Fellside Community Primary School

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 07:57:37 +0000

This week the whole school have been busy with art week. Our theme this year is recycling. A lady from a company named Corus came to talk to us to help us understand a little more about recycling and what we can all do. She showed us how electromagnets are used when recycling steel, we even got to make one!

Trying New Things!

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:33:24 +0000

Yesterday, as part of the transition programme to secondary school, Year 6 tried out the Bunsen Burners at Whickham School! They learned lots and thoroughly enjoyed burning things!

Here comes the flame again!

Fire Safety

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:39:48 +0000

Today Year Six learned some important lessons about fire safety and how they could look after themselves and their families at home. Some of them even had the opportunity to dress up; together they almost make one complete firefighter!

Pedalling Picnic

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:57:26 +0000

What a superb turnout on Saturday 13th June with at least eighty children and adults taking part in our ninth Pedalling Picnic. With a choice of two rides of four or ten miles the majority of children took the longer option and of those on the shorter route (still four miles!) most were in their first year of cycling.

Long route or short, it's clear that the impact of training through our involvement in the Bike it scheme has greatly improve confidence and competence on bikes.

A memorable morning and the best attended to date. The weather was kind too. Thanks to all who took part and particular thanks to Gary Haley for his organisation of yet another successful event.

Term Dates 2009/2010

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:40:32 +0000

SCHOOL HOLIDAY DATES
(Academic Year 2009/2010)

School Terms School Opens School Closes
Autumn Mon 7/9/09 Fri 18/12/09
Spring Mon 4/1/10 Thu 1/4/10
Summer Mon 19/4/10 Fri 23/7/10

Half Term
26-30 October 2009
15-19 February 2010
1-4 June 2010
May Day Holiday - Mon 3 May 2010

In-Service Training Days for Teaching Staff

Two days within the above terms are to be used for in-service training activities. These dates are to be determined and agreed by the School Governing Body. School is closed to children on Monday 7th September 2009 for staff training.

Occasional Days

In addition, one day within the summer term 2010 is to be utilised for the purpose of closure in the event of Government elections. This day to be used near the end of the summer term at the discretion of the Head Teacher and Governing Body.

Special Advice

Success!

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 21:50:57 +0000

Last night our cricket team sailed through to the regional cricket finals at the Riverside Cricket Ground in Durham. Well done to them, team work, postive attitudes and superb skills all came into play. Good luck to them all for Monday.

Working Together

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 21:25:30 +0000

Today Year Six began their teacher training as they introduced the Reception class to the Mathletics programme in the ICT suite. What a joy it was to watch our oldest and youngest children work together.

Speaking, listening, patience and

understanding all came into play.

Red Nose Day!

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:14:56 +0000

Many thanks to everyone who came dressed in red to help raise money for Comic Relief. At the final count we raised a superb £225. Thanks to Charlotte for the photographs and the idea in the first place!

Robin Hood Stories

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:41:22 +0000

Year 5 have been reading legends of Robin Hood, and have written their own endings to an exciting episode, in the style of the author.
Robin and Will were lured to the castle by the fiendish Nottingham, who had captured Marion as bait. The two outlaws thought they had outwitted the sheriff by sneaking into the castle through a secret hole, but little did they know that they were walking straight into the dungeon and had fallen prey to Nottingham's cunning plan.

We began our stories just as the sheriff crept up behind Robin, with a sword in hand, and gleefully announced that they were 'trapped'.

Have a look at just a few of the wonderful, gripping stories we wrote.

Year Four at The Sage

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:34:40 +0000

On Tuesday 10th March Year Four went to The Sage, Gateshead. We took part in 'The Gateshead Schools Dance Festival'. This year the theme was dances around the world and through the ages.

We chose rock and roll from America in 1959. We danced to 'Rock around the Clock' by Bill Haley and The Comets.

Here we are performing at 'The Sage' and again in front of the whole school!

Nursery Toddle

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:38:15 +0000

Nursery children and their adults toddled around the school. Everyone wore their "go-fast" shoes from both the morning and afternoon nursery. We had lots of fun and lots of money will be raised.

Are we nearly there yet?

Hooray, lap four!

Time for the play area.

Back to the nursery for scones with jam and milk.

With the money raised from the toddle, a new water tray and toys will bought for the nursery children to enjoy.
A big thank you for all your support.

Year Two Wedding 2009

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:40:08 +0000

On Tuesday 24th February 2009 Year Two were joined by friends and relatives at St Mary's Church in Whickham for a special wedding. Father Barry kindly performed the service. Here are some photographs of the happy event!

The ushers greet the guests and show them to their seats.

The service begins.

The best man and the pageboy.

Exchanging rings!

The bride's parents watch anxiously.

The Blessing.

Signing the Register.

The photographer in action!

The 'Happy Couple' lead the procession.

Dodging the bubbles!

The 'Happy Couple' with their families.

The guests.

Cutting the cake.

Congratulations!

The Lighthouse Keeper Stories

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:33:23 +0000

Year One have been beavering away writing and drawing new versions of one of our favourite stories- 'The Lighthouse Keeper's Lunch.' These storyboards make up our latest display in our corridor. Max, Charlotte, Ben and Sophie had such good fun stuffing odd socks and painting cardboard wings to make the 'pesky seagulls' which were added as final touches to the display. The story of Mr. Grinling, the lighthouse keeper was also the basis for some scientific investigation. The class were asked to test fabrics to discover which would be best to make him a jacket to wear when he was working. We all agreed the jacket ought to be waterproof and tested four different fabrics to discover which fitted the bill. (Nylon was selected!) Mr. Grinling (the lighthouse keeper) reappeared in our Technology lessons. The children made a rocking model of him being tossed about on the salty sea in his old sailing boat. Then they were given the task of writing instructions for making these moving models. Here are the photographs of our efforts:

Pictured above are our rocking Mr. Grinling models made in our technology lessons.

The 'sea' is made from a paper plate which is covered in stripes of coloured tissue paper. The layers of PVA glue make it strong so that when the plate is dried and folded it is strong enough to rock. The boat with the sail is made by folding a single cardboard square and carefully coloured. We know that boats are female so we have given them our own Mums' names. Mr. Grinling is seen fishing with a cocktail stick 'fishing rod' and he has caught a rainbow fish.

We have been reading the whole series of Lighthouse Keeper stories. After reading, 'The Lighthouse Keeper's Cat', we wrote missing pet posters. After reading, 'The Lighthouse Keeper's Rescue', we wrote recounts about the rescue of the beached whale and after reading 'The Lighthouse Keeper's Lunch', we had such fun designing and writing a recipe for the most disgusting sandwiches we could possibly imagine!

Robinwood Experience

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:24:07 +0000

Year 6 have just returned from the Robinwood Centre in Alston. The last three days have been action packed to say the least! It has been an absolute pleasure to take this class of children away, polite, well mannered, fantastic behaviour, positive attitudes and stretching themselves to the limit! They were a credit to school and their families. They have had the opportunity to try many activities, archery, caving, climbing, zipwire, trapeze to name but a few!

Year 3 use ICT to bring their adventure stories to life.

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:10:06 +0000

The children have been using their ideas for events in adventure stories to record and manipulate sound using the Audacity software. Click below to find out more and hear some of the children's sinister and spooky sound clips.

Tudor Banquet

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:31:19 +0000

Year 5 have just finished learning all about the Tudors, and to celebrate we held a lavish Tudor banquet.

Mama Mia

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:04:34 +0000

Fellside Fun Club - Pricing January 2009

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:42:24 +0000

Please download our latest pricing information.

