Habs Weekly Pre-Prep and Prep School Edition Friday 26 January Spring Term
Head of Prep School’s Message As you know, at the Prep School, we hold creativity in high regard, ensuring our students are consistently provided with opportunities to explore and express themselves. Whether it's through innovative thinking, musical, dance, or dramatic performances, or the visual arts, we take pride in fostering an environment that encourages creativity. This week was particularly creative for our Year 3 and 4 students. On Wednesday, students from the Junior School joined our Prep boys, for a day filled with theatrical enchantment. The day commenced with collaborative drama workshops, delving into the characters from the story, The Lion King. The discussions were thought-provoking, exploring topics such as Simba's pivotal decision to run away after Mufasa's death, and around how the character's perspectives change throughout, adding depth to their understanding of the story. The excitement only heightened after lunch when the students boarded the coach to the West End to witness the live production at the Lyceum Theatre. The gasps of awe resonated as the students were captivated by the intricate costumes, mesmerising staging, sophisticated lighting, and exceptional musical performances—it truly was a magical experience. Rest assured, next week, our older students will revel in the enchanting performance of "Wicked," anticipating impressive costumes, dynamic staging, and outstanding musical renditions. Continuing our celebration of creativity, auditions and rehearsals for the Year 6 production of "Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat" have recently begun and it promises to be fantastic. Whilst we recognise that not every student’s creativity is expressed through singing, music, or dancing, we want to emphasise that there are equally valuable, and creative, opportunities for involvement backstage. From lights to staging and props, every student has the chance to play an integral role in the production, ensuring a holistic and inclusive creative experience for all. Wishing you a wonderful and creative weekend,
Ms K Umpleby Head of Prep and Pre-Prep
Reception to Year 6 Information Lunch Menu
New!
WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY 29 JANUARY Please click here to view the Pre-Prep lunch menu. Please click here to view the Prep lunch menu.
Signing into Microsoft 365 from Home
New!
GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS Please click here to view how to access Microsoft 365 from home. Should you require any further assistance, please email Mrs Kingsley, Prep IT Co-ordinator directly Kingsley_d@habsboys.org.uk.
Children’s Mental Health Week
New!
5 FEBRUARY TO 9 FEBRUARY Children’s Mental Health Week is a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of the importance of mental health and wellbeing with the children. Across the prep and pre-prep this week will be used to further equip children with the skills to support and strengthen their mental health. Children in Years 3-6 will be partaking in a Prep School Wellbeing day on Friday 9 February to mark the end of the week. During this day children will be participating in a number of activities in their Houses, including Tai Chi workshops, origami crafts, team building STEM activities and many others! Please ensure children come to school in their games kit, wearing their house T-shirt.
Prep Fantasy Football League UPDATE
New!
As we dive into the excitement of the Habs Boys' Prep Fantasy Football League, we want to remind everyone to gear up for Game Week 22 starting on 30 January. Don't miss the chance to impact the leaderboard – ensure your team is up-to-date in the league. The top 20 teams are in a tight competition, and a well-timed 'Bench Boost, Triple Captain, or Free Transfer' could be the game-changer. Your strategic decisions matter, and with a new game week on the horizon, now is the perfect time to fine-tune your lineup. Seize the opportunity to climb to the summit of the fantasy football league. May the best team emerge victorious!
RECEPTION TO YEAR 6 INFORMATION
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. Booking should be made via the link below. Please note that if your child is not booked into After School Care, we may not be able to accommodate them. After School Care is chargeable from 4.00 – 5.30pm costing £4.50, this charge includes a snack. Last minute bookings will be charged at £8.00 per session. Please note if you book your child into After School Care, and they do not attend, you may still be charged. Please click here to book your child into After School Care.
Habs Boys’ Parents Guild Quiz Night THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY, 7PM, BOURNE HALL Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, we are delighted to invite you to the Habs Boys’ Parents' Guild (HBPG) Quiz event on Thursday 22 February 2024 in the Bourne Hall. The evening will consist of some light entertainment, food, drinks and some contemporary quiz trivia. The event commences at 7pm with drinks, and food will be served from 7.15pm in the Bourne Hall. Tickets for the event are £25 per person and includes a 2 course meal and drinks. Tickets can be booked online via the link below from 9pm on Sunday 14 January. All tickets for this event will need to be pre-booked through the website as no tickets will be available on the door. Please book early to avoid disappointment as last year the event sold out in 48 hours.
