2016-17 - A year in review

2016-17 - A year in review

BBEY LENS September 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. One Excellence Through Partnership

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2016-17 A celebration of all of our school experiences.

WELCOME BACK! Welcome to 2016-17 and the third volume of our Abbey Lens. We like to celebrate as many aspects of our school as possible! We would like to extend a very welcome to our new Nursery and Reception parents. If you have a story for inclusion then please email along with a picture and we will try and include it. Our Abbey Lens is a way that we like to share good news from our school community, shining a spotlight on different aspects of our school. Sometimes our lens falls on celebratory stories, other times information and sometimes promoting events or sharing important messages. A new feature this academic year is a ‘meet the staff ’ section that will throw the lens on different people throughout the year. MEET DR K IN TEN. Role: Head Teacher Favourite cartoon character: Scooby Doo. IPOD music: Elvis Watch again film: The Empire Strikes Back Munch of choice: Cheese and onion. Rainy day book: From Potter’s field. Often heard saying: Whatto/Ponder. Superhero of choice: Batman Horoscope/Chinese Year: Sagittarius & Tiger

Don’t want to meet: Sharks Take a break: Go fishing.

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or [email protected]

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BBEY LENS October 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Ten Excellence Through Partnership

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Google it! Virtual reality experience.

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HEAD SET Mrs Piper was quick off the mark to grab a Google Expedition experience for Abbey. Expeditions are collections of linked VR content and supporting materials that can be used alongside existing curriculum. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas — 360° panoramas and 3D images — annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools. Google has worked with partners like David Attenborough, the Royal Collection Trust, and TES to create over 200 Expeditions specifically mapped to the national curriculum, ensuring that the experience can complement existing classroom plans. Our children were very excited and we may look at exploring (ahem!) getting some kit of our own. For this experience, only our children aged 7 years and over could take part. The software is free for Android or IOS if families want to try it out themselves. CROSS COUNTRY On Tuesday 4th October, key stage two competed in the Sainbury’s School Games Cross Country Competition. 40 children from KS2 travelled to Oldbury Academy to compete against other schools from around Sandwell. The children had to run a long distance course marked out on the Oldbury Academy field. There were a few stand out performances, where we won our races or finished in the top 3. The year 3/4 team had its scores added together to give a team total. The children worked so hard and came away with a deserved Silver Medal. The year 5/6 teams also worked hard and won the Gold Medal! Both teams will now go through to the next round! Well Done!!

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or [email protected]

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BBEY LENS October 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Eleven Excellence Through Partnership

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Dive bombed! Seagull attack.

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I DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE I visited wonderful Weston last week with my class. I had the best time ever. First we played on the beach so we could wait for our turn to go on the bumpy donkey. There was one called Daisy, just spelt differently. After that, we built sand castles with our friends. We made a street! It was so much fun! While we were building, we were called to get a freezing cold ice cream. Then we had some hot, delicious chips. The seagulls attacked us for them! After that we enjoyed the walk up the long pier. Thanks to Daisy Taylor, 2H for the story. . MINI MARATHON Emily and Riley completed the mini marathon in Birmingham on Sunday, alongside some of their friends from school. They are pictured here with their friends who came to visit. They ran 1.5km and got a medal, and they still had the energy to cheer on the half marathon runners including their mum! They handed out sweets at the top of the biggest hill and made a lot of runners happy! Well done Emily and Riley.

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Twelve Excellence Through Partnership

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Bostin! Black Country Museum

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TOYS R US Year One have enjoyed an amazing trip to the Black Country Museum this week, bringing to life our Victorian topic. Throughout the day children visited different homes, looking at similarities and differences to modern day living. We were invited into the Victorian school room where we discovered learning was quite different in Victorian times! The children enjoyed exploring and learning about old and modern toys and found that some toys are still very similar. The staff at the museum commented on what lovely children we have and how good their behaviour was. Well done Year One! #feeling proud. [Ed - # is not a Victorian or Black country saying #Yampy] CAKE SALE Thank you to everyone who supported the Halloween Cake Sale at the Infants today. We raised an impressive £201.57. The second hand uniform stall was also a success. Enjoy Half Term. The Friends of Abbey Team

MEET MRS GAXHERRI.