Fellside Fun Club Price Structure January 2009 (Word: 26KB)

Tudor Assembly

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:42:14 +0000

Click below to see a collection of images from Year 5's recent Tudor Class Assembly. A big thank you to all the parents for our fabulous costumes, and Mrs Ducker and Mrs Potts for all their help!

Fellside Fun Club

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:32:09 +0000

Fellside Fun Club, set up in September 2007, will be managed by a new provider from January 2009.

Rachel Wilson, (currently the manager) will become owner/manager and will work with parents, school staff and Governors to continue to provide a quality, secure and friendly setting for breakfast club and after-school care.

Opening Times are 07.50 to 9.00am and 3.15 to 5.50pm.

Rachel can be contacted on 07717314540 or e-mail at fellsidefunclub@blueyonder.co.uk

I want to ride my bicycle...

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:14:17 +0000

The children in Reception class have been learning how to ride their bikes without stabilisers. Alan Barlow, our "Bike-it" officer came into school to help us practise. We had many successes throughout the day.

Here's how to achieve the same success in easy to follow steps:

Step 1 - Lower the seat on your bike so that your feet are flat on the ground.

Step 2 - Take off the pedals from your bike.

Step 3 - Start to scoot along using both feet at the same time (scooting down a slight hill makes it easier!)

Step 4 - When you feel ready, start to lift your feet off the ground as you scoot - "Weee!"

Step 5 - Practise scooting along and lift your feet off the ground more and more - you're getting your balance as you scoot along!

Step 6 - When you're scooting happily, put your pedals back on and have a go at pedalling instead of scooting. You may need a bit of help to get started!

Step 7 - Once you have started pedalling, remember to keep going!

We had a great time learning how to ride our two-wheeler bikes.

Thank you, Alan for helping us.

Look out for us in the parks and cycle paths around Whickham to see how well we all did!

Year 5 Class Assembly, Tuesday 25th November 09:15

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:49:11 +0000

Year 5 will be performing their class assembly at 9:15am on Tuesday 25th of November. Family members of all the children in Year 5 are invited. Refreshments will be provided by Friends of Fellside.

Any help in providing 'Tudor' costumes will be much appreciated. I look forward to seeing you on the 25th!

Sally Moore

Toys - Past and Present

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:39:31 +0000

As part of their history studies, Year One have been looking at old fashioned and modern toys. They have been comparing toys from the past and those that are played with by today's children. They have compared teddies - one as old as Mrs. Armstrong with a brand new bear. They have looked at the types of toys that Victorian children would have played with and the types of materials they were made from. Children had fewer toys in those days and often, especially toys played with by poorer children, they were home made.

Year One pupils had a go at making their own toys to play with. They made old fashioned peg dolls. These started off as traditional wooden pegs. At first Year One boys were not so excited about making 'dolls' but when they began making 'Ghost Peg dolls', they had great fun.

Here are the next set of peg dolls - our Princess range! Dainty, pretty and great fun to make...

Spooky Story Settings from Year 3

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:10:49 +0000

In literacy this term, Year 3 have been writing their own spooky story settings. The children then typed up their stories using MIcrosoft Word during ICT lessons to practise their combining text and graphics skills. Read on to take a look at some spooky tales - prepare for the fright of your life!

Wrapping Paper

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:00:45 +0000

We have been designing our own wrapping paper in Year Four. We used publisher to select some images and then created a repeating pattern using two or three images.

We looked at a selection of types of wrapping paper. For example : Birthday, Christmas, Halloween and Christening. Here are some of our designs:-

James found some great dinosaur images for his birthday wrapping paper design.

Pippa used animal images to design her birthday wrapping paper.

Luke found these Christmas images on Clip Art and used them in his repeating pattern.

Emily decided to use horizontal lines for her repeating pattern using three Christmas images.

Favourite activities in nursery

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:00:45 +0000

We love fruit.

Each day fruit is washed,chopped and placed on a tray for everyone to enjoy.

Apples, oranges, bananas everyone has a favourite fruit.

In the kitchen four children are making dough.

Long worms and spiders were favourite creations made from black dough.

The children carefully gave the clay hedgehogs spikes using modelling tools.

Outdoors, everyone enjoys climbing, digging or floating boats.

Some children are drawing plans or chalking pictures.

Soft play is always fun, hiding numbers is the game today.

Watch out! Three bears live in the cottage at nursery.

Friday is library day. Everyone chooses a book to take home.

We take the books home in our new library bags.

Making Puppets

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:00:36 +0000

Year Two have been making a variety of puppets this term. We started with pin puppets.
If you follow our instructions, you will be able to make some of your own.

Colour in the puppet parts carefully.

Cut round the puppet pieces, following the outline.

Pin your puppet parts together, using paper fasteners.

Finally attach the lever and have lots of fun moving the arms and legs of your new puppet!

A Step Back In Time!

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:00:21 +0000

On Tuesday 4th November Year Six travelled back in time to 1939. They had the opportunity to experience a little of the life of an evacuee from World War Two when they visited Home Farm at Beamish Open Air Museum. They carried out a variety of jobs at the farm in the hope that the farmer would let them stay there during the evacuation.

Cleaning shoes!

Making cottage cheese.

Pickling eggs!

Making mats.

Many thanks to all the staff at Beamish who made the evacuation possible and ensured the children all had a great time.

Watch this space for more photographs of the evacuees.

Fellside Photo Mashup

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:52:27 +0000

Enjoy!

Shelter Project 2008

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 17:14:59 +0000

On Friday 17th October Year Six visited the Gateshead City Learning Centre to develop their shelter building project. They used the CADCAM package to design their shelters on screen; these will then be manufactured into models. Next summer we hope to take one of the designs and turn it into a shelter at school that the children can have their packed lunches in during the summer months.

Kings of the Road

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 16:54:23 +0000

Congratulations go to Year Six this week as they completed their on road cycle training. They have been involved in a six week long training programme with the cycle road safety team learning the rules of the road as well as developing their confidence in riding on the roads around school. All children who took part passed with flying colours, well done! Many thanks to the team for their expert guidance and care they showed the children.

Tour of Britain

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:00:33 +0000

On Friday 12th September, twenty of our top cyclists accompanied by ten adults cycled to Gateshead's Baltic Square to watch 90 of the world's top cyclists finish stage 6 of the Tour of Britain.

2009-2010 Prospectus

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 15:45:35 +0000

The latest school prospectus is available to download now. Please click the link below to begin downloading the file.

Download file

So long, farewell.......

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:09:34 +0000

This summer we said goodbye to another group of extremely talented children. They have been a real pleasure to have in our school and we will miss each and every one of them. We wish them all the luck for the future.

Test Links Page

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 12:18:27 +0000

add furl.net embed code here

Moving On

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 19:54:06 +0000

Over the last few weeks, Year Six have been involved in a series of activities and events with Whickham School. They have had the opportunity to try out the following activities: art, PSHE, science, maths and today they took part in the Mini Games. A fantastic time was had by all, we even got the chance to say hello to Dame Kelly Holmes!

Athletics Festival 2008

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:37:31 +0000

Our children from Year 3, 4, 5 and 6 took part in the Athletics Festival at Gateshead Stadium on Friday 27th June. Girls and boys from the school claimed a bumper crop of medals, including five gold and four silver. A fantastic time was had by all and many thanks go to Mrs Bowren and Mrs Potts for all their support on the day.

Click to enlarge images from the event below:

Click below to see further images of the event.

