The second half of the summer term was full of exciting opportunities, memorable experiences and impressive achievements for pupils across the school.

One of the highlights was our Year 4 and 5 Camp Night. The adventure began with a visit to watch Matilda, brilliantly performed by students from Alde Valley Academy. The show was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and proved to be a fantastic start to the event. Back at school, tents were pitched in the quad and the fun continued. After a delicious fish and chip supper, the children enjoyed an evening of games and activities, including several energetic rounds of hide and seek around the empty school.

We were also delighted to celebrate the success of several young artists whose work was selected for display at the John Gibbins Gallery as part of the Young Art East Anglia competition, which raises funds for Cancer Research UK. Twenty-one pieces of artwork created by our pupils were chosen for exhibition, a fantastic achievement. This year’s theme was Discovery, and the children were incredibly proud to see their work displayed publicly alongside that of other talented young artists from across the region.

Our Year 6 pupils enjoyed another fantastic residential visit to Hill Top Outdoor Centre. Throughout the trip, every child embraced the challenges on offer, including tree climbing, caving and the Tree Top Trail. It was wonderful to see pupils demonstrating resilience, determination and courage as they pushed themselves beyond their comfort zones, supported one another and celebrated each other’s successes. We were particularly proud to receive compliments from centre staff regarding the outstanding manners, respect and behaviour shown by our pupils throughout their stay.

Other exciting opportunities this term included a Year 3 visit to Tunstall Forest to support learning linked to their Roman topic and a Year 1 and Year 2 trip to Flixton Air Museum, where children enjoyed bringing their classroom learning to life through first-hand experiences.

Year 5 pupils also attended a special event at the University of Suffolk as part of the National Year of Reading. Organised through the Leiston Education Partnership and several local partners, the event provided children with the opportunity to work alongside professional authors and illustrators, including Zeb Soanes, author of the popular Gaspard the Fox series. Through creative writing, illustration and concept workshops, pupils explored how stories are created and brought to life.

The term has also been packed with sporting and STEM activities. Pupils took part in Sports Day, an in-house gymnastics competition and an athletics event for Years 3 and 4. Meanwhile, Year 5 and 6 pupils enjoyed testing their creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills in a K’Nex Challenge. Our PTA Colour Run brought the school community together for a fun-filled event that was enjoyed by children, staff and families alike.

After a very sunny summer holiday we are now back at school for a new school year and looking forward to all the learning adventures ahead.

Jo Harris

Head of School

Wickham Market Primary School