Role: Fab Nursery Teacher Favourite cartoon character: Fred Flintstone. IPOD music: Dance. Watch again film: Shrek Munch of choice: Pringles. Rainy day book: The Gruffalo. Often heard saying: You’re a superstar! Superhero of choice: Invisible Woman. Horoscope/Chinese Year: Pisces & Pig Don’t want to meet: Snakes Take a break: Swimming

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or [email protected]

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Thirteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Wheels on the bus! Go round and round

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TRANSPORT Our new mini-buses have arrived and they look super smart! As part of our commitment to bringing as many experiences to our children as we can, we have invested in mini- buses. We hope to use our own transport, alongside coaches and other mini-buses to aim for the best value in educational trips, experiences and outside learning. FANTASY FOOTBALL West Bromwich Albion’s Academy dome played host to local schools for a football tournament. Abbey had two teams representing our school. Team B was competitive throughout but knocked out in the quarter-finals. Abbey A-team played some phenomenal football and was unbeaten for the duration. Team A beat Uplands in the final and declared champions, each member winning themselves a trophy! Well done boys! Year 5/6 girls had their own football tournament the week before and were also unbeaten throughout! They beat Rowley Hall in the final, at Sandwell Academy, and won a medal each! Well done girls! ABBEY PRAYER GROUP Abbey Prayer Group meets once a month at Warley Methodist Church to pray for the school. If you would like to join us we will be meeting on Tuesday 8th November from 2-3pm. For more information and any prayer requests contact us at [email protected]

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or [email protected]

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Fourteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Dahlicious! Childers go whizzpop

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ROALD DAHL DAY T his year's Dahlicious Dress Up Day is part of the biggest Roald Dahl Day party of all time. This year marked Roald Dahl's 100th birthday, with schools and groups across the globe dressing up, and donating their marvellous money to Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity. The annual Dahlicious Dress Up Day raises money to help provide Roald Dahl nurses and family support to children in the UK living with a serious illness. A fantastic effort of fun and fundraising helped to add £110 to this worthy cause. Phizz-whizzing! ROALD DAHL NIGHT Year 4 continued the Roald Dahl themed fun with a slumber party that was gloriumptious. Frothbuggling fun included orienteering, an assault course and a meeting with swigpill granny that was all topped off with fireworks. Kiddles enjoyed frobscottle that could only be described as whoopsy-wiffling along with meeting George and his family member. Ed - Grown ups may need http:// wonderfuldahl.blogspot.co.uk/p/dahl- dictionary.html to make this make sense! REMEMBRANCE The children of Abbey Playden helped to create this frieze. From reception to year six, the children made their own handmade poppies to help commemorate this special day. Y6 have also made a number of large art pieces that will be displayed around our school.

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Fifteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Fire! Engine visit helps with safety

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ECO BUS AND FIRE ENGINES

Children in KS1 enjoyed a visit from both the Eco-bus and Smethwick’s firemen.

Y6 RESIDENTIAL Year 6 enjoyed a great week of outdoor and adventurous activities during one of our three, annual residential experiences. Taking to mountains, gorges, fields and beaches saw 40 children and staff go off-piste to revel in the delights of North Wales. Offering a different view of team-building and collaborative learning, the personal growth of all involved was amazing to see. Our web-site shows just what a fantastic time was had. http://www.abbeyfederation.co.uk/plas- gwynant-2016/ It wasn’t just the children who came back tired. Huge thanks to the staff for giving up the whole week from one and families.

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk story may be published. All submissions

to [email protected] or [email protected]

BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Fifteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Fire! Engine visit helps with safety

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ECO BUS AND FIRE ENGINES Children in KS1 enjoyed a visit from both the Eco-bus and Smethwick’s firemen. Maisie in Y2HP was very complimentary about both and especially enjoyed sorting the rubbish into recyclable and non-recyclable. Giving the day a very impressive 10/10, Maisie would recommend them coming back. The fire team delivered a number of workshops in both KS1 and KS2 to help our children be safe. Y6 RESIDENTIAL Year 6 enjoyed a great week of outdoor and adventurous activities during one of our three, annual residential experiences. Taking to mountains, gorges, fields and beaches saw 40 children and staff go off-piste to revel in the delights of North Wales. Offering a different view of team-building and collaborative learning, the personal growth of all involved was amazing to see. Our web-site shows just what a fantastic time was had. http:// www.abbeyfederation.co.uk/plas-gwynant-2016/ It wasn’t just the children who came back tired. Huge thanks to the staff for giving up the whole week from home and family.

