Chief Executive Officer
David Whitehead
Borden C of E Primary School
Bredgar C of E Primary School
Dymchurch Primary School
Lydd Primary School
Lynsted & Norton Primary School
Milstead & Frinsted C of E Primary School
Minterne Junior School
The Oaks Infant School
Petham Primary School
Selling C of E Primary School
Registered
c/o Lynsted & Norton Primary School
Lynsted Lane
Sittingbourne
Kent
ME9 0RL
Company
Registered
Dear Families,
Welcome to the first edition of our Family magazine! We are excited to bring you this new publication, which will be shared with you three times a year. Our aim is to keep you informed, inspired, and connected with everything happening across our family of 10 primary schools within Our Community Multi Academy Trust (OCMAT)
In each edition, you can expect Trust-wide updates, news from individual schools, and features on the wonderful achievements of our pupils and staff We'll also be sharing stories on how our schools are making an impact in the community, important recruitment news, a roundup from our estates team, a parent zone and any press releases.
We believe in the power of collaboration and communication, and this magazine is just one of the many ways we want to keep our community engaged. We hope it will be a source of pride and connection for all our families.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us and for your continued support
Warm regards
Dear Families,
I am delighted to welcome you to the very first edition of our OCMAT Family Magazine! This publication is designed to bring us all closer together by sharing news and updates from across our Trust. You’ll find stories and highlights from all our schools, offering a glimpse into the incredible work happening in our classrooms and communities
As we step into the festive season, we’ve sprinkled in a touch of Christmas cheer This year, my annual Christmas story a highlight I always look forward to sharing will be available on our Our Lives News website for families to enjoy before Christmas
This magazine is for you, our OCMAT family, so we’d love to hear your thoughts! Let us know what you’ve enjoyed reading in this edition, and feel free to share your ideas for future editions of our OCMAT Family magazine Your feedback will help us make this publication truly reflective of our vibrant and supportive community
I wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas I hope you enjoy this first edition of the OCMAT Family Magazine, and I look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Best wishes for a very Merry Christmas
David Whitehead
Emma Rannard
Georgie Ingram
Jo Heath
Jenny Ross
Chris Brundle
Catherine McLaughlin
Hannah Smith
Kirsty Warner
Jenny Wynn
James Higgins
Richard Paez
At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to giving each child in our Trust the best possible start to their education We believe that by working together as a community of parents, staff, and pupils, we can create an environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential. This magazine is just one of the ways we invite you to join us on this journey, celebrating the milestones we achieve together and keeping you informed about how we are continuously striving to improve and innovate in our schools If you’re interested in becoming part of our team and working in one of our schools or within the Trust, we would love to hear from you. All vacancies are advertised on the Kent Teach website, or you can register your interest here Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our pupils.
Our PTFAs have been dedicated this season to enhancing our schools and creating unforgettable experiences for our pupils through remarkable fundraising efforts At Milstead & Frinsted CE Primary, a sponsored mini-marathon at the local cricket ground raised an impressive £1,436.40 for new outdoor equipment, offering pupils more opportunities to enjoy and engage with nature Meanwhile, Minterne Junior School’s FPTA brought the magic of a circus to their pupils, along with a delightful end-of-term cake treat memorable events that brought smiles to young faces.
To mark the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, Selling CE Primary’s PTFA organised a sponsored walk to Chatham’s Historic Dockyard, raising a remarkable £7,463 towards the purchase of a new minibus, a valuable resource for future school activities and trips
In addition, Petham Primary School’s PTFA generously donated £5,000 to support the development of a new school library, with an additional £500 raised at their recent Halloween events. The Friends of Lynsted have been busy preparing for the festive season They are organising a Christmas disco, which promises to be a fun-filled event for all the pupils Friends of Dymchurch have raised significant funds and recently spent £10,000 on new interactive TVs for every classroom, enhancing learning for their pupils.
These efforts underscore the vital role our PTFAs play in enriching school life, providing resources, and strengthening our community bonds We extend our sincere gratitude to all our PTFA members and volunteers for their commitment and passion in making a difference for our pupils and schools. If you’re interested in joining and making a difference, please speak to your school office
Interested in making a meaningful impact in our schools? Becoming a school governor is a rewarding way to support education and help shape the future for our pupils To learn more, please reach out to our Clerk to Governors, Julie Duplock, at clerk@ocmatorguk
Watch the latest episode here!
