collect children at the end of the day.
You may want to review your collection arrangements with your friends and other parents- including updating your contacts- so that if there is a problem someone else might be able to help.
FORMER CHAIR OF GOVERNORS
New Club Alert!
Skateboarding Club for Years 3, 4 and 5 starting from Monday 24th Feb - 31st March.
£45 per person on Parent Pay, only 10 places available, first come, first served.
Once the spaces are gone the link won't work.
We have a feeling this is going to be popular.
We are looking to run it again and run more of these exciting clubs.
WEEKLY UPDATE
Spring Term
Week 3
Another storm warning. Oh yes there is. Oh no there isn't.
SECONDARY CATCHMENT AREA MEETING AT FAIRLIGHT
Thank you to those who came along to the meeting this week held at Fairlight about Secondary Catchment Area changes.
This link is the presentation given by the Local Authority at the meeting.
The link below is for you to use if you want to have a say.
It was an interesting meeting with a range of views.
I was very proud firstly at the number of Fairlight parents who attended. I think they were expecting and the average is 5 or 6 parents attending Around 50 parents attended from Fairlight and other local schools.
I was also very proud of the comments made by Fairlight parents who clearly understood what is being discussed but also the impact this has not just on their own children but also the wider community.
As was shared at the meeting the final decision will be made by Local Councillors.
No Local Councilllors or Councillors with a remit for Education or Young People were present so if you want to contact them directly to share your views as they do make the final decision here are their contact details.
I have provided them in Wards as it may be dependant on where you live who your Councillors are.
https://democracy.brighton-hove.gov.uk/mgMemberIndex.aspx?FN=WARD&VW=LIST&PIC=0
I have been contacted by a local group Equity in Education to also share their details for those who may need support and help in having a voice who live in the Coombe Road, Bevendean and Moulescoomb . They are working with and colloborating with Class Divide who we have worked with previoulsy and currently. https://www.classdivide.co.uk/
Please note however that we do not advocate for these groups. We just share with you their information and leave it up to you if you make contact with them.
If anything around this consultation or Secondary Schools worries you then please come and speak to us and if we can't support you please rest assured we know someone.
EMAIL YOUR MP
School Finances are once again in the News.
We as a school are continuing to have to make cuts in our spending and continue to wait to see the finances we are told should be coming to Education.
Parent power is key so I would urge you to click on this link and have you say.
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stop-new-cuts?Source=WhatsApp
PANTO
We had a visit from Aladdin and Princess Jasmine this week and the Panto for our Younger Children and the House Point Winners last term.
The noise was amazing.
A real Panto atmosphere.
Oh yes there was!!!
ROAD OUTSIDE SCHOOL AND NEIGHBOURS
We are still getting concerns raised about the supervision of children before school and how early children are "screaming and running up and down" and "climbing all over my front garden".
Please remember that we need to work with our neighbours but also I am sure you wouldn't want 2 screaming kids jumping all over your front garden first thing in the morning. And then when you either speak to them or ask what is going on to get told it is "none of your business" or "you live by a school what do you expect".
My response is slightly politer but close to the one often given. "For you to do some parenting".
Thank you to the "Traffic Cone" and "Road Closure" Parent Police who are helping us to keep the road outside school safe.
The whole point of the School Streets Project is that communities and parents can police and organise this to keep their children safe.
Car Drivers please remember. ANY vehicle that enters from Franklin Road is breaking the Laws and Regulations around this as the signs at the end of the road show. So whilst there are exceptions and often special reasons, this is with consent and working with us.
We want to make Fairlight even more fantastic but we need your help!
Can YOU (or anyone you know) help our children and the opportunities we can offer them?
Would you be happy to be on a database of people we could get in touch with? Do you have any skills talents hobbies passions that you could talk about/show our kids?
Do you work for or know of a company that may be able to support us in some way?
- Voulunteering a skill/ talent/ hobby/ passion you have
- Volunteering to visit and talk about your job
- Working for a company that may be able to support the school in some way
- Talking about your religion- please specify which one
- Joining the PTA events committee
- Volunteering to help out at school trips
- 1:1 reading with children
- Publicity: Writing/editing articles for local newspapers/school website/taking photos for school events.
- Grant writing
- Anything else!
Weekly Update
Spring Term
Week 2
A much calmer week in terms of the weather at Fairlight this week which has meant that some of the developments in the playground are able to continue on. I know at the end of the school day that parents have noticed a few changes. I think the giant ball pit by the office is the one that most parents are hoping to get a go in!!!
PPR
This week Mr Knight and myself have held our Pupil Progress reviews (PPR) in school. This also involved Governors attending.
During the PPR meetings teachers meet with us to discuss children in their class who they are concerned are not making academic progress. They are stuck.
We discuss ways forward or look for strategies that might help or try to unpick what the reasons are and what we can do about it.
Mr Knight and I also note reasons that come up across the school and discuss these with SLT to see if there is anything we need to tweek, develop or improve across the whole school.
The biggest take away from the meetings this week is how well the teachers know the children. They went in to such minute detail about why a child might be stuck or not making progress and then spoke at lengths about the wide range of things they are either trying or wanting to try to improve the situation.
Parent Tours for Reception Places for September
This week saw the final Parent Tours for Reception places for September 2025. The deadline for applying for places for September 2025 closed this week.
This year we hosted the most tours we have ever had at Fairlight and saw the largest group of parents visiting us.
We now just have to wait to find out how many applications we will have and how many new children will be joining us in September in Reception.
Thank you to everyone who attended one of these tours or who encouraged their friends, families and neighbours to attend.
There remain a number of factors out of our control that impact on pupil places. The ongoing uncertainty around School Closures in Brighton and Hove as well the high cost of living that is seeing less families moving into Brighton and more families moving away continues. A low and dropping birth rate. The increasing student population in our part of the City. Transport. Changes in attitudes towards education. And a range of other factors all contribute.
At Fairlight what we continue to do is to show everyone the amazing job we do and let them come and see for themselves and make their choices.
I will update you on our Reception intakes for September once we have this later in the year.
LA Meeting
On Tuesday we will be hosting the Council/ Local Authority who will be holding a meeting at Fairlight to share, discuss and consult on the proposed changes to the Secondary School application and catchment areas.
If you are a parent in all parts of the city and in all year groups outside of current Year 6 this will impact you and I would encourage and urge you to attend. I would also encourage you to share this with all of the other parents in your social groups/ Whatsapp/ Facebook etc.
The Council/ Local Authority need to hear the voice of parents and it is important that they hear not just from those who shout loudly and get themselves in the papers because they have a lovely postcode or are friends with someone famous or important.
This will take place on Tuesday 21st January 2025 starting at 5.30pm in the Lower Hall.
Access will be via the EMAS Door so please arrive from 5.15pm for entry.
Council Officials and Local Councillors will be in attendance.
They will share a presentation and take questions and comments.
This is not one of the Public consultation meetings that can be booked on Eventbrite and Your Voice.
Other local meetings are planned for other local schools such as Queens Park on 16th. Mile Oak on the 20th. Fairlight on 21st. St Marks on 28th and City Academy Whitehawk.
IF YOU HAVE A CHILD IN YEAR 5 OR BELOW I WOULD URGE YOU TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND HEAR ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON BUT ALSO TO HAVE YOUR SAY.
