“Please see our new Makaton page under 'Information' for our Sign of the Week.”

Mrs Wrights Blog

The Department for Education has launched a new helpline to answer questions about COVID-19 related to Education.

Staff, parents and young people can contact the helpline as follows:

Phone: 0800 046 8687

Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk

Opening Hours: 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday)

 

The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III

17th May

Memories were made on Friday 5th May as The Meadows School marked the Coronation with a street party with everyone dressed in the National Colours of red, white and blue. Bunting and flags decorated the school, both indoors and out – did you spot the Union Jack fastened to the roof scaffolding outside?

An Art Competition organised by Class NF captured creative interpretations of the soldiers of the Household Cavalry, silhouettes of the King and drawings of the Union Jack, which we all prize winners!

Party games, such as Tin Can Alley, Ping the King, Tiddly Winks and Hoopla were enjoyed by all, before everyone stood respectfully to sing the National Anthem; this was followed by traditional party fayre. Who can refuse a jam sandwich, sausage roll and dairy cake washed down with lemonade?!

Class HP made a throne with a purple robe, crown, orb and sceptre proving very popular for photographs, with everyone wanting to be “King for a day”. There were some Shakespearean roles played out on the throne, with Richard III and Hamlet characterised.

As Shakespeare wrote “All the world’s a stage……”

Special thanks to Rowena, our lunchtime cleaning lady for making a crown and an orb, as well as commemorative keyrings. Each member of the school community was presented with a fridge magnet, made in Pottery lessons, under the direction of Mr Gell with his team of potters. The magnets, glazed in red, white and blue highlighted the new cypher of King Charles.

More photo opportunities were available in the red, white and blue photobooth build by Class NF, to ensure the fun was captured and memories of this unique occasion recorded.

Finally, certificates were presented to individual students and class groups who made outstanding efforts in enabling the celebration to be a success.

“God Save The King”.

Please see the photo gallery for photos from the day.

Table Cricket Event

20th March

 

The Table Cricket event on Wednesday 8th March 2023 went very well. All the students behaved brilliantly. There were roughly 6 or 7 teams whom we competed against, but at no stage did it feel as though we were competing. It felt more like a day where all the students were there to enjoy themselves in which everyone did, including the staff. We played four games and all the students showed a great deal of enthusiasm throughout. A special mention to both Hollie and Jess who showed some great independence skills and coordination along with super turn taking from all involved.

Coding Workshop

14th March

On Monday 13th March 2023, twenty pupils from Key Stage 3 participated in a coding workshop delivered by two engineers from Microsoft, with support from Mrs Butler, Mrs Barnett and Mr John. Pupils were given a device called a Micro bit and spent the morning learning to code it to play different games on with the aid of the website www.makecode.com.

In the afternoon pupils were given a different device called a Circuit Playground Express.  Using the same website they were then able to program it to play a game of ‘Hot Potato’.  Pupils were asked to complete a feedback form at the end of the day and their feedback was overwhelmingly positive with all of them saying they had really enjoyed it.

We intend to secure some of the devices for the school so that we can run the day again for KS4 and KS5.

A big thank you to Gregg Nottage and Anil Abraham from Microsoft for a fabulous day, enjoyed by all, and we hope to see you again.

TT Rockstars Competition

06th March

We recently ran a Times Tables Rockstars Competition.  I was very pleased to see the enthusiasm of so many pupils.  Prizes were given out in assembly and there will be a pizza party for the two winners.  Here are the results:

Competition 1

1st: AC

2nd: JB

3rd: NB

Competition 2

1st: AT

2nd: BP/SD

3rd: NM

Top Rockstars from each class

AC – Artjom, Steph, Amber

AT – Owen, Lucy, Hollie

BP – Rhys, Emily T, Emily H

JB – Sam, Leon, Lily-Mae

JH – Lucas, Evie, Connor

MW – Nicola, James S, Dean

NB – Jack B, Oliver, Kieron

NM – William, Jayden, Kenton

SD – Simeon, Corby, Damon, Josh A

Pupils can log into TT Rockstars from school or home and complete times tables practice.  Learning their times tables will greatly increase their chances of an excellent result in Mathematics.

Thank you,

Mrs Butler (Maths Co-ordinator)

Ten Pin Bowling – 15th February 2023

16th February

A Ten Pin Bowling Fun Day was organised between the Special Schools to take place at Festival Park. A great day was had by all the students (and staff) from Class HP during their visit. The students took part in 2 fun filled games of bowling, where they showed great turn taking skills and excellent behaviour throughout and represented the school in a great manner. Bryony won the first game with a score of 97 and Hollie won the second game with score of 88. There were lots of smiles and laughter from all the students, so well done to all from Class HP for making it a great day! 

Please see our gallery for photos of the day.

Football Tournament – 8th February 2023

16th February

All students had a super day during the Football Tournament at Fenton Manor. The Meadows fielded two teams who both played competitively and fairly and this was reflected in the results. With only one loss, but plenty of draws, it showed that we were a very difficult team to beat. This was also shown when both Meadows teams played each other, which ended in a competitive 3-3 draw. 

In the play offs we had a win and a draw respectively which ended up with The Meadows gaining a (unofficial) third place ranking overall.

Once again, they showed great respect to their teammates and the other schools that participated.

The Meadows were well supported by Mrs Thomas, Mrs Belfield and Mr Hiscock to offer plenty of encouragement and motivation throughout the day.

