Habs Weekly
Pre-Prep and Prep School edition
Friday 26April
Summer Term
Head of Prep School’s message
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Ms Umpleby's absence this week provides me with the opportunity to share the highlights of our recent activities with you.
Earth Day, observed officially on 22 April, was celebrated at our school on Wednesday. Led by the Eco-Council, an engaging assembly delved into the significance of Earth Day, focusing on the 2024 theme, 'Planet vs. Plastics'. This global campaign aims to reduce plastic production by 60% by 2040. We also explored the impactful work of the 'Bali Sisters –Bye Bye Plastics' campaign, underscoring the influence young people wield in shaping our world. A group of students engaged in a litter pick, gathering a bag full of non-degradable waste, prompting us to reflect on our individual plastic usage habits.
Meanwhile, our Year 2 students enjoyed a collaborative day at Cuffley Camp with the Girls’ Junior School. The camp offers a variety of outdoor activities and learning experiences, fostering teamwork, leadership, and environmental awareness. From nature exploration to survival skills, students relished in developing essential life skills while having fun.
Continuing with our Interhouse events, the annual swimming gala showcased not only the boys’ competitive spirit but also their commitment to our values. Despite the sweltering temperatures reminiscent of the Mediterranean, every house celebrated victories across different categories, thanks to the efficient organisation by Miss Godsave. Some parents are already planning to participate in next year's swimming gala, inspired by the event!
St. George's Day was observed on Friday with a focus on sustainability. Students across the Prep School engaged in craft projects using recycled materials, furthering their understanding of environmental responsibility. A presentation by Chris Freeman from WaterAid emphasised the importance of access to clean water and sanitation globally.
Looking ahead, next week promises a more subdued pace, with the Year 3 and Year 4 PLT Tea & CoffeeAfternoon, offering a chance for further engagement.As always, our leadership team remains available for any discussions or queries. Wishing you all a peaceful weekend ahead.
Mrs M Best Senior Deputy Head - Academic
Reception to Year 6 Information
Lunch Menu
WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY 29 APRIL
Please click here to view the Pre-Prep and Prep School lunch menu.
Tooled Up GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS
Please click here to read an article regarding family ‘Fundamental Values’. The conversation starters in this article focus on the values of tolerance, respect, democracy, law and individual liberty.
Epipen Reminder IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please ensure your son has all his required medications with him at all times at school.
Severe Allergies/ Anaphylaxis
If you son has been prescribed an AAI (EpiPen) please provide x2 EpiPens , antihistamine and an inhaler if it is prescribed at all times whilst at school. Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the school nurses Schoolnurse@habsboys.org.uk
Wrap-around Care Facility IMPORTANT INFORMATION
In order to ensure the safety of the students in After School Care, it is important that all students are booked in, in advance using the link below. 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. Please click here to book your child into After School Care.
NEW NEW
Year 3-6 Information
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
NEW
Reception Information
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.
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.
Pre-Prep Young Musician of the Year 2024
FRIDAY 3 MAY
Please click here for further information regarding the Pre-Prep Young Musician Competition. The deadline for submissions is Sunday 21 April.
NEW NEW
Reception to Year 2 Coffee Morning
FRIDAY 10 MAY, 8.15AM PRE-PREP HALL
You are cordially invited to join us for morning coffee to foster a stronger connection between you and our Pre-Prep School leadership team. This informal gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for Parents to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and get to know the individuals guiding your childs’ educational journey.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can share your thoughts, gain insights into our school's vision, and build a sense of community with fellow Parents. Our leadership team is excited to meet you, hear your perspectives, and work collaboratively to ensure the success and well-being of your child.
We look forward to sharing this morning with you, fostering a strong partnership between home and school, and creating a supportive environment for our students.
RECEPTION INFORMATION
Year 1 Information
Pupil Safety
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
NEW
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.
Reception to Year 2 Coffee Morning
FRIDAY 10 MAY, 8.15AM PRE-PREP HALL
You are cordially invited to join us for morning coffee to foster a stronger connection between you and our Pre-Prep School leadership team. This informal gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for Parents to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and get to know the individuals guiding your childs’ educational journey.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can share your thoughts, gain insights into our school's vision, and build a sense of community with fellow Parents. Our leadership team is excited to meet you, hear your perspectives, and work collaboratively to ensure the success and well-being of your child.