Table Tennis Launch
I was lucky enough to be invited to the launch of Brighton Table Tennis Clubs new facility in Moulsecoomb this week. And I must tell you it is amazing!!!
Mrs Parker (a secret Table Tennis whizz) has been working with them closely for a number of years and worked closely with them to develop a number of their education programmes including Ping Pong Maths.
We are very lucky to be working with them on several in school interventions during the school day which started this week. And that a number of our children will be visiting the Table Tennis Club every week during the school day and after school to take part in a number of the Table Tennis education programmes.
Panto
On Wednesday 22nd our Key Stage One children along with all members of the winning House from last term will get to attend Aladdin Wedding.
Check back to the previous Weekly Updates to find out more.
No Friday Football
Sadly Mr Jordan is on training this Friday so won’t be able to run Friday Football Club ( I can hear parents already having a little “don’t have to get up silly early clap and dance- you know who you are!!!”).
We will see you all back the week after.
And a continued thank you to those parents who help with Friday Football. This week saw over 60 children playing football before 8am on a Friday morning at the Level. Impressive numbers any some silky skills.
WEEKLY UPDATE
SPRING TERM
WEEK 1
Welcome back to everyone for the Spring Term.
I hope you all had a good Christmas Break and Happy New Year to everyone.
Welcome to several new families who have joined us this term from other local schools. I have been and seen them all happily settled into school and I know children and parents will welcome them also.
I thought I would start the new year with an early weekly update. Let us see how long that lasts!!!!
SEVERE WEATHER UPDATE
Who would have known that on the day we send out a reminder about the procedures for Severe Weather that we get the most snow in Brighton we have seen for years?
If you have not seen the update please check it out https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/good-attendance-at-fairlight/severe-weather
The main bit of advice is not around the weather but ensuring children are appropriately dressed for the weather. A jumper and trainers is not winter clothing!!!
UPDATING INFORMATION WITH THE OFFICE
Many parents may have got a new mobile phone for Christmas. Some may even have moved during the holidays. If this is the case then please update the School Office with your new information.
All of our school systems take information from our Scholarpack Database so we can't contact you if the information is wrong. And you will be missing all of the updates.
UNIFORM
Hats, coats, gloves and scarves are all good additions to school uniform at this time of year and give children additional warmth.
Proper winter footwear such as wellie boots or snow boots are also helpful at this time of year.
However a Crystal Palace Football Shirt is not school uniform and wouldn't give any additional warmth unless it was put in the best place for a Crystal Palace shirt- on a bonfire!!! Jeans are also not school uniform.
Please encourage your children to wear the correct school uniform. We will be asking children to take it off if it is not correct uniform and to change clothes.
Also don't forget that once this severe weather is over we will have a focus on school uniform so please don't go buying things that are not on the list of what we expect. White/pink/ red/ green trainers for example are not on the list. Black trainers are, however.
FRIDAY FOOTBALL UPDATE
The playing conditions at the Level are not great. Between rain and snow and abandoned Christmas Trees the Level is not quite ready for us to return for Friday Football this week.
Hopefully we will start on Friday 17th January.
Let's hope we don't get any more bad weather that makes the Level even wetter and muddier.
JACKET POTATOES
I wanted to just give some clarification on something that a couple of parents have asked at the Office about.
Once registers are closed in the morning (this is 8.55am) the complicated and time consuming process of signing children in late, chasing up missing children, ringing parents and finding out where everyone is starts.
This is a massive Safeguarding requirement to ensure all of our children are safe and well and the key focus for the Office team.
We have 365 children. Over 550 parents. 36 languages. So it is a big job.
And this needs to be done as soon as we can and ideally by 9.30am.
To speed up this process, when the registers close in the class, the dinner register that is completed at the same time is automatically sent to the school kitchen so that they can start the cooking and preparation process for dinners.
If you recall most days there are 5 options for children.
This also allows any "last minute" orders for ingredients.
When a child is late the only options we can then access in terms of dinners is Jacket Potato as this is the one that is easiest to prepare. Easiest to pre order. Easiest to store. Also the number of kitchen staff has been cut to its minimum so they are working hard to prepare lunch for everyone. They actually start at 7.30am doing this.
Several parents have said that their child won't eat a Jacket Potato. Therefore, if they are late we would advise that they will need a packed lunch as this is the only option open to us. We are close to the Co - op should parents not have this ready.
I also have to be honest and say that several acclaimed and nationally recognised Attendance Improvement plans focus on the impact that food has on improving lateness and attendance (on both parents and children) and therefore if the thought of "not wanting" a Jacket Potato means parents and children move a little quicker in the morning then I am happy to support this. #Spududontlike
PARENT CAMPAIGNS AND CAMPAIGNS IN THE NEWS
Those who still use Facebook or associated media versions will have read with interest many things recently from Donald Trump. Elon Musk. And updates on the latest update for Fortnite.
Amongst all of this chaos there are also a number of things that have a more direct impact on us at school and children.
Two that are currently out there are about a Mobile Phone Free Childhood and Toilet Training for Children starting school.
These both are getting much wider media attention. On local and National Radio and TV. They have MPs jumping on the bandwagon.
As you may imagine I am sitting on my hands and biting my lip as I do have personal views on both of these. I am very protective of the work we do in school and the additional work, pressure, resources and time these sorts of things place on school and education and take away from parents and parenting (this gives you a flavour also of where I stand on them). I am also very wary of parent campaigns as they often need unpicking to find who is behind them. Where the research is from. Who gains from them etc.
However, to be balanced as a school we do not support or advocate these parent - led campaigns however we are happy to direct parents to them should they wish to find out more.
For the Mobile Phone Free Childhood please use this link https://whatsapp.smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk
For the Toilet Training information we have sent this home to those parents it may impact. This campaign is around children being School Ready.
I am sure I will be writing to you in the future around both of these areas.
Please be assured I feel we have good systems in place for both of these areas.
SECONDARY SCHOOL CATCHMENT MEETING FOR PARENTS
I have been campaiging for a consultation and information meeting to be held in our local community around this important issue as whilst it is a city - wide consultation it will have a very direct impact on the families and children who currently attend our school.
I am pleased to say I have secured a meeting at Fairlight.
This will take place on Tuesday 21st January 2025 starting at 5.30pm in the Lower Hall.
Access will be via the EMAS Door so please arrive from 5.15pm for entry.
Council Officials and Local Councillors will be in attendance.
They will share a presentation and take questions and comments.
This is not one of the Public consultation meetings that can be booked on Eventbrite and Your Voice.
Other local meetings are planned for other local schools such as Queens Park on 16th. Mile Oak on the 20th. Fairlight on 21st. St Marks on 28th and City Academy Whitehawk.
IF YOU HAVE A CHILD IN YEAR 5 OR BELOW I WOULD URGE YOU TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND HEAR ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON BUT ALSO TO HAVE YOUR SAY.
OPEN AFTERNOON
A date for your diary. Thursday 13th February 2025.
From 2pm you will be able to come into school and go to your child's class to see all of the amazing learning they have been doing in school.
You will be able to take them home from 2.30pm on this day also.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 15
Who made a half term 15 weeks?
We have just about made it to the end.
Enjoy the Christmas break and we will see you all on Tuesday 7th January 2025.
