This Week at St Faith’s

It has been another busy week here at St Faith’s, brimming with activities, achievements, and the joyous anticipation of the festive season.

St Faith’s Parents’ Association (SFPA) Annual Christmas Fair

At the time of writing, we are looking forward to the annual SFPA Christmas Fair – a real highlight of our school calendar. We welcome our families to what for many, has become a very well-timed opportunity to complete (or perhaps begin…) their Christmas shopping. Many businesses from our local community take the opportunity to run their own stalls at this event, and of course the children have also invested time this term designing and making their stalls. I do hope to see you at our Christmas Fair, where, if we are being especially good, I hear a rumour that there might also be an early appearance of Santa Claus…

Baa-army Bethlehem

Continuing with the seasonal theme, the Foundation performance of Baa-army Bethlehem delighted audiences this week as the youngest children retold the story of the Nativity. With Mary and Joseph and an accompaniment of angels, wise men, shepherds and of course a flock of sheep, there was cheerful singing alongside some energetic dance routines. The children’s enthusiasm and charm brought the story to life, providing a memorable start to our Christmas celebrations.

Barrmy Bethlehem recording

Three children dressed as angels, perhaps aspiring to future careers in theater, stand on stage during a school play, with halos and white costumes. Below, seated children are dressed as various animals and characters, eagerly watching the performance against a dark curtain background.

Three children sit on a wooden bench, dressed in fuzzy white sheep costumes with black ears and facial accents. They smile cheerfully against a dark background, as if contemplating future careers on stage.

A young girl with blonde hair stands in front of a stage, wearing a black shirt and a fluffy costume piece. Other children sit nearby, some in similar attire, hinting at budding careers in acting. A wooden backdrop suggests a school play or performance setting.

A group of young children in colorful costumes are posing on stage, envisioning their future careers. Some are dressed as shepherds, others as angels, with festive stars hanging in the background. They sit and stand on wooden steps, smiling and looking cheerful.

Children in various animal costumes perform on stage with arms outstretched. The scene includes several kids in sheep and bunny outfits, participating in what appears to be a school play highlighting diverse career themes, with children eagerly watching in the foreground.

A group of children sit and stand on a stage, proudly wearing costumes adorned with star patterns and festive attire. As they pose against a starry backdrop, their dreams sparkle as brightly as their costumes, hinting at the promising careers that lie ahead.

Children sit on wooden steps during a school play, some in brightly colored costumes and others as brown animals, perhaps dreaming of future careers. They gaze in different directions, with a few engaged in lively conversation.

A group of young children performing on stage, showcasing potential future careers in theater. Some sit, while others stand, dressed in star-themed costumes and a sheep outfit. The set features a black curtain backdrop and wooden platforms.

Three young children stand on stage wearing animal costumes resembling sheep and a lamb against a black curtain backdrop, perhaps dreaming of future careers in theater.

Three young children sit side by side, their futures wide open. The child on the left sports a striped outfit, the middle one is in blue, and the right is dressed in a fuzzy donkey costume. Their smiles could light up any room as they dream of their future careers.

Three young children are dressed as angels, wearing white outfits and halo headbands. They sit and smile in front of a dark backdrop, perhaps dreaming of celestial careers as they participate in what appears to be a performance or event.

Children are performing a nativity play on stage, showcasing their budding acting talents that might hint at future careers in the arts. Some are dressed as angels, one as a donkey, and others in traditional nativity costumes. The dark backdrop and wooden props complete the enchanting scene watched by parents and audience members.

Children in costumes perform on stage against a black backdrop with star decorations, inspiring budding careers in the arts. Some kids hold colorful sticks, while others wear festive attire like angel and animal costumes. An audience of seated children watches them in awe.

A group of children participating in a school play are dressed in various costumes, including sheep, animals, and robes. As they stand on stage with a black curtain backdrop, some with arms raised mid-performance, the experience sparks dreams of future careers in acting and theater.

Children are gathered on a stage, some dressed in animal costumes, perhaps dreaming of future careers. A young girl in a white outfit stands in the center, looking ahead with determination. The backdrop features a wooden structure and dark drapes, illuminated by bright lights.

