Habs Boys Weekly Newsletter Pre-Prep and Prep - 17 May 2024

Pre-Prep and Prep School edition

Friday 17 May Summer Term

Head of Prep School’s message

It has been yet another exciting week in the Prep School. The Year 3 pupils enjoyed their first ever two-night residential at the Lincolnsfield Centre, where they had the opportunity to experience what life would have been like as an evacuee in the countryside, during World War II. The experiences gained by our Year 3 pupils during this three-day visit, will be invaluable to their learning, both educationally, as well as socially and emotionally.

This week we have also spent some time as a school thinking about Children’s Mental Health Week. The focus being connection with others – friends, family, teachers and even people we talk to in passing such as our neighbours, which is all essential for our wellbeing. Without these connections, we can, at times, feel isolated and potentially lonely. Thinking about how we connect with other people in order to maintain and improve not only our own wellbeing, but theirs as well, is so important. Please click here to view some useful activities that you and your children can complete.

Year 6 have been busy rehearsing for their upcoming production, and I know they are extremely excited at the prospect of performing for their peers, parents, and other family members next week, with two big nights planned on Tuesday and Wednesday evening. The pupils are at the stage where practice is now key. The run-throughs, including all lines, songs, and stage directions, not only ensure that things go smoothly on the night but also give the performers more confidence. They can focus on expression and flair, giving the performance their full attention, confident in the knowledge that their lines and actions come automatically.

In the Prep School, we aim for this level of proficiency in a range of situations. We do this, not because automaticity is the ultimate goal, but because if the basics are embedded, it releases thinking space to allow our pupils to be stretched and challenged in other ways.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend.

Mr P Swindell Deputy Head Pastoral

Reception to Year 6 Information

Lunch Menu

WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY 20 MAY

Please click here to view the Pre-Prep and Prep School lunch menu.

Tombola Summer Fair

SUNDAY 30 JUNE

Last year the tombola at the summer fair was the most popular stall with students. We would like to repeat the stall again with your help. Your child will be sent home with a pot over half term. Please could we ask that they fill it with any combination of sweets, chocolate, toys, puzzles etc - anything they would like to receive back. Please ensure food items such as sweets and chocolates are all individually wrapped and are free from nuts. Your son can put this name on the pot or decorate the pot if he would like. Filled pots will need to be dropped back to Prep School Reception for Years 3 to 6 and Pre-Prep Reception for Reception to Year 2 at the beginning of next half term. They will form the prizes for the tombola. Thank you for your support – The Habs’ Boys’ Parent Guild.

Wrap-around Care Facility

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please click here to book your child into After School Care.

Please note that if your child is not booked into After School Care, we may not be able to accommodate them. For any late on the day bookings, please contact the school office directly to ensure your son is booked in. Please be advised, a late charge of £8.00 will be incurred in these cases.

Wednesday 19 June

Pre-Prep Sports Day

Save the date

We are excited to welcome Parents and Guardians to our Pre-Prep Sports Day! Further information and race timings will be provided before the end of term.

Year 3-6 Information

Coach Service Update

THURSDAY

27 JUNE

Please note, there will be no 5.30pm coach service running on Thursday 27 June due to the Senior School Sports Day. Please ensure alternative arrangements are in place to collect your son if they take the coach. If your son attends an after-school club on this day, please make the necessary alternative arrangements. Should you wish to book into After School Care then please use the booking form.

Warm Weather GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

With the weather forecast continuing to look increasingly warm over the next few weeks, please provide your son with a water bottle during the school day. They can fill their water up at school once it is empty. Please also provide your son with suncream and a hat as appropriate that they can wear during break time. The suncream will need to be applied at home before the start of the school day as required and can be topped up at school. If you have any concerns, please contact your son’s form tutor.

Upcoming Residential Trips

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please check on the parent portal to ensure your son’s medical records are fully up to date and that staff have the latest information ahead of any school trip.

Prep Battle of the Bands

WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE, 2PM SELDON HALL

Please click here for further information regarding the Battle of the Bands competition. Deadline for entry is Tuesday 28 May.

Wednesday 26 June

Prep Sports Day

Save the date

We are excited to welcome Parents and Guardians to our Prep Sports Day! Further information and race timings will be provided before the end of term.

Reception Information

Weekly Swimming Lessons

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

We are delighted to announce that in preparation for the weekly swimming lessons in Year 1, we have arranged for Reception to enjoy three introductory swimming classes at the Medburn swimming pool. These sessions are scheduled after the half term break on Monday 10 June, Monday 17 June and Monday 1 July. During each 30-minute session, the floor of the swimming pool will be raised, and your child will be supervised by four experienced swimming teachers, a lifeguard and a teaching assistant.