NURSERY CHRISTMAS SONGS
You cannot truely start Christmas celebrations until you have heard the dulcet tones of the Nursery children singing a few Christmas Classics.
I am sure you will agree they are amazing.
KEY STAGE WENT TO THE THEATRE
I have heard such amazing stories from the 200+ children who went to the theatre on Wednesday to see 101 Dalmations.
The behaivour of every single child was amazing and myself and the staff are so proud of all of the children for how they behaved in public.
So much so that we might consider doing something this big again.
KEY STAGE ONE- Year 1 and Year 2
We haven't forgotten about you.
On Wednesday 22nd January 2025 we will be hosting a special Panto for you.
And this is something important from Aladdin.
Parents I am sure you have been to a Panto before so can you help the children to understand what help will be needed.
I know the Ceebeebies Pantos are always fun to watch to show them if you are not sure.
Wedding Invite
HOUSE POINT WINNERS
Today in assembly the House Point winners were announced.
Well done to Yellow (Pacific) who won this term.
- 1st place: Yellow Pacific - 1,818 tokens
- 2nd place: Green Atlantic- 1,796 tokens
- 3rd place: Red Arctic- 1,605 tokens
- 4th place: Blue Indian- 1,574 tokens
The prize for Yellow house is that they will also be invited to a special edition of the Panto (see above) in the afternoon.
So if you are in Yellow then please read the invite carefully.
AFFINITY GROUP
Well done to our Affinity Group who have worked hard this term to write a child friendly anti racism policy.
They presented this to Mr Jordan this term and are due to meet the Governors in the New Year.
SCHOOL STREETS ROAD CLOSURE AND SUPERVISION OF CHILDREN BEFORE SCHOOL
We will start monitoring this as soon as we come back in January.
SMARTPHONE FREE CHILDHOOD
I have been asked by a parent to share details of a Fairlight Whatsapp Group around this.
Below are the details however this is not a school movement and we cannot advocate or recommend this.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 14
Another amazing week in school. Angels, shepherds and roast potatoes.
A huge thank you to everyone for their continued support on so many things. Those who have turned up to shows and fairs. Those who have made costumes or purchased raffle tickets. Those who have written Christmas cards. And those who continued to say good morning despite it being cold or wet or early!!!
An even bigger thank you to those parents who are trying their hardest to keep as many routines in place at a time of year when so many children (and staff) are finding it all a bit tricky.
KEY STAGE 2 WE ARE ALL GOING TO THE THEATRE NEXT WEEK
I am so happy at the amazing opportunity our Key Stage 2 children will have next week.
The time has come and we are thrilled to announce that thanks to the money you helped us raise at the Santa Dash, every child in Key Stage 2 (Years 3, 4, 5, and 6) will be taken to see the smash hit West End musical ‘101 Dalmatians’ at the Theatre Royal on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
This trip will take place during school hours however there are a few things to note.
Please see all of the important points below to ensure this will be a paws-itively wonderful experience for all:
· Ensure your child has had a substantial breakfast in the morning and is at school on time.
· Sensible footwear and coats to be worn because we will be walking to and from the theatre. And School Uniform must be worn.
· Running time of the show is 2.5 hours (including an interval).
· No spending money is needed. You can’t buy any of the dogs!!!
· Children are to bring a snack/water bottle for the interval but it must be something that can go in their pockets. No bags/lunches are allowed in the theatre.
· Children will need to bring a packed lunch. For children eligible for free school meals, a packed lunch will be provided. Lunch will be eaten when we return to school. Lunch times will be very different on this day!!!
· Pick up will be from school at 3.15pm as usual.
· If there are any issues, please speak to your child’s class teacher before the trip.
Here’s an exciting trailer of the show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsIrwxHf3co
AND KEY STAGE 1 (Year 1 and 2)
Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about you.
I have some MEGA EXCITING NEWS for you next week about your special treat. It will be here in next week’s newsletter!
RECEPTION CHRISTMAS SHOW- WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN IN THE WEST END OR BROADWAY
A mass of Angels, Shepherds, Animals, Kings and amazing singing and acting. And a few emotional parents and grandparents.
I spoke to a number of parents who attended this show who were moved by the performance.
Well done to everyone who took part and thank you to everyone who helped make it happen.
NURSERY SING ALONGS
These are nearly ready to be posted on the Nursery pages.
I can tell you having seen some of the practices that we have a few budding Ed Sheerans and Taylor Swifts. We do however have quite a few future Heavy Metal and Punk Rock singers!!!
SCHOOL STREETS UPDATE
Anyone needing to move the cones or to park beyond the cones in the morning or evening inside the restriction times will now need to register their car and reason with the school office.
Staff and Residents are exempt. Blue badge holders will need to register.
This will and may be monitored by cameras moving forward hence the need to register.
ANYONE driving past the signs between 8.15-9.15 and 2.45 and 3.45 is already breaking the road traffic laws that govern the School Streets scheme. We have moved the cones to closer to the school to try and make the scheme more manageable however the restrictions still apply to the whole road.
Any questions please speak to Mr Jordan.
And thank you to everyone who is following the School Streets Scheme. The road outside the gate is much safer and the air around this area is also improving in quality.
NEIGHBOURS- SADLY NOT THE TV SHOW AND KYLIE
Once again we have had another complaint from neighbours about children playing on their gardens. Knocking on their doors. And running around unsupervised before school.
Please remember that the children are your responsibility until they walk in the school gate in the morning.
I know some of our residents have checked what time school starts as they say they are noticing children playing outside their homes from 8.15am.
If you do need to arrive that early there are a range of other places children and parents could wait. These would give me fewer complaints!!!!
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 13
It is this week that we have seen so many parents in school or taking part in school events.
With 2 well supported Christmas Shows in the Church and our Christmas Fair in school it has been great to see so many parents, grandparents and families joining us.
Thank you to everyone for your support.
CHRISTMAS CARDS IN THE POST BOX AT THE OFFICE
If you have Christmas Cards for staff or for children in school these can be posted in the Christmas Post Box at the Office and Santa's Elves (Prefects) will deliver them to class each day.
Every card will need to have the Name and Class on the front of the card to ensure it gets to the right place.
It is also where children can post their lists to Santa and we will ensure these are sent to him.
If they want a reply (you never know) then please ensure you include their name and class on the letter.
These should be addressed to SANTA CLAUS NORTH POLE.
Sadly any parents or staff writing letters may not get a direct response from Santa!!!
HAMPER THANK YOU
Thank you to everyone who donated gifts and items for the Christmas Hampers.
These are currently being made up ready to be given out.
WINTER HAF
The Winter HAF programme has seen a high volume of booking requests since its launch in November.
As of now, 83% of available HAF places have already been filled.
Our own HAF is very well supported
Here are some examples of what’s on offer in your area:
Activity type: Ofsted registered childcare
Description: Children take part in exciting activities like sports, challenges, arts, and performances. They'll make lasting friendships, and have new experiences, all within a nurturing and secure environment.
Age group: 4 to 11
Venue: Fairlight Primary School, BN2 3AJ
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND BOOK
Activity type: Multi-Sport
Description: A variety of fun activities to get involved in such as multi-sports and dance, as well as a hot, healthy meal each day.
