Reception 2023 - 2024

December and the countdown to Christmas is already here! The children have spent the week learning trying to solve the mystery of the new role play area. We found footprints in flour that led across the classroom and went on a hunt for the gingerbread man!  We also had a surprise Elf addition to our classroom today, a kind elf who brought along a Christmas tree, lights and decorations. The children have enjoyed the start of the festivities, beginning to decorate the classroom and sharing their stories of their naughty elves at home! We also had the added excitement of ‘snow’ ❄️during the Festive Fun Run today in aid of the Hospice of The Good Shepherd- thank you for your donations.  

We have continued working hard practising for our Nativity play and the children are excited to share it with you next week.  Thank you for your help with the costumes. 

In phonics this week, we have recapped the sounds covered so far and using these when reading or writing simple words. The children have continued to work hard when sounding out, using the correct letter formations writing lists, making signs and wanted posters in search of the Gingerbread Man! 

In maths, we have been looking at the numbers 4 and 5, looking at different ways of making them and finding 1 more/ less.  

Just a couple of reminders for another busy week, next week: 

Monday- As part of our Hillside tradition, each class makes their own Advent wreath, learning about Advent and lighting a candle in assemblies running up to Christmas. Please send in any cuttings of ‘Christmas greenery’ such as conifers, holly, fir, pine etc on Monday (or Tuesday). Any donations will be much appreciated.  

Tuesday – PE kits 

Wednesday – 2pm Hey Ewe! Nativity performance 

Thursday – 6.30pm Hey Ewe! Nativity Performance 

Friday - FOH non-uniform day (toy donations) and 5pm-7pm Christmas fair 🎄

Also, don’t forget to visit the Ho Ho Helsby festivities on Saturday (Craft stall and teddy tombola at the scout hut, choir, sing-along group, brass band at St Paul’s Chuch) and look out for the Hillside float full of penguins in the parade! 

Have a fantastic weekend- keep warm!