23rd July 2010

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Mrs Wearmouth chose Mia, Charlotte, Kai and Chloe from her hoophop club, to go with her to Wardley Primary school to take part in a Radiowave Hoophop Workshop. During the workshop the children made video's, interviewed each other, wrote diaries and heard all about what Radiowaves do. Radiowaves is a facebook site only for schools. They had a fantastic day.

Thank you Radiowaves!!

10 chick eggs arrived in Reception class from Bill Quay Farm. Reception class have been keeping an eye on them in their incubator, checking the water levels and humidity.

The great news is 9 chicks hatched on Wednesday 19th May 2010.

Reception class would like to introduce you to Lola, Bertie, Fred, Sunny, Violet, Joanne, Charlotte, Rolin and Becks!!

Thursday 6th May: School Closed due to election (polling station)
Wednesday 19th May: School photo day
Year 6 Dracula Rock Performance: 27th May
Monday 21st June: Year 6 induction week at Heworth Grange
Wednesday 21st July: Sports Day
Half Term School closes pm Friday 28th May - School opens Monday 7th June
Summer Holidays School closes Friday 23rd July - School opens Tuesday 7th September

Bill Quay School would like to say a great big 'THANK YOU' to everyone for all their support in making the Easter Fun Day and Easter Disco a huge success and help raise over £700.00 towards school funds.

We hope to see you all again next year!

Easter Raffle Prize Winners

Easter Egg (pink 6) Andrew A (Year 4)

Ferrero Rocher (green 481) Rio Porter (Year 2)

Winnie the Pooh (yellow 630) Ana (Year 3)

Styling Tongs (pink 214) Chris Renwick

Kitchen Caddy (green 22) Joe Newton (Reception)

Lakeland Studios Plaque (pink 49) Erin

The TV Quiz Game (green 652) Christian Illingworth (Year 3)

A number of prizes have not been claimed please contact the school office if you have a winning ticket.

Other Prizes

Buried Treasure L81 Luci Francis (Reception)

Name the Sheep Daisy Kaylin Gwyere (Reception)

Children from Recetion through to Year 6 had great fun making their eggs for the hard boiled egg competition.

Take at look at some of our entries!!

On Thursday evening children from our school represented Bill Quay at the Felling Swimming Gala.

We enjoyed a successful evening, well done everyone!

On Monday 15th March 2010 pupils from year 4, 5 and 6 took part in the Gateshead Schools Dance Festival which was held at The Sage. Mrs Bone and Mrs Welsh worked with the group during the spring term in preparation for the evening. The theme for this years festival was 'Carnivals and Festivals from around the World'. The children danced to 'Hot,Hot,Hot' with a Rio Carnival feel, they looked fantastic and their dancing was outstanding.

Well done everyone!!

The children also got the opportunity to dance for the School Cluster Group at Heworth Grange school.

Pupils were treated to a series of African dance workshops as part of our Multi-cultural week this term. Dancers from Africa touring the UK came to school and led workshops, focusing on hip hop, and traditional African dancing. The dancers performed in front of the school, and pupils were also given the opportunity to perform their dances.

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We celebrated living in Gateshead and the North East this week by holding a 'Tyneside Day'. Children took part in lots of different workshops all about Tyneside. Margaret a local resident came into school and talked to the children about what it was like to live along the Tyne in the past. The children learnt about what trade was like along the river and what famous landmarks could be seen. Mrs Kitson sang songs liked to the North East with the children and they got the opportunity to play some musical instruments as they sang. Children took part in a Music Workshop with Mr Treherne where they leant some popular Tyneside songs such as The Blaydon Races and the Lampton Worm.

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Our school took part in the National Galleries 'Take One Picture' project this week. Using Turner's painting of the Fighting Temeraire in the classroom as a starting point and visual stimulus. Art appreciation tutor Pippa Bell and community artist Susan Warlock came into school and worked with the children on the project, producing some fantastic work.

The Fighting Temeraire Art Project

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For those parents who missed the KS1 & KS2 SATs sessions you can download the powerpoint presentations by clicking on the link below .

KS1
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KS2
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Keystage 2 had a very exciting day on Tuesday when they were visited by one of the dance teachers from Teesdale Dance and took part in a Dance Workshop. The teacher focused on different dance styles taken from around the world including Irish, Indian, Russian, Spanish and Brazilian. Providing an inspiring day that was both educational and fun and allowed the children to perform as part of a team.

Children performing different dance styles!

School will be open as usual, however if the weather conditions change this decision will be reviewed at lunchtime.

School will be open as usual today, however if the weather situation changes this decision will be reviewed at lunchtime.

A big thank you to everyone who came to our Christmas Fayre to be part of the fun and help to raise approximately £570 towards our school fund.

The Christmas cake weighed 7lb and the winner was Jack Todd.

Christmas Hamper (Yellow 261) Morgan Evans
Gordon Ramsay Book (signed) (Orange 49) Janita Morrison
Bottle Champagne (Blue 671) Jay Herald
Bottle Whisky (Yellow 256) Morgan Evans
Christmas CD's (Yellow 389) Euan Bradley
Christmas Baubles (White 987) Jack Todd
Milk Tray (Orange 306) Jack Corr
Bottle Wine (Yellow 559) P. Forster
Dairy Box (Yellow 442) E. Fay
Cuddly Teddy (Yellow 551) P. Forster

Football Julian Tomlinson

Thank you all for buying and selling our raffle tickets.

Have a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We would like to say a great big 'Thank You' to all the dancers from Heworth Grange Comprehensive school who came into our school on Wednesday morning and performed a variety of superb dance routines. Our children were truly impressed with the talent you all exuded.

Bill Quay Primary School had a very special visitor who popped into school just before Christmas.

Can you guess who it was?

16th - 20th November 2009

This week the whole school has been looking at Anti Bullying and our whole school assemblies have focused on why people bully and what can be done to stamp out bullying in Bill Quay School. PC Dixon joined one of our assemblies to talk to the children about cyberbullying and Key Stage 2 children took part in cyberbullying workshops with Miss McMullen, from Heworth Grange School.

To celebrate National Book Week we had a visit from Alan Durant 'the author', a book fair and on Friday, we all dressed up as a book character.

Can you spot the different book characters?

On Tuesday 10th November author Alan Durant visited school and worked alongside each year group throughout the day. He told stories, read poems and answered our questions about being an author, which were sometimes rather tricky!!! He also explained where he got his inspiration from when writing his books such as Burger Boy, Flying South and Spider McDrew. He even found time at the end of the day to autograph a selection of his books.

Children enjoying one of Alan's stories.