2008 Pedalling Picnic

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:33:59 +0000

On Saturday 14th June around 60 children and parents took part in our annual Pedalling Picnic (the eighth event).

The majority of participants opted for the long ride - 10 miles from Consett to Swalwell - riding at a cracking pace (for children as young as 5) to reach Swalwell in just over an hour.

The sun shone for the picnic element of this enjoyable event.

Thanks to all who took part and particularly to Gary Haley for his work on the organisation of what has become a traditional summer event at Fellside.

Year 6 Cricketers

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 21:55:21 +0000

Year Six took part in the cricket festival at Whickham Cricket Club this week, the weather was fantastic, all of them played brilliantly and each and every one of them displayed great team spirit. As usual their behaviour was superb.

Nursery Newsletter Edition 40

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 10:55:10 +0000

Butterflies, beans, tadpoles, peas, carrots, cress, radishes, potatoes and children are all growing and flourishing in our nursery. This period of Spring/Early Summer has given our children a wonderful opportunity to study growth inside the nursery, in the garden and in the pond (literally for one child!).

This week children have enjoyed their home grown cress in their own sandwiches and have shared the fascination of all of us watching the painted lady butterflies emerge from cocoons. Tadpoles borrowed from our pond have demonstrated another of these miraculous transformations of nature as legs develop and they change to frogs. Today will see the release of the butterflies and tadpole/frogs into the wild.

These very real early childhood experiences are often those we remember as our memories of the more routine fade with time.

Thanks of course to Lynn and Anna for the extra but essential effort it requires to provide these stimulating experiences for the children. I take this opportunity also to those of you—probably almost all—who have helped in the nursery this year.

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Newsletter Issue 59

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 10:49:09 +0000

A collective cheer sounded from Year Six children on completion of their final (the 9th) SATs paper last Friday. Their attitude and commitment during the tests week and in preceding weeks has been outstanding. The children have every reason to be confident of excellent results later this term.

Nationally there has been considerable media and parliamentary interest in SATs this year. Issues have been raised around curriculum content in Year Six classes, the purpose of the tests and concerns about stress on children.

From our prospective … We retain a full, broad curriculum as long as is sensible in Year Six with full access to sport and the arts—their residential visit was in the second half of last term. Naturally we ensure appropriate teaching and learning, and revision and practice opportunities in the approach to tests.

The purpose of the tests? Do they test schools or children? I could write pages on this one. Within school we are assessing children and individual results are important to children, parents and teachers. There is no doubt that at a regional and national level results are used to rank schools (newspapers, etc.) and judge school performance (Ofsted, DCSF etc.).

We currently operate at a very high level in these crude rankings (5th Nationally in 2007), which is nice, but are such ‘league tables’ useful or necessary? Probably not.

Are the tests stressful? Well what test taken seriously isn’t? In my experience a combination of full curriculum coverage, expert teaching and massive commitment from children enables every child to enter the tests confident in their own ability to succeed. Our result bear witness.

It seems certain that SATs in their current form have just about outlived their usefulness. Another one, maybe two years left of the current system I should guess. I know that any teacher at Fellside can give an accurate assessment of levels for individual children without any test and we are currently refining this process. Equally I’m certain that government (of any political persuasion) will wish to retain a system for comparing schools and judging performance.

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Working Together

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 08:28:55 +0000

Today Year 6 became teachers! They introduced the Reception class to Mathletics, one of our most recent software purchases in school. What a delight it was to see our youngest children being guided and supported by our oldest.

Bike-It Breakfast!

Tue, 20 May 2008 21:30:06 +0000

Anyone for breakfast?

Today saw the first ever bring your bike and have your breakfast event! There were over forty children and parents who cycled to school and then enjoyed fresh juice, croissants, toast and time to chat with friends. Many thanks to James, our Bike-It officer, who organised and ran the event. Watch out for more activities during Bike-It Week, week beginning Monday 16th June.

Moving In The Wind!

Sun, 11 May 2008 19:51:30 +0000

This year’s technology challenge was to design and make something that would harness the power of the wind. What a spectacular array and assortment of machines, devices and turbines there were! Well done to everyone who entered, the standard was extremely high. Congratulations to the winners Olivia, Charlotte, Luke and Ellen.
Take a look at some in action!
Download file

Download file

Newsletter Issue 58

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:07:53 +0000

By now all parents and carers will have had, and taken the opportunity to discuss children’s progress for the second time this academic year.

Doubtless you’ll have applied a simple test of progress, and one we encourage all children to use—”look back at your work in September and look at it now”.

In many cases, and this is often most obvious with our youngest children, this can and does show an astonishing rate of progress in writing and maths.

Expert teaching at school, combined with that essential support from home and of course the enthusiasm of our children enable almost all our children to achieve our aim of ‘learning to read’ in Foundation Stage and Key Stage One, enabling them to ‘read to learn’ and develop advanced skills in Key Stage Two.

We were delighted at the response from parents of younger children to our Phonics for Families workshops run by Mrs Armstrong and Mrs Balkwill. Similar workshops are sure to take place in the Autumn Term.

As you are aware we make every effort to enrich and enhance our curricular and extra curricular provision and always celebrate success and progress in the arts, sports and social aspects of school life. We never lose sight of one of our core purposes—ensuring our children are literate and numerate. The ‘nuts and bolts’ of primary education.

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Nursery Newsletter Issue 39

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:02:02 +0000

By now all parents and carers will have had, and taken the opportunity to discuss children’s progress for the second time this academic year.

Doubtless you’ll have applied a simple test of progress, and one we encourage all children to use—”look back at your work in September and look at it now”.

In many cases, and this is often most obvious with our youngest children, this can and does show an astonishing rate of progress in writing and maths.

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Nursery Newsletter Edition 38

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:05:28 +0000

It’s all go! In the two weeks since half term so much has happened to enhance life at Fellside.

Year Six have had their residential outdoor activity visit to Robin Wood Centre near Alston. Wild country and some pretty wild weather but hugely rewarding with our children attracting many positive comments for their immaculate behaviour, enthusiasm and positive attitude.

Many of our Karate Club members are now proudly wearing new coloured belts. Our swimmers competed at Felling Pool last week. Year Five children have now had two days working with a professional film crew on a film project to be screened later this year at the newly refurbished Tyneside Cinema.

… And what about last Thursday? World Book Day with Friends of Fellside Discos after school. Newcastle Utd’s well practised goalkeeper, Steve Harper was here in the afternoon promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. A real bonus arose after a phone call from London on Thursday morning. A BBC Match of the Day TV crew travelled north to film the whole event for a slot on this weekend’s Match of the Day*. While all this was happening at Fellside I was heading south (staff say escaping!) to London to 10 Downing Street at the invitation of the Prime Minister. So all in all an exciting day for everyone.

What I’m well aware of is that all these events which excite, enhance and enrich school life require the extra effort of teachers, support and admin staff and others, often volunteers.

Sincere thanks to all.

* Sunday morning Match of the Day

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Newsletter Issue 57

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 10:57:09 +0000

* Sunday morning Match of the Day

Download Newsletter Issue 57 (Acrobat 182KB)

ICT Club: The Power of Powerpoint

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 16:28:22 +0000

The ICT Club have been using Microsoft Powerpoint for all sorts of fun activities including creating interactive quizzes, writing their very own adventure games and diaries of school trips. Click below to have a look at some of their work for yourself!

Steve Harper Visits Fellside!