We look forward to sharing this morning with you, fostering a strong partnership between home and school, and creating a supportive environment for our students
Pre-Prep Young Musician of the Year 2024
FRIDAY 3 MAY
Please click here for further information regarding the Pre-Prep Young Musician Competition. The deadline for submissions is Sunday 21 April.
Year 2 Information
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 Grandparents’Afternoon
FRIDAY 17 MAY
Year 2 cordially invite their grandparents for Grandparents' Afternoon on Friday 17 May from 2.30pm to 3.30 pm. Come for an afternoon tea and share our Pre-Prep learning journey with us! Please click here to complete the form to confirm your attendance.
Reception to Year 2 Coffee Morning
FRIDAY 10 MAY, 8.15AM PRE-PREP HALL
You are cordially invited to join us for morning coffee to foster a stronger connection between you and our Pre-Prep School leadership team. This informal gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for Parents to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and get to know the individuals guiding your childs' educational journey.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can share your thoughts, gain insights into our school's vision, and build a sense of community with fellow Parents. Our leadership team is excited to meet you, hear your perspectives, and work collaboratively to ensure the success and well-being of your child.
We look forward to sharing this morning with you, fostering a strong partnership between home and school, and creating a supportive environment for our students.
NEW NEW
Year 2 Swimming Gala
MONDAY 13 MAY
We are pleased to extend an invite to you to attend the Year 2 Swimming Gala. Please click here for further information.
Pre-Prep Young Musician of the Year 2024
FRIDAY 3 MAY
Please click here for further information regarding the Pre-Prep Young Musician Competition. The deadline for submissions is Sunday 21 April.
YEAR 2 INFORMATION
Year 3 Information
Year 3 Residential Information GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS
A gentle reminder to please ensure that all dietary requirements and medical information (including all medications being taken on the trip) are up-to-date on Firefly. For any other changes to medical information after Friday 3 May, please contact Mrs Ashton directly. Please click here to view the parent booklet for the Year 3 Residential.
Year 3 Instrumental Scheme Showcase
MONDAY 20 MAY
Please click here for further information regarding the Year 3 Instrumental Showcase Concert. The showcase is an opportunity to celebrate the success of these students over the course of the year.
Year 3 & Year 4 CoffeeAfternoon
MONDAY 29 APRIL, PREP HALL, 3PM-4PM
You are cordially invited to join us for afternoon tea to foster a stronger connection between you and our Prep School leadership team. This informal gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for Parents to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and get to know the individuals guiding your child's educational journey.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can share your thoughts, gain insights into our school's vision, and build a sense of community with fellow Parents. Our leadership team is excited to meet you, hear your perspectives, and work collaboratively to ensure the success and well-being of your child.
We look forward to sharing this afternoon with you, fostering a strong partnership between home and school, and creating a supportive environment for our students.
NEW NEW
Year 4 Information
Year 4Aylmerton Residential Evening
WEDNESDAY 8 MAY, 7PM PREP HALL
The Year 4 Residential Information Evening will be held in person on Wednesday 8 May at 7pm in the Prep Hall. You will be provided with detailed information regarding all aspects of the residential and have the opportunity to ask questions to the Year 4 team on the day. Please note, there will not be a live link for this meeting. Detailed information will be provided in a Parent booklet and a recording will follow thereafter. Thank you for your continued support.
Year 3 & Year 4 CoffeeAfternoon
MONDAY 29 APRIL, PREP HALL, 3PM-4PM
You are cordially invited to join us for afternoon tea to foster a stronger connection between you and our Prep School leadership team. This informal gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for Parents to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and get to know the individuals guiding your childs’ educational journey.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can share your thoughts, gain insights into our school's vision, and build a sense of community with fellow Parents. Our leadership team is excited to meet you, hear your perspectives, and work collaboratively to ensure the success and well-being of your child.
We look forward to sharing this afternoon with you, fostering a strong partnership between home and school, and creating a supportive environment for our students.
Year 5 Information
Year 5 StAlbans Cathedral
WEDNESDAY
8 MAY
Please click here for further information regarding the Year 5 trip to St Albans Cathedral. Payment and consent is to be provided via Evolve.
Year 6 Information
Year 6 Leavers
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
It is unbelievable that we are in the final term of your son’s time at the Prep! I am in the process of collating photos of our current Year 6, to use in a ‘Class of 2024 Leavers’ Video.’