Our Lives News is a unique online news programme produced by the pupils across our Trust schools. New reports will appear throughout the school year and each will include news and features from across our schools
Having pupils record their school news as a video is an excellent tool for many reasons: Enhances Communication Skills Boosts Confidence
Encourages Creativity Promotes Collaboration
Creates a Sense of Ownership and Pride
This initiative not only enriches the pupils’ educational experience, but also aligns with preparing them for the future, where digital literacy and communication skills are key
Look out for Mr Whitehead’s upcoming festive Annual Christmas Story and message for the children –coming to Our Lives News very, very soon! wwwourlivestvcouk/ocmat/
"Atthegoingdownofthesunandinthemorning,wewillrememberthem."
Follow the links to read the full stories
Borden CE Primary School get a visit from BBCs Gladiator ‘Steel’ and Pudsey
Dymchurch Primary School celebrate after Ofsted Inspection
Page 30/31 - Dymchurch Primary School celebrate remarkable turnaround in Ofsted report
Borden CE Primary School celebrates Ofsted report
"Ifeelsuperproudandexcitedto havedonewhatwedid.Ithought thatatinyboylikemewouldn't makemuchdifference,butactually, Ididloads!Ienjoyedreadinga specificbookcalled'Dragon's Wood'-Ireadit8times!Ilikedthat youcouldreadbooksagainand again Ireadthemwithmyfamily"
James
Pupils from all 10 schools in our Trust took part in the summer National Read-Aloud Challenge in partnership with Fonetti It was an exciting summer, with everyone eagerly watching the leaderboard as our schools competed for the top spots both nationally and within the Trust. While we believe every participant is a winner, we were delighted to have David Whitehead present each school with a certificate of participation and a National Book Token to spend on books for shared reading during assembly. Special congratulations go to our two top scoring schools, The Oaks Infant School and Bredgar CE Primary School, who were awarded engraved shields to proudly display until next summer, when the challenge returns! A huge thank you to every child who participated and to all the families who support reading for pleasure
"Ifelthappyaboutthechallengeand alsoamazedbyhowmanybooksI read Ilikeddoingitbecauseitwason myiPad."Lily
"Ilovedthereadingchallenge.My mumprintedoutallthecertificatesfor me!"Lacie
"Winningthecompetitionforsmall schoolsmademefeelreallyhappy.I keptontryingtobeatmysister,but shereadsloads!"Aubrey
"Ireallylovedthecompetition.Ilove readingsoIwantedtoreadasmuch asIcould!"Aspen
"Reading for pleasure unlocks a child’s imagination, builds confidence, and fosters skills that last a lifetime."
OCMAT achieved special recognition as a Multi Academy Trust (MAT) thanks to the incredible reading efforts of our children! This accolade highlights the dedication and enthusiasm of our pupils, who have embraced a love of reading across all our schools. Their commitment to improving literacy skills and engaging with books has not only enriched their learning experiences but also brought pride to the entire Trust This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our children, staff, and families in fostering a culture of reading that supports academic success and personal growth.
Looking ahead, the National Read Aloud Challenge will take place annually, offering a chance for everyone to shine once again Let’s see which schools will be next to have their names engraved on the shields!
Wewerethrilledtoreceivestunningdesignsfromyourchildreninthisyear'sDesignaChristmasCard Competition TheentrieswerejudgedinearlyDecemberbyDavidWhitehead,CEOofOCMAT,whofounditso incrediblyhardtopickthewinnersthatwehavetworunners-upaswell!Thewinnersandrunnersup ifthey haven’talready willbereceivingasweettreatandacertificate.Thesedesignsarebeingproudlyfeaturedonthis year'sOCMATChristmascards.Ahugethankyoutoallthechildrenfortheirwonderfulandcreativeentries;we’ve lovedseeingthemall!EveryonewhoenteredwillreceiveaCertificateofParticipation
Category1:YearRtoYear2 WinningdesignbyJackson,DymchurchPrimarySchool RunnerUp:Katerina,TheOaksInfantSchool
Category2:Year3toYear6
WinningdesignbyJessica,MinterneJuniorSchool
RunnerUp:Nathan,LyddPrimarySchool
Category3:ChildofaMemberofStaff
All children who took part have received a Certificate of Participation!
