19th January the food challenge were lychees. The children enjoyed trying this new fruit as very few had had one before.
In November 2023, Harbottle Church of England School experienced an Ofsted inspection, achieving a rating of ‘good’ in all areas. The report was based on the current framework and is also reflective of any changes that have happened since the last graded inspection.
A Close-Knit Community with High Expectations
Harbottle Church of England School is dedicated to the important role it plays in serving the village community, and the Ofsted inspection highlights this. The Ofsted report praises the school for its family-like atmosphere and emphasis on opportunities outside of the classroom, and dedication to implementing an eco-code that will contribute to the school’s local environment.
The inspection emphasised the fact that pupils are proud to be part of the Harbottle family and feel safe and cared for within the school. The pupils were said to adhere to the high expectations the staff set for them and are eager to attain their academic goals.
The Ofsted inspection also highlighted that pupils with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) are supported in school. Prompt referrals to other professionals further assist any SEND students. They collaborate effectively with their peers, engaging in the same curriculum whilst achieving success.
A Well-Structured Curriculum and Strong School Values
Ofsted also recognised how Harbottle Church of England School has designed a curriculum that readies children for the next phase of their academic journey. The well-thought-out curriculum has a key focus on reading which is supported by staff from early years until pupils leave the school.
Mathematics, geography and science are also priorities in the school, with staff allowing opportunities for pupils to practise their skills and gain more knowledge about each subject. Pupils can recall their knowledge surrounding certain topics and the curriculum is matched to each year group’s expectations so that pupils deepen their understanding and time is not lost.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Harbottle Church of England School is devoted to continuously improving its outcomes, making sure that outstanding education is provided for all students. The favourable inspection results showcase the commitment of the entire school community, establishing a robust groundwork for future development and achievements.
Responding to the report, the headteacher of the school Nikki Bucklet-Feiven stated, “I am delighted with the final inspection report. It is wonderful to see how our fantastic children have been recognised. This was made possible by our amazing team of dedicated staff, of whom I’m very proud. I am very fortunate to have a strong governing body, who are very supportive and work tirelessly to achieve the best for our children. Our close links with families, the community, the church and Cheviot Learning Trust have all contributed to helping us attain this good report.”
Thank to everyone who came along to watch our Christmas Play – “Christmas Counts”
We all had a wonderful evening and the children were excellent.
The raffle raised £200 which will be split between the Hedgehog Society and another animal charity chosen by the children.
This week the new challenge was a sample of cranberry juice. All but one child really liked the taste and the carton was used up with second helpings.
This week our new food to try was rye bread.
Most children enjoyed it and some came back for another piece.
Well done to Molly who was the winner of the Alwinton Border Shepherds Show Challenge Shield for the most outstanding exhibit holding a first prize for her picture and writing.
On the other side of the stand we promoted our climate change work and detailed how our children secured a bid with the Trust Dragons Den of £706. They are going to use this to help set up a littler picking group, buy bird feeders, nest boxes and a camera to see what wildlife we have on our school grounds.
There was also a large piece of artwork showing the positive and negative things we are doing to our planet.
Finally a section on the Victorian day held at Kidlandlee and the charcoal drawings they produced, along with photographs showing the wonderful day they had there.
This week end was Alwinton Show and the children all entered their work done in school.
We also had a stand promoting our wonderful school and we had a lot of positive feedback.
On this side of the stand we advertised the school and all about the “Rock Topic” the children have been doing and some information about their recent trip to Alnham to look at the Iron Age Hillfort site at Castle Hill.
This week our food challenge was sardines.
Quite a few of the children had tried these before.
They enjoyed learning about them and how they got their name.
On Tuesday 10th October the children celebrated Takayama Autumn Festival
This famous Takayama Autumn Festival revolves around the Sakurayama Hachinmangu shrine.
This matsuri is highlighted by large floats called mikoshi that are lifted over the shoulders of those carrying them, and paraded through the streets during the day as well as in the evening.
Mrs Rogers cooked the following wonderful meal –
Tonkatsu
とんかつ
(Chicken with caramelised carrots)
Served with rice
ご飯と一緒に
Banana Sushi
バナナ寿司
Served with ice cream
アイスクリームを添えて