Age group: 4 to 11
Venue: Carlton Centre (formally Trinity Hall), Carlton Hill, Brighton, BN2 0GW
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND BOOK
- B Starz Academy- Dance parties
Activity 1: Ultimate Xmas dance party
Description: A fun filled party of singing, dancing and games, with a live performance from the theatre show " Let It Go' and a performance from 'Forever Swift," with a meet and greet and photos for all party guests. Enjoy a sit down Xmas lunch and there will be Xmas hampers for families to take home!
Age group: 5 to 10
Venue: BHASVIC, 205 Dyke Road, BN3 6EG
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND BOOK
- B Starz Academy- Dance parties
Activity 2: Ultimate Xmas pop party
Description: A fun filled party of singing, dancing and games with a live performance from the No. 1 Tributes - 'KT Perry' and 'Forever Swift.' These brilliant acts will be performing all of the hits and meeting our guests for photos and dancing too. Expect party games, a singalong, glitter stations, along with a football quiz and games. All guests will enjoy a sit down Xmas lunch and there will be Xmas hampers for families to take home!
Age group: 8 to 14
Venue: BHASVIC, 205 Dyke Road, BN3 6EG
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND BOOK
- Impact Initiatives
Activity type: Family Event (child must be accompanied)
Description: Come and collect a food and activity hamper, have a mince pie, cuppa and chat whilst the children do some festive art and crafts or games.
Age group: 4 to 11
Venue: City Academy Whitehawk, Whitehawk Road, Brighton, BN2 5FL
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND BOOK
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 12
As you read this we move to the glitter and shepherds part of the term.
Make sure you get your diary ready and to hand to get all those important dates booked in.
This Friday (29th November) is the first of several non uniform days. The payment for this is to bring a bottle to school for the PTA Fair.
CHRISTMAS PAGE
The Fairlight Christmas page has been updated with information about all of the events we are holding in school in the run up to Christmas.
As you can see there is lot going on.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/beondtheclassroom/christmas-at-fairlight-2024
COMMUNITY WEEK PAGE
A selection of photos have been uploaded here to show you some of the amazing things that took place in school during this week.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/beondtheclassroom/events/community-week-2024
BRIGHTON AND HOVE GIRLS FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT
Our Girls Football Team took part in the annual Schools Football Tournament at Sussex University this week.
Three groups meant that only the winner and best runner up overall would qualify for the knock out stages.
The first game ended in a tough fought 0-0 draw with us soaking up lots of pressure and getting a few break away chances.
Our second game was more one sided in our favour however with shot after shot and attack after attack we just could not get that break to get a goal and this game ended 0-0.
Our last group game left us with needing to get more than a draw to stand any chance of qualifying.
Another one sided match in our favour started however this time we got a goal.
The confidence grew and not long after that we scored from a well worked corner.
The match ended with us defending strongly and with us winning 2-0.
So we finished the group undefeated. Without conceding a goal and with 5 points.
Our first opponents won the group with 7 points and the best runner up on another pitch got 2 wins so 6 points.
Sadly our strong defence was not rewarded with a semi final place.
Well done to all of the girls.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS
We continue to get concerns raised by our neighbours of children playing on their front gardens and steps.
This has this week included children knocking on peoples front doors.
This was all recorded on their doorbell and this has been passed on.
Please remember that the children before school are your responsibility and should be being parented by you.
GOOD DRIVERS (OR WALKERS WOULD BE BETTER)
You may have read about the School Streets Schemes in the Argus this week and how they are not working in some schools due to a lack of volunteers.
Thank you to those who have already volunteered and who are helping to run this scheme.
We would love to have more volunteers if you think you could spare 15-20 minutes a day.
Those running the scheme could be helped even more by parents following the rules of the scheme and not taking it into their own hands to start doing whatever they want.
The main area of concern here is the moving of cones or moving the yellow signs that keep the double yellow lines clear.
This is in fact (under the laws that govern the School Streets Project) an illegal act if witnessed or recorded.
I hope that our scheme will continue to work as it does as the alternative is that the road would be closed at Franklin Road.
FOOD SOS CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGES FOOD DONATIONS AND SUPPORT IN THE LEAD UP TO CHRISTMAS
The Brighton & Hove Food Partnership has revealed that more than 6,300 people rely on food banks, social supermarkets, and community meal providers each week. This includes working adults, 1,400 children, and nearly 660 pensioners.
This snapshot from the recent Emergency Food Network (EFN) report only reflects figures from school holidays, meaning even more children could be in need during term time.
The FOOD SOS campaign was launched in response to the cost of living crisis in 2022. Its purpose is to encourage those who can afford it to donate to their local food bank while also offering useful links to local support for those experiencing food insecurity. Unfortunately, the situation has not improved, and the recent EFN report cites a drop-in donations from supermarket bins and larger surplus food donations coordinated by organisations like Fareshare.
A perfect storm has been brewing for quite some time, with the number of people in need of food support starting to outweigh the available food donations. Currently, many food banks are dipping into their own funds to make up the shortfall, but this cannot continue indefinitely.
Join us in supporting our community as part of the city-wide #FoodSOS campaign to increase donations to local food banks and projects.
Here’s how you can help: · Convince your workplace to have a food donation collection – click here for more info.
· Fundraise for your local food bank or project.
· Spread the word about the current food insecurity plight and encourage friends and family to donate next time they pass a food donation collection bin.
For more information on how to support the FOOD SOS campaign, please visit https://bhfood.org.uk/foodsos/. If you are experiencing food insecurity, please visit https://bhfood.org.uk and go to our ‘Emergency Food’ page for a list of helpful links and contacts to support you through this challenging time.
Safer Homes
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 11
Lots to read and catch up on this week.
Uniform Update
We are pleased to announce our new uniform supplier, Logo Schoolwear, will have items available to purchase in store or online from Monday 25th November. Please see link to the website below.
https://www.logo-schoolwear.co.uk/
Their shop address is Logo Sports, Industrial House, Conway Street, Hove, BN3 3LW.
They offer click and collect, home delivery, or free delivery to school. This is the uniform supplier used by many schools in Brighton and Hove with positive reviews from both parents and schools.
All our logoed uniform will remain the same, with the addition of a thinner logoed fleece. The prices are competitive to ensure best value for our parents.
We are also introducing a logoed pe kit, this is a navy t shirt and sweatshirt with your child's house name and colour on the back. These items are not compulsory, children can still wear a plain t shirt in their house colour (Red, Yellow, Green, Royal Blue) and a plain navy jumper.
If you have any questions, please contact the office.
Parents- On your Bike!!
Something I have been tempted to say several times however this is about Adult Cycle Training Courses in Brighton and Hove.
Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to start cycling or a regular cyclist who want to brush up on their skills, our instructors will tailor a cycle training session to suit you.
We offer one to one or small group training courses
For details of adult courses please visit
www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/city-cycliing-skills-and-training
For further information please email east.central@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Church at Christmas
We are in full glitter and Christmas Songs mode at school in preperation for EVERY child to take part in our Christmas events.
Our main events take place in St Martins Church. This is an excellent venue and allows us to hold just a single event for each Key Stage where EVERYONE is invited.
Whilst we are not a religous school you cannot avoid religous references and links around Christmas.