Ed - Eyes were only shut momentarily!

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www.abbeyfederation.co.uk story may be published. All submissions

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Sixteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Peg dolls! Y1 parent workshop

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TOYS Last week, year 1 invited parents and carers to come and help the children to make a Victorian doll. With the help of their adult, the children had to plan what their doll would look like and then make it using a range of different resources. We had lots of amazing dolls, from traditional Victorian clothing, modern dolls and even a Santa doll! TUK Some exciting news! Hari Chambers' (1L) Dad, Rav Chambers, has just completed an epic 1800km journey from Mumbai, India to the southern tip of India in a Tuk Tuk! The three-wheeled auto rickshaw challenge took 2 weeks to complete, and was done to raise money and awareness for the education of girls in some of the poorest rural parts of India. It was a hard, exciting and intense journey but well worth it for a wonderful cause. Well done to Rav and the team! Hari is super proud!

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Seventeen Excellence Through Partnership

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Soggy bottom! Y4 author bake

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TASTING Year 4’s Roald Dahl themed work continued with an author inspired ‘bake off ’. Children were invited to make a special themed cake and the results were truly astonishing. Not only has the the year group shown great enthusiasm and ingenuity but the work will also be helping a very good cause. The fantastic inventions were sold after school and raised a fantastic £105.91. These funds are going to contribute towards buying and ma k i n g g i f t s f o r t h e r e s i d e n t s o f Beachcroft Nursing Home this Christmas. Year 4 will be working even harder to make someone else have a special day by taking these gifts and singing Christmas songs and carols. This is one of our ‘bucket list’ curricular experiences and well done to year 4. TOES As part of their celebrations topic, EYFS enjoyed a day of dance workshops based on Bhangra style dancing. They jumped aboard their magic carpets and flew to India where they learnt dance moves and put together amazing routines to Indian music.

Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or [email protected]

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BBEY LENS November 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Eighteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Multi-skills! Maiden voyage

GAMES On Tuesday 15th November, 10 Pupils from KS1 travelled in style to compete in the KS1 multi-skills competition. They enjoyed the first school outing on our new Abbey Minibus! The children took part in a variety of activities including target throwing, balancing and catching! They had a fantastic day! Well Done!! BLACK FRIDAY OFFER In honour of our transatlantic friends, we are trying to increase the number of parents who can help with our ‘Friends of Abbey’. All of our parents are automatically members of our parent/teacher association and we would love you to help with our Christmas fair and other events. We really need as many pairs of hands to support with the preparation and running our events. If you can spare an hour, please drop your name into the office/email and we’ll get back to you straight away. This is a really busy time and your help is much appreciated.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or office@abbey- inf.sandwell.sch.uk H a v e

BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Nineteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Y2 the brave! Mr Hayat where’s your troosers?

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TRADITION

We had a great time on our Scottish Tradition Day making delicious Shortbreads and taking part in our very own Highland Games (even though it was freezing). The children also made terrific thistles and were taught the ‘F lying Scotsman’ dance which they thoroughly enjoyed. TARTAN The children were thrilled to have their parents alongside them when weaving their own kilts. Strips of ribbon were used perfectly to create their own tartan patterns. Great perseverance and creativity was shown by all throughout the sessions, using colours that represented their families. The results were amazing. Thanks to all of our grown up helpers.

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BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Nineteen Excellence Through Partnership

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Y2 the brave! Mr Hayat where’s your troosers?

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TRADITION

We had a great time on our Scottish Tradition Day making delicious Shortbreads and taking part in our very own Highland Games (even though it was freezing). The children also made terrific thistles and were taught the ‘F lying Scotsman’ dance which they thoroughly enjoyed. TARTAN The children were thrilled to have their parents alongside them when weaving their own kilts. Strips of ribbon were used perfectly to create their own tartan patterns. Great perseverance and creativity was shown by all throughout the sessions, using colours that represented their families. The results were amazing. Thanks to all of our grown up helpers.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or office@abbey- inf.sandwell.sch.uk Ha v e y o u

BBEY LENS September 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Two Excellence Through Partnership

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On your marks! Gold medal start for Abbey