Did you know that your child might be eligible for free school meals (FSM)? Applying is quick, easy, and completely confidential
Free school meals provide more than just a hot, nutritious meal each day They also unlock additional funding for your child’s school through the Pupil Premium, which is used to support teaching and enrichment activities. By applying, you’re not just helping your family but also giving your school vital resources to benefit all pupils
You could be eligible if you receive certain benefits, such as: Universal Credit (if your household income is below the threshold) Income Support
Child Tax Credit (with no Working Tax Credit and an income below the threshold) To check the full eligibility criteria and apply, visit: �� wwwgovuk/apply-free-school-meals
All children in these year groups automatically receive Universal Infant Free School Meals, but if you meet the FSM criteria, registering your child still ensures their school receives Pupil Premium funding.
The process is simple and only takes a few minutes online Your application will be handled discreetly, and if eligible, your child will enjoy healthy, delicious meals while you enjoy peace of mind.
Apply today and make a difference for your child and their school community!
Helping primary-aged children with homework can set the stage for a positive learning experience Here are some practical tips to support your child, including those with special educational needs (SEN):
1. Set Up a Homework Routine
Keep it consistent: Choose a regular time each day for homework so children know when to get started
Create a cosy homework spot: A comfortable, quiet space without too many distractions helps children focus
Break it down: For younger children, homework can be tiring! Break tasks into smaller steps with short breaks in between to keep them interested
2 Use Visual Reminders
For all children: Try a colourful checklist or visual chart so your child can see what they need to do and tick it off as they go
For Children with SEN: A visual schedule with pictures or symbols can help children stay on track and feel more in control. These can be removed on completion, which will motivate and encourage children.
3. Make Homework Fun with Goals and Rewards
Set small goals: Turn homework time into a game by setting little goals, like finishing five math problems before taking a short break
Celebrate effort: Give a thumbs-up, a sticker, or a few minutes of free play when they reach a goal. Positive feedback can be a great motivator!
4 Give Short Movement Breaks
Stretch and move: Short breaks between tasks can make a big difference. Encourage a quick stretch or a little walk around the room
Sensory breaks for children with SEN: Simple sensory activities like playing with a stress ball or doing a breathing exercise can help them reset. Try not to force children to complete work if they are dysregulated or finding the work overwhelming. You can always revisit another time.
5 Encourage Them to Try on Their Own (with a little help)
Be their guide, not their answer key: Encourage children to try things out by themselves before stepping in to help. This builds confidence and problem-solving skills.
Start with examples: Show how to do a problem together first Then let them try one on their own as they feel more comfortable
6. Stay Positive and Patient
Celebrate progress, no matter how small: Every effort counts! Praise their hard work and remind them it’s okay to make mistakes
Stay patient: Some children need more time to finish tasks. Let them go at their own pace to help build confidence and a love for learning.
By making homework time relaxed, positive, and fun, you’re helping your child build great learning habits for life
If there is something you would like to see featured in the next Parent Zone, email marketing@ocmatorguk
What an incredible autumn term Borden CE Primary School! From the joy of celebrating their Harvest Festival to receiving an Ofsted Inspection on the same day as Gladiator ‘Steel’ and Pudsey visited, this has truly been two terms to remember!
The pupils have been busy making a positive impact, whether it’s through litter picking in the local area, creating Christmas cards for the community, or taking part in a moving Armistice Day service at the church They’ve also enjoyed wonderful collaborations with Borden Pre-School, including inviting their children to Forest School and having the Year 6 pupils share stories with them
Exciting changes have taken place around school and the local area, too! The school council helped choose a fantastic new accessible roundabout for the park, and they’ve added vibrant new playground markings, signs and a reflection area to enhance outdoor play It’s been a busy and inspiring Term 1 and 2!
The children have been exploring The Colour Monster and were set the exciting challenge of designing a new front cover for the book Congratulations to Ruby in Year 6, whose fantastic design was chosen as the winner! Well done, Ruby!
Everyone is delighted with the wonderful new bell tents, kindly gifted by Tina from Alpaca Lodge Glamping and Borden Bees Glamping Pupils visited Tina to say thank you and meet her alpaca These tents will enhance outdoor learning and play, providing a versatile space to enjoy year-round
Some of the children enjoyed a trip to Sittingbourne Library to listen to a story, while others explored a Roman museum! Additionally, the children had the exciting opportunity to name a gritter for FM Conway!
The past two terms at Bredgar CE Primary School have been filled with inspiring activities, showcasing the pupils’ enthusiasm and the school’s Christian values of Community, Courage, and Compassion
Forest School sessions offered rich opportunities to connect with nature and develop new skills,
while older pupils embraced the challenge of Bikeability, enhancing their cycling confidence and safety. Worship at Bredgar Church provided cherished moments of reflection and connection The children’s generosity has been equally inspiring They raised £115 for Bredgar Church during the Harvest Festival and £237 for Children in Need, while marking Remembrance Day with a thoughtful service honouring those who have served. It has been a busy and rewarding time, and Bredgar CE Primary couldn’t be prouder of the pupils for living out their values and positively impacting their community.