Our productions are suitable for children and families from all faiths and backgrounds however we are aware for religous grounds not all families and children can take part.
If this is you then please speak to your child's classteacher.
Every year families from all faiths join us at St Martins.
Community Week
The Community Week page has been updated and has some information about the week. Some amazing photos will follow soon.
What's on at Brighton Winter Fayre?
From Santa's Grotto to dance classes, there's something for everyone, including:
• Festive Fun: Christmas parties, craft workshops, and kids' films.
• Interactive Activities: Silent discos and fairground games.
• Special Shows: Tomfoolery and Swiftogeddon (Taylor Swift-themed fun!).
• Delicious Treats: Hot chocolate, waffles, and food to enjoy.
• Markets & Entertainment: Food stalls, makers' markets, free entertainment, and refreshments.
When & Where?
• Dates: December 5th-8th, 12th-15th, and 19th-22nd.
• Times: Open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM.
• Location: St Peter’s Square, York Place, Brighton.
Entry Info
• Free entry to the site every day! Some activities and events require tickets – check the website for details.
• Note: Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
Perfect for families looking for festive fun this Christmas!
Parking
A few parents have reported how the new Road Closure as part of the School Streets Project at the start and end of the school day is now causing problems away from the school gate.
Whilst the area around the main gate is much safer and less polluted the same problem is now happening on the corners or on the next road over. This is because of lazy, inconsiderate and dangerous parking and stopping by parents.
I just wanted to remind everyone of a few key things about the Schools Streets Project.
ANYONE entering into Hastings Road is then subject to all of the restrictions of the Schools Streets Project. The times of the Schools Streets Project are shown on the road signs and show when the road is restricted/ closed to traffic. Anyone entering into this area is subject to restrictions.
Only residents and those displaying a disabled badge should enter into the area beyond the cones. ANYONE moving the cones to enter this area without these credentials is the subject to prosecution for breaking the restriction.
All of this is monitored by the cameras or members of the Council parking enforcement and fines can be given remotely.
Please think about your travel to school but most importantly think about the impact of your parking and travel on others.
Nits
A few Nit letters have been sent out to several classes this week. We ask all parents to be vigilant and have a good check, good comb and good wash. Also to think about tying hair up in school.
We do also need to remind you that EVERYONE needs to be treated at home.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 10
This week's Weekly Update is very short.
Community Week 2024
This has been an amazing week. So many amazing visitors, guests, workshops and experiences.
The photos and information about this are being turned into a Community Week page on our website where we can show you.
Once this is finished we will publish the link.
See I told you it was short!!!!
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 9
A busy start to the second half of the Autumn Term.
And lots to read about and catch up on this week that has either happened or is planned to happen in the coming weeks.
Lets start with some good news.
With the funds raised, so far we managed to provide mindfulness and yoga workshops for every child, helping them develop valuable skills for managing stress and improving their overall well-being. Additionally, we have made improvements to our lunchtime experience by enhancing our playtimes and offering more choices to enrich our ‘Golden Time.’
SAY NO TO BULLYING
Anti Bullying Week is Monday 11th to Friday 15th November 2024.
Find out more during the week but also take a look here at some information.
Dont forget Odd Socks day on Tuesday.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/beondtheclassroom/events
FOOTBALL RESULTS
A busy week of football this week in school.
Our School First Team has an away league fixture in Rottingdean against St Margarets.
A big grass pitch and an overcast evening greeted us on our arrival out in the countryside of East Brighton.
Squirrels watched on as the game started and we dominated possession.
A squad performance meant all players got good game time and a chance to show all they have learnt at Friday Football Club.
A solid 4-0 win with our goalkeeper only making 1 touch all game showed how well we have been listening.
Our Girls Squad took part in the Brighton and Hove Albion Girls Football Festival at Lancing FC the home of the Sussex FA.
A selection of players from seasoned veterans of the girls football team to a few new faces made the long journey to Lancing.
Strong performances meant we ended the day having played 6 games.
Won 2. Drew 2. Lost 2- to the teams who finished first and second and only by a goal or two.
See some top photos below of the team in action.
Several more tournaments are planned for the coming weeks for both teams.
COMMUNITY WEEK
Next week to supplement Anti Bullying Week we will be hosting a Community Week.
This is our chance to look at our school community and celebrate how diverse we are but also how inclusive we are.
Children (and parents and families) will take part in a range of workshops and activities including:
- Henna Lessons
- Hummingbird Refugee Workshop
- Hair Demonstrations- see flyer below
- Capoeira
- Bollywood
- Flamenco
- Kung Fu
- Food Tasting
- Badger Trust
As well as a range of opportunities to hear and speak different languages and hear stories from different cultures.
PIONEER AFTER SCHOOL CLUB
Pionner have updated their information about what they do at their After School Clubs.
Find out more here https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/beondtheclassroom/others-who-use-our-school
It all looks and sounds very very excititing.
BUGS
We have had many reoccurring cases of Nits across the school. This is a reminder that all long hair needs to be tied back neatly, in a style that will last all day. This applies to BOTH boys and girls. Any hair that is long enough to be tied back needs to be tied back, if the hair is not long enough to tie back but past ear length, needs to be held back with a hairband, again this applies to BOTH boys and girls.
THE MAGIC READING HUT AT FAIRLIGHT
The Fairlight Magic Reading Hut is back in the playground (to the right of the rainbow shelter) and full of treats. Including…
⭐️ Books by Malorie Blackman, Michael Morpurgo, Jacqueline Wilson, Benjamin Zephaniah, and Cressida Cowell ⭐️
⭐️ The Worst Witch and Horrible Science collections ⭐️
⭐️ And for the little ones, Julia Donaldson, Meg and Mog, Hairy Maclary, Mr Men and Little Miss stories ⭐️
Please come and take a book home - they are free to everyone. If you want to keep it once you’ve finished, that’s fine. Otherwise please bring it back for someone else to enjoy!
Also… did you know that all children and their adults can visit the school library on Fridays after school? So pop in to borrow a book for the week!
Hair Workshop
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 8
And we finally make it.
An 8 week term is madness but we got there.
I hope everyone gets a nice break and we will see everyone back on Monday 4th November for the 7 week Christmas Term.
MUSIC UPDATE
Ed Sheeran might have been to Fairlight to see what we are doing in Music and show us his talents however we have taken it to the next level.
YEAR 4 ROMAN BATTLE
HAIL EMPEROR JORDAN. LONG LIVE THE LEIGON OF DOOM.
The combined forces of the Year 4 Roman Leigon took on the might of Emperor Jordan and his Leigon of Doom at the agreed battle field that is the Fairlight Playground- the scene of some legendary battles of yonder year.
Following the strong performance during last years battle from the current Year 5 Leigon this year Emperor Jordan decided to bring in his secret weapon to strengthen the Leigon of Doom.
As you will see this band of mercanries look like the real deal and all look like the payment of tea and biscuits was well recieved.
Below are some of the best bits.
Thank you to the new members of the Leigon of Doom for attending.
Long live Emperor Jordan!!!!
Roman Battle and Special Visitors
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Roman Battle Video Clips
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THANK YOU TO THE FOYLE FOUNDATION
We have been lucky enough to get a grant from the Foyle Foundation towards new books for our library. These will be on the shelves in the next few weeks so don't forget to pop up on a Friday after school.