Our school council invited P.C. Dixon along for a cup of coffee and a chat this week. They asked him lots of questions ranging from How long has he been in the job?, What would he be if he was not a P.C? to How many criminals have you caught?

They had a lovely morning, thank you P.C. Dixon.

Harvest Festival took place in the hall this year, at the end of half term. Children in both Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2 took part singing and performing to the community. Reverend Ranson spoke to pupils about thanking God for food at harvest time. Thanks to all the parents who attended and who donated food, which was given to the residents of Cromwell Court.

To celebrate 'Everybody Writes Day' on Friday 16th October, an alien spaceship landed in the school garden! The day involved children writing newpaper articles about the incident and presenting them in an assembly at the end of the day. The children interviewed PC Dixon about the incident and his job. Clues such as an alien spaceship, a letter from the aliens and footprints were used to stimulate pupils' writing.

The forensic scientist examining the spaceship!

The alien footprint!

Children interviewing PC Dixon about the incident and his job.

A big 'Thank you' for the huge support on Wednesday night at the Autumn Term School Disco - it was fantastic to see so many children and adults attending which helped to raise £330 towards our school funds.

The whole school got the chance to visit Woodgate Park for it's official opening by the Mayor of Gateshead, John Eagle, on Friday 19th June. The Park has received a massive makeover by Gateshead Council as part of a £1.2m scheme to transform 22 parks across the borough by 2011. The children enjoyed an adventure packed afternoon (as did the staff) as they got to grips with some of the parks new play equipment. A pirate ship, a huge climbing tower, a big sand pit and an aerial slide being just a few of the parks new attractions.

Children getting to grips with the new equipment!

(Can you spot Mrs Messenger?)

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In order to boost our school funds on Wednesday 8th July we hosted a Bill Quay's Got Talent Night. Throughout the night we saw outstanding performances from all the acts who took part in fact, the judges were so overwhelmed by the talent they were unable to choose an overall winner and declared everyone a winner! Our special guests 'Girls Aloud' also gave us a fantastic special performance. Well done to everyone who took part, a fun packed evening was definitely had by all.

A Big Thank You to everyone for their support in making the night a great success raising £288 towards our school funds.

Everyone enjoyed taking part in our annual sports day this week, representing different countries around the world. Key Stage 1 children had to complete a circuit of PE activities where they accumulated points as they moved from one activity to another with, America winning overall.

Key Stage 2 children took part in a more traditional sports day based on athletic-type competitions with France hopping their way to victory in the sack race.

Well done everyone!

This year, Michael and Thomas from Year 5, represented the Gateshead area in the Regional finals of the Junior Engineers for Britain Knex Challenge 'The Big Bang Event' at Sunderland University on 1st July 2009. The children were set the challenge of designing a hanger made from Knex to house a super turbo car, a workshop, accommodation for 20 crew and a lifting mechanism to open the hanger door. The model was then judged by Engineers Employers Federation judges and tested on its strength, frame and special features. The overall winners were Santiago Dubov and Shelden Marshall from Roseberry Primary School. The children also got the opportunity to meet Dr John Kilcoyne and Jon Tickle who star in Sky TV's Braniac Show.

Well Done to both Michael and Thomas who made us proud!

This week the whole school has been looking at Anti Bullying in connection with National Anti Bullying Week. On Friday the whole school joined in 'Blue Friday' and came to school wearing blue clothing they also joined PC Dixon in an Aniti Bullying assembly, focusing on why people bully and what can be done to stamp out bullying in Bill Quay School.

PC Dixon talking to the children in assembly.

On Wednesday 24th June 2009 Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 children took part in a NED Assembly to raise self esteem.

N Never give up
E Encourage others
D Do your best

They were entertained during the assembly by Chris who did a yoyo demonstration and motivated the children to try hard if at first they don't succeed.

Ben Slinger three times Bike Trial World Champion and Danny Butler the European Champion and twice British Champion, visited our school. The whole school came out to watch the boys put on a fantastic display, jumping off tables then back onto them! Ben jumped off his trailer (about 7 feet high) straight down to the floor within inches of Danny (Phew!). The children were enthralled, it was an amazing show. Just take a look at the photos below to prove it.

Cloudy skies and summer showers did little to stop the fun we had at our annual Summer Fayre. We had lots of attractions for everyone's to enjoy including stocks, netball shoot, nail painting, decorate a biscuit, cake stall, adopt a teddy, tombola and a raffle amongst many others.
A big thank you is given to everyone who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm to help out on the day and indeed to everyone else who came just to be part of the fun and help to raise approximately £750 towards our school fund.

We hope to see you all again next year!

Summer Raffle Prize Winners

Steven Taylors Football Boots = Callum Bone
Clarins Treatment = Ruby Alderson
Piglet = Lucas Barker
Bottle Whiskey = E. Fay
Milk Tray = Thomas Wallace
Little Red Riding Hood = Kayleigh Forster
Watch and Bracelet = Michael Curry
Martini = Aaron Richardson
Spa Toiletries = Lee Stott
Ariel Colouring Box = Callum Fay

Bob Knox from CE Electric came into school to do a special assembly all about how to stay safe around electricity. The children were all very good at identifying possible hazards and were interested to see how electricity can jump. They looked at possible scenarios and how to be safe, such as if they lose a football inside an electric substation. They should ring the phone number on the gate to arrange for someone to bring it back. His main message was to stay away from electric cables and stay safe.

The children identifying possible hazards.

The children in Key Stage 2 enjoyed taking part in a music workshop all about France. They learnt lots of historical fact about France through singing songs such as "Sur le pont d'Avignon" and Green Sleeves.

The children had great fun dancing to the music.

Please click on the link below to read or download our school profile.

http://Schoolsfinder.direct.gov.uk/3902197/school-profile/

Spring Term Newsletter 2009

Download Newsletter 2009.pub

Children from Recetion through to Year 6 had a fun day on Wednesday making their eggs for the hard boiled egg competition.

The winners in our competition were:

Reception: Elyse Moore
Year 1: Ewan Atkinson
Year 2: Chloe Mann
Year 3/4: Dominik Allen
Year 5: Ellie McGuiness and Jessica Hudson
Year 6: Alice Cassidy

Well done everyone they were fantastic!

Year 6 Entries.

Year 5 Entries.

Year 3/4 Entries.

Year 2 Entries.

Year 1 Entries.

Reception Entries.

Bill Quay School would like to say a great big 'THANK YOU' to everyone for all their support in making the Easter Fun Day a huge success and help raise £530.00 towards school funds. A big thank you also goes out to everyone who came along to our Easter Disco helping to raise a further £268.00.

