The children settled quickly back into school after the hectic Summer term and the Ofsted success. The new Year 3 children have integrated well into Junior School life.

Opportunity has been taken to consolidate the classroom lessons by giving the children practical experience of their various subject themes on school trips. Year 6 went to Beaulieu out-of-town centre, where they had they chance to perform pond-dipping and discover the myriad of interesting creatures living in the water. They followed this with a geographical survey of the river. Year 5 visited Southampton Docks, where they were able to see the layout and activities of the port from a Blue Funnel Cruises vessel. They had the good fortune to see two large cruise ships in port. In the afternoon, the group walked the Old Walls and participated in a Titanic Museum workshop. Year 3 progressed their "Down on the Farm" work project with a visit to Sparsholt. They were able to get close up to the animals and follow some of the agricultural processes. There was an added bonus when their coach became stuck in mud and had to be towed out by tractors! Year 4 experienced Celtic living at Butser Ancient Farm, with wattle fence building and an archeological dig featuring among their activities.

The school’s Gardening Club continues to do sterling work in helping to look after the various beds in the school grounds. Their efforts received fine recognition with Silver Gilt awards in both the South-East in Bloom and Test Valley in Bloom competitions.

Congratulations go to both the U11 and U10 football teams for success in the early rounds of the Hants Schools’ Cups. With Olympic Year fast approaching, the children are being encouraged to use the wealth of material available not only to improve their sporting excellence, but also as an inspiration in art and design. They will have the chance to take on a variety of projects in the coming months, inspired not just by the Olympic Games, but also by the Paralympics, and making full use of their various curriculum skills.

As well as the new Year 3 children, the school also welcomed a new Admin Officer, Mrs Julie Durnford. We look forward to a long and happy association with her.

By the time this "Beadle" is published, the children will be heavily involved in the preparations for their usual hectic Christmas programme. The Lower School will be performing "Wind and the Willows", with the Upper School offering their version of "Aladdin". Reports and, hopefully, photos in the next edition.