PARENTS EVENING
Thank you to everyone who came along to Parents Evening this week.
If any more parents have completed the Survey we were asking parents to complete about Mental Health Services in school and associated with the school then please return these to the school office.
Are you a Council Tenant?
Brighton and Hove City Council are wanting to hear the views of Council Tenants.
See the poster below for more information.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 7
A busy week in school that included a large tour of the school from potential new parents for September 2025 as well as a several other children and families moving to the area or who are considering moving schools. And of course several new children and families joined us this week. Welcome to them all.
Let's start this week's update with some excellent news.
ATTENDANCE NEWS
As the weather has got worse and the usual spread of coughs and colds increases we often see a slight dip in the attendance. This is also something we see at the end of a long term.
However we have some very positive news.
- 266 children have over 96% attendance.
- 170 children have 100% attendance. That is nearly half the school.
Keep up the hard work.
POEM FROM ASSEMBLY
In our Key Stage 2 Assembly every week at the end children get the chance to put themself forward to read a poem out to the whole of Key Stage 2.
This is quite a big thing and for many their first chance to do some real public speaking.
This morning we had a great Hallowean poem and this brilliant poem read and written by Thea and Annabelle.
The Enchanted Forest- by Thea and Annabelle
Look at the fairies.
Look at the sun.
You don't have noise from anyone.
The dreamy sky.
The early moon.
I hope the stars are coming soon.
The fairies are sleeping its time for bed.
Don't forget your snuggly ted.
Now its morning lets have some fun.
Its time for breakfast.
Porridge, banana and hot cross buns.
Lets go canoing in the sparkling lake.
The sun is hot.
I bet we could cook a cake.
Ride a horse through the fields.
Stop at an apple tree.
It makes a good meal.
FOOTBALL UPDATE
Our first League match of the season ended Positive 2 Negative 1- or that was what our mathematical team decided.
We played St Martins at Manor Gym in the first game of the season.
A strong first half showing from the team meant we kept them pinned in their half but in true Fairlight fashion we hit posts, crossbars, defenders, wide, over and everything but the back of the net. As well as a strong display from the St Martins goalkeeper.
Our continued pressure however paid off from a corner when the ball was bundled in off the face of a defender.
A break away goal at the end of half tested the Fairlight nerve.
The second half started the same.
Substitutions, continued attacks and no clear shots.
Again a bundled effort that came off a defender meant that Fairlight were ahead 2-1 however were yet to score.
A solid end from the defence meant St Martins were unable to equalise.
So the game finished 2-1 to Fairlight and without us scoring a goal.
We now move on to our next League Match next week.
DINNER INCREASE
• Nursery meals (unchanged) £2.60
• Paid meals from £2.60 to £2.65 or £13.00 to £13.25 per week
Allergy & Special Diets – Children moving schools within the city
CONTACTING THE TEACHER
If you wish to contact your child's teacher as a school we do not give out teacher's individual work emails.
This is for two key reasons.
Firstly teachers do not check their emails all day every day as they are focussed on teaching your children. So if the matter is urgent it can be directed to them verbally.
Secondly when we used to give out email addresses some parents used to bombard the teacher with information and requests which meant the teachers were taking huge amounts of time filtering information.
Lastly parents would contact teachers and expect immediate responses or then ask why they hadn't got something back from the teacher. The reasons above explain that.
Any contact can be made by sending an email or ringing the school office.
office@fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk
YEAR 1 PARENTS NOT COMING INTO THE BUILDING
We keep finding Year 1 Parents a little lost in the morning.
They have walked down the ramp with their children and then start to head into the school to walk up the stairs with their child.
WE CANNOT HAVE PARENTS IN THE BUILDING before school.
Also the added problem of saying goodbye to children in school adds extra things for the Classteacher to manage.
We have a very quick and dynamic start to the day about learning and having to deal with "home" issues impacts on children making a positive start.
We have had parents coming in to school to tell the teacher "they have a new water bottle" to "they only ate two pieces of toast this morning" to "last night at swimming they got cold".
If the matter is urgent or important for us to know then please contact the office in person or contact the school as above.
But please be assured once the children are in school they are fine.
Often parents are worried about things and feel the children will spend all day worrying also.
They are very resilient but also keen to be with their friends and getting on with their learning.
MORNING FOOD AND DRINK FOR CHILDREN
A can of Red Bull. A strong Coffee or Latte. A bag of Prawn Cocktail Crips.
All things you might need or see after a night out or after a busy day.
However these are all things that children have entered school in the morning eating and drinking.
Don't forget all those campaigns reminding us about the importance of a good breakfast to a good start to the day.
BHCSP HIGHLIGHTS
See the leaflets below for some courses and training.
PARENTS EVENING
We are looking forward to seeing lots of you next week at Parents Evening.
You will need to come into the school for your appointment via the Office Door.
FOOTBALL CARD AND MEMORABILIA SHOW
Come and join Mr Jordan and his thousands of football shirts and thousands of football cards and stickers this Saturday at St Barts Church from 10am.
There are free football cards and stickers for all children who attend.
See Week 2 Weekly Update for more information.
LAST FRIDAY OF TERM SPOOKY DRESS UP
Don't pack away that costume today.
The last day of term is still a whole week away. Which is really scary!!!!
Some children will look like Zombies by the time we get there as they are very tired.
And many of the teachers after two late parents evenings will resemble something from the Living Dead.
So with that in mind we will be having a PTA Spooky Dress Up Day on Friday 25th October 2024.
Please bring in your £1 donations or add £1 to PTA Donations on Parent Pay.
And take a look at one of the fantastic home made costumes below.
Some Courses for you
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 6
Two weeks to go until Half Term.
Lots of little reminders for you this week.
There might be lots of scrolling back to previous weeks to check you have done everything and you are up to date.
New Reception Visits for September 2025
We have held 2 of our Parent Visits where those parents looking for a school for September 2025 for their Reception child (who is currently most probably in a nursery) get to visit the school and see it at work.
Both visits have been completely packed out.
If you have a friend, neighbour, family member, someone at your nursery or even just a passing stranger on the street with a small child- then please urge them to book onto one of the remaining visits as these as already filling up and some are almost full.
Keep spreading the word on how amazing the school is and encourage them to come and see it for themselves.
It makes me extremely proud to show parents around Fairlight as they get to see so much amazing learning but also get to see first hand polite, hard working, enthusiastic children who already attend the school. I get so many hellos. How are you? Children who are happy to chat to the new parents. And from every age group. None of it is scripted. None false. All honest.
What better advert.
Secondary Catchment Area Engagement Exercise
I shared with you last week that Brighton and Hove has started the work to review the Secondary School Catchment Areas.
It has been reported that this have provoked lots of interest and opinions.
Please do not miss your chance to be part of this.
Parents Evening- Have you Signed Up?
The Ping went on Monday to inform you how you sign up to Parents Evening.
Make sure you sign up to speak to your child's Classteacher.
Children whose parents actively engage in their learning by attending things like Parents Evening do significantly better than those who do not take an active interest in their child's education.
Our Amazing PTA
Nominate the PTA to win £1,000
Lose Weight. Get Active. Feel Great.