With regards to changing, whilst staff will of course be on hand to assist, we will also encourage a high level of independence. In preparation, please could we kindly ask for your support at home by encouraging your son to dry and dress himself independently after bath time.

For these introductory sessions, children may wear their own swimming attire. Please ensure your child brings a pair of swimming trunks, a swimming hat and a towel in a separate bag (a drawstring bag or one that can be securely closed is ideal). Goggles won’t be necessary. Please kindly ensure all items, including your child’s bag and uniform, are clearly labelled. In Year 1, all children will require Habs branded swimming kit as per the uniform policy.

Please note that all children are expected to participate in the swimming sessions if they are well enough to be at school. If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s class teacher.

Reception Breakfast with Dad

FRIDAY 14 JUNE

Reception will be celebrating Father’s day by hosting a ‘Breakfast with Dad’ morning on Friday 14June from 8am to 8.45am. We will have some tasty treats in the hall for breakfast, activities to complete together and the chance for you to celebrate your child’s learning. Please click here to confirm your attendance by Friday 7 June.

RECEPTION INFORMATION

Reception Fun in the Sun Day

TUESDAY

4 JUNE

On Tuesday 4 June, Reception will be having a ‘Fun in the Sun Day’. Please click here for further information

Aldenham Country Park

MONDAY

24 JUNE

Please click here for further information regarding the trip to Aldenham Country Park Payment and consent is to be provided via Evolve.

Warm Weather

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

Please ensure your child has a Haberdashers’ sun cap in school clearly labelled with their name. Please apply suncream to your child before they come to school. Suncream can be kept in school in a named bag for your child to apply.

Year 1 Information

Warm Weather

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

Please ensure your child has a Haberdashers’ sun cap in school clearly labelled with their name. Please apply suncream to your child before they come to school. Suncream can be kept in school in a named bag for your child to apply.

Pupil Safety

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

It has come to our attention that following dismissal at 3:30pm, several children have been observed running ahead towards the car park unaccompanied by an adult. Additionally, many children have been seen running along the track designated for grounds staff vehicles, posing a significant safety hazard.

It is imperative that all Parents/Guardians ensure that their children keep to the designated footpath and remain by their side when walking to and from the car park. The safety and wellbeing of our Pre-Prep pupils is our top priority, and we sincerely request your cooperation in order to prevent potential accidents.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration in maintaining the safety of our school community.

Year 2 Information

Prep Instrumental Concert

MONDAY

17 JUNE, SELDON HALL 6PM

We are excited to announce the details of this term’s Prep Instrumental Concert on Monday 17 June, 6pm, Seldon Hall.

The following ensembles will be performing:

Senior Strings

Junior Brass Ensemble

Senior Brass Ensemble

Junior Wind Ensemble

Senior Wind Ensemble

Prep Jazz Ensemble

Prep Joint Orchestra

String Quintet

String Trio

If you child is in one of the above, the music school will email you directly regarding the afterschool arrangements and tickets.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

Dyslexia Screening

MONDAY

10 JUNE

On 10 June 2024, we will be screening all our Year 2 boys who are aged 7 for Dyslexia. The children who have not yet turned 7, will be screened in September with the new Year 3 boys. The test is done on the children’s school iPad and will identify those who may have dyslexia by using three short tests. The tests will take a total of 15 minutes to complete. The tests measure: phonological processing, working memory, and either visual-verbal integration memory or phonic decoding skills.

Each child-friendly sub-test takes just 5 minutes and has been individually standardised and calibrated so that we can accurately detect the probability of dyslexia to help prevent dyslexic children slipping through the net. The tests have an enjoyable game format. We will only contact you if your child identifies as being at risk of having dyslexia. If you have any questions relating to this, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Grossman directly –Grossman_t@habsboys.org.uk

Warm Weather

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

Please ensure your child has a Haberdashers’ sun cap in school clearly labelled with their name. Please apply suncream to your child before they come to school. Suncream can be kept in school in a named bag for your child to apply.

Pupil Safety

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

It has come to our attention that following dismissal at 3:30pm, several children have been observed running ahead towards the car park unaccompanied by an adult. Additionally, many children have been seen running along the track designated for grounds staff vehicles, posing a significant safety hazard.

