Newsletter

The first spring half‑term is now in full flow, and it has been a perfect moment to relaunch our Birklands School Values, which sit at the heart of our Work hard. Be kind. ethos. Pupils have been exploring what it means to work hard by being curious, ambitious, innovative, resilient and passionate in their learning. These values are helping children understand how to approach challenges, think creatively, stay motivated and take pride in the progress they make each day. 

We have also been spending time reflecting on the 'be kind' values that shape how we treat one another. Through discussions, assemblies and classroom activities, pupils have been thinking about empathy, care, respect, cooperation and honesty. It has been inspiring to see how quickly these ideas are becoming part of everyday interactions across school. By embedding these values in all we do, we aim to ensure that every child feels supported, included and ready to thrive within our community.

We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to our parents’ consultation meetings the week after next, as these conversations give us a valuable opportunity to celebrate your child’s progress, share next steps and continue strengthening the partnership between home and school.

 

 

Y3 and Y4 classes visited Bestwood Education Centre at the end of January. The day was filled with hands-on, practical and fun activities to enhance our learning about life in Roman Britain.

We found out about life as a Roman legionary - what they wore, how they lived, how they were organised and even their toileting habits! Pupils marched with brilliant coordination and synchronisation then used their shields to create a testudo formation, a tactic that provided excellent protection against projectiles during battle.

Brilliant teamwork and effort was shown by the children in following directions to build catapults then test their range of projection.

 

 

We would like to take a moment to celebrate a truly thoughtful act from one of our pupils this week. Lily has chosen to donate her hair to the Princess Trust, a charity that creates real‑hair wigs for children and young people who have lost their own hair due to illness. This generous decision reflects the very best of our Be kind values, showing empathy, care and a desire to make a positive difference to someone else’s life.

Donating hair is a remarkable commitment - it takes time, patience and a lot of courage - and we are incredibly proud of the compassion and maturity she has shown. Her actions have sparked some lovely conversations across school about kindness, giving back and the impact that even one person can have on others. Well done, Lily; you are a wonderful example to us all.

Before Christmas, our school community showed incredible kindness and generosity through the donations made to Doggy Dens. Families brought in blankets, toys and treats for the four‑legged friends in their care, and the response was truly heart‑warming. Acts like this reflect the very best of our Be kind values, demonstrating empathy, care and a willingness to support others - even the furry ones.

The team at Doggy Dens were extremely grateful for the donations, which helped make the festive season a little brighter and more comfortable for the dogs waiting for their forever homes. Thank you to everyone who contributed; your thoughtfulness made a real difference and showed just how strong our school community spirit is.

Over the past two weeks, our assemblies have been filled with moments of pride as we recognised children who have gone above and beyond in their learning and in the way they treat others. These pupils have shown us what it truly means to embody our school values, whether through exceptional effort in the classroom or simple acts of kindness that brighten someone else’s day.

Some children were celebrated for their determination - tackling challenges with resilience, staying focused, and giving their very best even when the work felt tough. Others were recognised for the way they look after their friends, offer help without being asked, or bring positivity into the school environment. Both qualities are equally important, and together they help create the caring, hardworking community we are so proud of.

A huge well done to every child who was mentioned in assembly. Your teachers and classmates see the difference you make, and we are delighted to celebrate your achievements. Keep shining, keep trying, and keep showing the kindness and effort that make our school such a special place to learn.

 

 

A huge well done to Jay Class, who topped the attendance charts last week for the second week running. Their brilliant effort has earned them a non‑uniform day this week, which they thoroughly deserve.

This week, they were only just pipped to the post by Kingfisher Class, who secured the top spot with an excellent attendance score of their own. As a result, Kingfisher Class will enjoy a non‑uniform day next week. Mrs Roberts will be in touch shortly to let parents know the exact day.

Well done to both classes for their fantastic commitment.

Our House Point competition is heating up, and the totals for this week show just how close things are becoming. Rufford have earned 738 points, with Thoresby just ahead on 740. Clumber are making strong progress with 756, but it’s Sherwood who currently hold the lead on 765.

Every point is earned through effort, teamwork and positive behaviour, so a huge well done to all our pupils for contributing to their houses. With totals this close, anything can change over the coming weeks.

A big congratulations to Vinny and James, who have now completed all of their times table challenges and earned a full lanyard packed with badges. This is a fantastic achievement that reflects real determination, focus and a brilliant attitude towards learning.

Both boys have shown what can be accomplished with perseverance and a willingness to push themselves. They should feel incredibly proud of their hard work.

Well done, Vinny and James - a superb effort all round.

 

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Dex, who successfully completed his Stage 3 Swimming Award at the Warsop Health Hub last week. This achievement reflects his hard work, determination, and growing confidence in the water. Well done, Dex - we are really proud of you!