On becoming a new primary school in September, Banners Gate completed a very busy term and ended the year 2011 on a real high  . . .

Towards the end of the Autumn term there was a lot of excitement in school as children prepared for their Christmas plays.  All children from Nursery through to Year 6 were involved in a Christmas performance and I can say that all the performances were simply fantastic.  We had our traditional nativity in nursery and tour of around the world Christmas celebrations in Foundation Stage.  Key Stage One delighted their audience with the performance of 'A Christmas Carol' and an adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in Years 3- 6.  (In the photo Miss Breakwell, Andrew Brown Y6 and Mrs Jeeves take a bow) The children all took their parts seriously and the families and friends of the children were treated to a brilliant piece of theatre.  Every performance was rounded off with refreshments, it was lovely to see all our families joining together at this time of the year.

Continuing the Christmas theme, Year 4 and the Choir entertained the shoppers at Tesco Store, New Oscott, with a selection of Christmas Carols, the children thoroughly enjoyed the chance to shine and the audience at Tesco were very appreciative of their efforts.  Year 5 had an enjoyable day preparing Christingles with the United Reformed Church in Westwood Road, a huge amount of oranges were brought into school to be prepared - the smell was wonderful and I know the children had a fabulous time.  Smart Start day nursery came over in the week leading up to Christmas to make Christmas calendars and decorate baubles for their families.  The nursery children worked alongside pupils from Year 6 who are taking part in the Rotary Community Award - there was a lot of glitter around that day!!! 
Children from Banners Gate Primary attended the Activate Christmas Party - it was brilliant with plenty of good food, music and games.  The children really enjoy attending the Activate club and are looking forward to returning this spring term.

Although it seems there was a lot of partying and playing in December the children still had their schoolwork to do alongside all the festivities.  The children worked hard completing their work before and during Christmas events with their usual commitment.  The children have returned to school this month eager to put their heads down and carry on their hard work.  We are looking forward to celebrating Chinese New Year and welcoming parents in from Years 2 and 6 for their Inspire mornings.

With all these exciting activities - it really would be a shame for anyone to miss out . . .  we still have a few morning or afternoon places in Nursery available at the moment if you would like to join us, ring immediately to avoid disappointment.  If you are interested in finding out more about our Primary school and would like to join us, we have a few limited placed, please ring on 0121 464 7355 and speak to Mrs F Greaves.

Mrs F Greaves, Head Teacher, Banners Gate Primary School

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