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 21:51:22 +0000

On Thursday 6th March, Steve Harper, Newcastle United’s goal keeper, visited school; he came to promote healthy lifestyles and diets. He enjoyed a healthy school lunch and also had time to give some tips to a couple of our budding goal keepers! Many thanks to Steve who was great with all of the children, especially Year Six when they needed to be put at ease in front of the Match of The Day cameras!

Robinwood Adventure

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 22:02:18 +0000

The Year Six residential visit took place this week and what a time we had! We visited the Robinwood Centre in Alston and spent three days crawling through mud, working as teams, solving problems and much, much more! A fantastic time was had by all. We were extremely proud of every single member of the class, behaviour, attitudes, support for each other were second to none. A huge thanks must go to the staff of the centre and the group leaders in particular who took care of us all so incredibly well.

How many layers?

Who is leading the way?

Make sure it's tight!!

Wellies, the essential item of clothing.

Is that mud on those faces?

Year One Newsroom

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:29:53 +0000

Our role play area this half term has been transformed into the 'Newsround' newsroom with a writing table set up for budding reporters and another set up for our news team presenters.
With a model clapper board and televsion camera, we have been playing at filming and presenting the news.

In place of 'Show and Tell' this half term we will be asking children to read their news items (which have been prepared at home) in the style of a news reader. We aim to write some recounts of events in our English lessons that will be presented from the 'Newsdesk'.

We have been discussing how we might 'get into role' and we think that watching 'Newsround' on CBBC might be useful. There is also a handy BBC Newsround website where we can read news articles written by other children which may give us ideas for our own news items.

Could we have the next Trevor MacDonald and Katie Durham in our class?

Reception class celebrate Chinese New Year

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:03:33 +0000

Reception class had a fantastic time on Thursday 7th February celebrating Chinese New Year.
We tried different creative activities and worked with many parents during the day.

Our favourite animals

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:03:03 +0000

We have been thinking about animals in nursery.
Outdoors, children have been collecting twigs and sticks to make a jungle for the animals in the sand.

Year Two Wedding 2008

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:59:09 +0000

On Tuesday 29th January Year Two held their wedding at St Mary's Church, Whickham. Father Barry performed the ceremony in front of a congregation of family members. Everyone had a wonderful time!

Click below to download an extract of the wedding movie! Please note that this is a large file and my take a few minutes to download. You will also need to have QuickTime Player installed on your machine to view this movie file. The best way to download this file is to click the link below with the right hand mouse button and select 'Save Target As...' from the menu that appears. Then select Save to save the file on your computer and select Open once the download is complete.

Download Movie file (mp4 format)

Here are a few snapshots of our special day!

Don't the wedding guests look fantastic in their best clothes!

Listening intently to Father Barry's words!

The serious part - the vows!

Signing the Register.

The Wedding Party!

The photographer was busy all morning!

The guests blew bubbles over the 'Happy Couple'!

We all enjoyed eating the delicious wedding cake back at school!

Ancient Egyptians

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:58:37 +0000

Investigating Materials

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:58:28 +0000

Year One have a go at weaving

Year 1 have been working hard producing a series of weavings which have been displayed together to create an impressive 'Art Installation' in the Key Stage One corridor.
We started our unit of work by sorting fabrics according to their textures and moved quickly on to sorting in terms of colour. We chose a range of blue and green fabrics for our weavings and brought in boxes from home to make box looms. We learned to weave using strips of fabric to create the 'weft' and learned to work our strips of cloth going under and over the 'warp' threads. The tricky thing was to remember to start differently with each strip that was added.
What fun we had! Our classroom seemed full of green and blue strips of cloth!
We would like to thank our parent helper, Mrs. Barras, who came to assist us.

Bringing the past to Life

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 08:10:06 +0000

Remember the Newsreels which were once such a major part of a trip to the cinema? Year 5 have been recreating these mini-films as part of the new Film Narrative topic for Literacy. Our pupils have learnt all about the film-making process including: writing a Production Sheet; planning different camera angles and assigning roles within Newsreel teams. We also researched and watched numerous Newsreels from the 1930s through to the late 1970s.

'Flyers 2008!'

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 20:12:53 +0000

Over the last couple of weeks, Year 6 has been learning about forces in science. We have also been learning how to devise and carry out our own science investigations. We used ‘Flyers’ to help us with this, we developed questions to investigate, devised a method and ensured the test was fair. We learned a lot and had fun too!!!
Making the protoypes.

Testing them out.

Testing and re-testing!

Changing the launch height!

Watch them in action!
Download file

Buddy Shelters

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 19:33:28 +0000

During the autumn term, Year 6 designed and constructed buddy shelters as part of their design technology work. Some of the best designs were then selected to be constructed from living willow. This week has seen the installation of these in both the school playgrounds. The children had the opportunity to work with the gardeners and weave with the willow, a huge thanks to all of the gardeners whose help and expertise was invaluable!

Fellside Nursery Matters Issue 37

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:03:20 +0000

On behalf of everyone at school, may I take this opportunity to wish you all a belated Happy New Year. The start of a new calendar year it may be but we are close to half way through the academic year and in the term where we often see the most rapid progress by children.

I note from last January’s Fellside Matters that I gave an indication of some plans and expectations for 2007—the introduction of a childcare facility, the new Primary Strategy and increasing awareness of sustainable energy, ideally through the installation of wind and solar energy. Well … Fellside Funclub has been in operation since September as has the Primary Strategy (revised guidance for teaching of Maths and English). The installation of wind and solar power has not been as straightforward as we’d hoped for. We submitted plans in October for a wind turbine close to Burnthouse Lane, the ideal location for wind. The proximity to a road and the likelihood of bats (a protected species) in the neighbourhood has necessitated further work to move these plans forward. Similarly a structural survey of our roof is needed to determine suitability for solar energy.

Any structural engineers or bat expert parents please get in touch!

Sustainable energy plans roll forward into 2008 alongside the introduction of foreign language teaching from September. The installation of interactive whiteboards in all classrooms is planned as are further improvements to outdoor learning and play facilities. Lots to anticipate.

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Fellside Matters - Issue 56

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 11:58:42 +0000

Any structural engineers or bat expert parents please get in touch!

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The Bulb Man - Summer Flowering bulbs

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 09:52:10 +0000

A reminder that the closing date for orders of summer bulbs/perennials from the catalogues distributed last week is 31/1/08.

For every £11.75 spent the school gets £3.33 and all the money raised will go towards funding a fabulous theatre experience for the children in March, M&M's recent pantomime was their best performance yet, enjoyed by children and staff alike, and we look forward to their production of 'A Little Princess'.

Thanks for your support and if anyone requires additional order forms we have some in school.

Fellside Nursery Matters - Edition 36

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 09:49:16 +0000

With the temperature in recent days hovering around zero, it’s difficult to believe that this term started with some of the best weather of an indifferent summer.
Sixteen weeks since the start of term. Lots of hard work from children and staff and an Ofsted Inspection to keep us on our toes. No surprise in this last week there are some flagging faces among staff and children.
It’s time for everyone to take a well earned break and spend some precious time with families and friends. On behalf of all at school I take this opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year.

We start back for the new term on Monday 7th January 2008.

… and coming in the New Year.

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Fellside Matters - Issue 55

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 09:40:15 +0000

We start back for the new term on Monday 7th January 2008.

… and coming in the New Year.