Children are performing on stage, dressed in colorful costumes that resemble a nativity play, beneath a star-studded black backdrop. As they passionately gesture with their hands, an audience of other children watches eagerly, perhaps imagining careers in the spotlight themselves.

A group of children in various costumes poses on a stage, dreamily portraying the future careers they might pursue. Some are dressed as animals, like sheep, while others wear robes or simple clothing. They all smile against a dark backdrop with star decorations, hinting at their endless potential.

A group of children dressed in costumes sit on a stage, showcasing their creativity and hinting at future careers in the arts. One child is wearing a fuzzy white lamb costume, while another sports a shirt adorned with stars. The backdrop of stage lights and wooden pieces sets the scene.

A young child stands in front of a large, decorated Christmas tree, wearing a gold traditional outfit with arms raised joyfully, perhaps dreaming of future careers. The tree is adorned with lights and ornaments. Other children are seated in the foreground, watching.

Three children sit side by side on a wooden stage, dressed in charming costumes that hint at colorful careers ahead. The child on the left and right don red striped dresses with brown vests, while the one in the middle sports a black and white striped dress. Their smiles light up the stage.

Children dressed in animal costumes perform on stage, imagining future careers as wildlife protectors. They stand in a line, some with arms raised. The backdrop is dark, and the floor is wooden. The kids are variously dressed as a dog, sheep, bear, and other animals.

A group of young children sits closely together on a carpeted floor, wearing costumes, including a sheep outfit. Engaged and attentive, they seem to be envisioning future careers on the wooden stage platform visible in the background.

Children dressed as animals and storybook characters sit on a stage, perhaps daydreaming about future careers. Some wear costumes like sheep, raccoons, and donkeys. They appear to be preparing for a performance, their expressions ranging from focused to playful curiosity.

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Year 4 Christmas Pantomines

‘Oh yes she did, oh no she didn’t!’

Of course, we couldn’t reach the end of term without our own mini pantomime season from Year 4. Each tutor group captivated the audience on Thursday with their own versions of some of the best-known pantomimes: Snow White, Jack and the Beanstalk, Peter Pan and Cinderella. The pupils really enjoyed performing in front of an appreciative array of families and friends. A recording of the show will be made available to parents on MSP.

Year 4 Pantomimes recording

Children in colorful costumes perform on stage, showcasing their budding careers in the arts. Two kids wear big curly wigs and polka-dot dresses with ruffles, talking to each other. Others in the background are dressed in various outfits, with a festive banner hanging above.

Children wearing colorful costumes perform enthusiastically on stage, with some raising their fists. A backdrop reads Its panto time, hinting at future careers in theater. The set features a vibrant sign and props, suggesting a playful and lively pantomime scene.

Children are on stage performing, with some wearing red shirts and a boy in a sparkly costume, dreaming of future careers in the spotlight. They are making gestures with their hands. A girl is wearing a white dress with a red ribbon, while a curtain and stage lights frame their aspirations.

Children in colorful costumes perform a play on stage, capturing the creativity that may inspire future careers. One child in a yellow bird outfit stands out among others in varied attire, like a floral dress and a hat. A sign in the background partially reads Oh yes it is against a multicolored backdrop.

A group of children performs enthusiastically on a brightly lit stage, dreaming about their future careers. They are dressed in colorful costumes, with some raising their arms in excitement. A decorated Christmas tree stands to the right, and a sign is visible at the back of the stage.

Children perform energetically on stage in colorful costumes during a school play. A banner reading Its panto time, oh yes it is hangs in the background. The lively scene hints at the budding careers of future actors, as kids animatedly act and gesture.

Children on stage performing in a play, wearing costumes like dragons, pirates, and fairies, dreaming of future careers in the spotlight. A colorful sign saying Its panto time, oh yes it is hangs in the background.

Children perform on a stage in colorful costumes, showcasing early potential for theater careers. One child in pink waves a wand, while a group behind wears yellow tops and sparkly skirts. They appear to be in a play with a green backdrop and a sign reading Oh yes it is.

