Dear Families,
Lovely to see the sunshine this week – it really feels like spring has arrived!
This Thursday is St George’s Day and on Monday we were joined by Mother Ellen for assembly to explore the story of George and the Dragon and the meaning behind the St George’s flag. The children learned about the history of the flag and how, over time, symbols can be used in different ways. We talked about how something can represent pride, celebration and community – but also how it’s important to ensure that everyone feels welcome and safe. This linked closely to our values of respect and community, with a focus on how we can all play our part in making SSQ a place where everyone belongs.
It’s also Marathon Week at SSQ, linked to the London Marathon this Sunday. Throughout the week, classes will be working together to complete their own ‘marathon’, building up laps across the days. On Friday, children will take part in the SSQ Marathon in the park, complete with medals and a balloon arch! We’re also excited that some of our Year 3 children will be taking part in the Mini London Marathon on Saturday – a fantastic opportunity. Thank you to Kathryn and Melanie for organising this.
On Wednesday, we marked Earth Day in classes. Children learnt about how we can look after our planet and the small actions we can all take to make a difference. The whole school will take part in a ‘no electricity hour’ from 2–3pm, switching off lights and devices to show how we can reduce energy use and still learn effectively. It’s a great way for children to reflect on their own impact and responsibility .
We’re looking forward to a brilliant week ahead!
Matt
On Wednesday 29th April, we will be running an online session for our parents and carers about internet and phone safety for your children. This is open to all of you, and although some of the information may be more relevant to older children, I’m sure you’ll find the session helpful.
Our friends at Spring Community Hub are starting a free two-session programme called “Empower and Thrive”. The sessions will be on Thursday 20th and Thursday 27th May, 9.30-11.30am at their base in 86-88 Vestry Road, SE5 8PQ. Please see the flyer for more information:
And here is some information about other support offered by Spring Community Hub:
Southwark Council are considering offering portable WiFi units for residents living in Temporary Accommodation, where WiFi isn’t already installed. There will be strict guidelines about who will be eligible for this – you must be on a low income and live in Temporary Accommodation provided by Southwark Council (not in accommodation that you rent privately from a landlord) and the council will carry out checks for each family. This accommodation could be in Southwark, or might be out-of-borough. Please let me know if you would be interested in finding out more.
Please keep an eye on this information page outlining information from me about various other issues that I can help with.
FI
NEWS – Dyslexia Awareness Coffee Morning – THURSDAY 23rd April!
Hannah – our wonderful SENDCo – has organised a coffee morning next week for families of children with dyslexia or other literacy difficulties.
This will be a friendly and informal session where you can talk to a specialist team about any concerns or questions you might have.
NEWS – Gymnast to Visit SSq!
Next Friday 1st May, Saffron Severn – a Commonwealth rhythmic gymnast – is going to be coming into school to lead a sponsored fitness circuit with the whole school, followed by a motivational assembly,/and Q&A session. The aim of the event is to inspire the children to be more physically active, but just as importantly, encourage them to discover and pursue their passion in life.
Your child should have a sponsor form. If possible, ask family and friends to sponsor your child. All information is on the sponsor form. Any queries please email Melanie [email protected].
NEWS – Year 3 Go for Gaelic Games!
Year 3 took part in another taster session by local Gaelic Football Club Dulwich Harps last Friday.
The children learnt some new skills – such as hand passes and ‘solos’ leading up to small friendly games. The Dulwich Harps coaches were really impressed with the attitude of the SSq children and hope that some of them will return for their weekly sessions that run on Peckham Rye Common every Saturday morning.
NEWS – Year 4 Ukulele Concert – Friday 8th May
Year 4 will be performing in the Clore Ballroom in the Southbank Centre on Friday 8th May at 2pm. It’s a FREE concert so everyone is invited. Please go along and give them some support if you can.
NEWS – Help Our Playtimes!
We need your help! If you are clearing out your cupboards or garages, please consider donating any of the following items:
- Kitchenware: Old pots, pans, muffin tins, and baking sheets.
- Utensils: Wooden spoons, whisks, spatulas, and ladles.
- Outdoor Play: Buckets, shovels, and sturdy plastic containers.
- We are also looking for: prams, bikes, scooters and skates
We aren't looking for anything fancy—well-loved and "experienced" items are perfect for our children to use in our mud kitchen and dramatic play areas.
Please drop off any items to the school office. Thank you for helping us create a fun, hands-on learning environment!
AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS UPDATE!
The new term of 430pm clubs has started already. Remember you have to sign up your children again as their places don’t automatically roll over from last term.
If you owe money to the school, you unfortunately can’t sign your child up until your debt has been cleared.
Lots of 430pm clubs are full already however, here are spaces available in the following 430pm clubs:
Monday Drama: Y3-Y6
Monday Football: Reception & Y1
Wednesday Multisports Y3 – Y6
Thursday Arts & Craft: Y2-Y6
Friday Football Y4-Y6
If you would like a space, please contact Maxx [email protected]
Here’s to a great term of clubs!
Music Lessons Update
Group lessons will recommence next week. Please ask your child to check the daily timetables that will come around to classes and be displayed. All teachers should be reminding their class about music lessons however we also need the children to show our core value of responsibility to ensure they get to their lessons on time.
COMING SOON!
Well done to all our Compassion Core Value champions from last week!
Attendance from last week!
Well done to Year 4 Floella Class who had 99.5% attendance last week. Keep it up folks!
Please contact us daily if your child is off ill or for another reason.
Email [email protected] or phone 0207 7033049 (option 1)
MENU @SSq
Check out what’s on the menu – this week is week !
Key Dates for the rest of the academic year
Please note the new date for the SSq Festival which will be in collaboration with the Old Kent Road Family Zone’s Marketplace.
These are subject to change and we will endeavour to inform you of this as soon as possible.
Local Bike Clubs from Community Cycleworks – see both fliers below:
We are delighted to invite young ladies to join us at Mentivity House for the Girls Only, Just Be You Community Dance Programme. It’s a high-energy, supportive space where girls can build confidence, learn new moves, and express themselves through dance.
Whether they’re new to dance or looking to sharpen their skills, this is their space to vibe and connect.
- Every Wednesday until 15th July – 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
- Age: 8 years – 16 years (KS2 – KS4)
- Location: Mentivity House, 50 Westmoreland Road, London SE17 2GA
- Want to join? SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE FLYER
- Lost? Find us easily with What3Words: surely.stem.fingernails
What To Expect:
There are two sessions for the dance programme:
- Session 1: (KS2) 8 years – 11 years – 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM
- Session 2: (KS3/KS4) 12 years – 16 years – 6:45 PM – 7:30 PM
Delivered by Dance Instructor Ebony Robinson and supported by Project Support Worker Natrica Green. The programme offers consistent mentorship in a safe and empowering environment.
If you know any girls in KS2 – KS4, don’t let them miss out. Reserve a place for them to join the fun.
Check out all the ongoing Community Notices here.