Please click here to book your tickets! Each table will consist of a team of 8 participants. Booking options are detailed below: Book a team of 8 to guarantee a full table. Book together (if less than 8) to guarantee sitting together. If you book individually, we will endeavour to accommodate any requests, however seating arrangements cannot not be guaranteed. We very much look forward to welcoming parents, guardians and staff to the HBPG Quiz night, and any questions regarding the event can be directed to hbpg.quiznight@gmail.com
RECEPTION TO YEAR 6 INFORMATION
Unwanted Festive Childrens Games and Books HABS BOYS PARENT GUILD REQUEST The Habs Boys Parents’ Guild would like to collect unwanted games and books received over the festive period to use at the Habs Boys Summer Fair (Sunday 30 June). If you or your children have received items that they don’t want or have played with and are in very good condition, please consider donating them to the Guild’s efforts. They will be used on stalls and in a tombola in the summer fair. If you have something that could be used, please ask your child to leave it at the Prep Reception between Monday 15 January and Friday 26 January and the items will be collected and stored safely. Thank you in advance for your generous support.
Women in Business Networking Event WEDNESDAY 31 JANUARY Please click here for further information regarding the inaugural Women in Business networking event, which is being hosted by Habs parent Martina Slowey, Head of EMEA Equities at Bank of America.
Years 3 to Year 6 Information FA Play Your Part Code of Conduct
New!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION As the football season kicks off, please may we request parents and guardians to take note of the following a reminders: Ensure your child has trainers, boots, and shin pads for all Games lessons and fixtures. Pack warm P.E kit clothing for lessons to keep them comfortable during colder weather. Spectator conduct is crucial during fixtures with other schools. Please familiarise yourself with the FA Play your Part Code of Conduct, outlining how parents and spectators can positively contribute to the sporting experience.
Cold Weather Uniform Reminder REMINDER As the weather has turned colder, please may we remind all families that all boys will be outside before school and for break times and lunchtimes and therefore need to ensure they wrap up warmly. Where possible, hats, scarves and gloves should be worn and all items should also be clearly labelled. Thank you for your continued support.
Young Artists’ Summer Show 2024 UPDATED INFORMATION Registration and submission for the Young Artists’ Summer Show 2024 are open now. Please click on the link below to submit your artwork directly to the Royal Academy of Arts Young Artists' Summer Show | Royal Academy Judging: April 2024 Online exhibition open: 16 July 2024 Exhibition at the RA open: 16 July - 11 August 2024
Reception Reception Literacy Workshop
New!
THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY, 8.45am We look forward to seeing you on Thursday 22 February for our final Literacy workshop instalment. Now that your child’s Literacy journey is underway and flourishing, we will share with you what we are teaching at this stage of the year, how we teach and how you can support your child with their Guided Reading and Target Words.
Topic Grid IMPORTANT INFORMATION Please click here to view the Reception Topic Grid for the Spring Term.
Year 1 Topic Grid IMPORTANT INFORMATION Please click here to view the Year 1 Topic Grid for the Spring Term.
STEM Discovery Centre Trip THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY Please click here for further information regarding the Year 1 trip to the STEM Discovery Centre on Thursday 8 February. Payment and consent is to be provided via Evolve.
Year 2 Year 2 Ancient Egypt Day WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH To enrich our history topic on Ancient Egypt, we have arranged for ‘History off the Page’ to spend the day with us on Wednesday 6 March. The children will take part in a range of cross curricular activities using authentic tools. There is an opportunity for 4 parent volunteers to help on this exciting day. If you would like to get involved, please email Mrs Percival (percival_j@habsboys.org.uk). We would like the children to dress up as an Ancient Egyptian. Costumes do not need to be complicated: Tunic: This can be made from a simple white oversized t-shirt, pillowcase or even an old sheet folded in half, stitched and a hole in the top for your head with a sash or belt over it. Sandals: (Optional) Simple leather sandals are good (school shoes must also be bought to school for playtimes) Collar: A collar is not essential but can be easily made from a circular piece of cardboard with a hole cut into it for your head. You can decorate it with an Egyptian-style pattern.
Topic Grid IMPORTANT INFORMATION Please click here to view the Year 2 Topic Grid for the Spring Term.