Congratulations to the brilliant Bredgar CE Primary School football team on their thrilling 3-2 victory at Sheppey United FC! The team’s skill and teamwork shone through, earning them well-deserved gold medals – a fantastic achievement! Thank you to one of the team members for the match write-up below.
Another football hero, Bertie, represented AFC Minster in a London tournament at Millwall, competing against top London teams His team emerged victorious – a proud moment for Bertie and Bredgar!
For Children in Need, pupils spent an exciting day rotating through activities in their house groups: Orchard, Swanton, Bexon, and Primrose. They ran laps of the playground to complete a mile (20 laps equal 1 mile!), practiced Pudsey-themed mindfulness, created artwork, and made Zoetropes Stickers tallied their laps, adding to the fun and accomplishment of the day!
The autumn term at Dymchurch Primary School has been filled with a range of enriching experiences for the children The school marked Remembrance Day with a special assembly, where veterans visited to share their personal stories, helping to bring the significance of the day to life
The school was also gifted a beautiful quilted wall hanging by The Royal British Legion, which tells the story of World War and serves as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by so many In addition to these meaningful moments, the children participated in Anti-Bullying Week with Odd Socks Day, joined in the fun of Children in Need, and enjoyed a visit from KiC Theatre, who provided engaging workshops for all. A Road Safety Workshop helped teach vital skills, while Mental Health Awareness Week promoted wellbeing across the school The Harvest Festival was another highlight, celebrating the season with the local community Trips to Dover Castle and the beach provided exciting learning opportunities, and the school recently underwent an Ofsted inspection, which reflected the school’s dedication to providing a high-quality education for all
Year 2 have done an amazing job with their non-chronological reports on castles! They worked hard to produce their neatest handwriting Alongside their reports, they have also been busy creating a stunning castle collage, using textured paper they made themselves with paint We’re so proud of their efforts!
Year 2 and Year 6 had an exciting trip to Dover Castle, where they explored the incredible ruins. Year 2 ventured through the medieval tunnels and learned about how castles were attacked during a siege, while Year 6 discovered the important role Dover Castle played during World War II. It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to bring their history lessons to life!
Year 3 had a wonderful time exploring the school grounds today, collecting beautiful leaves to create imprinted clay plates in their DT lesson The results are looking fantastic!
Lydd Primary School has had an eventful and successful autumn, marked by several exciting achievements The school was proudly awarded the Nurture UK Award, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the entire community in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all pup
This term they rolled out their new House system, which has excited the whole school! The houses Kindness, Aspiration, Compassion, Resilience, and Independence are all about building community and encouraging teamwork among the pupils. It’s wonderful to see everyone embracing these values. The house that wins each term will be able to wear their own clothes on the last day of term!
Author Lucy Strange officially opened Lydd Primary School's new library, a space now complete with carefully added finishing touches that make it inviting and inspiring for young readers The event was a memorable occasion, with pupils excited to explore the new library and meet the author. Many children were thrilled to purchase signed copies of Lucy's books, making the day even more special
Owls Class had a lovely visit to Ducklings for some buddy reading The children enjoyed sharing books together, creating a fun and supportive reading experience for all
History Day was a fantastic success, with pupils dressing up in some incredible costumes that brought history to life! It was wonderful to see everyone embracing the theme and showcasing their creativity while learning about the past in a fun and engaging way
Thank you to everyone who attended our reading workshop! Your participation and enthusiasm were greatly appreciated, and we hope you found the session valuable A special thanks also to those who volunteered to help with reading in our school – your support will make a real difference to the children’s learning and development
This autumn has been an exciting time at Lynsted & Norton Primary School, with lots of wonderful developments and memorable moments for our pupils and families Thanks to a generous donation from the Norton Trust, we’ve been able to enhance our outdoor facilities significantly Highlights include the construction of an outdoor classroom, which was officially opened with a delightful
garden picnic for our families We were thrilled to welcome Sue and Miles from the Norton Trust for the occasion Other additions include planters, a compost area, new benches for the playground, a cosy reading area, and even a treehouse for our youngest children These new facilities have already brought so much joy and learning to our school community We continue to cherish our close connection with Lynsted Church, where we celebrated our Harvest Assembly this term. Pupils reflected on the meaning of Harvest and sang songs, including the lively “Dingle Dangle Scarecrow.”