COACH MARK! During the last week of term we were lucky enough to be awarded the Coach Mark. Well done to us and particularly Miss Poleon and her coaching crew! We will be looking to extend our use of coaching over the next academic year. Coach Mark recognises the coaching culture, practices and standards that we are developing and achieving in our school. Coach Mark is known for supporting schools to achieve excellence in the use of a coaching approach which impacts on teaching, learning and school improvement success. The assessment identified many aspects of silver and gold and, among other things, identified the following strengths: a sharp focus for coaching, which provides a laser point on improving teaching and learning, whilst still enabling colleagues to explore and discuss any area which affects their performance; a particularly strong sense of trust amongst all members of the coaching team about the coaching programme and great willingness to be open and honest in their coaching ICT MARK Children at Abbey are at the forefront of using technology to enhance their work, and that’s official! Following an extensive external assessment, Abbey has been awarded the prestigious ICT Mark. The award recognises the school’s success in developing the strategic use of technology in both administration and across the curriculum. Parents will have proof that their children are attending a school at the forefront of modern technology. Well done to us and Mr Oakes, Mr Stevenson, Miss Vance and Miss Stocking who have led this work.

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BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty Excellence Through Partnership

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Old fashioned! Seen and not heard

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BAKING

The children in Year 1 travelled back to the Victorian times, for the day. First, they were greeted by their teachers, who looked a bit different in their Victorian outfits, and lined up with the boys and girls separately. The first lesson encouraged the children to use their recently acquired bread- making skills, to work collaboratively, making a plaited loaf with their group. The loaves were soon demolished at the end of the day! Little Red Hen sprang to mind – “Who will help me eat the bread?” Next, the children had formal lessons of phonics, handwriting with chalk, and chanting the times tables (all sitting in rows). During the afternoon, children made a special Victorian card for their parents-something to look forward to at Christmas. The teachers enjoyed being super strict for the day and it all added to the Victorian experience. The children had lots of fun and were very respectful to their elders. MEDICINE When we had reached the magnificent Alexandra Theatre, to go and watch George's Marvellous Medicine, inside I felt overwhelmed before the play had even started. In the middle of the play a grumpy, mean grandma shot up like a soaring rocket through the roof. It was hilarious! Then in the interval we had our snacks and mine was delicious. In the second part of the show, George made the medicine for grandma as the granny had shrunk and we could hardly see her. Guilty, shocked and nervous, George felt guilt as his grandma had disappeared into thin air and his mom was so sad. Then we got the coach back to school and that was the end of our fabulous trip. By Jasleen Hayer 5S

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BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty Excellence Through Partnership

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Old fashioned! Seen and not heard

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BAKING

The children in Year 1 travelled back to the Victorian times, for the day. First, they were greeted by their teachers, who looked a bit different in their Victorian outfits, and lined up with the boys and girls separately. The first lesson encouraged the children to use their recently acquired bread- making skills, to work collaboratively, making a plaited loaf with their group. The loaves were soon demolished at the end of the day! Little Red Hen sprang to mind – “Who will help me eat the bread?” Next, the children had formal lessons of phonics, handwriting with chalk, and chanting the times tables (all sitting in rows). During the afternoon, children made a special Victorian card for their parents-something to look forward to at Christmas. The teachers enjoyed being super strict for the day and it all added to the Victorian experience. The children had lots of fun and were very respectful to their elders. MEDICINE When we had reached the magnificent Alexandra Theatre, to go and watch George's Marvellous Medicine, inside I felt overwhelmed before the play had even started. In the middle of the play a grumpy, mean grandma shot up like a soaring rocket through the roof. It was hilarious! Then in the interval we had our snacks and mine was delicious. In the second part of the show, George made the medicine for grandma as the granny had shrunk and we could hardly see her. Guilty, shocked and nervous, George felt guilt as his grandma had disappeared into thin air and his mom was so sad. Then we got the coach back to school and that was the end of our fabulous trip. By Jasleen Hayer 5S

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or office@abbey- inf.sandwell.sch.uk Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under

BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty one Excellence Through Partnership

