Straight from the Head 7.11.25
Date: 7th Nov 2025 @ 5:07pm
Our first week back after half term has gone very well and with just over a 98% attendance rate Monday to Friday, it is clear our pupils want to come to school and learn. I was sorry to learn that so many Year 1s had been ill in the week off with flu-like symptoms and general sickness. We have had approximately 170 pupils taking part in ‘flu vaccinations this morning so I hope this is an effective preventive measure moving into the winter and beyond.
A few notices from around school:
- This half term, our school is focusing on our Christian value of hope. As we journey towards Christmas, we reflect on the story of Jesus: a symbol of hope for many around the world. Hope is something we all share, no matter our background or beliefs. It’s the light that helps us look forward to better days, encourages us to support one another, and reminds us that even in challenging times, there is always the possibility of joy, peace, and new beginnings. Together, as a school community, we will explore what hope means in our lives and how we can bring it to others.
- Our lunchtime space has now been affected by the autumn shift, meaning our field is not in use. We do, however, continue to use our outdoor space to good effect, with our field path in use for classes, as well as our popular new open area and chalk boards! It has been lovely to see a range of activities, from colouring to the reappearance of loom bands! The cycle of school life always amazes me and we can show how many years we’ve been in education by how many times we’ve seen something come into fashion!
- Mrs Carter has our after school sports clubs online and we are accepting payments for them. They have been well-received by pupils (ultimate frisbee is generating excitement), with only a few slots available in tag rugby on a Thursday for Years 5 and 6.
- Miss Crook has, today (Friday), held her PSHE assembly and it ties in with Anti Bullying Week: “Power of Good.” On Monday, all pupils are welcome to wear their odd socks and celebrate their uniqueness and originality!
- Teachers have curriculum letters on Dojo pages as well as on our ‘class pages’ on the website. They will give families a good overview of our learning for the rest of the term. We are always happy to listen to suggestions when it comes to what else keeps you informed about the learning pathways of our classes.
- There are basketball flyers attached at the foot of this blog. Lewis from Huish Tigers visited school this week and held a session with Year 6. He was very impressed with their behaviour and learning attutude. They are currently on a big push for girls to join their successful club, so take a look at the flyers!
- Please do share our job advert with any interested people! https://www.thurlbear.somerset.sch.uk/page/working-for-us/157760
A message from Mr Hampson and Mr Westlake, our school’s Co-Chairs of Governors:
Governor Update
On behalf of the School governing body, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Mrs Ariana Linthorne, who is due to come to the end of her term as a Parent Governor. Ariana has made a significant contribution to the school during her time on the governing board, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication, insight, and support.
Mrs Linthorne has expressed an interest in continuing in the role, and the governing body is fully supportive of her reappointment. However, in line with our governance procedures, we must first ask if any other parents would like to put themselves forward for the position. If more than one expression of interest is received, we will hold a formal vote.
Being a governor is a rewarding way to contribute to the life and direction of the school, and we warmly encourage anyone who feels they could bring energy, insight, and commitment to the role to email the clerk to the Governors, jo.mooreclerk@thurlbearprimaryschool.co.uk before 21st November
