Project Outline

We are aiming to provide an extension to the classroom environment by using our exterior space and encouraging children to learn outside and appreciate our surroundings. We hope to complete this project by Summer 2009. The steering group is headed by Mel Shackleton.

We need you

Local broker, Chris Knott Insurance, is offering us a unique fundraising scheme. They will donate 25% of their commission to St. James’ for every policy you take out through them. The donation comes out of their profits and is not added to your premium – in fact you should even save money on your car, home, travel and business insurance. Please tell us if you would use this service so that we can decide whether to sign up.

We are most grateful to Coutts Bank for their £500 donation

Phase 1

To provide a covered area outside Ash, Chestnut and Cedar Classes. The children will be able to work outside with protection from sun and rain. Also parents can seek cover when waiting in the mornings.

Phase 2

To create a woodland walk from the covered area at the rear of the school up to the far right hand corner of the playing field where we will join with Phase 3.

Phase 3

To have an outside classroom.

Whole classes will be able to experience the Woodland Walk leading to the classroom. We will be looking at a wooden structure deemed suitable for this purpose. It is hoped that Environmental and Green issues will be included during class lessons taken in the OLE.

The Barn/Garage is just one of the options we are looking into.

What you can do to help

If you have any professional expertise in any of the areas we are covering your help or advice would be very much appreciated. Once an account is set up with Chris Knott details will be issued so please give them a try when renewing a premium, and tell your friends and family. By doing an everyday housekeeping chore you could be helping the school. If you are able to help the PFA in any of their events you will of course be directly helping the project as they have agreed to match fund the schools commitment this year to phase 1 which we hope to keep below £14,000. If you have any suggestions we will be pleased to receive them.

We thank you all for your continued support

On the 1st February the school kindly kept their doors open for a parent information evening to discuss ways in which technology is being integrated into the classroom. The evening started with an excellent powerpoint presentation from Jo Hill who explained in jargon friendly terms exactly what the children would be doing through the terms and how technology is applied. Use of the internet including how children are protected was also discussed.

The evening moved on to demonstrations within the different classes and how the use of interactive whiteboards has radically changed the way in which children are taught. It seems there are endless ways children can interact and being such a visual tool stimulates children to become involved at every possible moment. The parents had a enjoyable time experimenting too and were amazed how things had moved on since we were in the classroom.

Thank you to Dan, Jo and all the teachers who gave their free-time to give parents an insight into what happens in the classroom today.