Generous donations of food from our families were passed on to Faversham Foodbank to support local families in need, demonstrating the caring spirit of our school
This term also marked the launch of our new Breakfast Club. The club now has regular attendees who enjoy a healthy start to their day, followed by fun activities like games, toys, and reading This initiative has been a great help to parents, allowing them to begin their workday a little earlier. Additionally, our Friday Tuck Shop has been a hit, raising funds for the school and bringing the community together
In the classroom, our pupils have been exploring music by learning the ukulele and recorder Our older children proudly showcased their ukulele skills during an assembly. Meanwhile, our school choir has been hard at work rehearsing festive songs for the Christmas Jamboree at Highsted School later this month
A unique highlight for Ducklings Class was a visit from one of our families who brought in their chickens The children were delighted to stroke and hold the chickens while learning about how they are cared for. Their curiosity and excitement were wonderful to see
With so many enriching activities and new additions, it’s been a fantastic start to the school year at Lynsted & Norton Primary School!
Over the last two terms, Milstead & Frinsted CE Primary School has been filled with exciting activities and meaningful experiences. The school marked Remembrance Day with a special service at Milstead Church, led by our very own Clive Jacobs, making it an unforgettable occasion for the children and the local community. The pupils reflected on the significance of the day with respect and gratitude, truly embodying the values of remembrance and unity.
The children have also spent plenty of time exploring the school grounds outside their classrooms, discovering the beauty of nature and learning about flowers and the environment These outdoor learning experiences have sparked curiosity and creativity, allowing pupils to connect with the world around them
The school celebrated the end of Term 1 with a lively autumn disco, bringing the whole school together for some fun and dancing The Harvest Festival was another highlight, where the children made bread and celebrated the abundance of the season.
One of the most exciting events was the mini marathon, where the children collectively ran an impressive 458 laps of Milstead Cricket Ground, covering a total of 152km! This event demonstrated the pupils’ teamwork, determination, and spirit, with everyone taking part and supporting each other in this incredible achievement. It’s been a term of growth, community, and joy at Milstead & Frinsted CE Primary!
Venturing down to the woods for Forest School has been a real highlight for the children These sessions have given them the chance to explore nature, develop outdoor skills, and engage in hands-on learning From building dens to learning about wildlife, the children have embraced every opportunity to connect with the natural world, fostering teamwork, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the environment
Year 6 had an enriching visit to Canterbury Cathedral, where they explored its historical significance and took part in engaging workshops The children had the opportunity to tour the Cathedral, including the Crypt, deepening their understanding of this iconic landmark. They were joined by Reverend Alan Pinnegar, adding a special touch to the experience The day concluded with a reflective worship in the Nave, a serene moment that left a lasting impression. It was a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone involved
It’s been a fantastic couple of months at Minterne Junior School, with pupils enjoying a variety of activities that have brought fun, learning, and a sense of community to the forefront The school disco was a lively highlight, with children coming together to dance, laugh, and celebrate with their friends.
A visit from the Rainbow Theatre provided an unforgettable learning experience. Pupils were captivated by performances on the Romans and World War 2, bringing history to life in a way that was both engaging and educational. These interactive sessions deepened their understanding of these important periods while sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for learning
The school also embraced the spirit of giving, raising funds in support of Children in Need Sports enthusiasts had their moment to shine too, with a football tournament offering a chance to showcase teamwork and athletic skills.
A special addition to the school’s outdoor environment has been the installation of a captivating solar fountain and seating area around the pond This new feature provides pupils with an inspiring space to study the pond’s ecosystem, blending education with the tranquillity of nature.
It’s been a term filled with creativity, achievement, and community spirit, and everyone is looking forward to what’s next!
Both the boys’ and girls’ football teams recently shone at the Pokémon Football Tournament at Sheppey United Stadium
Playing with enthusiasm, integrity, and positivity, they showcased fantastic teamwork and dedication
The girls secured an impressive 2nd place, while the boys triumphed as overall tournament champions Well done to everyone who took part – you were amazing!