Children are smiling and playing, with one child sitting on a wheeled chair as others, wearing red and green shirts, push and support. A Christmas tree adorned with lights stands in the background, sparking dreams of festive careers in holiday cheer.

Two children sit on a wooden platform on stage, wearing red shirts and black pants, embodying the spirit of future careers in performance. The boy is barefoot, both facing the audience with determination. A dark backdrop frames them, highlighted by an emergency exit sign in the background.

Children showcasing their budding talents on stage in colorful costumes, with one dressed as a dragon taking center stage. A sign in the background reads Its panto time, oh yes it is! Perhaps these playful roles are the stepping stones to future careers in theater!.

Children perform on stage in colorful costumes for a pantomime, dreaming of future careers in theater. They are posed in two rows, with some standing and others lying down. A sign above reads Its Panto Time! Oh yes it is! The background features a simple stage set.

A group of excited children, mostly in yellow shirts, stand on stage with raised arms, performing enthusiastically. Among them stands a boy in a black outfit, perhaps imagining his future career in the spotlight. The backdrop is decorated with colorful elements.

A group of children perform on stage in colorful costumes, dreaming of future careers. The backdrop reads Its panto time, Oh yes it is! Some are dressed in ruffled dresses, others in simple red shirts. They pose energetically, conveying excitement and fun.

Children on stage performing a play about careers. A girl in a white dress stands center with arms extended, surrounded by other children in red shirts forming an arch. A sign saying Oh yes it is! hangs above, and one child holds a large leaf prop.

Two children in red shirts and black leggings sit on a stage bench, legs playfully stretched as if dreaming of future careers. Nearby, other kids stand, including one in a sparkly skirt. The background is a vibrant mix of green and black curtains.

A group of children is performing on stage in colorful costumes, showcasing potential future careers as they transform into fairies with wings or daring pirates. A sign in the background reads, Its panto time. Oh yes it is!.

Four children on stage, dressed in colorful costumes and hard hats, enthusiastically perform a play exploring various careers. Holding shovels against a dark backdrop, they stand confidently on a tiered platform, bringing their imaginative roles to life.

Children in costumes perform on stage. Three in front wear gowns and hold wands, with one child singing or speaking. Behind them, a child in a green top and another in red stand near a colorful backdrop that reads Its panto time, sparking dreams of future stage careers.

A group of children on stage, perhaps dreaming of future careers in the arts, perform in colorful costumes with wigs and ruffled dresses. Some stand while one kneels, all under a sign that reads, Oh yes it is!.

Children on stage perform in colorful costumes for a play. A backdrop reads Its panto time. The scene is lively, with kids in various roles like animals and pirates, all animatedly engaged in the performance. For some, its the start of exploring future careers in theater.

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Carol Singing at Hilton Park Care Home

Miss Kennerley writes,

“On Wednesday, 14 Year 6 and 7 pupils travelled to Hilton Park Care Home in Bottisham to share some festive music with the residents. After a very tuneful journey on the minibus where they warmed-up by singing all the carols and descants, we were greeted at the care home by Jenny, their Activities Coordinator. We were invited into the atrium to set ourselves up in front of Santa’s grotto whilst the residents made themselves comfortable. We sang a selection of traditional carols and all the residents joined in with us. It was wonderful to see people smiling and joining in with the carols that they knew so well, and the children’s efforts were warmly appreciated. After finding out that it was one of our pupil’s birthday, one staff member arrived with a plate of cupcakes with candles for us all to celebrate together and sing Happy Birthday to her. After the singing the children were treated to a lovely selection of cakes, mince pies and drinks which they were able to enjoy whilst speaking to the residents. We gave out handmade Christmas cards and left enough for every resident to receive one if they had not been able to leave their rooms. As we left it was clear that the residents had enjoyed being able to join in with the singing, receiving cards and chatting with the children, and were keen to invite us back again. Just as importantly, the children left feeling full of Christmas spirit after seeing how warmly they were welcomed and having taken the time to speak to the residents and ask them about their favourite Christmas music.