It is imperative that all Parents/Guardians ensure that their children keep to the designated footpath and remain by their side when walking to and from the car park. The safety and wellbeing of our Pre-Prep pupils is our top priority, and we sincerely request your cooperation in order to prevent potential accidents.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration in maintaining the safety of our school community.

Year 3 Information

Year 3 Instrumental Scheme Showcase

MONDAY 20 MAY, SELDON HALL 9.30AM

A reminder that the Year 3 Scheme Showcase is on Monday 20 May in the Seldon Hall - an opportunity to celebrate the success and hard work of our pupils this year!

Tea and coffee will be served in the Seldon Foyer from 9am and doors will open at 9.15am.

We have sent out information regarding signing up to continue lessons in Year 4 through Evolve – sign up early to avoid disappointment.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

Prep Instrumental Concert

MONDAY 17 JUNE, SELDON HALL 6PM

We are excited to announce the details of this term’s Prep Instrumental Concert on Monday 17 June, 6pm, Seldon Hall.

The following ensembles will be performing:

Senior Strings

Junior Brass Ensemble

Senior Brass Ensemble

Junior Wind Ensemble

Senior Wind Ensemble

Prep Jazz Ensemble

Prep Joint Orchestra

String Quintet

String Trio

If you child is in one of the above, the music school will email you directly regarding the afterschool arrangements and tickets.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

Year 4 Information

Year 4 Residential GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

Please click here to view the parent booklet for the Year 4 Residential to Aylmerton which contains further information regarding the trip.

Please click here to view the recording of the Y4 Residential Parent Information Evening.

Prep Instrumental Concert

MONDAY 17 JUNE, SELDON HALL 6PM

We are excited to announce the details of this term’s Prep Instrumental Concert on Monday 17 June, 6pm, Seldon Hall.

The following ensembles will be performing:

Senior Strings

Junior Brass Ensemble

Senior Brass Ensemble

Junior Wind Ensemble

Senior Wind Ensemble

Prep Jazz Ensemble

Prep Joint Orchestra

String Quintet

String Trio

If you child is in one of the above, the music school will email you directly regarding the afterschool arrangements and tickets.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

Year 5 Information

Prep Instrumental Concert

MONDAY 17 JUNE, SELDON HALL 6PM

We are excited to announce the details of this term’s Prep Instrumental Concert on Monday 17 June, 6pm, Seldon Hall.

The following ensembles will be performing:

Senior Strings

Junior Brass Ensemble

Senior Brass Ensemble

Junior Wind Ensemble

Senior Wind Ensemble

Prep Jazz Ensemble

Prep Joint Orchestra

String Quintet

String Trio

If you child is in one of the above, the music school will email you directly regarding the afterschool arrangements and tickets.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

Year 6 Information

Year 6 Residential to Portland

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS

Please click here to view the parent booklet for the Year 6 Residential to Portland which contains further information regarding the trip.

Please click here to view to view the recording of the Y6 Residential Information Evening.

Prep Instrumental Concert

MONDAY 17 JUNE, SELDON HALL 6PM

We are excited to announce the details of this term’s Prep Instrumental Concert on Monday 17 June, 6pm, Seldon Hall. The following ensembles will be performing:

Senior Strings

Junior Brass Ensemble

Senior Brass Ensemble

Junior Wind Ensemble

Senior Wind Ensemble

Prep Jazz Ensemble

Prep Joint Orchestra

String Quintet

String Trio

If you child is in one of the above, the music school will email you directly regarding the afterschool arrangements and tickets.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Music School (musicschool@habsboys.org.uk)

MUSIC Summer Programme Jazz

Open to current Year 4 to Year 12, grade 4+

11 to 15 August (intermediate), 10am to 4pm 19 to 23 and 25 August (by invite/audition only) 10am to 4pm

The Jazz Summer School is an established course, open to all instrumentalists of grade 4 and above. Led by our renowned team of jazz educators, students will be placed in an ensemble, preparing towards a final performance for family and friends. Jazz is a fantastic platform for exploring ensemble skills and improvisation, encouraging students to be courageous in the moment, to take risks, and be playful with their music-making. These courses are a highlight of the calendar, not to be missed for any budding young musician.

£350/£375. Book HERE

Summer Programme

MUSIC Indian Music

Open to current Year 4 to Year 12, grade 4+

26 to 29 August, 10am to 4pm

This brand-new course is an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Indian music. Guided by our expert team of tutors, students will work together in large and small ensembles towards a memorable final performance for family and friends. Indian music has been one of the most exciting areas of development at Habs in recent years, this course promises to be a fantastic new opportunity for any who are interested in getting involved.