If you have any photos of your son (perhaps together with their peers) from any time at the Prep or Pre-Prep School e.g., Sports Day, Donkin Cup, shows or concerts, please do email them to me and I will aim to include those which are suitable. Newfield_m@habsboys.org.uk
Year 6 Residential Information Evening
WEDNESDAY 1 MAY, 7PM, PREP HALL
The Year 6 Residential Information Evening will be held in person on Wednesday 1 May at 7pm in the Prep Hall. You will be provided with detailed information regarding all aspects of the residential and have the opportunity to ask questions to the Year 6 team on the day. Please note, there will not be a live link for this meeting. Detailed information will be provided in a Parent booklet and a recording will follow thereafter. Thank you for your continued support.
Year 6 Production
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please click here for further information regarding rehearsals and costumes for the Year 6 Production. Please note, individual items to supplement costumes will need to be brought in by no later than Tuesday 30 April 2024.
Habs in Conversation:An Evening withAshley Blaker Tuesday 7 May 2024
A 'Normal Schmormal' Evening with Ashley Blaker (OH 1993)
The Habs’ Elstree Schools’ Foundation is delighted to invite you to Habs in Conversation: An Evening with Ashley Blaker (OH 1993) on Tuesday 7 May. The event will be held from 7 to 9:30pm in the Bourne Hall, Habs Boys School.
Ashley is an acclaimed stand-up comedian, writer, and TV and radio performer, as well as a long-time friend and collaborator with Matt Lucas (OH 1994) on projects including Little Britain.
He is the author of a new memoir entitled Normal Schmormal: My Occasionally Helpful Guide to Parenting Kids with Special Needs. Ashley and his wife are parents to six kids, half of whom have special needs ranging from autism to Down's syndrome. In newspaper interviews and podcasts he doesn't just sound cheerful about it all – he can make you feel downright jealous of his family life.
Ashley will be on stage with Executive Principal Gus Lock (OH 1994), who will chat with him about his family, his new standup tour, life at and after Habs, and more.
The evening will begin with a drink's reception at 7pm. The on-stage conversation is expected to start at 8pm, followed by a Q&A session with the audience. The event is free, but booking is required. Please reserve your space here
Habs in Conversation is an occasional series of on-stage interviews with prominent members of the Habs community. Highlights of our Habs in Conversation with John Vincent (OH 1990 and Katie Derham) are available here
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.
SAVE THE DATE
Sunday 30 June
12pm to 4pm
Please click here for more information from Habs Boys Parents’ Guild.
PREP SPORTS FIXTURES
SATURDAY 27 APRIL
*IAPS Table Tennis (invite only)
THURSDAY 2 MAY
FRIDAY 3 MAY
THURSDAY 9 MAY
FRIDAY 10 MAY
THURSDAY 23 MAY
Y3 Cricket v Belmont, (Home), Parks, 2.30pm –4pm.
Y6 Cricket & Tennis, ABC v St Martins (Home) Parks & Astros 2.15pm – 4pm.
*Y3/Y4 Swimming Gala, Joint with Girls’ School, 4pm.
Y6 Cricket & Tennis v Highgate (Home) Parks & Astros 2.15pm – 4pm.
*Y5/Y6 IAPS Cricket Festival (invite only)
FRIDAY 24 MAY
Y6 Cricket v Belmont (Home) Parks 2.30pm –4pm
*Selected
pupils will be invited to participate via SOCS
PRE-PREP
CALENDAR DATES
FRIDAY 3 MAY
Pre-Prep YMOTY 2pm-3pm, Seldon Hall
FRIDAY 10 MAY
Pre-Prep Tea & Coffee Morning Prep Hall, 8.15am – 9am
MONDAY 13 MAY
Year 2 Swimming Gala 10.30am, Medburn
FRIDAY 17 MAY
Year 2 Grandparents’Afternoon 2.30pm, Pre-Prep Hall
FRIDAY 24 MAY
End of term for students, 3.30pm
TUESDAY 4 JUNE
Term starts for students
For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.
PREP CALENDAR DATES
MONDAY 29 APRIL
Y3/Y4 Tea & CoffeeAfternoon
3pm - 4pm, Prep Hall
WEDNESDAY 1 MAY
Y6 Residential Information
Evening, 7pm, Prep Hall
WEDNESDAY 8 MAY
Y5 St Albans Abbey Visit
Y4 Residential Information
Evening, 7pm, Prep Hall
MONDAY 13 MAY
Y3 Residential, returning 15 May
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
please refer to the school calendar on
For further information,
Firefly.