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The Ashes! Cricket trophy

TOP BATTING On Thursday 1st December a year 4 team of cricketers travelled to Tipton Sports Academy to compete for 'The Ashes' in a Sandwell Cricket competition. 15 schools took part and our Abbey team topped their group winning 3 out of 3 league matches to progress to the quarter finals. Some fantastic batting saw them overcome their opponents and they then went on to play Uplands Manor in the semi finals. An outstanding fielding performance saw them breeze straight through to the Final where once again they were victorious. The team won themselves a gold medal, a t- shirt each and ‘The Ashes’ trophy for our school! Well Done! CHRISTMAS CHEER Year 4 brought a smile and Christmas cheer to the residents of Beechcroft nursing home by taking their voices, smiles and Christmas jumpers out on tour. Everybody was smiling cheerfully. We felt nervous when everybody walked into the room. After a little while we felt confident to sing. The residents were really happy when we started to show them the gifts we had taken for them. We had a drink and the residents kindly gave us a Kit- Kat which was delicious. Thank you to Jana and Ellie-Mae for the story.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to [email protected] or office@abbey- inf.sandwell.sch.uk Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under

BBEY LENS December 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty two Excellence Through Partnership

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Command Performance! X(Mas)-Factor talent

STARS SHINE

The final seven days of the autumn term have been filled with the sound of children performing. Beginning with Y5 and ‘Lights, camel, action!’; Y2’s Babushka; Y1’s ‘Whoops- a-daisy angel’; YR’s ‘Christmas with the aliens’ and YN’s ‘Nativity’ there has been an abundance of happy children performing to their siblings and parents. Our talented children all brought a smile to the faces of the audience whilst performing to a high standard, with some beautiful singing and dancing. A great end to 2016! CHRISTMAS FAIR Our ‘Friends of Abbey’ worked tirelessly to bring together all of the elements of a great Christmas Fair. Food, games, raffles, bric-a- brac, choir, Santa and good spirits all contributed to a lovely evening. On what may prove to be the last fair on the old Infant site before our re-build, families enjoyed the busy, fun event. Raising £1850 for our children, the FOA are always looking for more helpers from our parent community to extend the work of our fantastic team. Ed - A very Merry Christmas to all of our children and families. May 2017 be happy, healthy and peaceful for everyone.

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BBEY LENS January 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty three Excellence Through Partnership

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Science wonder! Y1 workshop

BOOM Year 1 enjoyed an afternoon of science fun launching their topic of famous scientists. Using a range of exciting apparatus and engaging experiments, the children learnt about a number of famous inventions and the scientists who came up with the ideas. Later in the term parents will be invited to a ‘be brave day’ where even more experiments will be unleashed. A great start to 2017!

CHORAL BEAUTY

On Christmas Eve's Eve, about twenty children from Abbey Junior and Infant’s choir and their families, went to King’s Community Church to sing at a community event. We sang four songs to do with Christmas. There was also singing from a band and other choirs. Afterwards we had a drink and a mince pie. A great end to 2016! Thank you Mrs Stidwell and Mrs Flanagan. We really enjoyed it! Thanks to Kiran’s Mom for the story. BLEIGIESSEN A fun New Year’s Eve tradition in Germany is for families to try to divine their fortune for the New Year, known as ‘Bleigiessen’, and involved lead pouring. This ancient form of divination, also known as Molybdomancy, has been used for 1000s of years in many cultures. Now it’s mostly just for fun, although there may be something to it. Originally, a small bit of lead or tin was melted, and then dropped in water. The form created by the metal is examined to determine the future. Some forms need you to be very open minded. Then, your fortune for the year is set. For instance, if the lead forms a ball (der Ball), it means luck will roll your way. The shape of an anchor (der Anker) means help is coming when you need it. KS2 had a very trying time in attempting this! http:// www.abbeyfederation.co.uk/new-year-traditions-the- german-custom-of-bleigiess/ shows our version.

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BBEY LENS January 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty four Excellence Through Partnership

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One big team! Working together and helping others.

GREAT TEAM PLAYERS Tyrese Hadley and Kiernan Blick, in Year 2, are members of Warley Rugby Club. Recently they both received awards for being good team players. This was awarded to them after receiving the most number of votes from their team mates, who they train with every Sunday. Last month both boys were team mascots for Warley, which was made even more special as their dads were playing in that match! Thanks to Kiernan’s Mum for the story. Ethan Brunt in 4J made a special trip this holiday, and was lucky enough to visit Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice in Yorkshire. This is what Ethan said: “When my Uncle Allen sadly died in May, he kindly donated a generous amount of money to help the work of this amazing place. When we went, we saw their multi-sensory equipment, a music room and a garden designed by Alan Titchmarsh! “We thought it would feel sad, but it was a very happy place, full of young people making the best of their time with the support of kind lovely staff.’ Thanks to Ethan Brunt 4J and Ethan’s Mum for the story. GENEROSITY

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BBEY LENS January 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty five Excellence Through Partnership

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Evacuation! WW2 sleepover.