On Saturday Abbie, Seyi and Tanith attended the Get Green Conference hosted by Gateshead Youth Assembly held at the Gateshead Civic Centre. They listened to speakers talking about being more eco-friendly and took part in surveys. They won eco-buttons to help reduce their carbon footprint.

A fab day was had by all!

To conicide with the screening of our Newsreel Projects for the Year 5 and 6 pupils, we hosted a Fairtrade Coffee Morning. Delicious light refeshments made by Year 6 pupils using Fairtrade products, were served by them throughout the morning. They included cornbeef and potato pie, cakes, egg and bacon pie as well as scones with cream and jam!

Thank you to everyone for making the screening a great sucess!

Newsreel DVDs

Following the successful screening of our Newsreel Projects, copies of the DVDs are now available. If you would like to order a copy, please contact the school office.

Four children from Year 5 represented our school in the heats of an Animation Competition taken place at Heworth CLC this week. Victoria, Seyi, Niamh and James worked together as a team, sharing their ideas to create a storyboard. Then using models, various props, software programme 'I Can Animate' combined with images captured on a digital camera they created their animation. The children thoroughly enjoyed their day at the CLC and produced a brilliant animation 'The Easter Disco' well done everyone! .

Congratulations to Kells Lane Primary School who won the heat and go through to the next round.

Children working together sharing their ideas to create a storyboard.

Niamh and Victoria capturing their images on a digital camera to create their animation.

Seyi and James using various models to create their animation.

It was Red Nose Day on Friday 13th March and everyone at Bill Quay Primary came to school dressed in their pyjamas, slippers and dressing gowns to raise money for Comic Relief.

Red noses and pyjamas!

The week beginning 9th March was Science and Engineering week. Throughout this week parents were invited into their child's class to take part in a science lesson. Each year group investigated something different including; the strength of structures made from spaghetti and marshmallows, coin cleaning, apple tasting and which shape paper plane could fly the greatest distance. The children had great fun taking part in these science lessons while working alongside their parents.

Children and parents taking part in the science lessons.

JP, Aaron , Seyi and Keir sharing ideas on how to make their structure strong out of spaghetti and marshmallows.

Jack is enjoying taking part in the apple tasting.

During National Book Week each class visited Pelaw Library where they were greeted on arrivial by Lilian the Librarian. Lilian had arranged lots of activities for the children to do as well as reading a well known story to them.

Year 2 children enjoying listening to 'The Gruffalo' story.

On Tuesday 10th March 2009 pupils from year 5 and 6 took part in the Gateshead Dance Festival which was held at The Sage. This year's theme was 'Dances Around the World' and we chose South America. Our routine was based on the Tango.

Well done to everyone who took part!

On Thursday 5th March, Ellen Waite, Kayleigh Forster, Callum Doyle, Nathan Hodgson and William Lane represented the Heworth Cluster in the Gateshead / Whickham School Sport Partnership Sportshall Athletics final 2009. This was held at Gateshead Stadium. The girls came 4th overall and the boys were 5th overall.

Well done to all those who took part!

The week beginning 2nd March Bill Quay school celebrated Multi-Cultural week. The focus of this week was 'stories from different cultures'. Each class chose a country to study and a story to focus on. At the end of the week, each class presented their story and associated art work to the rest of the school. Hall displays are currently being changed to celebrate our work.
In addition to this, pupils were given the option to find out about other countries during the afternoon session, when they visited different classes.

For those parents who did not make it to the calculation evening, click on the link below for an information booklet.

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Click on the link below to downloaded the following Policies.

Policy for Sex and Relationships (Educational)
Download file

Healthy Eating Policy
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Emotional Health and Wellbeing Policy
Download file

Drugs Policy
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ICT Policy
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Gifted and Talented Policy

On January 30th Mrs Wearmouth and Victoria Rose were invited to Sustrains, the UK's leading sustainable transport charity, Bike It Action Day. Victoria gave a presentation about Bill Quay schools 'Bike it Club' and also had the opportunity to meet the deputy mayor of Gateshead Joe Michinson and his wife.

Victoria enjoying the day with Joe and his wife.

On Thursday 5th February Chloe Herring and Mrs Wearmouth went to Houghton Le Spring Library as Chloe had been chosen to represent the school in the BBC 'Off by Heart' Poem Competition. Chloe recited the poem 'Matilda' to three judges while the rest of the children waited for their turn. Chloe also had the opportunity to play on the computer while she waited for the judges to make their decision. The judges were really please with the 12 contestants who represented various schools around the North East area. The eventual winner was Georgina who read The Pig. If you want to catch a glimpse of Chloe reciting her poem the programme Off by Heart will be on BBC2 later on in the year.

Well done Chloe we are so proud of you!

Minister Ranson joined us on Friday 16th January for our Spring Term Assembly. After Minister Ranson had spoke to the children they all enjoyed singing along with him as he accompanied them on his guitar.

Children singing along with Minister Ranson.

Children in Key Stage 2 had the opportunity to learn about the different ways in which we communicate during the workshop. The workshop used music and song to help the children recognise how communication has developed over time from smoke signals to mobile phones. The children thoroughly enjoyed taking part and singing songs such as Message in a Bottle and SOS.

Children taking part in the Music Workshop.

A huge 'THANK YOU' to all the countryside volunteers who have been working on our school garden. The Eco-council worked closely with Liz from Bill Quay Farm to design an environment that will be rich in wildlife and match our curriculum. Now work is completed the volunteers have handed over the garden back to school.

The Eco-council and the countryside voluteers.

Bill Quay School would like to say a great big 'THANK YOU' to everyone for all their support in making the Christmas Fayre a huge success and help raise £634.00 towards school funds.

This week our pupils have been performing their Christmas Shows and they have all been a great success.

There are certainly some budding stars in the making!

Reception Class performed 'Born in a Barn' a traditional tale about the birth of baby Jesus with an exciting twist, as it was from the stable animals perspective. The animals began to realise what a privilege it was to share their home with such an important baby. Their acting and singing was tremendous!

Year 1 children performed 'The Bossy King' a charming story about a very bossy king who heard about the new king born in Bethlehem and set out to find him. It was a fantastic performance from all the children!

Year 2 children performed 'Ralph the Reindeer' a light hearted story about how Rudolph had a terrible cold and Ralph stepped in eager to help Santa prepare for Christmas Eve and guide his sleigh. Only Ralph forgot to tell Santa he couldn't actually fly! It was great fun to watch with its witty script, catchy songs and some real 'character acting' from the children.