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PowerPoint Perfection

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 21:00:39 +0000

Our history topic this term has been World War Two and Britain since 1948. We linked this with ICT and produced these PowerPoints based on aspects of the Second World War. We learned a lot and hope you do to!
Adele Download file
Chris A Download file
Callie Download file
Jessica Download file
Katie Download file
Laura Download file
Bethany Download file
Liam Download file
Sianna Download file
Claire Download file
Sarah Download file
Nathan Download file

Poetry Perfection

Sun, 02 Dec 2007 20:15:31 +0000

Over the last few weeks we have been studying personification in poetry. We also looked at other techniques poets might have used to paint powerful images in the mind of the reader. We based our poems on an icicle and the sea. Read and enjoy!
Download file

Fellside Matters - Issue 54

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:47:13 +0000

There’s something of the calm before the storm about school this week. It will be clear from the diary of events in this Newsletter that there’s lots happening in school before the end of term—Pantomime, Christmas Fair, concerts, carol service, Christmas Dinner, parties etc., etc.
Lots to look forward to in the next four weeks, including some ‘big occasions’ such as the Carol Service—our single biggest gathering of the year.

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Fellside Nursery Matters - Edition 35

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:38:37 +0000

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Busy days in the nursery

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 13:02:52 +0000

'Elmer The Patchwork Elephant' is a favourite in nursery. Everyone painted an elephant and glued on coloured squares.Can you see lots of elephants hiding in the jungle?

The children have also been painting 'Elmer' on the interactive whiteboard.

Diary of Events to Christmas

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 11:36:11 +0000

The second half of the autumn term is traditionally very busy both in school, and I'm sure at home, and this year is no exception. Please find below a list of the events up to Christmas.

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Y5 Data Handling

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 17:12:43 +0000

Year 5 have created some fantastic bar charts and line graphs this term. Firstly, the class collected their data using tallies and frequency tables. Next, the children plotted both bar charts and line graphs by hand and then, in later lessons, they linked this numeracy work with ICT to present their charts using Microsoft Excel.

Click below to see some more examples of their super graph work.

Evacuated!

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:41:29 +0000

What a fantastic day! Today Year Six travelled back in time and became evacuees. The children and staff dressed in costume from the 1940's and were evacuated to Home Farm at Beamish Museum. We had the opportunity to work on the farm as children would have done during the Second World War and experience a little of the life of an evacuee. A huge thanks to the Richard Stevenson and Katy Swainston from the museum for organising the activities and bringing history to life.

Pickling eggs!

Scrubbing turnips!

Look how well Reception Class have settled into Fellside.

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:28:10 +0000

The children in Reception Class have settled into school life so well.
They have learnt new routines and love all the different areas in their new classroom.
Look how busy we've been...

Year Four I.C.T.

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:23:49 +0000

Year Four have been looking at repeating patterns in their I.C.T. work this term.

Year Two Puppets

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:22:59 +0000

This term, Year Two's Design and Technology topic has been 'Puppets'. First, the children made moveable stick puppets which they joined using paper fasteners.Here are some of them:

Next, the children made simple finger puppets with holes for their fingers to wiggle like legs. They designed their character, then added colour and paper decorations.

Here are some of their wonderful characters:

Computer Aided Design

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:22:38 +0000

Year Six have been designing buddy shelters as part of their design technology work this term. We worked with Michael Mullen at Gateshead City Learning Centre to develop our ideas and produce 3D models.

One of these will be selected and constructed from living willow, this will then be placed in the Key Stage Two playground.

Eat more fruit and vegetables

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:12:05 +0000

Year One have been working hard in their Design Technology lessons sorting fruits and vegetables and taking part in tasting sessions. We have been discovering how they are prepared before they are consumed and trying our hands at making food.
One of our activities was to make 'Fruit Kebabs'. With fruit kindly donated by parents we set about making a delicious healthy snack. What fun we had! All of the children tried a new fruit they had never tasted before as we had an array of exotic fruits to choose from. After all the washing, peeling and assembling we all tucked in! It was finger licking good - quite literally!
Want to find out more? Read on...

Building up a story Y3

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:11:06 +0000

To write a good story opening
We looked together at a painting of Neptune and some web pictures of underwater kingdoms.
We discussed how to open a story:- grabbing the reader's interest so that they want to read on
To describe a setting - use of exciting vocabulary
The next day we discussed underwater settings and how the children could use their senses to help descriptions.
To develop a character
The following day we decided which of the characters- Neptune, a diver, a mermaid or a merman ,we should develop. We needed to think about their appearance and their personality.

Term Dates 2008 - 2009

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:36:31 +0000

Term Dates for 2008 - 2009

Autumn Term Mon 1 September 2008 to Fri 19 December 2008
(note: Mon 1 September is an In-Service Training day, children will not be expected to start until Tue 2 September)
Half Term Mon 27 to Fri 31 October 2008

Spring Term Mon 5 January 2009 to Fri 3 April 2009
Half Term Mon 16 to Fri 20 February 2009

Summer Term Mon 20 April 2009 to Fri 17 July 2009
Half Term Mon 25 to Fri 29 May 2009

Additional Days

May Day Bank Holiday - Mon 4 May 2009
One Occasional Day (To be Agreed)

Ofsted Report

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:25:14 +0000

Dear Parents and Carers

On behalf of the Board of Governors we commend this OFSTED report to you, and would like to congratulate every member of the Fellside team in their outstanding achievement. Such inspections shine a spotlight on the entire team and highlight a snap shot in time of a team who continuously strive to give their very best for our children, each and every day.

The outcome of the inspection is of no surprise to the Governing Body who are acutely aware of the strong and purposeful leadership of Mr Doran in transforming vision into action, together with superb teaching and learning delivered by all staff, which makes Fellside a truly exceptional environment.

This achievement is a result of the professionalism of everyone within the Fellside team, all of whom have contributed significantly to the development of our school. I am certain you will agree with me when I say that the professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm of all staff at Fellside make our school a truly unique and inspirational environment in which our children can, and do, flourish.

Furthermore, this report recognises the efforts of all partners within the Fellside community; staff, parents, carers, Friends of Fellside, Governors and supporters within the local community, who together have assisted in achieving our vision of “providing an inspiring and caring environment in which we are all challenged to maximise our potential”. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the continuing support that you give to Fellside and look forward to your ongoing support as we strive to maintain these exceptional standards and further develop both the learning environment and curriculum.

Together we really are making a difference.

John Baines
Chairman
Fellside Community Primary School

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Newsletter issue 53

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:16:14 +0000

Phew! A busy week for us all—nothing new there—but yesterday of course we were subject to the close scrutiny of an Ofsted inspector.
At this stage I am not able to give you any detail of the judgment as the findings are not yet within the public domain. You can look forward to receiving the full report in two or three weeks time.
From the feedback we’ve received it will certainly be a report to look forward to.
Your children, as ever, were exemplary yesterday, as were all staff. May I take this opportunity to thank the many of you who extended your best wishes to us in the last few days. It’s much appreciated.

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Song Writers!

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 09:33:02 +0000

Our music work this term has involved learning about how songs can convey messages and emotions and reflect the time that they were written. We have listened to the structure of songs and will be using this to write a pollution rap togther. To begin this process we thought about football chants and came up with one of our own. We hope you enjoy it!
Download file

School Prospectus 2008-2009

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:53:05 +0000

The School Prospectus is now available for download.

Please note the information given in this brochure relates to the academic year 2006/2007.