WAR TIME The day began by arriving at school, everyone dressed as an evacuee. The whole day involved WW2 activities including: penny up the wall, hopscotch, marbles (we lost a few), putting out fires (getting very wet in the process!) Following this, we used ‘Now press play’ which was a great audio experience all about being evacuated from home to the country. After lunch, we tried writing with an ink pen, which proved surprisingly difficult. We also experienced an air raid shelter using the boiler room. Here, the room was filled with the deafeningly loud sound of bombs and planes. We must have been there for fifteen minutes. After school we experienced a fantastic WW2 themed sleep over. Fish and chips were eaten by all and enjoyed the war time movie ‘Carrie’s War’ Thanks to Ethyn, Poppy and Claudia from 6V for the story and Kiyan in 6P [Ed - A huge ‘thank you’ to the Abbey crew who stayed, helped, supported and lost out on sleep! We couldn’t do it without you] SAND ART A big thank to everyone that came to the after school sand art activity. We raised £14 for the school hope to see you all again on the 23rd January.

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BBEY LENS January 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty six Excellence Through Partnership

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1st and 2nd! Swimming triumph

MADE A SPLASH

On Thursday 5th January 2017 Abbey travelled to Langley swimming baths to compete in the Sandwell South Swimming Gala. Abbey entered two teams of boys and girls from years 4, 5 and 6. Pupils were competing against other local schools. The swimmers each took part in an individual race and all of our swimmers finished 1st or 2nd! Then the competition finished off with a relay and Abbey finished 1st in each of the last races. It was a fantastic display and overall, Abbey B team finished the Gala in second place, taking away silver medals. Abbey A team finished first taking home gold! Abbey A now go through to represent Sandwell in the next round, which will take place in April. Well done! Thanks to Miss Hinton for the story. BE BRAVE On Tuesday, Year One parents and carers were invited to our ‘Be Brave’ day. Lots of open-ended investigations were provided to explore cleaning coins; making parachutes; floating and sinking; investigating static electricity; making a moving rocket. a whirligig and the grand finale of a ‘cola volcano’. Children found that rubbing balloons on their jumper could quite literally be hair-raising! Our aim was to provide a memorable experience for the children and with all of the lovely, positive feedback we have had, we feel that this was achieved. A big thank you to all that were able to attend. Thanks to Miss Donnelly for the story.

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BBEY LENS January 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty seven Excellence Through Partnership

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Happy Feet! Speedy toes

KICK IT On Monday 23rd and Tuesday

24th January, pupils took part in our annual fundraiser - the ‘Soccer Star Challenge.’ All pupils participated from YN-Y6 and had a fantastic time cheering on their classmates and competing for the trophy for fastest shot! So far as a school we have raised £3815.25. This will be split 60% to Abbey and 40% will be re-invested to the fantastic community work carried out by Soccer Star Coaching. Well done everyone! Thanks to Miss Hinton for the story. EARLY POPPY APPEAL We are struggling for volunteers in your area and would be grateful if you would consider our request to become a volunteer to the local community. Overall £14,885.00 was raised in the Smethwick area, with only, four dedicated volunteers. The Legion uses the donations to support in so many ways, including providing crisis grants; offering the children of Armed Forces personnel adventure breaks; researching the impact of blast injuries on the body; lobbying the government on key issues, and advising on benefits and money problems. If anyone is interested then please contact: [email protected]

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BBEY LENS February 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty eight Excellence Through Partnership

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Be S.M.A.R.T! Cyber-safety

ON-LINE CYBER SAVY Thursday 2nd February saw a visiting on-line theatre group entertain and enthral Y2-Y6, with a production aiming to help children think about aspects of being safe on-line. Our school council is also working on a series of short videos that will support pupils across our school, in choosing to do the right, safe and sensible things on-line and with social media. During next week’s ‘Safer Internet Day’, all of our assembly themes are turned toward this very important aspect. In an age-appropriate way, every year group works to develop its understanding of keeping themselves safe. Parents can find useful information from our web-site at http:// www.abbeyfederation.co.uk/useful-links/

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BBEY LENS February 2017 Vol 3: Issue No. Twenty nine Excellence Through Partnership