Year 3/4 children performed 'Rock around Christmas' a modern day Nativity Story where Mary was visited by Gabriel, she then set off with Joseph in an old Skoda heading for Bethlehem. It wasn't long before they had the misfortune of breaking down in the suburbs of the town and Mary must then give birth to her baby in the Zoo Keepers Office! The acting and singing was brilliant!

Year 5 performed 'Mr Humbug sees the Light' the classic story of Mr Humbug (Scrooge), Headteacher at St. Ebenezer's School who hated Christmas and banned the children from having anything to do with it, to the distress of everyone. However, while doing paperwork at his desk in school on Christmas Eve, he was visited by the spirits of School-Christmas-Past, School-Christmas-Present and School-Christmas-Yet-To-Come. They persuaded him to change his ways and embrace the true spirit of a school Christmas. The acting and singing was absolutely fantastic from all of the children.

Year 6 performed 'Dick Whittington and his Cat' a popular and well-loved story about Dick, who was down on his luck and decided to head for the city of London to see if the streets were really paved with gold. The show had catchy songs, lots of laughs and of course a 'happy ever after' ending. Providing a great recipe for a thoroughly entertaining show along with fantastic acting and singing from all of the children.

Children rehearsing for their shows.

All week children from Reception Class through to Year 6 have been involved in making Christmas gifts. They invited their relatives into school where they worked alongside them, producing lots of lovely Christmas gifts to be sold at the Christmas Fayre on Friday 12th December commencing 1.30pm.

The school choir have been out and about in the community this week. On Tuesday they sang in Eldon Square and raised £230.00 for the 'Coping with Cancer' Charity. On Wednesday they visited Pelaw Library to perform some traditional and modern Christmas carols .

The school and Mrs Messenger are very proud of their efforts!

Children having fun performing in Eldon Square.

Children singing in Pelaw Library.

This week the whole school has been looking at Anti Bullying in connection with National Anti Bullying Week. Our whole school assemblies have focused on why people bully and what can be done to stamp out bullying in schools. On Friday in the whole school assembly each class acted out their own anti bullying campaign performance and Mrs Messengers class sang thier own anti bullying song.

Monday 17th November saw the whole school take part in an 'Enterprise Day' in the style of Dragon's Den. Children in Key Stage 2 were organised into mixed age groups with Year 6 pupils taking the lead. Each group designed and created something to sell at the Christmas Fayre. They presented their ideas to 4 dragons who then chose one group to produce a Christmas shaker for the fayre. One of the dragons was Mr Patterson a Governor for maths and business enterprise.

Children sharing ideas on their product.
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Children working together on their Christmas crackers idea.

The winning prototype.

Our school took part in National Road Safety Week last week in conjunction with Brake, the National Road Safety Charity. Throughout the week the whole school took part in a variety of road safety activities including learning a song to help us cross the road safely and listening to PC Dixon who came into school to raise our awareness of the potential dangers when crossing the road.

You can click on the link below to find out more information about Brake, The National Road Safety Charity.

www.brake.org.uk

Harvest Festival took place at Bill Quay Church at the end of half term. Children in both Key Stage 1 and 2 took part singing and performing to the community. Thanks to all the parents who attended and who donated food, which was given to the residents of Cromwell Court.

Reception 'The Little Red Hen'

Year 1 & 2 'Tattybogle'

Key Stage 'Harvest Rock & Roll'

To celebrate 'Everybody Writes Day' on Friday 24th October, a giant came to school!
The day involved children writing police reports, letters back to the giant and newpaper articles. PC Dixon and a photographer spoke to pupils about their jobs and Mr Stott, Mrs Brown and the school cook acted as witnessess. Clues such as a giant key, a huge biscuit and a giant footprint were used to stimulate pupils' writing.

Footprint left by the giant!

The Key the Giant left behind!

Money the Giant dropped.

To coincide with National Poetry Day and National Book Week, all pupils took part in their own book week which had a magic theme! Children listened to, read and wrote the own poems throughout the week, and produced work based on a magical story. All children visited Pelaw library to hear poems, and poetry recital winners from each class were chosen to recite their poems to the school. The book fair visited school and children were given the opportunity to purchase books of their choice, also on the Friday of book week everyone got the chance to dress up as a magical character from a book, it was great fun! Each class will display their work in the classroom or corridors.

On Friday 17th October our school took part in a national event happening throughout October called The Big Draw. This event is to try and encourage children to do more drawing. On Friday every child in school got the chance to design and draw their own super hero. Andrew Adams from year 3 said "I really enjoyed painting my super hero."

On Friday Dr Brendon Renwick came in to do a music workshop with key stage one. The children really enjoyed the music session with Dr Renwick investigating and distinguishing between high and low sounds. children were invited to try a variety of strange instruments, ranging from a carrier bag to a piece of garden hose. Dr Renwick also taught us some action rhymes.

The children look like they are having great fun

This week we had a visit from Operation Christmas Child which we support every year. It gives our children a great opportunity to share gifts that are personal to them with some of the poorest and most marginalised children in the world. All you need to do is follow the instructions in the promotional leaflet and send your shoe box into school with your child if possible, before the end of October.

Children listening to the story about Mungo the bear as he travells from a toy shop to a shoe box heading for Liberia.

In the main school hall, on Friday 12th September 2008, our school held a Heritage Open Day. People from within our local community had the wonderful opportunity to come into school and find out about Bill Quay's journey through time in a special talk by Mary Richardson.

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Welcome to Miss Forster's Class.

The children in Miss Forster's class are intergrated throughout the school into there appropriate year groups.

Keystage 1 and 2 children had the fantastic opportunity this week of meeting Jose Hofstede, author of the children's books Brave Hunter, who came all the way from the Netherlands to visited our school. She talked to the children about writing her books (which took her about 6 hours to write just 3 pages). She also told the children about the characters in her books and showed them her website. Then she read them a chapter from the first Brave Hunter book she wrote. The children thoroughly enjoyed listening to the story and are looking forward to buying her book and finding out what happens next in the story in.

Children reading some of the characters in her books.

Initially cloudy skies did little to cast a shadow over the fun we had at our annual Summer Fayre. We had lots of attractions for everyone’s amusement including stocks, coconut shy, hoop-la, netball shoot, nail painting, decorate a biscuit, cake stall, adopt a teddy, tombola, raffle and a penalty shoot-out game amongst many others.
A big thank you is given to everyone who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm to help out on the day and indeed to everyone else who came just to be part of the fun and help to raise approximately £1,000 towards our school fund.

We hope to see you all again next year!