Tabla & Vocalists – open to players of any current Year 4 to Year 12 Instrumentalists – grade 3+ standard current Year 4 to Year 12

£250. Book HERE

Open to students who will be in Year 5 to Upper Sixth in September 2024

Click here to book.

Collaborative Cricket Festival

Habs’ Girls’ Junior and Boys' Prep School would like to invite your child to take part in our Collaborative Softball Cricket Festival.

The aim of the festival is for pupils to take part in a variety of cricket activities and games in a carousel. Years 3 and 4 will be from 9am until 10.30am and Years 5 and 6 will be from 10.45 until 12.15pm.

Due to the organisation of teams on the day, please only register your child if they are committing to attending this event. The registration form (linked below) will close at 9am on Friday 3 May 2024, and unfortunately, we will not be able to accommodate any enquiries after this deadline.

Your child will need to arrive at their year group’s start time at Habs’ Boys’ AstroTurf wearing their PE/Cricket kit, with a full water bottle. If your child has carries or uses any inhalers or AAIs, they will need to have these with them to take part in the event.

If you would like to register your child's attendance this event, please fill in and submit this form Please submit a separate form for each child attending. Cancellation of the festival may occur if the weather is thought to affect your child’s safety. You will be notified on the day if the festival is cancelled.

We encourage parents to stay and support; there will be refreshments throughout the event.

Sunday 30 June

12pm to 4pm

Please click here for more information from Habs Boys Parents’ Guild.

PREP SPORTS FIXTURES

THURSDAY 23 MAY *Y5/Y6 IAPS Cricket Festival (invite only)

FRIDAY 24 MAY Y6 Cricket v Belmont (Home) Parks 2.30pm –4pm

THURSDAY 6 JUNE Y3 Cricket v Radlett Prep 2.15pm – 4.30pm

SATURDAY 8 JUNE Cricket Festival (collaboration) with Junior School

MONDAY 17 JUNE Y5 Cricket & Tennis v Highgate 2.30pm – 4.45pm

TUESDAY 18 JUNE Y4 Cricket v St Johns 2.15pm 4.45pm

MONDAY 24 JUNE Y5 Cricket (ABC) v Radlett Prep 2.30pm –4.30pm

WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE Prep Sports Day

THURSDAY 27 JUNE Y3 Cricket v St Johns (Home) 2.15pm – 4pm

FRIDAY 28 JUNE Y6 Cricket & Tennis v Highgate 2.30pm – 4.45pm *Selected pupils will be invited to participate via SOCS

PRE-PREP CALENDAR DATES

FRIDAY 24 MAY

End of term for students, 3.30pm

TUESDAY 4 JUNE

Term starts for students

Reception Fun in the Sun Day

FRIDAY 7 JUNE

Y1/Y2 LAMDA exams (invite only)

FRIDAY 14 JUNE

Year 1 Collaborative Picnic

Reception Breakfast with Dad Morning

WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE

Pre-Prep Sports Day

FRIDAY 21 JUNE

Year 2 Whipsnade Zoo

MONDAY 24 JUNE

Reception trip to Aldenham Farm

TUESDAY 25 JUNE

Pre-Prep Wellbeing Day

FRIDAY 28 JUNE

Pre-Prep Summer Production 2pm, Seldon Hall

MONDAY 1 JULY

Year 1 Knebworth House and Gardens Visit

FRIDAY 5 JULY

End of term for students

For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.

PREP CALENDAR DATES

MONDAY 20 MAY

Y3 Instrumental Scheme Concert 9.30am – 10.45am, Seldon Hall

TUESDAY 21 MAY

Y6 Production Performance 6.30pm, Prep Hall

WEDNESDAY 22 MAY

Y6 Production Performance 6.30pm, Prep Hall

FRIDAY 24 MAY End of term for students, 4pm

TUESDAY 4 JUNE Term starts for students

WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE Battle of the Bands 2pm, Seldon Hall

MONDAY 10 JUNE

Y6 Residential, returning 14 June

TUESDAY 11 JUNE

Y4 Residential, returning 14 June

MONDAY 17 JUNE Prep Instrumental Concert 6pm, Seldon Hall

TUESDAY 25 JUNE Prep Wellbeing Day Spain Trip Information Evening

WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE Prep Sports Day

THURSDAY 27 JUNE

Year 4 into Year 5 Transition Evening, 6pm

WEDNESDAY 3 JULY

Y6 Commendations Ceremony Prep Summer Concert

FRIDAY 5 JULY End of term for students

For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.