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MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:50:48 +0000

Parents

Need to buy a musical instrument for your child? The Arts Council has introduced a loans scheme, details of this may be found at:

http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/takeitaway/

Jane Armstrong

Fellside Matters Issue 52

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:44:59 +0000

What a pleasure it was to welcome your children back to school last week. May I extend a particular welcome to those families new to Fellside either in Reception or as new starters in other years.
We fully expect your children to settle quickly and enjoy a happy, productive learning experience throughout their time with us. Having visited every classroom a number of times already, that’s precisely what’s happening throughout the school.
It’s been great to hear from the children of their holiday venues and experiences. A five year old described her holiday to California to Mrs Balkwill. She particularly enjoyed ‘France Dance Disco’, a west coast city north of Los Angeles! … Brilliant

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A Fond Farewell

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 19:54:50 +0000

Today we say goodbye to our Year Six class. They have been a fantastic group of children who we wish the very best for, as they make the transition to secondary school.

SPORTS DAY!

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 11:53:55 +0000

We intend to go ahead with Sports Day this afternoon.

BBC weather for the North East indicates the possibility of "showers, heavy and thundery in places".

Postponement until tomorrow offers little advantage from available forecasts - more heavy showers.

Fingers crossed for this afternoon - an umbrella is probably sensible.

The Beach Comes To Fellside!

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 19:34:38 +0000

Everyone had a fantastic time when the beach was brought to school! Year Six and Year Four worked together to build, shape and even bury people in the sand!

This is your Wife

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 17:40:32 +0000

Year 5 have travelled back 500 years through the mists of time with their class assembly today. Their special guests, Henry VIII and his wives amongst other Tudor characters, appeared alongside Ant and Dec for this summer special edition of This is your Wife.

Adventure Stories by Year Three

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 17:04:40 +0000

The children of Year Three are all huge fans of Doctor Who and in English one day we started to think about what it would be like to time travel in the Tardis. As the school had recently celebrated our 40th Birthday, we began to imagine what the school would be like forty years into the future...
Read our adventure stories to find out what we envisaged.

Beamish Museum Visit

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:40:35 +0000

On Tuesday 10th July Year One and Year Two spent a day visiting Beamish Museum. Year Two experienced what it must have been like to be a Victorian schoolchild. They took part in a lesson which covered handwriting, a recitation of a poem and learning times tables. We had great fun and the sun shone all day!

Persuasive writing

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:24:28 +0000

Y4 try to persuade Mrs Ducker not to give them homework!

Year Two - Arts Week Activity

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:22:30 +0000

Year Two made Victorian samplers for their Arts Week activity. Nature was this year's theme so we included ladybirds, snails, butterflies and flowers in our designs. We had lots of help from our relatives and friends. Thank you!

Y4 sing at the Sage

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:09:56 +0000

On Thursday 21st June Y4 were given the wonderful opportunity of singing at the Sage Gateshead. .

Nursery Children On Sandcastle Day

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:07:03 +0000

Fun in the sand.

We love to dig in the wet and dry sand in nursery.

The children are digging with trowels to find hidden vegetables in the sand.

It's fun to find and match the plant pot with the same picture as the vegetable.

Year One Time Capsule

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:06:09 +0000

For our 40th birthday celebrations we decided to visit our favourite places at school. We took lots of photographs. Come and have a look at them!

Fellside Nursery Matters Edition 34

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 15:53:13 +0000

Next week we say goodbye to our Year Six children and around half of our nursery children. Whether they’ve been with us one year or, as for may of our Year Six children, eight years we thank them for their contribution to our school and wish them the very best for the future.

The exemplary attitude to learning of our current Year Six has been evident as they’ve moved through the school. This attitude and their ability when combined with high quality teaching and learning opportunities with a number of teachers has enabled these children to record the school’s best ever SATs performance—surpassing last year—with 100% reaching the government target of Level 4 in all three subjects and stunning results at level 5 (the highest level) English 70%, Maths 93% and Science 100%. Wow! As ever what is important is that children fulfil their potential whatever their ability.

Maximising potential is a central value to us. Job done again by all concerned—not just on the academic front but also the lighter side of school.

For the second year we’ve run a business enterprise project in Year Six. With a loan of £3.00 per child, Year Six pupils have operated a number of small business schemes this half term—the advertising directory accompanying this newsletter is one example.

They’ve repaid the loan of £90.00 and made a clear profit of £458 for their leaver’s party—a disco and buffet at Blaydon Rugby Club with transport to the venue by stretched limo!

Great attitude, tons of hard work, astonishing results, lots of laughs. Enjoy the party—you deserve it.

Children return to school on Tuesday 4th September (Nursery and Reception have their own induction arrangements). Fellside Funclub, our new childcare facility has an open evening for interested parents and children on Monday 3rd September from 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm.

It remains for me to wish everyone an enjoyable, well deserved summer holiday.

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Fellside Matters Issue 51

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 15:37:54 +0000

The exemplary attitude to learning of our current Year Six has been evident as they’ve moved through the school. This attitude and their ability when combined with high quality teaching and learning opportunities with a number of teachers has enabled these children to record the school’s best ever SATs performance—surpassing last year—with 100% reaching the government target of Level 4 in all three subjects and stunning results at level 5 (the highest level) English 70%, Maths 93% and Science 100%. Wow! As ever what is important is that children fulfil their potential whatever their ability.

Maximising potential is a central value to us. Job done again by all concerned—not just on the academic front but also the lighter side of school.

For the second year we’ve run a business enterprise project in Year Six. With a loan of £3.00 per child, Year Six pupils have operated a number of small business schemes this half term—the advertising directory accompanying this newsletter is one example.

They’ve repaid the loan of £90.00 and made a clear profit of £458 for their leaver’s party—a disco and buffet at Blaydon Rugby Club with transport to the venue by stretched limo!

Great attitude, tons of hard work, astonishing results, lots of laughs. Enjoy the party—you deserve it.

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Athletics Festival

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 15:12:13 +0000

On Friday 22nd June children from Years 3 to 6 travelled to Gateshead International Stadium to take part in this years Gateshead Primary Schools Athletics Festival.

Everyone competed brilliantly and a good day was had by all, the journey home was accompanied by the tinkling of the various medals won, from bronze through to gold.

Moving On

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 21:28:55 +0000

Today Year Six visited Whickham Secondary School to try out a couple of science lessons. They had the opportunity to learn how to use a microscope and prepare a slide, as well as learning how to use the bunsen burners!

Mini Games at Whickham School

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 22:06:21 +0000

Year Six visited Whickham School last week to take part in the Mini Games Tournament. We were given the Netherlands as the country to represent and there was a parade to begin the afternoon's activities. The children then took part in a variety of sporting activities and had to gain as many points as they could for their team. Well done to one of our teams who came second out of all the teams who took part.

Fellside Nursery Matters Issue 33

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 11:07:30 +0000

A glance at the Diary of Events to the end of term in this edition of Fellside Matters gives an indication of just how busy the end of the school year is. Just two days without a significant visit, performance or social event.

Many of our children are ‘out and about’ this term and as ever we expect them to exhibit the highest standards of behaviour and manners.

Last night and today we have received plaudits for Year Four’s performance and exemplary behaviour at a concert at the Sage. Not just from our justifiably proud parents, but Mrs Ducker reports from total strangers and teachers from other schools. Well done Year Four.

Many (not all) of the visits this term require a sometimes considerable parental cash contribution. We are aware that, particularly if you have two or three children in school, this can be an expensive time of year. Indeed this issue has been discussed at governors meetings and by the F.O.F. committee.

There’s a tricky balance here—yes we want our children to experience some of the North East’s unique venues (Vindolanda, Beamish etc.) but costs, particularly transport have rocketed recently. As a school we already subsidise or pay completely for some visits—e.g.. weekly swimming transport. It may be that prior to this time next year we look to extending the school’s contribution to visits. This would impact, of course, on provision in other areas. Be assured we’ll give this issue due consideration.