Children enjoyed taking part in the annual sports day this week, representing different countries around the world. Key Stage 1 children had to complete a circuit of PE activities where they accumulated points as they moved from one activity to another with Portugal, winning overall.
Key Stage 2 children took part in a more traditional sports day based on athletic-type competitions with Brazil hopping their way to victory in the sack race.

Well done everyone!

The Portugal and Brazil teams receiving their medals.

A team of 22 pupils from Years 3, 4, 5 & 6 represented the school at the Gateshead Primary Schools Athletics Festival on Friday 27th June 2008. Events included the cricket ball throw, javlin throw, long jump, sprint, relay, skipping as well as the long distance run.
Well done to all the children that took part it was a fantastic team effort from everyone of which the school is really proud!

Our Fantastic Team!

The school council organised a general knowledge quiz between Bill Quay and our link school Colgate Primary. Six children were chosen to represent their schooI in each team, answering 20 general knowledge questions from our very own quizmaster Mrs Clark. Bill Quay won the first round at Colgate school on 13th June they then went on to win the big re-match held in school on the 24th June.

Well done BIll Quay!

Children taking part in the first round at Colgate school on 13th June.

The big re-match with our very own quizmaster Mrs Clark!

Bill Quay parents and children took part in International Job Week 19th - 24th May where parents were invited into school to talk about the jobs they do. We had a wide range of occupations from Tax Inspector to Model Maker. We also had a visit from the Northumbria Police and the Tyne and Wear Fire Service. Children also had the opportunity to visit thier parents place of work.

Model Maker Mr Tomlinson showing children examples of his work.

During African Week we were visited by Heather and Colin who told us all about the Mercy Ships. A global charity that operates a fleet of hospital ships in developing nations to promote health and well-being. It does this by serving the urgent surgical needs of the people. The Anastasis and the African Mercy ships serve the poor countries in Africa helping to give the people who live there a better quality of life.

Heather telling us all about the Mercy Ships.

Linked to our African week in school Mr Treherne came in to do some African drumming with us. We learnt how to sound out our names on the drums, play some different rhythms together and how to do an African dance.

Mr Treherne showing us different African drums.

We had great fun playing them!

Taffy Thomas, a storyteller from Grasmere, and his wife Chrissy came into school to tell us some stories. Key Stage 2 children spent an hour with him first then it was the turn of Key Stage 1. Taffy told us some riddles and some stories which some people got to join in with. He then showed us his £4,000 ‘Tale Coat’ and ‘Porky Pie Hat’ which was made by Paddy Killer, a textile artist from Gateshead. Each picture on the coat refers to a story in Taffy's repertoire and some of the children were able to choose a story by pointing at a picture. Each class were also left a picture of Taffy in his coat to colour in.
Finally, Taffy reminded us that if speaking was more important than listening we'd have two tongues and only one ear!

Wow Taffy's coat looks amazing!

Key Stage 2 children were visited last week by the 'Nowt As Strange As' music workshop. Each class spent an afternoon with Lily and Dave learning about music from the North East. They listened to 'When the boat comes in' more commonly known as 'fishy on a dishy' and learnt to sing the chorus. Children in Year 5 had a go at step dancing to the Morpeth rant before finding an instrument each to join in playing along to a flute tune from Durham called the Rusty Gully. Year 6 children had the opportunity to accompany Lily and Dave on the penny whistle playing along to the tune of Hot Cross Buns.

There's most definately some budding musicians in the making!

A big thank you to all parents, grandparents, relatives and friends who joined us on Friday for our Science Fair. All our classes enjoyed these extra special science lessons and were involved in some super investigative experiments.

Children enjoying carrying out their investigations.

On Friday 14th March 2008 the whole school took part in Sporting Friday. Children came to school dressed as their favourite sporting personality in order to raise money for Sports Relief.

A big thank you to everyone for their effort and support!

Ewan and William looked brilliant dressed as Lance Armstrong one of the worlds best cyclists and France Klammer former Austrian alpine ski racer.

Year 3, 4, 5 and 6 pupils performed at this year's Gateshead Dance Festival at Gateshead Leisure Centre on Thursday 13th March 2008 as well as children from other schools around Gateshead. Mrs Hilton worked with the group during the spring term in preparation for the evening. Their performance to 'Fever ' by 'Peggy Lee ' was outstanding.

Well done to everyone who took part!

Reception Class Mrs M Lewis

Year 1 Ms D Calder

Year 2/3 Ms C Gaffing

Year 4 Mrs J Ferguson

Year 5 Mrs B Dick

Year 6 Ms V Ender

Children at Bill Quay, along with nearly 300,000 students from around the world, took part in 'World Maths Day' on 5th March 2008. This year World Maths Day broke the record and became the largest ever educational event! It's aim was to raise numeracy standards in a fun and meaningful way through children taken part in a global online maths challenge. The children united to set a world record in answering mental arithmetic questions in four categories: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
At Bill Quay we took the event even further and had a whole day of mathematical fun! All the children enjoyed maths activities that incorporated other areas of the curriculum such as art, outdoor games, design technology and literacy.

Victoria and Lucy just about to take part in the global online maths challenge

Children enjoying maths activities outdoors.

12 Araucana Chicken eggs have arrived in Year 5. They are being incubated and are due to hatch on the 18th March 2008.

Check this space for news on the chicks arrival.

Children from Years 5 & 6 took part in a Skipping and Cheerleading Festival at Gateshead Leisure Centre on 27th February 2008 along with children from other schools around Gateshead. Their performance to 'Jump' by 'Girls Aloud' was absolutely brilliant!

A big cheer to everyone who took part!

Since September Key Stage 2, on an afternoon, have been engaged in a variety of sports activites. They have had the opportunity to work alongside professional coaches in Karate, Tennis and Ball Skills.

Dates for your diary

Wednesday 6th February Year 6 at 9.10am
Wednesday 13th February Year 5
Wednesday 27th February Reception
Wednesday 5th March Year 1
Wednesday 12th March Year 4
Wednesday 19th March Year 2/3

The following after school clubs are taken place this term:

• French
• ICT
• Dance
• Skipping and Cheerleading
• Board Games
• Drama
• Outdoor Games
• Art and Craft

Christopher McKitten from Year 4, was chosen by the school, to attend an exclusive day out in a premier executive box at the Stadium of Light on 13th January 2008, courtesy of The Teacher Suppy Agency North East.

He enjoyed a fun packed day including a pre-match meal, refreshements while watching the Sunderland game, a free match day programme and the chance to meet the Sunderland stars both past and present.

Christopher said he had a fantastic day and to top it all off Sunderland won!

