Multicultural Week What an amazing week we had. The whole school took part in a variety of activities to learn about and celebrate the many cultures of the world we live in. EYFS and KS1 learnt lots of interesting facts about Africa. The story Handa’s Surprise, which is set in Kenya, was enjoyed by all. They wrote their own stories based on the book, used their ICT skills to research the ‘big five’ African animals and created animal prints in art. Everyone took part in and thoroughly enjoyed the African dance workshop which was loud and exciting! Year 3 and 4 focused on Oceania. They practiced their map skills by looking for and labelling countries in the continent, used their ICT skills to research the Great Barrier Reef and even learnt the Haka, a Maori ceremonial war dance, which they performed brilliantly to the whole school. Year 5 and 6 studied Asia. They listened to a Philip Pullman story called the Firework-maker’s Daughter which is set in China, learnt to greet people and count in Japanese and even made their very own sushi – which was delicious! On the final day everyone, children and adults, dressed up in clothes that represented their continent and enthusiastically shared their work in a whole school multicultural assembly. The children showed awareness of and respect towards the beliefs and the way of life of others. Well done to all the children and thank you to the parents for helping with the costumes, everyone looked fantastic!

Remembrance Day On Friday 9th November KS1 joined the rest of the school to commemorate the centenary of WW1. During the day the children learnt about Remembrance day and the significance of wearing a poppy. We were very grateful to some of our Year 6 children who came to share some interesting WW1 facts and real war medals. In Year 2 the children took inspiration from Van Gogh and painted their own version of the ‘The Poppy Field’. They listened to poems about poppies, generated word banks of appropriate vocabulary and wrote some amazing poppy poems! Across the key stage all the children were busy working in groups to make poppy wreaths and using their artistic skills to create finger painted poppies.

7th December 2018

Black History Month

The children in Year 2 had an interesting day learning about Floella Benjamin. They read information about her life

and family and found out lots of interesting facts about Trinidad where she grew up. Everyone enjoyed learning how

to draw hummingbirds, creating their own colourful maps and finding Trinidad on a world map. Our children accept

that everyone is different and show respect and kindness towards others. They were very concerned when they

heard that some people did not like Floella because of the colour of her skin.

Be Kind to Yourself Our ‘Be kind to Yourself’ work was based on a story called ‘The Huge Bag of Worries’. This is a delightful story that sensitively tackles the theme of ‘worries’ and what to do about them. The children have learnt to find a kind face which could be a parent, teacher or friend to talk to about their worry, then together they wave it away, let it go or deal with it. We are all very proud of the display we created together.

Black History Month – KS2 As part of our investigation into Black History, upper key stage 2 held a discussion group to investigate protest. We specifically focused on protests around sporting events and linked this to the achievement and struggles of black athletes. We were greatly troubled by the struggles faced by people purely on the colour of their skin and were pleased to realise that many people throughout history have been brave enough to try to make this stop.

We debated a range of questions, shared ideas and argued our viewpoints. We used our Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural discussion skills and knowledge of British Values to help decide what we believe is right and wrong.

Parliament Week – KS2 During Parliament Week, Year 5 got together and held a Parliamentary debate and vote on the topic,

“Burnham Council has funding for a new statue. This must be of a British Hero and will appear on the waterfront. Help us choose what to create.”

They had to make initial suggestions, debate, object and then vote for a long list. After another round of debating, they created a short list and voted again.

The vote was won by Ellie Simmonds, the Paralympian gold medal swimmer. She was picked as an inspiring role-model all the children felt they could look up to.

Year 1 – Holly Trees Toy Museum Here are a few pictures from the year 1 trip to the Holly Trees Toy Museum on the 23rd of November. All the children had the opportunity to dress up as Victorian maids or a butlers and pretend to be servants from the era. They

experienced a Victorian school and were allowed to play with traditional toys from the same period. We also explored the museum and made a cup and ball game. The children were brilliantly behaved and we had an amazing time.

Year 4 Groovy Greeks

Year 4 have had a great time going back in time, learning about Ancient Greek life! They have learnt about Ancient Greek history, performed and recorded different Greek plays and made their own Greek pottery. A truly groovy day!

EYFS Road Safety

This week all the children in EYFS had an interactive talk from Essex Safer Roads. They were taught about being safe whilst walking near roads and the dangers they may

encounter. Parents were also invited to attend and it was lovely to see so many – thank you. All children should have received an informative booklet and parents were emailed

additional information to support the talk.

Reverse Advent Calendar We have been overwhelmed, as were the ladies as the Children’s Centre, with the generosity of our staff and families. Yesterday we took a large amount of boxes and bags to the centre filled with lots of Christmas goodies as well as

staple food items. Items will be distributed at the Southminster Food Bank to those in need.

Thank you!

PTA News Tickets for the 'Win Christmas' draw are still on sale for just £2 each. The draw will take place on

Monday 17th December. Please contact the PTA for more information on when and where you can purchase your tickets.

Our first PTA meeting of 2019 will take place in early January and we will be discussing ideas for fundraising events for the Spring and Summer terms, so watch this space! If you'd like to get involved

please don't hesitate to get in touch with any member of the PTA.

Email:admin@burnham-on-crouch.essex.sch.uk

Website: burnhamprimary.co.uk

As part of the school's continuing work with the wider community, we were privileged to work with a group of Year 9 students from ORA. They were taking part in the Dora Love Award, which uses drama and discussion to help a new

generation learn about tolerance and care for everyone, regardless of background.

This award was founded in honour of a holocaust survivor and our Year 5 and 6 children were able to help make films for the award. We now wish ORA all the best in the competition, as we stand a good chance of our children's ideas

being shared at a national award.