Carswell Community Primary School was presented with an award on 27 February 2015 for promoting peace, and is only the fifth school to be recognised as a Beacon Peaceful School.

The people giving the award said “The school is noteworthy for its vibrant, dynamic look and feel. Highlights include: the Head Teacher’s commitment to ensuring that staff aren’t stressed. The school works in partnership with a local project that supports schools, Trinity Learning, and together they have developed a sensory garden. Other noteworthy features include the very cosy nurture room and their play-based curriculum to age 6. Pupils have developed the THINK approach to communication (see photo above) …”

T = is it True
H = is it Helpful
I = is it Inspiring
N = is it Necessary
K = is it Kind
…

Larkmead School recently had an inspection by Ofsted, and the news is that their rating is “Good” in all areas. Under the new Ofsted framework, this is the first time that Larkmead has achieved “Good”.

Ofsted were particularly impressed that the school’s leadership, with strong support from Governors, had improved the quality of teaching so that ‘it is consistently at least good and some of it is now outstanding across subjects and all year groups.’

Mr Chris Harris, The Head Teacher, said “We know that Larkmead can, and should, be rated “Outstanding” and we will work hard to reach our goal.”

Thanks to Iain and Marilyn for letting me know.

It is half term this week in Oxfordshire and teachers and school pupils get a week off school.

There have been, and still are, events put on for the holiday.

The Abbey Fishponds  had a day of play activities. This nature reserve between Radley Road and Audlett Drive is now run by the Earth Trust – like Radley Lakes.

The library had a special Harry Potter day on February 5th and the displays are still up this half term.

Abingdon County Hall museum are looking back at WWI again with medals and postcard workshops Wednesday and Thursday.

The North Abingdon Children’s Centre have taken over the Community Shop, and Barns cafe had Origami day today…