I was immensely proud of the singers who were fine ambassadors for the school both in their singing and their interactions with staff and residents and I look forward to our next musical Outreach adventure! “

Away in a Manger

A group of schoolchildren in red and black striped blazers are singing and holding sheets of paper, perhaps dreaming of future careers in music. They stand before a festive backdrop with a sign reading Santas Grotto, adorned with garlands and ornaments.

A group of schoolchildren in red and black striped blazers with black skirts or pants poses with elderly residents in a care home. As they explore potential careers, the children kneel and stand, smiling warmly, while the residents sit contentedly in armchairs and wheelchairs.

A woman holds a tray of cupcakes, smiling at a group of children in striped blazers and ties. The children, perhaps future professionals exploring various careers, are beaming as they stand before a festive Santas Grotto sign adorned with garlands.

A group of schoolchildren in red and black striped blazers surround an elderly man sitting in a chair, perhaps sharing stories of his vibrant career. The children are smiling and posing for the photo indoors, with various decorations and plants in the background.

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Eco Committee and School Council – Second Hand Book and Puzzle Sale

Pupils from every year group have had the opportunity to visit the second hand book and puzzle stalls that have been run at morning break and lunchtimes this week by our Eco Committee and School Council. There was an impressive collection of second hand items on display in the the St Faith’s Hub, and the stall was a hive of activity during its opening times. Maybe some of those purchases might find their way into Christmas stockings this year!

I would like to commend our Eco Committee and School Council for organising such a successful sale. The event not only encouraged the joy of reading and puzzle-solving, but also promoted sustainability by giving pre-loved books and puzzles a new home. Proceeds will fund further eco-friendly and School Council initiatives within our school.

This week the members of the Eco Committee were also tasked with collecting pinecones for the Engineering Department. They certainly rose to the occasion, finding enough pinecones for the planned bug hotels to be built, plus some extras to donate to the Art department for future projects.

A young child wearing glasses and a red sweater reads a book attentively, perhaps dreaming of future careers. In the background, other children in similar attire socialize. The setting appears to be indoors, with a brick wall and shelves visible.

A group of children in red uniforms gather around a table displaying various colorful books in a school corridor, exploring different stories and potential careers. Adults are present, including one assisting a child. Brick walls and a glass window are visible in the background.

Two boys in striped blazers and ties stand indoors holding books, perhaps dreaming of their future careers. A table behind them displays various colorful childrens books, enhancing the lively atmosphere of a school or library event.

A young girl with pigtails reads a book at a table filled with various colorful childrens books, dreaming of future careers. She wears a black jacket with a red shirt underneath, while other children in red jackets explore their own stories in the background.

Two boys in matching red jackets stand side by side in a school corridor, smiling. One boy has his arm around the other, as if already building lifelong partnerships. Books displayed on a table hint at bright careers ahead. The background reveals a brick wall and a bright, open hallway.

Two smiling children in striped school uniforms hold books, with one clutching a small globe, dreaming of future careers. They stand in a room with a brick wall and a table filled with colorful books, while other students are visible in the background.

A young boy wearing glasses and a red sweater holds a childrens book titled 1, 2, 3 Do the Dinosaur in a school hallway. The backdrop features a brick wall, a door, and a colorful cart inspiring curiosity—a small step on his journey toward diverse careers.

Two children smiling and holding books. The child on the left holds Amber the Orange Fairy, while the child on the right balances Frozen and Peppa Goes Skiing. They stand indoors, against a backdrop of a brick wall and windows, perhaps dreaming of careers as adventurous storytellers.

Students in red and black striped blazers browse a book display on careers set up on a table in a school hallway. Some are holding books, and a uniform jacket is draped over a boys arm. Brick walls and large windows surround the area.

Four students in school uniforms, engrossed in books laid out on a table, discuss potential careers in the bright room. The red brick walls feature a dragon mural, adding an inspiring backdrop to their focused exploration of future possibilities.

Two students in red and black striped blazers hold books, one titled The Bad Guys and the other about dominoes. They smile indoors against a brick wall in their school, perhaps dreaming of future careers sparked by the stories they read.