Please also be aware that no child would ever be excluded from a visit for the inability to pay. If there are insufficient parental contributions a visit cannot actually take place. In reality, experience shows that parents make the full contribution requested for all visits, though in isolated cases of genuine hardship the school has and does discretely help with finance.

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Fellside Matters Issue 50

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 11:02:37 +0000

Many of our children are ‘out and about’ this term and as ever we expect them to exhibit the highest standards of behaviour and manners.

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Diary of Events

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:15:48 +0000

You will find a full listing of the events happening until the end of term using the following link.

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Saftey First!

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 18:58:45 +0000

Today Year Six visited SafetyWorks in Newcastle. We took part in several superb workshops, learning about the recovery position, how to deal with burns, how to deal with peer pressure, how to put a fire plan into action in the home, as well as much, much more!

Off the rails!

Oh no, call for help!

SATs pressure too much!

All The Fun of The Fair!

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 18:33:21 +0000

Today, Year Six had great fun developing their control technology skills. We had the opportunity to work with Michael Mullen at the Gateshead CLC and use the Junior Control Insight software. We learned how systems can be created to produce movements on and off screen. We made ferris wheels at school and then made them work using the software at the CLC.
Making lights work!

Spinning a little too fast!

Clockwise or anticlockwise?

Young Entreprenuers Part 2!

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 21:11:43 +0000

Mr Baines visited school today to teach the children about the importance of teamwork and how this will help towards the Year Six Enterprise Project.

We learned what the most important aspects of teamwork are and had the opportunity to try some of them out! A huge thanks to Mr Baines, parent and Chair of Governors, for giving up his time to come along and work with Year Six.
Communicating!

Listening!

Cricket Competitors!

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:48:03 +0000

Year Six spent a fantastic day at Whickham Cricket Club on Thursday 7th June, taking part in the Year 5/6 tournament and despite temperatures being freezing, a great day was had by all! Many thanks to Mrs Bright and Mrs Nevin who accompanied the children and helped to umpire many matches!

Young Entreprenuers

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 08:01:00 +0000

Friday 25th May saw the launch of the Year 6 Enterprise Project. Year 6 are given a loan from school (which they have to repay!) and must come up with the most enterprising way of making a profit. Any profit they do make is used to pay for their end of year party. To help them to understand about business and enterprise, Mr Pringle, a local businessman and parent of children in our school, gave a fantastic talk to Year 6. They learned a great deal and a huge thanks to Mr Pringle for giving up his time to help.

40th Anniversary Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2007 11:03:25 +0000

40th Anniversary Evening Celebration

Tickets for the Fellside School 40th Anniversary Evening Celebration at The Coachman on Friday 8th June 2007, are selling quickly. Numbers are limited, so get your tickets as soon as possible from the school reception desk!
Time: 7.30pm till 12 midnight
Price: £6.50

There will be entertainment from the Dads’ band, Take Cover, as well as a buffet supper, quiz & raffle.

Fellside Nursery Matters Issue 32

Fri, 25 May 2007 10:50:40 +0000

Music in the Nursery

Following on from the success of last year Dr Brendon Renwick will be coming into nursery next term to do several music workshops called Musical Discoveries with your children.

Children explore the elements of music through a fun range of singing, playing & movement activities. Each session provides good opportunities for children's creative development and fully supports related Early Learning Goals.

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Fellside Matters Issue 49

Fri, 25 May 2007 10:39:46 +0000

A huge collective sigh of relief emanated from Mrs Maitland's classroom on Friday morning as Year Six completed their final SATs paper, the last of nine tests in a tough week.
The attitude of the children has been exemplary throughout and we expect their efforts, not just in recent weeks but throughout their time at Fellside, will be appropriately rewarded with results reflecting their ability and effort.
Academic success of course has to be a priority for us and whatever one’s feelings about statutory tests for eleven year olds, SATs performance is a measure used by DfES, Ofsted and Local Authorities.
Equally important is that children are given the opportunity to flourish, achieving their potential in other areas: sport and the arts for example. We’re committed in this respect with both curricular and extra curricular provision through the variety of clubs we offer. Wherever possible we support those who demonstrate talents away from school. Just last week Newcastle United Academy Player, Steven Hindmarsh in Year Six, has been chosen to play in a tournament in Rome in June with squads from the likes of Manchester Utd and Barcelona FC.
Can he have a week out of school to further develop his footballing talent? Of course he can! - Congratulations Steven.

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Birthday Celebrations

Wed, 02 May 2007 14:35:51 +0000

Fellside will celebrate it's 40th Birthday on 5th June 2007. There will be a number of events organised on or around this day to mark this auspicious occasion - watch this space for details.

If anyone has photographs or memorabilia of past events that they would be prepared to share with us they would be warmly welcomed. Please contact Mr Doran or any of the committee members of Friends of Fellside.

Fellside Nursery Matters Issue 31

Wed, 02 May 2007 14:29:41 +0000

The first entry in a weighty leather-bound log book in my office reads “School opened on Monday 5th June 1967�?. Effectively Fellside is forty on Tuesday 5th June this year—Something to celebrate we think.
Friends of Fellside and Staff are developing ideas for how we can mark this day (the second day back after the half term break) making it memorable for our current children, and equally for adults who actually worked here or who attended Fellside in the past—possibly even in 1967.
We’ll be in touch again about ‘Fellside at Forty’ before half term. In the meantime, if you, family members or friends attended Fellside in the past, know anyone who did, or who has taught here please alert them to this milestone and the likelihood of events at school on Tuesday 5th June. Photographs, memories, memorabilia will all be welcome. Look out for further information during May.

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Fellside Matters Issue 48

Wed, 02 May 2007 14:20:08 +0000

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Fair Trade for Fellside

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 09:26:57 +0000

Children from Year 5 have been involved in an event aimed at encouraging Fair Trade products. Players from the Newcastle Falcons also attended the event, much to the delight of the children.

One child has written a report to explain exactly what happened.

Year 6 Residential Visit

Sat, 03 Mar 2007 15:49:43 +0000

Year 6 have just returned from a fantastic three days at the Robinwood Centre, Alston. They have been challenged, encouraged, covered in mud and wet, but have thoroughly enjoyed every single minute! A huge thanks must go to all the staff at the centre, they were friendly, kind, helpful and ensured that the safety of every child was paramount.

It's no good you can't avoid the mud!!!

Fellside Nursery Matters Issue 29

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 16:18:13 +0000

We are now exactly half way through the school year with children in all year groups working hard, being well taught and learning lots, and crucially, happy. That’s certainly the conclusion I drew from time spent in every class last week.
Teachers constantly assess the progress of all children. You’ll shortly have another opportunity for an update on your child’s progress with parent consultations scheduled for week beginning 12th March.
The typical child’s response to the parental “what did you do at school today?�? question is “nothing�?. I’m sure evidence in their books and displays will contradict this.

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Fellside Matters 46

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 14:47:10 +0000

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Year Two Wedding

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 16:04:21 +0000

On Tuesday 30th January 2007, Year Two performed a wedding ceremony at St. Mary's Church in Whickham. Father Barry conducted the service and parents were invited to attend. Here are a few snapshots from Year Two's 'BIG DAY'!

Pre-wedding nerves!

Wedding Vows

Signing the Register

Bubble Parade!

"Congratulations to the bride and groom!"

The Wedding Party and their guests

The Wedding Cake!