Year 6 pupils in Holmes Class recently revisited their learning on electrical circuits during science lessons, diving into hands-on activities with Brainbox kits They worked collaboratively to construct battery-operated circuits and vehicles, bringing their learning to life in an engaging and practical way
This interactive approach not only reinforced their understanding of key scientific concepts but also encouraged teamwork and problemsolving It was a valuable and enjoyable experience that highlighted the importance of combining theory with practical application in science education
It’s been an exciting and activity-packed couple of terms at The Oaks Infant School! The children enthusiastically took part in Children in Need, including the energetic Bluey’s Dance Mode Challenge, spreading smiles while supporting a great cause They also created beautiful poppy wreaths to honour and remember the brave soldiers, showcasing their creativity and thoughtfulness.
From toasting s’mores in the woods to being filmed by the BBC during their daily toothbrushing routine, the children have enjoyed a variety of unique experiences. In the classroom, they’ve been learning about numbers and writing simple words and sentences, inspired by their beloved pets The '3, 2, 1 Write' challenge added an extra layer of fun to their writing journey, and the children even had a bouncy castle, bringing plenty of laughter and joy to everyone involved.
Year R was buzzing with excitement during Pet Day, thanks to some very special visitors! The children were delighted to meet three guinea pigs, a gecko, a tortoise, five unique dogs, and even a pony. This wonderful event provided a valuable handson learning experience, sparking curiosity and encouraging the children to learn more about the animals and their care It was a memorable day full of discovery and joy!
Year 2 pupils made a meaningful trip to the local Foodbank, carrying the school’s food donations with them Once there, the children were told how it helps support many people in the community The children took part in a hands-on activity, using a list of essential items to assemble a food parcel They carefully found each item and created a package ready to help someone in need It was a valuable experience, teaching the children about kindness, generosity, and the importance of helping others
Year 1 had an exciting visit from The Guide Dogs, where they learned about the vital work these animals do. The children met Paul the Puppy, who is still in training, and Inky, an 8-year-old working guide dog Inky helps her owner, Simon, navigate daily life, from the cinema to the supermarket, using her incredible senses of smell and hearing. Brian and Lesley, who train guide dogs, shared that it takes about two years to fully train a guide dog. The children were fascinated by the dogs’ abilities and the important role they play in supporting their owners It was an inspiring and educational experience for all!
Over the past two terms, Petham Primary School has been buzzing with exciting activities and new learning experiences The pupils have participated in sports competitions, including tag rugby and handball, demonstrating great teamwork and determination They also enjoyed a basketball competition, where they showcased their sporting talents and team spirit
The school has been exploring a variety of new topics, while also encouraging leadership and communication through the election of a new school council The children celebrated World Mental Health Day and welcomed the appointment of new wellbeing ambassadors, highlighting the importance of mental health and support within the school community
In terms of community engagement, the school came together for a heartwarming Harvest Festival at All Saint's Church, reflecting on gratitude and giving. They also participated in the Emile National Spelling Competition, with pupils working hard to improve their spelling skills
A highlight has been the visit from author Lucy Strange, who officially opened the brand new school library, a space that is already inspiring young readers. The pupils have also been learning valuable life skills through the mini cadets program with Kent Police, and their school values of Leadership, Organisation, Resilience, Initiative, and Communication have been at the heart of every activity. It's been a few terms full of growth, learning, and community spirit at Petham Primary!
Reception pupils absolutely love their Forest School sessions every Friday afternoon! The children had a wonderful time mixing mud and water to create the perfect consistency for mud painting. They explored their creativity by using different sized objects to craft flowers and trees, experimenting with natural materials to bring their artistic ideas to life It was a fun and imaginative way for the children to connect with nature while developing their artistic skills!
Year 5 and 6 pupils have been enjoying the start of their dance lessons in P.E. They recently drew on their knowledge of Ancient Greece to recreate the myth of Icarus and his flight too close to the sun It’s fantastic to see how the children are able to make meaningful connections between their learning in different subjects, bringing their understanding of Greek mythology to life through dance and movement!
The children have been learning about and celebrating the festival of Diwali, with a special assembly led by our Religion & Worldviews leader, Miss Mayes. Following the assembly, pupils took part in a variety of engaging activities, including retelling the story of Rama and Sita, making traditional lamps, creating beautiful Rangoli art, and even writing Diwalithemed haikus. It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to explore and appreciate the cultural significance of Diwali through hands-on learning and creative expression!
Over the past two terms, Selling CE Primary School has been filled with a wide range of activities and exciting learning experiences The children have shown great enthusiasm for their fundraising efforts, including Children in Need and the March to Victory sponsored walk, which raised funds for a brand new school minibus after covering over 25 miles!