Year 2 Parent Workshop on Reading THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY, 8.45AM Please click here for information regarding the Year 2 Parent Workshop on Reading. We look forward to welcoming you.
YEAR 2 INFORMATION
Year 2 St Paul’s Cathedral Trip FRIDAY 9 FEBRUARY Please click here for further information regarding the Year 2 trip to St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 9 February. Payment and consent is to be provided via Evolve.
Year 3 Year 3 Instrumental Scheme Open Morning
New!
MONDAY 5 FEBRUARY We are delighted to invite you to attend the Year 3 Instrumental Scheme Open Morning on Monday 5 February in the Seldon Hall. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to gain a greater understanding of your son’s instrument and talk to his teacher. Information regarding lesson times and location has been sent to you individually. We look forward to welcoming you on the day. Please ensure you sign in at the Prep School on arrival.
Forest School Clothing
New!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Parents are reminded to ensure that your child remembers to bring in their Forest School kit each week and that they bring in clothing appropriate for the weather. Lesson time is often lost when sorting out clothing for pupils when we are keen to ensure we make the most of the outdoor learning opportunities. Thank you for your continued support.
Year 4 Year 4 Aylmerton Residential
New!
TUESDAY 11 JUNE TO FRIDAY 14 JUNE Please click here for further information regarding the Year 4 Residential to Aylmerton.
Year 4 Mayan Workshop THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY As part of our History curriculum, we are excited to inform you that Year 4 will be taking part in a Mayan Workshop on Thursday 29 February. This will help introduce this new topic and period to them and is expected to be a memorable and fun day. The workshop will take place throughout the day with lunch and going home arrangements as per usual. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Form teacher.
Year 5 Year 5 & Year 6 Coffee Afternoon MONDAY 29 JANUARY, 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 welcome 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.
Jazz Summer School 2024 SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 AUGUST 2024 Please click here for further information and to apply for the Jazz Summer School 2024 which is open to musicians Grade 3 +. Applications close Monday 25 March.
Habs Indian Music Course 2024 MONDAY 26 TO THURSDAY 29 AUGUST 2024 Please click here for further information and to apply for the brand new summer music course at Habs Elstree. The course is open to anyone playing an instrument in this style.
Year 5 Tower of London Trip TUESDAY 19 MARCH Please click here for further information regarding the Year 5 trip to the Tower of London on Tuesday 19 March. Payment and consent is to be provided via Evolve.
Year 6 Year 5 & Year 6 Coffee Afternoon MONDAY 29 JANUARY, 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 welcome 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.
Jazz Summer School 2024 SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 AUGUST 2024 Please click here for further information and to apply for the Jazz Summer School 2024 which is open to musicians Grade 3 +. Applications close Monday 25 March 2024.
Habs Indian Music Course 2024 MONDAY 26 TO THURSDAY 29 AUGUST 2024 Please click here for further information and to apply for the brand new summer music course at Habs Elstree. The course is open to anyone playing an instrument in this style.
PREP SPORTS FIXTURES
SATURDAY 27 JANUARY
*U11 Table Tennis Community Cup (10am to 12.30pm, McGowan) *U11 Hertfordshire County Football Finals (1.00pm to 6.00pm, Parmiters Grammar School)
TUESDAY 30 JANUARY THURSDAY 1 FEBRUARY FRIDAY 2 FEBRUARY
SATURDAY 3 FEBRUARY
MONDAY 5 FEBRUARY TUESDAY 6 FEBRUARY THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY TUESDAY 22 FEBRUARY FRIDAY 23 FEBRUARY SATURDAY 24 FEBRUARY TUESDAY 27 FEBRUARY