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Drums and dance! Skins & Feet work together

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TOPICAL TREAT To introduce our topic of ‘The Slave trade’, two visitors came to school to lead us in two workshops of dance and drumming. The dance routine told the story of a young boy in an African village, who woke up remembering that he had to collect food for a market. If this boy’s village raised enough money, then they would have a great celebration. The drumming session involved learning a rhythm on African drums and although it was difficult, it became easier with practice. The day culminated with a performance to our parents and an amazing limbo contest underneath a bar, placed at only 30 cm from the ground. Thanks to Heather & Lucas in 6V for the story. FOOTBALL CRAZY On Wednesday 25th January, Abbey entered two teams in a year three and four football tournament at West Bromwich Albion's Academy dome. Both teams completed a series of group games with one team finishing fourth in their group and the other winning all of their games, to finish top. They then qualified for the Quarter Finals and advanced to the Semis. They were up against Uplands Manor and beat them for a second time that day, to secure a place in the Final. They then went on to take gold, as they won convincingly in the Final. An excellent performance all round. The event was also sponsored by Kelloggs and we brought a large quantity of cereal back to school! This has now been donated to the local food bank and the boys were incredibly proud, not only of winning but also of doing their bit for the community! Well Done! BEAT THE STREET AGAIN Don’t delay… get ready to play. After the success of last year, ‘Beat the Street’ is back and journeys count from 18th February 2017. Try tapping at least two ‘Beat Boxes’ on the way to school! Any questions? Please contact the team by email - via [email protected] The Beat the Street Team

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BBEY LENS September 2016 Vol 3: Issue No. Three Excellence Through Partnership

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Keeping Safe On-line information

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THINK YOU KNOW? There is always so much in the news about keeping children safe online. We work hard in school to ensure children understand how the internet can be helpful and support our learning. But more importantly, how the internet has its dangers of which we should also be very aware. We would like to share some websites that are useful for parents that contain a wealth of free information and resources to help you keep your child safe online: http://parentinfo.org/ https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/ https://parentzone.org.uk/ https://www.internetmatters.org/ https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping- children-safe/online-safety/ Safeguarding children online is everyone’s responsibility. Here are a few tips that might help you to protect your child. If you would like further advice or support then please do not hesitate to speak to your child’s class teacher, or our ICT guru, Mr Oakes. • Are parental controls set on your broadband and on all devices including PCs, tablets, phones, TV, gaming devices? • Talk regularly to your child about how they can keep safe online and what to do if they are worried about something. • Are your online accounts password protected so only you know them? • Does your child use Facebook or other social media and messaging apps? • Set your homepage to a child friendly site and ensure, if your child has an account, it has strict parental controls. • Make sure children are online in a place you can keep an eye on them. • Ensure children only have access to age appropriate games, films, TV programmes. • If your children use on-line gaming or chat - keep reminding them that those who purport to be children, may not be.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to office@abbey- jun.sandwell.sch.uk or [email protected]

BBEY LENS February 2017 Hair today, gone tomorrow! Kind Cuts Vol 3: Issue No. Thirty Excellence Through Partnership

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CHARITY CHOP Lauren Percival from class 2P had over a 30cm length of her hair cut off on 4th of February and she has donated it to The Little Princess Trust. This was something that Lauren decided to do after seeing a programme about hair donation on TV. The Little Princess Trust make wigs for children who have lost their hair due to illness and cancer treatment, using hair that has been donated by members of the public. Each wig costs between £350 and £500 to make and The Little Princess Trust provides them free of charge. I have set up a 'just giving' page so that people can donate. The address is : https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Maxine-Percival should anyone wish to donate. Thanks to Lauren’s Mom for the story. HEALTHY LIFESTYLES Abbey is working hard to promote 'Healthy Lifestyles' by encouraging the children to take part in physical exercise and to eat healthily. Being active can help you keep your heart healthy and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Alongside Beat The Street, we are supporting 'Health Sandwell' who are promoting a regional campaign to encourage fathers to increase their physical activity levels. You will have received an envelope with a map and information on free services and 'low cost family passes' , for services across Sandwell. These may include Family Swim sessions, Football, Mini Golf, Karate and many more. Have a look at great activities in our local area! FOA CAKE SALE On Friday 17th February we will be having a Valentine's Day themed Cake Sale, after school in the Infant and Junior playgrounds. All cake donations gratefully received. Friends of Abbey ❤

