I hope that you had a good half term but I am not sure I can remember it as last week was so busy in school!

As advertised on our website, I am delighted to announce that we have been awarded Artsmark Gold. The Artsmark is the Arts Council England’s flagship programme to enable schools to evaluate, strengthen and celebrate their arts and cultural provision. Chantry has been awarded the Artsmark Gold as we offer a well planned, quality arts education, that supports the cultural development of all students. A massive thank you and well done to Mrs Woolley, our Creative Arts Subject Leader, for co-ordinating this work.

Friday 27th February was National Secondary Places Offers Day, for those children who will be transferring schools in September. I am delighted that we are highly oversubscribed for September 2015. 128 places have been offered to Year 4 pupils with a waiting list operating. Parents are asked to accept their places by 16th March. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact school or School Admissions at County Hall. This is a recognition that the parents of our feeder schools and those out of catchment recognise that we are a good school and support the ethos and values of the Three Rivers Learning Trust.

Moving schools can be a daunting experience as I remember when I transferred at the age of 9 from Coulson Park First School to Hirst Park Middle in Ashington – I was terrified! We are really looking forward to welcoming our new Year 5 into school before Easter for a taster day. Our Year 4’s from All Saints and Stobhillgate have visited in the last couple of weeks and we are looking forward to welcoming children from Tritlington, Cambo, Longhorsely, St Roberts, Stannington, Longhoughton, Ellington, Pegswood, Whalton, Central and Felton. This is just the first of many visits in ensuring that the transition is a positive experience.

I do hope that you will take the time to read the March newsletter which will be published on Friday

With best wishes for the coming week

Steven Johnson