Year Five's Foxes Fascination

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 21:37:07 +0000

Year 5 have been busy writing non-chronological reports on Foxes. The children carefully planned their reports to include important features, such as present tense verbs, questions to draw the reader in and 'foxy facts', rather than personal opinions.

Fabulous Fables

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 16:43:00 +0000

Year Three have been writing fables. Fables are simple and short tales but have a moral at the end. These morals were intended to advise people how to live their lives; they are not just about the lessons the characters (usually animals) learned but a message to those who listened to the story

After analysing ‘The Fox and the Raven’, by the famous Greek storyteller, Aesop, the children were asked to write their own versions, stealing some plot ideas along the way.

Read and enjoy!

The Snow leopard and the Arctic Hare

Once in the snowy mountains of Antarctica there was an Artic hare and a Snow leopard. Once Artic hare found a juicy piece of wild grass in the wilderness she was quite delighted. Food was in short supply. Artic hare was just about to nibble the juicy piece of wild grass but Snow leopard came along he saw the piece of wild grass and decided to flatter the Artic Hare in order to get his greedy paws on that rare and tasty morsel.

“What lovely white pure hair you have got, it’s as soft as dandelion down!�? he said slyly.
Hare was pleased that he admired him so much.
“Hare, Hare what lovely pounding white legs you have!�? said that cunning and clever Snow leopard
Hare was so pleased that he admired him so much that he tapped his strong hind legs.
“Hare, Hare what lovely ears you have!�? came the next compliment.
Hare again was pleased that he admired him so much.
“Hare, Hare, what a brilliant singing voice you must have!�? said Snow Leopard, trying to look truthful.
Hare was pleased that he admired him and opened his mouth to sing. Of course you’ve guessed it – down fell that precious clump of wild grass and the Leopard dashed forward and gobbled it and ran off as fast as he could so Hare couldn’t catch up with him. It was the tastiest sample of wild grass Snow Leopard had ever tasted and as it turned out it settled his growling stomach quite nicely. Hare was left quite depressed because he had been so near to having the finest feast for days.

So you see my friend: never, ever trust a flatterer.

Jack Page.

Year One Spring Term

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 16:33:44 +0000

Year One have been really busy this term in History and Geography. We have been learning about Homes and Barnaby Bear.

Nursery children made bird cakes to feed the hungry birds in Whickham

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 16:32:44 +0000

As part of the nursery topic on Animals/Birds, all the children have been making bird cakes. If you would like the recipe please follow the instructions below.

Year 4 Prayers

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 16:04:52 +0000

Year 4 have been responsible for creating prayers for our Achievement assemblies on Fridays.
We have thought carefully about our behaviour to others, people who care for us, people we love, as well as people who help us.
You may like to read a selection.

The Flyer

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 15:59:22 +0000

As part of our investigative science work this term, we have been testing 'Flyers!' The children worked in groups to make a prototype and then came up with questions to investigate:
Does the material affect how far it travels? Does the weight affect how far it travels? Does the height of the launch affect the distance travelled? Does the shape affect how far it travels? Does the length of the Flyer affect how far it travels? We made predictions, considered fair testing, the method, how to record the results and then drew conclusions. We had great fun testing! Some travelled much further than others!
Take a look at the Flyers in flight!
Download file

Making Photograph Frames

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 15:55:45 +0000

Once upon a Design Technology lesson, Year Three made some fantastic photograph frames for our Valentines. We were so pleased with ourselves as they looked so impressive until...

Mrs. Armstrong said that they couldn't possibly be photograph frames because they wouldn't stand up on their own. They did not have a stand you see! Oh, no!

So we thought for a while to generate some ideas. We all thought of some winning designs.

We selected three pupils to tell us about their ideas.

We had to do a spot of problem solving. How could we create a stand? What materials would we use? This boy was successful with a triangular arrangement of cardboard. Hurrah for him!

This pupil suggested a rolled arrangement made from cardboard. The frame just rolled over. He went back to the drawing board.

Here were three clear successes!

Look, Mum - no hands! Yes we could create photograph frames that would stand on their own!

More fabulous frames!

And more!

And yet more!

Now our next problem was to decide who to send our 'Valentine Photograph Frames' to!

Bringing History to Life

Sat, 27 Jan 2007 19:38:30 +0000

This week Year Six have been working with Richardson Stevenson from Beamish Museum. He helped us to learn about the life of a local miner James Harris and how his life tragically ended in a mining disaster in The Lamb Pit in 1899. He told a fantastic story in assembly about a farmer and some soup (ask any of the children to tell you about the fairies in the hedges!)

Year Six Detectives!

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 16:34:39 +0000

What a fantastic day! We visited Beamish Museum to develop our problem solving and enquiry skills. Our morning activity was to try and find out who killed the body that we found at the railway station! We had to establish who the victim was, who the murderer was and what had been the motive.

The children had to come up with their own lines of enquiry and become detectives in the town to find the clues to solve the crime.

Friends of Fellside Committee Meeting 8th December 2006

Tue, 16 Jan 2007 14:15:57 +0000

The full minutes of the meeting are available to view below.

One of the main topics for discussion was to canvass parents for their opinions on what best to spend the money raised on. We are keen to ensure that the money is spent for the benefit of all the children in school so if anyone has any suggestions please fill in the slip which will be on the next newsletter and return it to the school office. Alternatively fill in the comment section on the website.

Fellside Matters 44

Tue, 16 Jan 2007 13:22:20 +0000

It seems an age since the summer holiday … it is!
It’s sixteen weeks since this term began. It’s been another busy, productive period with hard work from pupils and staff.
You’ll see from the attached letter from Schools Minister Andrew Adonis that we are among the top 100 schools (approx 0.5%) for value added this year.
There’s no doubt in my mind that this level of achievement owes much to the skill and work rate of teachers and support staff in providing the conditions for children to flourish. Combine this with the drive from governors and the support from families we experience at Fellside and it’s a sure recipe for success. Everyone associated with the school can take some pride from recent achievements.
I take this opportunity to say thank you and wish everyone a well deserved break, Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2007.

Download Newsletter (Adobe Acrobat 205KB)

Spooky Spider Moving Toys - Watch the movie online!

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 13:00:25 +0000

Year 5 have been busy this term designing and building moving toys using cam mechanisms. Pupils tested their ideas before starting the assembly process by carrying out a 'market test' on their peers in the school. Our children then learnt to accurately measure, cut and shape their model parts using hand saws and hand drills. Assembling a moving toy proved quite a tricky process, as our pupils discovered. Some needed to adjust their moving parts in order for the cam or the follower to move smoothly.

Continue reading to download and watch a video of Adam's finished moving toy.

Gateshead Schools Tag Rugby Champions

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 12:38:13 +0000

Our pupils from Year 6 achieved sporting excellence last weekend in front of over 4,000 spectators. During the half time interval at Kingston Park, our team won the final of the Gateshead School's Tag Rugby Championship.

Perfect PowerPoints

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 16:29:03 +0000

As part of our ICT work this term Year 6 have been learning how to combine moving images, sounds, pictures and text in a PowerPoint presentation. The children carried out research at home and at school about an aspect of Victorian times. Why not find out something new by clicking on one of the presentations below.
This one is by David and Steven.
Download file
Enjoy this one by Alex and Adam.Download file
Learn about fashion during the Victorian era from Kate and Jessica.
Download file
Let Robyn and Sophie teach you about the world of work.
Download file
Learn a little more from Stuart and Cameron.
Download file
Sports by Daniel and Paul.
Download file