A student in a red and black striped blazer stands near a table filled with various books on careers. With a backpack slung over one shoulder, he appears to be selecting a book. The setting is a school hallway, adorned with a brick wall and windows in the background.

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Buddy Sessions for Years 3-6

Our Year 8 pupils have been exemplary role models throughout the term, and on Monday they once again offered buddy sessions for our younger students in Years 3-6. This mentorship programme fosters a supportive school community and provides invaluable leadership experience for our senior pupils, as well as being a real highlight for our younger pupils.

Two students in uniforms stand in a classroom. A boy points to a slide titled Overcoming a Problem, Mistake, or Challenge, with an illustration of someone helping another up a cliff—a metaphor for their future careers. The girl holds papers beside him, with shelves of colorful bins behind them.

Students are engaged in a classroom presentation about careers. Two students stand confidently in front of a screen displaying Stick it out! while their peers attentively watch from their seats. Shelves filled with educational materials provide an inspiring backdrop for the exploration of future opportunities.

Students in a classroom participate in a lesson focused on careers. Two students stand in front of a screen with a presentation titled Recognize the Mistake. Other students sit at desks, watching intently. Shelves with books and colorful posters decorate the room, inspiring future ambitions.

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ABRSM Examinations

On Monday 21 pupils took their Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) examinations. It is impressive to see so many pupils committed to the extra-curricular opportunities afforded by learning a musical instrument. It is very clear from recent performances that all the pupils have been working very hard with their teachers and evidently practising at home, to ensure they are as well prepared as possible. We look forward to hearing the results next term.

Primary Maths Challenge

Mrs Rainsford writes,

“In November, pupils in Year 6 took part in the Primary Maths Challenge. The paper consists of 25 questions; 20 are multiple choice with questions gradually become more difficult, ending with five questions where an answer is required and no choice provided. The questions challenge pupils’ problem-solving skills and ability to think ‘outside the box’. Congratulations to all the pupils who took part, with a special mention to those ten pupils who achieved a Gold certificate. Next term, pupils with the highest scores will be invited to participate in the Primary Maths Challenge Bonus Round.”

Year 8 Girls’ East Regional Hockey Finals

Mr McGregor writes,

“Congratulations to our U13 Girls’ Hockey team who have ended the season on a victorious note, by winning the England Hockey East Regional Finals. As a result, they move forward as the sole representatives from the 7 Eastern Counties, to represent the region against the 7 other regional winners at the National Hockey Centre, Nottingham, in May.

On the day the girls were outstanding, winning 7 of the 8 games and drawing the other. They were tenacious in defence conceding only 2 goals, and in attack they played with power, pace and super structure, which allowed them to work as a team with precision passing. This success added to their already successful season that has seen them win their IAPS Qualifier and compete at IAPS Nationals.”

Girls’ Football

Last year for the first time at St Faith’s, Girls’ Football was introduced as part of the Games Programme in the Michaelmas Term. This year girls in Years 4 and 5 have enjoyed playing football over the last two weeks in lessons and on Tuesday this week they had fixtures versus The Perse Prep. The report from these matches is available in the sidebar of this newsletter.

Year 5 & 6 Swimming Gala v Bishop’s Stortford College

Mrs Critchley writes,

“We had a great time competing against Bishop’s Stortford College on Monday evening. It was a closely fought contest, but unfortunately Stortford just got the better of St Faith’s in the end. Nevertheless, there were 11 personal best performances and I would like to offer my congratulations to several of our Year 5 pupils because this was their first ever swimming gala representing St Faith’s School.”

Scores:

Bishop’s Stortford 232 points

St Faith’s 220 points

And Finally…

As we look ahead to the coming week, we have a host of festive activities planned. From carol services that will fill the hall with joyous music, to a delightful Christmas lunch that promises to be a feast for all, the excitement is palpable. We also have the Pre Prep Christmas party on Tuesday and then the much-anticipated Last House Standing competition for Years 3 to 8 on the final day of term.

Ahead of these events, I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the SFPA Christmas Fair, and I wish you a happy weekend,

With all best wishes,

Crispin Hyde-Dunn

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