- Digital – adult programme which can also provide weekly 1-1 phone support if required. 12 weeks
- Groups – adult, knowledge based groups programme, 90 minutes p/week. 12 weeks. Run quarterly, currently based at King Alfred, Prince Regent, Moulescoomb and Portslade leisure centres. Next cohort starting January 2025.
- Children and Families - for children aged 5-15 (15-18 year olds can access either children and families or adult programmes) Run quarterly, next cohort starting November 2024 at Portslade, Withdean and Moulescoomb leisure centres.
- Pregnancy Support – 4 1-1 appointments over 12 weeks
- Learning Disability Support – 6 sessions over 12 weeks, first session being a 1-1, followed by 5 group sessions.
- Exercise Support -12 week exercise programme, currently swimming at St Lukes. Access to digital programme. Next cohort starting January 2025
- 0-4 Years Support - Launching November 2024. 1-1 support.
- Gloji Gym – an online gym portal with recorded and live workouts for all levels of fitness and ability. Available to anyone on our adult programmes.
- Partner programmes : MAN V FAT & Slimming World – 14 week membership passes available for free through Gloji.
Lose Weight. Get Active. Feel Great.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 5
The term is speeding along nicely.
This week has seen lots of "Fairlight" things going on in school.
SECONDARY CATCHMENT AREAS
I am writing to inform you about an engagement exercise around secondary school admission arrangements.
This starts now and runs until 23rd October. All details can be found at our council engagement portal, Your Voice.
yourvoice.brighton-hove.gov.uk/projects/secondary-school-engagement-exercise
I have attached below the main two papers which provides information on the rationale and the models.
The exercise presents three potential different models where Published Admissions Numbers and catchment areas change in different ways. The exercise is intended to help us think as a city about how we can develop a fair and inclusive education system where available school places align more closely with pupil numbers.
If the council is going to formally propose a change in admission arrangements for secondary schools for September 2026, they would be launching a formal consultation process later in November this year. The feedback from this engagement exercise will directly inform that thinking.
It is important that ALL parents give their views as this will impact children in all year groups currently at Fairlight in the future.
When they talk about 2030- that is current Year 1 so don't think this is about Year 6 parents.
PARENTS EVENING
Our upcoming Parents Evenings are planned for Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th October 2024.
The booking informationa and links will be launched on Monday evening.
You will get this via Parent Ping.
The appointments are first come first served so make sure if you have specific times or a date that works better to get straight onto the booking website.
Bookings will close a couple of days before the parents evening to allow the teachers to prepare their notes.
Anyone not booked at this point may be contacted by the school to find out why you won't be attending.
Research shows that children of parents who are involved in their education do much better at school than those who are not. And that gap starts to appear from a very early age.
Parents Evening is the perfect time for you to come and see your child's learning but also to speak to the teacher about what they are learning and what you can do to support this. Also to raise any things you want to know more about.
INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL PHOTOS
THis is booked for Wednesday 9th October- NEXT WEEK.
On this day children MUST ALL wear school uniform to school. No wearing PE kit or own clothes.
Many parents purchase the Individual Photos as a reminder of their childs time in school or as birthday and Christmas presents for relatives.
With this in mind the Photographers are very strict on wanting children to wear the correct school uniform.
They can do wonders with their photo of your child's face and even their hair. But if they are wearing a tshirt with a weeks worth of dinner on it or a random jumper they struggle.
So please try to get the School Uniform correct on this day.
ENGINES IDLING OUTSIDE SCHOOL
If you are dropping children to school could we remind you to turn off your engines if you are still driving one of those "retro style" cars that isn't electric or hybrid.
That includes if you are along the road from school.
PARKING, STOPPING AND SCHOOLS STREETS
Thank you to everyone who is following the rules around our School Streets closure before and after school.
I have been asked by parents and residents about those people who break the rules and do whatever they want e.g. park on the corner on double yellow lines etc.
The enforcement of any road traffic violations is not an issue for the School Streets team but one for the police or traffic enforcement team.
If you see anything you are concerned about then please report issues to them.
ALBION TOURNAMENT
Last Friday the Year 5 and 6 School Football Team took part in an Elite Tournament over at the Brighton and Hove Albion Elite Academy in Lancing.
We were one of the smallest schools present and the only school who does not have a school field or its own football pitch.
Group games were tough against teams from all over Sussex. We lost narrowly and drew with schools from Peacehaven and Crawley and picked up a reasounding win against a West Sussex School.
Our Quarter Final was against a Brighton team- Cottesmore.
A tough game in windy conditions moved to the final few minutes equal.
We tested their goalkeeper on numerous occasions and found his years of goalie training was put to good use.
A break away goal from them with 2 minutes to go meant we had to throw everything at them in the final minutes.
Mr K and Mr Jordan were even considering if they needed to warm up to be subbed in as the team were flagging.
Sadly the game finished 1-0 however we equipped ourselves well and were unlucky.
As you can see the team look very smart in their new kit.
READING AFTERNOON
Thank you to those parents who came along to find out how we teach reading in school and to then spend time in their child's classroom being a reader.
It was great to hear so many positive things from parents.
We will be holding more open afternoons this school year if you missed this one.
Secondary Consultation Presentation 2024
Secondary School Consultation Engagement 2024
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 4
We had a large number of schools from across the South of England come to see our OPAL this week and they were all extremely complimentary about what they saw.
We have some important things to share this week for parents to be part of. Please see the Flu vaccination form below to complete.
Internet Safety Update from Miss Stewart ICT Coordinator
Secondary School Information
A few more updates have been added. Check them out.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/joining-us/leaving-us
Reading Afternoon
See the advert below.
Reading Afternoon
Flu Letter 2024
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 3
A lovely end to a busy week in school. I hope everyone has a great weekend.
SCHOOL STREETS ROAD CLOSURE
Thank you to those parents who have been supportive of this action.
And to those who have had "a moan" please remember that this measure is looking to make it safer for all of the children and adults outside the school gate before and after school. It is also looking to try and cut the pollution outside the school gate and area outside of the school.
If you look closely at the timings in the morning you will be able to safely in the surrounding roads as the Parking Voucher scheme doesn't start until 9am. And therefore if you are parking after this you are already late- and the road closure will have finished already.
The end of the day is slightly more challenging with the blanket timing that the Council introduced around parking. We did oppose this however we are told the majority of residents in Zone V supported this!!!
We are not looking to ask the parking wardens to come and patrol the streets around the school as the problems should be reduced with the introduction of the scheme and therefore this should help.
WE DO HOWEVER NEED YOUR HELP.
Across the City and across the Country the School Streets Projects are often organised and run by parents who organise the closing and opening of the road.
If you think you could offer this time (8.45-9.05 in the morning and 3.00-3.30 in the afternoon) then please speak to Mr Jordan.
I look forward to some help being offered.
RECEPTION PARENTS- ITS TIME TO BE BRAVE
It is that time when we need our Reception parents to be brave bunnies.
The children are settling into class in the morning much quicker and starting their learning much earlier.
We now need the parents to leave earlier and quicker.
And also not to be coming into the corridor or the classrooms as this is now proving disruptive.
Next week we will start asking parents to be braver and say goodbye at the playground. The door. And for the really brave parents on the ramp.
From Monday 30th September (so giving you a whole week to practise being big brave bunnies) we will be stopping all parents from coming into school with the children at the start of the day.
