Dear parents and carers,

The blessed month of Ramadan is expected to begin on Monday 11th March 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon. For Muslims across the globe, these few weeks are a sacred time for worshipping Allah.

We know that this is an extremely important time for our Muslim families. We understand that when children reach puberty they are expected to fast. This is usually around the age of 13-14 years old (children under the age of puberty are not expected to fast). We are concerned that at this time of year, daylight hours are longer and there is a chance that children who fast may feel tired, find it difficult to concentrate and be at risk of dehydration.

To ensure that our children continue to learn to the best of their ability, the school requires that every pupil participate fully in the whole curriculum. We therefore recommend that children in Primary school do not fast on school days. We would suggest parents consider supporting their children, who have reached puberty, to fast at weekends and during the holidays. However, if you do choose for your child to fast we advise only year 5 and 6 children to fast and not children in younger years groups.

Children who are fasting will be monitored during their lessons and parents will be called if any child shows signs of being unwell. If we are unable to make contact, we know that parents would want us to support their child’s well-being by providing them with food and water.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child fasting, please speak to your child’s class teacher.

For families fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, I would like to wish you all Ramadan Mubarak.

Very best wishes,

Mrs Clark

Welcome to this week's Woodlands Weekly! 🌳

Pop to Compton Library this World Book Day! 📚

12 of Woodlands’ Year 5 and 6 children spent a week in Wales at Jamie’s Farm. The children helped the staff on a real working farm and became farmers for the week! Take a look at what they got up to! 👇

📅 When? Monday 29th January - Friday 2nd February

📍 Where? Jamie’s Farm, Monmouth, Wales

🤔 What?

Jamie’s Farm uniquely combines farming, family and mindfulness sessions into a 5-day residential with a focus on giving children time and space to reflect, to renew and determine a new path for themselves. We do this by creating an environment where they feel respected, and are given opportunities to display their talents and show responsibility.

Dear parents and carers,

We wanted to reach out to you as we've seen a rise in viral illnesses within our community. It is important we all take steps to ensure the health and safety of our children.

Washing your hands is easy, and it's the most effective way to stop the spread of germs. 

When washing hands with your children, follow these 5 steps every time:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running warm water. Turn off the tap and apply soap. 
2.  Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse your hands well, under clean running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clear towel, or dry them.

When should you wash your hands?

• After going to the bathroom or toilet;
• Before, during and after preparing food;
• Before eating food;
• Before and after caring for someone with an illness;
• After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing;
• After touching rubbish.

By working together to practise this, we can create a healthier environment for all, enabling children to come to school every day and have success in their learning.

To be able to win this half term’s attendance prizes your child must be in school everyday and be on time.