The school has also focused on creativity and well-being, with art projects, creating amazing poems, and learning about rocks. Anti-bullying week was marked by wearing odd socks, and Remembrance Day was thoughtfully observed by the whole school In addition, the pupils are looking forward to a school disco and enjoyed Forest School sessions complete with hot chocolate and banana splits! Basketball has been another highlight, and the children have continued to learn and grow through their trips and hands-on activities. It’s been a busy, rewarding autumn full of memorable experiences!
A huge congratulations to the girls' football team who won the Canterbury Academy football competition! Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork have truly paid off Well done to both the boys' and girls' teams, who are playing extremely well and making everyone proud. Their fantastic effort on the field is a testament to their commitment and skill
Oak Class did an amazing job representing their school at the Basketball tournament at Canterbury Academy! The team secured a win and played some incredibly close matches, showing great teamwork and sportsmanship throughout Well done to all the players for their fantastic efforts!
Year 6 pupils recently visited the Greenwich Maritime Museum, exploring Britain’s maritime history. They learned about naval history, famous explorers, and the River Thames' role in the country’s development Highlights included interactive exhibits and historic ships A fantastic trip that brought history lessons to life!
A magical emporium recently appeared at school, sparking wonder and excitement among the children in Oak class! During their English lesson, the children had the chance to explore the mysterious "Cave of Wonders," a magical space filled with intriguing objects and hidden treasures This immersive experience allowed the pupils to engage their imaginations and enhance their creativity as they explored the magical world that unfolded before them It was a truly enchanting learning experience that made their English lesson unforgettable!
The children used various media and techniques to create artwork that reflected both themselves and an important issue or belief This creative process allowed them to express their individuality while exploring meaningful topics.
Term 1
Starts: Monday 2 September 2024
Ends: Friday 25 October 2024
Staff Development Days: Monday 2 September and Tuesday 3 September 2024
Term 2
Starts: Monday 4 November 2024
Ends: Friday 20 December 2024
Staff Development Day: Monday 4 November 2024
Term 3
Starts: Monday 6 January 2025
Ends: Friday 14 February 2025
Term 4
Starts: Monday 24 February 2025
Ends: Friday 4 April 2025
Term 5
Starts: Tuesday 22 April 2025
Ends: Friday 23 May 2025
Bank Holiday: Monday 5 May 2025
Staff Development Day: Friday 23 May 2025
Term 6
Starts: Monday 2 June 2025
Ends: Tuesday 22 July 2025
Staff Development Day: Monday 2 June 2025
Starts: Monday 1 September 2025
Ends: Friday 17 October 2025
SDD: Monday 1 September and Tuesday 2 September 2025
SDD: Monday 1 September 2025
Starts: Monday 27 October 2025
Ends: Friday 19 December 2025
SDD: Monday 27 October 2025
SDD: Monday 27 October, Tuesday 28 October, Wednesday 29 October 2025
Starts: Monday 5 January 2026
Ends: Friday 13 February 2026
Starts: Monday 23 February 2026
Ends: Thursday 2 April 2026
Starts: Monday 20 April 2026
Ends: Friday 22 May 2026
Term Time Bank Holiday: Monday 4 May 2026
SDD: Friday 22 May 2026 (Trust SDD)
SDD: Friday 22 May 2026 (Trust SDD)
Starts: Monday 1 June 2026
Ends: Tuesday 21 July 2026
SDD: Monday 1 June 2026
Staff Development Day (SDD) Key: Borden, Bredgar, Lynsted, Minterne, Milstead, The Oaks, Petham, Selling ONLY Dymchurch, Lydd ONLY
Important Information About Staff Development Days (SDD) for 2025/2026
Please note that SDDs will not be the same across all schools in our Trust. We have worked to align these dates with other local schools to better support families with children attending multiple schools.
To ensure you are aware of the specific days your child’s school will be closed, please refer to the SDD Key above
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation
We hope you enjoyed our first ever edition of our Family Magazine We’re keen to hear your feedback, so do get in touch if there’s something you’d like to see featured in future editions Please contact our Executive Administration and Marketing Officer, Emma Rannard at marketing@ocmatorguk
- Spring 2025
Onceuponatime,inthesnowylandoftheNorthPole,FatherChristmaswasbusy preparingforChristmasEve.Hisworkshopwasbuzzingwithexcitementaselves dancedaround,packagingtoysandsingingjollysongs.Rudolph,histrustyreindeerwith ashinyrednose,washelpingtheelvesloadthesleigh.AndMrsClauswasbakingher famousgingerbreadcookies,whichfilledtheairwiththesweetestscent.