If you need any help with being brave please speak to the staff.
I am sure we will be able to find some stickers for those who are able to manage this.
SCHOOL COUNCIL UPDATE
Just a few more classes need to "declare" their results. I am guessing like the general election a few counts have gone late into the night to ensure everyone gets a vote.
Once this is done the names will be added to the School Council page.
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 2
It has been a busy and exciting week and we have seen everything the weather could throw at us- sunshine, heavy rain and a temperature drop.
UNIFORM UPDATE
It has been good to see so many children returning to school looking smart and ready to learn.
To stop parents wasting money on items that are NOT allowed as part of school uniform please check out the School Uniform.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/aboutus/important-school-information/uniform
I would ask you to look particularly at the Jewellery and Trainers rules and these are ones we will be cracking down on in the coming weeks.
NO INTERNET WEDNESDAY
Next Wednesday- 18th September- we are expecting to be without the Internet for most of the day whilst our system has some major updates.
This will mean we will be without our phone system. Our email system. Our lunch booking system.
In school we have everything ready for this and will be using the old fashioned pen and paper systems.
And we have organised a few "work arounds" should we need to use the internet or need to contact you.
However the biggest thing will be you communicating with us.
Please continue to use Studybugs to communicate absence.
Or you will have to use that "old fashioned" system of coming and talking to us in person.
SCHOOL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
Last chance to write those speeches and get those applications in to your teachers.
ROADS AND PAVEMENTS AROUND THE SCHOOL
You will have seen the continued work to improve the pavements around the school. And particularly the crossings and crossing points. These wider points should give everyone more space and stop people parking on the corners. The drop kerbs should make it easier for those with buggies. And all of the upcoming changes to access should help improve pollution and safety.
The children will also start to come home with information as we tell them more in assemblies.
As you can see from the new signs there will be RESTRICTED VEHICLE ACCESS from 8.15-9.15 and 2.45-3.45.
You might want to start thinking about what that means for you and your journey to school in the coming days before it all starts.
SECONDARY SCHOOL INFORMATION
Lots of updates. Check them out.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/joining-us/leaving-us
NEW RECEPTION CHILDREN FOR SEPTEMBER
Some of our Tours are already nearly full.
If you have friends, family, neighbours or any one you know please tell them to book up soon as we don't want them to miss out.
This years tours appear really popular already so I guess everyone is already telling everyone how amazing we are as a school, shared our amazing OFSTED report, seen Ed Shereen or just seen our children and how kind and polite they are.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/joining-us
BRIGHTON FOOTBALL CARD AND MEMORABILIA SHOW
You may or may not know that Mr Jordan loves his football.
He loves all things about football and is a collector. He collects football cards and stickers as well as shirts and memorabilia.
Below is a show that I am running with some friends and fellow collectors in Brighton in October.
It is our first show and promises to have some interesting things to come and buy from football cards, to shirts, to programmes to other bits of memorabilia.
And not the cards that children get from my office. Some are worth thousands of pounds.
Come and join us by clicking on the link and getting a ticket.
I will be there selling, trading and showing off my football shirt collection as well as a range of football cards and memorabilia. All of which includes lots of Brighton things but also from teams and players from all over the world.
Football Show
WEEKLY UPDATE
AUTUMN TERM
WEEK 1
Welcome back to everyone. I hope you had a lovely summer break.
WELCOME TO OUR NEW FAMILIES
We have 59 new children starting with us in Reception as well as over 25 children starting across the rest of the school. We are very pleased to welcome them to Fairlight and look forward to them becoming members of our school community.
KINDNESS WEEK
The children have this week been undertaking learning as part of Kindness Week.
It has been lovely to see and hear them acting on their learning and working on being even kinder than they already were.
RECEPTION PLACES FOR SEPTEMBER 2025
We have barely started the new Reception children and we have to look ahead already to those joining us next year.
The Joining Us page has been updated that gives parents information on what they need to do and how to book onto one of our Tours.
It also gives them some helpful advice on choosing a school.
The best advert for our school however is the children who attend and the families also.
So if you have friends or neighbours or family who are looking for a school place then please direct them towards the Joining Us page and tell them to book onto the tours as they are already getting filled up.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/joining-us
You may want to read this page so that you know what we are saying about why you should choose Fairlight. This is written based on what parents have told us before about why they have chosen us.
CHILDREN MOVING TO SECONDARY SCHOOL NEXT YEAR
If your child is in Year 6 it is that time of year when you will need to start thinking about which school your children will be moving to next year.
We have before held a meeting to explain the process and give advice however this isn't always needed.
Please read the Leaving Us page and if you are interested in a meeting then click on the link.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/parents-and-carers/joining-us/leaving-us
CHANGES TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE SCHOOL
You will continue to see diggers and road barriers outside school for the rest of this week and next week as the changes to pavements and roads around the school continue as part of the School Streets plan for Fairlight.
These changes will make the area around the school much safer for children and families.
Improved crossing areas with increased space at key crossing points. Traffic calming measures. A new community garden. Increased bike parking.
We will be launching this in assembly in the coming weeks and I will let you once we have a start date when the new measures will start.
BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOUR
As part of the work we continue to do as part of the community we liaise with local groups about community matters. This includes residents in the areas around the school.
One area that continues to be raised is parents waiting outside school and adults and children sitting on people's front steps. Leaning on gates and walls. And children playing in and climbing all over front gardens.
I have mentioned this a couple of times and will again say the same thing.
I am sure you would be unhappy if you came out of your house or flat to find someone using your front garden or front door as a play space or somewhere to stand and have a cigarette.
Please remember to respect our neighbours and neighbourhood.
UPDATES TO THE INSIDE OF THE SCHOOL
Pioneer Summer HAF Scheme was extremely busy in school over the summer holidays.
We also had a large amount of work carried out on the premises. This is mainly to continue the work to install our new ceilings which includes our new lighting and heating systems.
A number of other projects happened in school including the decoration of the front entrance area in school and some room changes.
ATTENDANCE CHANGES AND CODES
Over the Summer the Government and Department for Education have updated a number of documents and systems around schools.
OFSTED has been revamped for example.
One area the Department for Education have updated is around Attendance and Absence Management.
There are very clear links between poor attendance and high absence and range of social needs and problems.
At Fairlight we have always been very good at Attendance and Absence Management and Juliana our Attendance Lead is very experienced at working with families and children to monitor and deal with all things attendance related.
Our Attendance and Absence procedures are being reviewed in the coming weeks and will be updated on our Good Attendance pages as we implement some of the new changes.
If you want to help however there are some simple things you can do:
- Get your child to school on time.
- Don't be late.
- If you are not in school tell us.
- Be honest.
NEW PARENT GOVERNOR WANTED
We are looking for a Parent Governor to join our amazing Governors.
Governors are passionately committed to supporting school leaders in achieving the ambitious shared vision. They understand their statutory duties well. OFSTED 2024
If you feel you could add to our Governing Body then please have a read about what they do and contact the school if you think it could be you.
https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/aboutus/governors
Weekly Updates
Below are the previous updates from this academic year. Please read through to find out what has been happening.
Of course to save room most of the pictures and videos have been removed from old posts.
Weekly Updates Summer Term 2024
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Weekly Updates Spring Term 2024
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Weekly Updates Autumn Term 2023
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