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BBEY LENS February 2017 Animal Magic! Cool visit Vol 3: Issue No. Thirty one Excellence Through Partnership

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DRAYTON MANOR When we arrived at Drayton Manor zoo, we met a man called Lee, who told us which group we were in and which adults we were with. First we went to the cafe to place our lunch boxes. Our visit then started in the reptile house, where we saw a bearded dragon, three turtles and a yellow and green chameleon. Next was the Tasmanian Trail and we saw a red handed monkey (but it actually had yellow hands!) along with two monkeys, who were showing off their tricks. The tricks were swinging upside down and cartwheeling on the bars. Later in the day, we saw the owls including a snow owl and we saw a dinosaur exhibition. Other great animals included a lynx, fishing cat and an elegant black leopard. We thought the best bit of the day was the Discovery Centre with some amazing bones, skeletons, tusks and teeth. We also got to touch a bearded dragon and a cockroach. We also saw a dead dingo. We would give the trip a score of 10/10 and would recommend it to other children. Thanks to Amy Key & Sam Noruzi in Y2P. THINKTANK Year 1 have enjoyed an exciting trip to Birmingham’s Thinktank this week. The children took part in lots of hands-on investigations, exploring how our bodies work; how plastic is recycled; investigating water; role play as people who help us and much, much more. Not forgetting meeting one of the real Chitty Chitty Bang Bangs!! We were all exhausted after such a fun-filled day. Many thanks to our kind volunteers who helped to look after us on the day.

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BBEY LENS February 2017 Top flight! Kicking it. Vol 3: Issue No. Thirty two Excellence Through Partnership

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PREMIER LEAGUE

On Wednesday 8th February, Abbey took part in a football tournament at West Bromwich Albion's academy dome. Each year the Premier League host a football tournament at one of the 20 Premier League stadiums and each football club is represented by a local school team. West Bromwich Albion host a series of local primary school football tournaments. The winners go on to play in the play-offs to earn the chance to represent WBA at the 2017 Premier League Schools Tournament. The Abbey team arrived at the Dome and began warming up ready for the group phase of the competition. They started well with a 2-0 win and went on to win all of their group games, topping the group and advancing through to the knockout stages. The standard of football throughout the competition was high and the team knew they really had to work hard for each other to get through. This was no problem for the boys, as their quality shone through in both the quarter finals and semi-finals, winning comfortably to secure a place in the final. The final was a much tougher game and it finished 0-0 in normal time. The team had just six minutes of extra time to win the game. They once again raised their game and completed the day with a 3-0 win in the Final. They won every game and did not concede a single goal. A huge achievement. We now go on to compete in the play-offs on 15th March 2017 for the chance to represent WBA at Stamford Bridge in May! Well done and good luck in the playoffs! QUAD ATHLETICS On 14th February, Abbey travelled to Tipton Sports Academy to compete in a Quad Athletics competition. The team of 4 took part in jumping, sprinting, throwing and relay events. There were a total of 13 schools involved and our Abbey team managed to finish in second place, bringing home fantastic silver medals! The team now qualify for the Black Country School Games in June 2017. Well done!

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BBEY LENS March 2017 Karate Klass! Kicking it. Vol 3: Issue No. Thirty three Excellence Through Partnership

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BELT UP Heather Chapman (6V) and her Mum have been doing karate for 18 months. Just before the holiday, they went to be graded for their green belts. Heather was so fantastic, she has been invited to train with the England national squad. [Ed -Well done Heather and Heather’s Mum!] DRAGON BALL Paul Darling (6P) has been working hard learning art techniques to draw Anime. He has been trying out these ideas over half-term and has produced this dynamic drawing of a character from Dragonball-Z. Fantastic effort - well done Paul. HAPPY 20TH World Book Day is twenty years old this year and Abbey has had fun dressing up as characters from our favourite stories. Staff and children made a fantastic effort to bring the school to life. Everyone enjoyed a class teacher swap to hear different staff read their top tomes or extracts from longer novels. Remember that our children have access to stories through our on-line resources that they can be used on both tablets and phones. There are also some great websites where there are free audio stories to listen to, try http://www.storynory.com.

www.abbeyfederation.co.uk Have you got a paragraph of good news to share? Write in under 100 words, attach a picture and your story may be published. All submissions to office@abbey- jun.sandwell.sch.uk or [email protected]