Friday Update 09.01.2026 - Happy New Year!
Posted 9th January 2026
Miss McNamara's Message
Welcome back and Happy New Year!
Happy New Year and welcome back to the Spring Term. It has been lovely to see the children return to school so positively after the break, full of energy and ready to learn. Although there was some disappointment at not being able to build any snowmen this week, we were pleased that the weather meant the decision to remain open was an easy one, allowing learning (and routines!) to continue as normal.
As we move into the new term, I would like to make parents aware that we are now within our Ofsted inspection window. Ofsted has recently introduced a renewed inspection framework, which looks and feels very different to previous inspections. While we do not yet fully know what an inspection under this new approach will look like in practice, early inspections nationally suggest that schools may present more ‘spiky’ profiles, reflecting areas of real strength alongside areas still being developed.
One of the most significant changes is the removal of single-word overall judgements, such as “Good” or “Outstanding”. Instead, there is a clear shift in both focus and language, with inspectors looking more closely at how schools support pupils over time, the impact of curriculum decisions, inclusion, and the lived experience of children.
We will, of course, keep parents informed should we receive notification of an inspection. In the meantime, if you would like to find out more about the renewed Ofsted framework, further information for parents is available on the Ofsted website, which explains the changes and what inspections are now designed to explore.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. We are very proud of our school community and the work that goes on here every day.
Forest School Clothing Reminder
If your child is taking part in Forest School sessions, please ensure they come to school in their usual PE kit and bring the following additional items:
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Wellies
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Plain black or navy waterproofs
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Hat and gloves (as needed for the weather)
PE Kit should include:
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Plain navy shorts, joggers, or leggings
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Plain white or navy t-shirt
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Plain trainers
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Navy school sweatshirt or plain navy hoodie
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No jewellery
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No branded items
Tip: It’s always a good idea to pack a spare set of clothes for Forest School days—just in case!
Activity Clubs - Start next week!
We’re excited to see everyone join in the first clubs of 2026! Please make sure your payments are completed on Enrolmy as soon as possible.
If you use ur BAS wraparound care, don’t forget to update your bookings to fit around your chosen clubs—this helps everything run smoothly for you and your child!
Stay Safe Around Frozen Water This Winter
- Never go on the ice under any circumstances, even to rescue someone or a pet.
- Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking near water, especially in the dark.
- Keep away from the edge of frozen water to prevent slips and falls.
- Always walk with an adult or friends so help can be raised quickly if needed.
Parking Reminder – Coppice Grange Estate
Please note that Coppice Grange private car parks are for residents only. Estate management has received complaints about unauthorised parking and may consider clamping if the issue continues.
We ask all parents and carers to:
- Do not park in Coppice Grange car parks
- Park legally and considerately on public roads
- Allow extra time for drop-off and pick-up
Full details have been emailed to parents and carers. Thank you for your cooperation.
⭐Highlights for next half term!⭐
- Apple Class - starting our new music unit, listening to and performing some Samba music!
- Beech are continuing with forest school sessions! So exciting!
- In Year 6, we will be starting our new geography topic, looking at sustainability and how we can reduce plastic waste within our school.
Spring 1 Menu - Week 2
New Year Eco Tip:
- Start a “Green Resolution” Together - Pick one eco-goal as a family (e.g., reduce plastic use, walk to school twice a week, or start composting). Make a colorful chart for kids to track progress - it turns sustainability into a game!
⭐ Attendance ⭐
Class |
% |
|
Oak |
98.8% |
|
Beech |
98.3% |
|
Ash |
99.2% |
|
Sycamore |
100%
⭐ |
|
Apple |
97.5% |
|
Chestnut |
96.4% |
|
Willow |
92.9% |
|
Whole School |
97.6% |
Wellbeing Corner
Winter Coats available
We have lots of pre-loved winter coats available at the Community Hub. We also have a small number of new coats in selected sizes available through the school. If your child needs a winter coat please email Wrights@cvps.rklt.co.uk.
Kindness Festival 2026
On Saturday, January 17th (11am–3pm), St Aidan’s School will host the Kindness Festival – a free community event for all ages. Come and meet 40+ local organisations, charities, and businesses, discover support available in Harrogate, and enjoy free games, crafts, and activities for children, plus healthy food for families. It’s a great way to connect, learn, and celebrate kindness in our community!
Spring 1 Dates
Monday 5 January - Inset Day
Tuesday 6 January - All pupils back in school
Monday 12 January - After School Activity Clubs Start
Tuesday 20 January - Family Breakfast
Friday 6 February - Walk to School Day
Tuesday 10 February - Oak Class - St Wilfred's Church Visit
Wednesday 11 February - Young Voices Concert
Friday 13 February - School Closes for Half Term
Spring 2 Dates
Monday 23 February - School Opens
Monday 9 March - Oak and Sycamore - Hinduism Workshop
Friday 13 March - Walk to School Day
Tuesday 17 March - Family Breakfast
Tuesday 24 March - Apple Class Harrogate Synagogue Visit
Thursday 26 March - PTFA Sponsored Bounce
Friday 27 March - School Closes for Easter Holiday