Christopher receiving his tickets for the 'Exclusive Day' from Anthony Kirtley, Buisiness Development Co-ordinator of The Teacher Supply Agency North East.

Bill Quay Primary School had a very special visitor who popped into school just before Christmas.

Can you guess who it was?

Yes your right it was Santa, he came into school with presents for all the children then he set off on his sleigh, with Rudolf and all his reindeers, to deliver presents to children all over the world on Christmas Eve.

This week our pupils have been performing their Christmas Shows and they have all been a great success.

There are certainly some budding stars in the making!

Reception Class performed 'Jesus in a manger' a traditional nativity play, their acting and singing was tremendous.

Year 1 and Year 5 performed 'Santa's on Strike'. In their show we heard from the elves that Santa had gone on strike as he no longer believed that children deserved a visit from him on Christmas Eve. The elves in their desperation to save Christmas showed Santa the comically frantic time families can have leading up to the big day and helped Santa to see children more than doing their bit to ease the pressure.

It was a fantastic performance from all the children!

Year 1

Year 5

Year 2/3 performed 'Hansel and Gretal an adaptation of the popular fairytale. Hansel was imprisoned while Gretal 'force fed' him in order to, as the old witch put it 'fatten him up for the Christmas pot!

It was great fun to watch with its witty script, catchy songs and some real 'character acting' from the children.

Year 4 performed 'The Stars Come Out For Christmas'. In their show we were transported to Holly-wood in Tinsel-town for a Christmas awards ceremony to find out which of our favourite Christmas 'stars' would be presented with the 'Cracker'. The most prestigious award for 'Outstanding Contribution to Christmas'.

The acting and singing was brilliant!

Year 6 performed 'Snow White'. This traditional tale had action, adventure, magical characters, lots of laughs and of course a 'happy ever after' ending. Providing a great recipe for a thoroughly entertaining show along with fantastic acting and singing from all of the children.

Bill Quay School would like to say a great big 'THANK YOU' to everyone for all their support in making the Christmas Fayre a huge success. The amount raised was a staggering £800.

On Wednesday 11th December the children of Bill Quay School were transported to the magical setting of Pantoland by Chaplin's Gold Pantos where, they meet Jack and all his friends. The children cheered their hero Jack, booed the evil Mayor Botchett, sang along to some well known songs and even had the opportunity to dance alongside Barmy Bosworth and Dimples the cow.

All the children enjoyed some good old fashion fun!

Meeting the characters was fun!

Singing along to the songs was brilliant.

Dancing with Barmy Bosworth was great.

The school choir have been entertaining many people throughout the area this week. On Tuesday they sang in Eldon Square to help raise money for the Children's Foundation. They sang a mixture of modern and traditional carols.
On Wednesday they went to Pelaw Library to give some festive music to the coffee morning. Many people commented on the choirs lovely singing .

The school and Mrs Messenger are very proud of their efforts!

Our whole school assembly this week was held by visitors from the Discovery Museum in Newcastle. They explained all about Christmas traditions from the past that have led to the way we celebrate now.
Did you know Father Christmas traditionally wore green?
Coca-cola changed his outfit to match their advertising!

Children taking part in the assembly.

Children from Reception Class through to Year 6 took part in a craft morning on 7th December 2007. They invited their relatives into school where they worked alongside them, making lots of lovely Christmas crafts and gifts that will be sold at the Christmas Fayre on Friday 14th December commencing 1.30pm.

Parents and children in Year 5 working together making beautiful Christmas houses
.

Chilren in Year 2/3 working alongside parents to create fantastic glittering decorations
.

The whole school took part in Fab Food Funhouse Roadshow Day to raise awareness of healthy eating.

In the morning, Key Stage 1 helped to sort food into different food groups using a big food wheel.
Pupils in Key Stage 2, in the afternoon, had to complete physical activity challenges to score points for their team and played games such as 'Play your Cards Right', 'Meal or No Meal' and 'Strike it Lucky'. To score points they needed to answer questions about healthy food choices. The team with the highest score in Gateshead will go on to represent Gateshead at a regional roadshow.

Fingers crossed we make it through!

Key Stage 1 children helping to sort the food into the right food groups.

Keystage 2 having great fun!

On Friday 23rd November Year 6 children took part in 11Million Change Over Day. They worked alongside adults in school for part of the day finding out about their world of work.

Emily and Natasha enjoyed working alongside Janice and Janet in the kitchen.

This week the whole school has been looking at Anti Bullying and our whole school assemblies have focused on why people bully and what can be done to stamp out bullying in Bill Quay School.
On Friday the whole school joined in 'Blue Friday' and came to school wearing blue clothing also, during assembly each class acted out their own anti bullying campaign performance.

Y2/3 acting out their performance.

Mrs Hilton and Mrs Messenger have recently visited Budapest in Hungary, as part of the Comenius Project.
They took a tourist guide of our local area made by Year 6 to give to each country within the project and received a tourist guide about Leon in Spain, Krakow in Poland and Budapest in Hungary.
The teachers were introduced to the Hungarian school system and the similarities and differences to our own. Pupils begin at the age of 6 or 7 and continue until the age of 16. They had a tour of the school, observed English and Music lessons and even took part in their own handcraft lesson where they made Christmas cards. They were made to feel very welcome and had a fabulous time.
The next project meeting will be held in Bill Quay in March were pupils and teachers from each of the countries will be coming to take part in many activities within our school.

Reception Class

Classroom in the Budapest school they visited.

Can you spot the difference between our classrooms and theirs?

On Friday 16th November 2007 the school council organised a non-school uniform day in support of Children in Need. A final cheque was sent to Children In Need for £60.00.
Thanks to everyone for their support.

Bill Quay School Choir had the privilege of singing at the opening of the local Aldi store this week. They performed 3 songs, to the customers delight and had the opportunity to meet the mayor and mayoress of Gateshead and have their photograph taken with them.

A fantastic performance!

Children within Keys Stage 2 who took part in the NUFC coaching sessions, were given the chance to visit St James' Park on a guided tour. They saw the player's luxurious dressing room and showers, Sam Allerdyce's heated seat, the poor quality away team changing facilities and how they compared to the home team's. Children were shocked to discover that corporate boxes cost from £10,000 - £40,000 and that the special lighting for the pitch to make it ultra green costs at least £200,000. What a lot of money!

The poor quality away team changing facilities.

Children were invited to take part in the 'Community Soccer Challenge' this week. This sponsored fund day involved the children taking three penalties into an inflatable goal with an integral radar that recorded the speed of each shot. Each child received a certificate and there were medals for the fastest shot by a boy and girl in each class. Monies raised for the school, will go towards school funds to provide much needed resources.

