21st September 2007

The Great Lakes
Last week I was fortunate to accompany Year 5 and 6 on the annual Lake District Residential. The trip was extremely well organised by Mr Spickett and we stayed at the wonderful Borrowdale Youth Hostel. On day one we conquered the steep but not that high Catbells and the more demanding Dale Head on day two. The pupils had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience – evident from their general air of happiness and willingness from start to finish. They were a pleasure to be with. There were the difficult bits – having to force down the ice-cream at Buttermere and the cakes at the Flock In Tea Rooms were a real test. Many thanks to Michelle Johnson for looking after the girls with her usual diligence and care. The Lake District is a really stunning area and I hope some of the children feel inspired to walk in the hills when they grow up.
John HipshonThey get better every year! Our itinerary varies slightly from year to year and yet every trip seems to be unique. On our main “mountain day” we always go up Dale Head. This is one of the big mountains in The Lakes and we choose it because it allows us to do a neat trick: parking at the top of The Honister Pass. This means that we have only an hour’s walk to reach the top of the mountain. When we set off it was overcast and dry. Gradually the clouds broke up, the sun came out and we could see across The Solway Firth and into Scotland.

We also climbed Hindscarth, Catbells and along the shores of Buttermere lake. Of course we didn’t fail to visit an ice cream parlour or café every day. TIP! If you’re in the area, go to the Flock In walker’s café in Rosthwaite – it’s great! As Mr. Hipshon commented, “If you’re asked if if you want tea in a pint mug, you know you’re in the right place!”
Tom Spickett

Moving On
Sarah Allen is moving on after 10 years great service in the kitchen. Sarah has been a pillar of strength and been a key figure in maintaining the high standards of food and service in the school. We will miss her and I wish her all the very best for the future.

Stunning Performances
Our opening netball fixtures were in Scarborough of all places last Wednesday at Bramcote School who we
befriended at a tournament last year. We had a very pleasant lunch on the beach and then played two games at the school. We won the Under 11 match 15-6 and the Under 10 game 17-2. Some of the netball played was fantastic and basically unstoppable. This bodes well for the rest of the season.

The Week Ahead
On Saturday we have the first cross country meeting of the season at Whitkirk (10am). Please meet at school no later than 9.10am those who are running. Next Friday Year 5 and 6 visit Rockland House in Doncaster to see some Egyptian artefacts. This is the home of David Calvert-Orange who visited us last Tuesday and gave Year 5 and 6 a fascinating talk on Egyptian history – stunning them with facts like the Great Pyramid was built with two and a half million blocks of Sandstone which could not possibly have been moved by any number of workers in the mere 23 years it supposed to have taken to build it.

Parents’ Handbook
I am sorry the Parents’ handbook has not been issued immediately at the start of the term. This is because many parts of it are currently being reviewed and rewritten. It will be available after half term but obviously if there is any essential information you feel you don’t have – please ask.

It’s Good To Talk
We always appreciate it whenever you tell the class teacher all the great things you are up to as well as any concerns you may have as they arise. Mrs Watkins is also available to speak to you, her new role is Parent Liaison.Commendations
Holly – courage and sweet singing.
Harry & Joseph – politeness and patience.
Joseph & Lizzy – good progress is reading.
Callum – integrity
Senior Boys – civilised behaviour
John Hipshon

Alcuin Charity Concert
St. Matthew’s Church, Chapel Allerton
Sat 17th November 2007
7:30 pm
In aid of St. Georges Crypt
Alcuin School Choir and Orchestra to perform briefly – all members required to attend
Main performers: Mrs Major – violin
Mr Phillips – piano
Free Admission with retiring collection
This is to be our main charity event this year. It will be a major public event needing the full support of parents, relatives and friends. Please see me if you are willing to help. Please put the date in your diaries.
Tom Spickett

Ballroom Dancing
OK Mums and Dads – this is time for you.
You’ve seen Celebrity Come Dancing, well remember a journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step. For you this could be a Lesson For Beginners in the hall at The Alcuin School 7.30pm start until 9.00pm on Tuesday October 23rd (Half Term Holiday) Adel Dance teachers Wendy & Barry are giving their services free so all of the fee goes to the school.
The price is incredibly reasonable £6.00 each. We need lots of you to come along and make it a fun time.
Book your place today with Liz by leaving a £5.00 deposit.
Judith Watkins