Onefrostyafternoon,asFatherChristmaspolishedhissleigh,henoticedsomething strange.“Where’sChristmasBunny?”heasked,scratchinghisbeard.ChristmasBunny, whowassupposedtohelpdelivercarolstothelittlechildren,hadgonemissing!
“Ohdear!It’salmosttimetospreadthefestivecheer!”exclaimedMrsClaus,rollingher eyes.“Let’sgofindhim!”
Withahintofmischief,FatherChristmassummonedhisteam.“Elves!Gatherround!”he bellowed.“We’reoffonakindnessquest!WeneedtofindChristmasBunny!”
Thelittleelves Jingle,Tinsel,andSnowball cheeredwithexcitement.“What’sa kindnessquest?”oneofthemasked,raisinganeyebrow.
“It’swhenwedonicethingsforothers!”FatherChristmasexplained.“Andtoday,we’ll findChristmasBunnybyhelpingthoseinneedalongtheway!”
Astheysetoutontheirjourneythroughthesnowylandscape,theystumbledupona lostpenguinnamedPuddles.Hewasflappingabout,lookingforhiswayhome.Father Christmaskneltdownandsaid,“Don’tworry,Puddles!We’llhelpyoufindyourfamily. Youmustbefeelingverycold!”
Puddlesnodded,hisbeakquivering.“Thankyou!Butwhatifmyfamilyistoofaraway?” “Hohoho!We’llmakesureyougethomeintimeforChristmas!”laughedFather Christmas,fullofwarmthandjoy.Theelveshoppedwithdelight,andtheyallsangasilly songtoliftPuddles’spirits.“Waddle,waddle,littlepenguin,comedancewithusandjoin thefun!”
Offtheywent,waddlingandlaughingtogether.Soonenough,theyreachedPuddles' home,andthelittlepenguinsqueakedwithjoyashisfamilycamewaddlingover.“Thank you,thankyou!”hechirped,doingalittlehappydance.
“Onwards!”saidFatherChristmas,clappinghishands.“Whoelseneedsourkindness today?”
Next,theyencounteredagrumpyoldsnowmannamedFrosty,whohadlosthiscarrot nose!“Bahhumbug!Christmasisruined!”hegrumbled,hisarmsdrooping.
“Notatall,dearFrosty!”saidMrsClauswithatwinkleinhereye.“Letushelpyoufinda newnose!”
Thelittleelvesexclaimed,“Howaboutaredcherry?Orasprigofholly?”Theygiggledat thethoughtandplacedvariousfunnyitemsonFrosty’sface arubberduck,adaffodil, andevenashinybauble!
Frostycouldnothelpbutburstintolaughter.“Well,thosearedelightful!ButIthinkI’ll takethecarrot,ifyouhaveone!”
Withthemalllaughinguntiltheirsideshurt,theyfinallyfoundtheperfectcarrotin FatherChristmas'ssack.“Hereyougo,Frosty!Youlooksplendid!”hesaid,andFrosty beamedwithhappiness.
Justwhentheythoughttheirkindnessquestwascomingtoanend,theyspotteda fluffyfigurehoppingabout.“ChristmasBunny!”shoutedtheelves,wavingtheirarms excitedly.
“ThosesillylittlerabbitsgotconfusedtryingtofindtheChristmascarrots!”chuckled ChristmasBunny,whohadbeenhelpingtheotherrabbits.“Iwantedtobekindand sharecarrotsforeveryone’sbigChristmasfeast!”
“Yousee,”saidFatherChristmas,“yourkindnessledyoutohelpothers,justlikewedid today!Weshouldalwaysthinkofothers,especiallythistimeofyear.”
Andwiththat,theyallmadetheirwaybackhome,filledwithlaughterandgoodcheer. FatherChristmas,MrsClaus,Rudolph,ChristmasBunny,andtheelvesallworked togethertodelivergiftsandspreadkindness,makingeveryoneintheworldsmile.
Astheysnuggledintobedthatnight,everycreatureintheNorthPolelearnedthat beingkindandthinkingofothersisthegreatestgiftofall.Andwhoknows?Maybeasilly snowmanandagigglingpenguinmightjustpopbyyourdreamstoo!
Theend.
Sweetdreams!
“MaybeChristmas,hethought, doesn’tcomefromastore. MaybeChristmas…perhaps… meansalittlebitmore!”
Dr.Seuss