What a brilliant shot!

Harvest Festival took place at Bill Quay Church at the end of half term. Children in both Key Stage 1 and 2 took part singing and performing to the community. Thanks to all the parents who attended and who donated food, which was given to the residents of Cromwell Court.

Reception Class

Year 1

Year 2/3

Year 2/3

Open Nights

Week commencing Monday 15th October
One of Mrs Hilton's open nights will be after half term on Monday 29th October

Spooky Disco - Friday 2nd November 5.30pm - 7.00pm

Christmas Events
Christmas Art and Craft Morning - Friday 7th December 10.00am
Christmas Fayre - Friday 14th December 1.30pm
Christmas Pantomime
Wednesday 12th December 1.30pm (Jack and the Beanstalk)

Christmas Plays
Reception and Year 1 - Monday 17th December 10.30am
Year 5 and Year 6 - Monday 17th December 1.45pm
Year 2/3 and Year 4 - Tuesday 18th December 1.45pm

Christmas Parties
Reception and Year 1 - Wednesday 19th December 1.20pm
Year 2/3 and 4 - Thursday 20th December 1.20pm
Year 5 and Year 6 - Friday 21st December 1.20pm

Trish and Carol from the Operation Christmas Child appeal, talked to the children about the importance of collecting items for their shoe boxes which, will be delivered to needy children in Romania. Trish gave examples of the sorts of things which the children would appreciate in their shoe boxes.

We would like the boxes to be returned to school during the week after half term.

The children in Reception and Years 1 & 2 enjoyed taking part in sports day this week, representing different countries around the world. They had to complete a circuit of PE activities where they accumulated points as they moved from one activity to another.

The overall winner was Sweden, well done!

This is our yard today.

Plans and meeting are going to be held shortly and this could be our yard in the future.

A team of 20 pupils from Years 3, 4, 5 & 6 represented the school at the biggest ever Gateshead Primary Schools Athletics Festival. A massive 47 schools took part and events included the cricket ball throw, javlin. long jump, sprints and skipping as well as the long distance run!! The children had great success, with many of the pupils getting through to the semi finals and finals. Alice Cassidy (sprint), Libby Sinclair (sprint) and Sarah Morris (1800m) were all medal winners in their events, well done girls!!!
A fantastic team effort from everyone of which the school is really proud.

KS2 took part in a Record Breaking Walking Bus. We walked from school, along the River Tyne to Hebburn Quay. Our community policeman P.C Dixon accompanied the 'bus' and Gateshead Road Safety Officer Maureen Laverick, adjudicated for the Guiness Book of Records breaking attempt.

Thursday14th June 2007 Year 4 - 9.00am
Wednesday 20th June 2007 Year Reception - 9.00am
Thursday 28th June 2007 Year 1/2 - 9.00am
Thursday 5th July 2007 Year 3 - 9.00am
Thursday 12th July 2007 Year 5 - 9.00am
Thursday 19th July 2007 Year 6 Leavers Assembly - 2.00pm

Year 1 through to Year 6, enjoyed a visit by the Theatre of Today Company who performed a show called 'Hansel and Gretel.' The very well known tale of a little girl and boy who came across a house made of candy was very entertaining. It also had a moral that you should never talk to strangers, don't be too greedy in what you want and always listen to a responsible adult.

On Thursday 19th April 2007 Years 4, 5 and 6 took part in the 'Young Engineers Project'. Working in pairs they designed and made various structures using K-NEX such as Cam, vehicles and fairground rides. The children's models were then judged and 2 pupils from each year were awarded a prize.

Year 4 working towards the challange.

Year 4 Winners!!

Year 5 working alongside Mr Brown from the the Young Engineers Project.

Year 5 Winners!

Year 6 working in pairs sharing their ideas.

On Thursday evening 14 children from our school represented Bill Quay at the Felling Swimming Gala. We enjoyed a successful evening, our girls won the shield, coming 1st place and overall we came second.

Year 3, 4, 5 and 6 pupils performed at this year's Gateshead Dance Festival on Thursday 15th March. Pupils performed 2 dances titled 'Planet Earth and 'Nightmare'. Mrs Messenger and Mrs Hilton worked with the groups during the spring term in preparation for the evening. Staff received lots of praise for both displays.

Nightmare

Planet Earth

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Our multicultural project culminated in an assembly at the end of the week. Each class took it in turn to present their work about countries they studied. This included music, singing and dancing.

Reception

Year 1/2

Year 3

Year 4/5

Year 5/6

Helping you child with SATS.

KS1 Presentation
Download file

KS2 Presentation slides1 to 10
Download file

KS2 Presentation slides 11 to 21
Download file

Year 4, 5 and 6 are currently studying the Aztecs / Mexico. As Part of the topic, they visited Chiquitos restaurant to sample a range of traditional Mexican food.

Musicians played a range of music from countries around the world including China, Brazil, Trinidad and India. The children thoroughly enjoyed singing along and playing on a range of percussion instruments.

Bill Quay Primary School had a very special visitor just before Christmas. Santa popped in to see all the children and gave them a present then he set off on his sleigh, with Rudolf and all his reindeers, to deliver presents on Christmas Eve.

The Christmas Choir have been out and about in the community this month singing their hearts out and impressing the public with their sweet melodic voices. They sang a variety of carols at Pelaw library, Cromwell Court and Gateshead Indoor Market.

BILL QUAY PRIMARY SCHOOL - After School Clubs

The following after-school clubs will take place next term from 3.10 – 4.10 unless otherwise stated.

Tuesday Dance 29th Jan - Easter Rec/Y1 Mrs Hall
Tuesday Technology 29th Jan - Easter Y3/Y4 Mrs Bone
Wednesday ICT 29th Jan - Easter Y1/2 Mrs Welsh
Wednesday Dance 19th Jan - 9th March Y3/Y4 Mrs Messenger
Thursday Chess 1st Feb - Easter Y5/Y6 Mr Jones
Friday Dance 19th Jan - 9th March Y5/Y6 Mrs Hilton

There is a charge (as shown) for the clubs detailed below.

Monday Hockey 29th Jan - Easter Y4 - Y6 Hockey Coach
£12 for 8 weeks

Thursday 3.10 – 4.40 Cookery 18th Jan - 8th March KS1 R - Y2
Gateshead Services £25 for 6 weeks (Includes all ingredients)

The following clubs are for Early Risers and are from 7.50am to 8.50am

Tuesday Hip Hop Dancing 16th Jan - 13th Feb KS2 Y3 - Y6 Dance Teacher
£10 for 5 weeks

Tuesday Hip Hop Dancing 27th Feb - 27th March KS1 R - 2 Dance Teacher
£10 for 5 weeks

Bill Quay School would like to say a great big 'THANK YOU' to everyone for all their support in making the Christmas Fayre a huge success. The amount raised was a staggering £800.