Y4 v St Johns (St Johns 1.30pm to 4.45pm) Y3 v St Johns (Home, 2.30pm to 4.00pm) *Division 10 Swimming Girls School, 4.00pm Y6 Quad v UCS (UCS 1.30pm to 4.45pm) Y4/Y5 (ABC) v UCS (UCS 9.30am to 11.00am)
Y5/Y6 Watford FC Match experience Y5 v Radlett (Home 2.30pm to 4.00pm , Pavilion) Y4 Chesham and Claires Court (Chesham 1.30pm to 4.30pm) Y3 v Berkhamsted (Home 2.00pm to 4.45pm) Y3 v UCS (Belmont 1.30pm to 4.30pm) Y6 (ABC) v St Johns
(Home, Hockey pitches, 2.30pm to 4.00pm) *Y4 Football festival UCS Medi Mehra Cup Invite Only (Away 9.30am to 12.30pm) Y4 v St Johns (St Johns, 1.30pm to 4.30pm)
* Selected pupils will be invited to participate via SOCS
PREP SPORTS FIXTURES THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY
Division 10 Swimming (Medburn, 4.00pm) Y6 (BCD) v St Johns (St Johns, 1.30pm to 4.45pm)
FRIDAY 1 MARCH
St Martins Prep Road Relay U11 (Away 1.15pm to 4.45pm)
MONDAY 4 MARCH
Y5 v Highgate (Home, Pavilion, 2.30pm to 4.00pm)
TUESDAY 5 MARCH
Y4 v Radlett (Home, Pavilion, 2.30pm to 4.00pm)
FRIDAY 8 MARCH
Y6 ISFA Football Cup St Johns (invite only) 8.45am to 3.30pm Y5/6 (ABC) Hockey v St Martins 2.30pm to 4.00pm
SATURDAY 9 MARCH
THURSDAY 14 MARCH
FRIDAY 15 MARCH MONDAY 18 MARCH
THURSDAY 21 MARCH
Y6 (A) Belmont Football Festival, Away (invite only) 9.00am to 1.00pm Y3 v UCS (Home, Pavilion, 2.30pm to 4.00pm) Y6 Quad (Home, 2.30pm to 4.00pm) Y5 v Radlett (Radlett, 1.45pm to 4.00pm) Y5/Y6 Table Tennis v Belmont/Highgate, Medburn (invite only) 4.00pm to 5.15pm
* Selected pupils will be invited to participate via SOCS
PRE - PREP CALENDAR DATES
THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY
Year 1 STEM Discovery Trip Year 2 Parent Reading Workshop FRIDAY 9 FEBRUARY Year 2 St Paul’s Cathedral Visit Term ends for students, 3.30pm TUESDAY 20 FEBRUARY Term begins for students
FRIDAY 8 MARCH Year 1 Mothers Day Concert (2pm-3.30pm) TUESDAY 12 MARCH Parent Consultation Evening (online, 4pm-7pm) THURSDAY 14 MARCH Parent Consultation Evening (online, 4pm-7pm)
THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY Reception Literacy Workshop
FRIDAY 15 MARCH Year 1 Pirate Treasure Hunt Dress Up
WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY
Rec to Year 6 Donkin Cup
Reception Science Day FRIDAY 22 MARCH WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH
Year 1 Roald Dahl Trip
Year 2 Life in Ancient Egypt Day
Reception World Maths Day
THURSDAY 7 MARCH World Book Day Celebration
WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH
Term ends for students, 3.30pm
For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.
PREP CALENDAR DATES
MONDAY 29 JANUARY
THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY
Y5 & Y6 Tea & Coffee Afternoon
Year 4 Mayan Workshop
Prep Hall, 3pm-4pm SATURDAY 2 MARCH WEDNESDAY 31 JANUARY Year 5 & Year 6 Wicked
Under 11’s IAPS Basketball Championships (invite only)
Theatre Trip TUESDAY 5 MARCH MONDAY 5 FEBRUARY
Parent Consultation Evening
Y3 Instrumental Scheme Open Morning
(online) THURSDAY 7 MARCH
FRIDAY 9 FEBRUARY
World Book Day
Wellbeing Day
Parent Consultation Evening
Term ends for students, 4pm
(online)
TUESDAY 20 FEBRUARY
MONDAY 11 MARCH
Term begins for students
Year 4 Natural History Museum Trip
For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.
PREP CALENDAR DATES
TUESDAY 12 MARCH
WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH
Parent Consultation Evening
Year 3 Residential Information
(online)
Evening (7pm, Prep Hall)
THURSDAY 14 MARCH
THURSDAY 21 MARCH
Parent Consultation Evening
Year 6
(online)
National Gallery Trip
FRIDAY 15 MARCH
FRIDAY 22 MARCH
Rec to Year 6 Donkin Cup
Year 5 Planetarium Visit
MONDAY 18 MARCH
(Junior School)
Year 5 Residential Information Evening (7pm, Prep Hall)
WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH International Day
TUESDAY 19 MARCH
Term ends for pupils, 4pm
Year 5 Tower of London Trip
For further information, please refer to the school calendar on Firefly.