We were treated to the rip-roaring tale of Treasure Island. Long John Silver, the nasty pirate, was disguised as the one legged sailor keen to get his hands on the buried treasure. Children laughed, sang, cheered and booed their way through in true panto style.

"It was a little bit scary, funny, full of laughter and everyone enjoyed it" Chloe Munro Year 3.

A reminder to parents that school is closed on Monday 8th January 2007 for a staff training day. Pupils will begin the new term on Tuesday 9th January 2007.
Enjoy your Chistmas Holidays!

Key Stage 1 play 'Mend the Manger' was a huge success. Reception pupils joined Mrs Bone's class to produce a play worthy of the theatre!

Key Stage 2 pupils produced 2 plays, 'Pantomime Pandemonium' (Y3 &Y4) and 'Mr Humbug Sees The Light' (Y5 &Y6). Both were performed Brilliantly!

Our school rugby team took part in the Gateshead School Finals Rugby Tournament on Sundary 17th December at the Newcastle Falcons ground. After playing 4 matches, our team went through to the final and played during the interval of the Falcons match against french team Montuban. It was a very shot match and Bill Quay lost to Fellside Primary school. but our team brought back a runners-up trophy. Well Done Bill Quay!

This week 4 Year 5\6 pupils competed against pupils from 4 other neighbouring schools in a maths quiz. Congratulations to Matthew Spry, Ciaran Grant, Emma Hudson and Daniel Huddart who won!

Year 5 and Year 6 pupils spent a day out at the races this week, where they focused on maths activities. This involved measuring the parade ring, weighing themselves and the jockey’s kit and counting imperial and metric measures. Pupils were astounded to find out that the average weight of a flat jockey is 8 stone 5lbs.

On Friday 17th November 2006, Bill Quay School children were quite unrecognisable. Not a smart blue and gold uniform was to be seen. Children wore brightly coloured costumes, and many came to school in pyjamas! Fortunately this was all for a good cause as the school council had organised a non-school uniform/wacky hair day in support of Children in Need. A bun sale added to proceeds raised, a final cheque was sent to Children In Need for £123.00. A great day was had by all!

This week the whole school has been looking at Anti Bullying and our slogan has been "Bullying " See it. Get help. Stop it.
Our whole school assemblies have focused on why people bully and what can be done to stamp out bullying in Bill Quay School. On Friday 24th November linked to Anti Bullying Week, dog tags and chains will be on sale in school at a cost of £1.00, Anti Bullying badges will also be available at a cost of 50p.

A date for the Carol Service has now been set for 14th December 2006 commencing at 2pm.

Clarins Coffee Afternoon
Monday 4th December 2006 commencing 2.00pm

Christmas Performances

Panto 'Treasure Island' Friday 15th December 2006 commencing 1.15pm
Donations for children £1.00, Aduts tickets available for £1.50

Key Stage 1 (Infant Show) Monday 18th December 2006 commencing 2.00pm

Key Stage 2 (Junior Show) Tuesday 19th December 2006 commencing 1.30pm

Party Dates

Year 3 and Year 4 Wednesday 20th December 2006

Reception and Year 1/2 Thursday 21st December 2006

Year 5 and Year 6 Friday 22nd December 2006

There will be a 'Christmas Carol Service' dates to be confirmed

Year 3 stepped back in time recently, with a visit on Tuesday 17th October 2006 to the Stephenson Railway museum. We looked at the different types of trains and learned about George Stephenson. We investigated which shape of wheel was best for movement on the tracks and how coal was pulled up hill using a pulley system. As part of a Victorian workshop, pupils were able to dress up as different types of Victorian children and learned about the different lives they led. We also investigated the contents of Victorian suitcases to discover who they belonged to. What a fun day we all had!

'GOOD LUCK' to Sarah Morris Year 6 as she heads off to Sweden to take part in a SO2 Swimteam Tournament. She will be representing South Tyneside Swimteam who are the only English team taken part in the tournament. She was chosen by her swiimming club as she was the fastest swimmer in her squad.

'CONGRATULATIONS' to Bill Quay Tag Rugby Team for coming joint first on Wednesday 17th October 2006 after taking part in a Gateshead Tag Rugby Tournament. The team will play again during the half time interval of the Newcastle Faclons home game on December 17th 2006.

Matthew Craig Y6, Ryan Corr Y5, Ciaran Grant Y6, Lewis Gray Y6, James Lone Y6, Kay Noble Y6, Libby Sinclair Y6, Niamh Storey Y6, Aaron Whitehouse Y5 and Jenny Young Y6.

A Harvest Festival took place at Bill Quay Church at the end of half term. Children in both key stages took part singing and performing to the community. Reverend Bainbridge spoke to pupils about thanking God for food at harvest time. Parents donated food which was given to the residents of Cromwell Court.

'Watt on Earth Roadshow' visited Key Stage 1 on Thursday 19 October 2006. The children watched the actors showing them how to be kind to their friends. The actors asked for some helpers and some of the children wore sad, happy and worried masks. The rest of the children had to guess how the children wearing the masks were feeling. Mrs Rose and Mrs Surtees were acting assistants too!

This week the children in Mrs Jones, Mrs Hilton and Mrs Halls class visited Newcastle Quayside as part of thier 'Life along the Tyne' project. They were met by Anthea Lang who gave them a guided tour along the Quayside. Later they visited The Discovery Museum to learn about the history of Shipbuilding in our Local area.

Year 1/2 visited Brandling School to see a theatre production called 'The Tree of Life'. It was all about a tortoise called Tracky. The children enjoyed joining in with the songs and dancing and were given a CD of the music to use back in school.

During the workshop the children were looking at Music and Moods using the elements of music to investigate how a composer conveys various moods and feelings in music. They were also looking at the way music affects us physically and psychologically, and how music may be used for our own well being. The workshop members introduced themselves by representing different moods on their instruments and the children had a fantastic time joining in both playing and singing to songs such as 'I'm in the Mood', 'Keep on the Sunny Side' and 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' a post punk Nirvana number featuring some harsh trumpet sounds.

Welcome to Year 5! We are a small class of 19 pupils working with Mrs Hilton on a morning, when we do maths, literacy and science. Our topic this term is Earth in Space and we are making a huge rocket to hang in our class! We will publish a photograph of it as soon as it's complete!