A Winter's Day In The Staffordshire Moorlands

18th January

Can the Staffordshire Moorlands ever look more beautiful than in a wintry scene viewed from our school? The snow on the hillsides looks most inviting, especially when viewed from inside the building! As a school we make good use of our local area to support our "Learning Outside The Classroom", as Outdoor Pursuits and Bushcraft opportunities are so readily available within a short distance, and within the school grounds. With The Roaches, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth Reservoir and all the local walking and cycling routes close by, the Staffordshire Moorlands is looking at it's very best today. Please do look at the photos taken in the snow!

Unihoc at Biddulph Valley Leisure Centre

21st October

The first sports event of the school year between the North Staffs Special Schools was a Unihoc tournament held at Biddulph Valley Leisure Centre.

The Meadows School had a mixed team of boys and girls, aged 11 to 15, some of whom were new to school, and others more experienced players. We played seven other local schools and won the tournament.

This was a great start for Mr Hiscock who is now helping to develop our P.E. department and it was his first interschool sports event.

Certificates were presented in assembly, while we await the arrival of the Unihoc trophy and medals.

Congratulations everyone – you have set the bar high for future sports challenges!

His Majesty King Charles III

17th October

We have a photograph of the new King in our entrance hall and are looking forward to celebrating the Coronation of King Charles and The Queen Consort, Camilla, in May next year. It is rumoured that some members of our school who are very keen on Art and Craft are already planning lots of creative work in red, white and blue!

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

14th September

The Meadows School was saddened to learn of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth on Thursday 8th September, after seventy years of dedicated service to the United Kingdom and The Commonwealth.

We have reflected on the joyous celebration which we held in school to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in June. Everyone took part in a fun filled day ending with a Street Party in a very well garlanded school – the culmination of much Art and Craft work, and learning about the years of The Queen’s reign. This provided a wonderful memory linking school life with Her Majesty, that we can look back on with affection.

‘All Aboard’ please! Trips on ‘The Beatrice’ Narrowboat

05th July

We have had 6 separate day trips on the narrowboat, The Beatrice, gliding along the Caldon Canal, over the past month.  This is always a highlight in our school year, as students have the chance to get afloat the boat, which is manned by volunteers. It is great for Mental Health and Wellbeing to be so close to nature in the jewel of the Staffordshire Moorlands that is the Churnet Valley. Students have a chance to help operate the famous lock gates, whatever the weather!

Sincere thanks to the volunteers and fundraisers who make it all possible!

Making a Splash!

05th July

We were able to hold our first Swimming Gala in three years at Brough Park Leisure Centre on 1st July.

It was great to see so many students from Key Stage 3 and 4 racing competitively against each other in front crawl, back stroke, and relay races, especially given that so many swimming lessons have been missed over the past two years.

There were surprising performances, as some usually pedestrian swimmers found a new burst of energy and raced home ahead of their peers, when they had reportedly been fairly evenly matched, in the races.

Students showed courage and determination as they gave of their swimming best to stay the course and complete the race.

Cheers and clapping from the spectators greatly enhanced the day, as everyone cheerfully encouraged each other on! Even those half a length behind in the race stuck it out to swim home, to cheers ringing in their ears.

Thanks to swimming staff at Brough Park, Leek for their support with this special event!

Her Majesty the Queen’s 70th Jubilee Celebrations – Tuesday 7th June 2022

22nd June

The whole school gathered to celebrate and commemorate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee on our first day back after the half term.

School was busy in the morning, everyone decorating the corridors with bunting, lots of royal – related pictures and original Union Jack flags from before the war years – not sure where they came from! By lunchtime, it looked splendid with nearly all surfaces sporting the red, white and blue, and everyone dressed in the same patriotic colours.

An Arts and Craft competition resulted in lots of wonderful interpretations of the Queen’s life – from crowns to corgis, fashion styles to afternoon tea sets. Prizes were presented to the winners.

After lunch, classes toured the school, playing lots of traditional games organised by each class. We played Splat the Rat, Skittles, Tin Can Alley, Pin the Tail on the Corgi and games on the Royal Croquet Lawn.

School gathered on the middle floor and in the foyer to sing the National Anthem which we had practised for weeks. All the practice paid off as we raised the roof in tribute to The Queen, followed by Three Cheers for Her Majesty. Everyone sat down to a street party with sandwiches, sausage rolls, jelly, cakes and pop; suffice to say, the school healthy eating policy was suspended for the afternoon.

We also thanked Rowena, our lunchtime cleaning lady for the wonderful personalised bookmarks she made for every student – a magnificent and very thoughtful effort, a unique and individual momento of the occasion.

It was a wonderful Meadows occasion that will live long in the memory. Well done all for the great team effort that gave the students, staffs and invited guests a day to remember.

It was definitely The Meadows at its best,

“God Save The Queen!”

 

P.S. We have taken down miles and miles of bunting and flags to save in readiness for the next celebration, in line with recycling protocols. We want to be ahead of the game!

Message from Chair, Darryl Davies

15th June

On Tuesday 7th of June, my wife and I visited The Meadows to help the students and staff to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The atmosphere was full of excitement as the students moved from room to room, playing games with great enthusiasm and competitiveness. The whole school had been decorated with flags, posters and artwork depicting the Queen and her reign. Tables had been laid out in the corridors both upstairs and downstairs and decorated with festive tablecloths, paper crowns and laden with sandwiches and cakes. At 2pm everyone stood to sing the National Anthem and give three hearty cheers for Her Majesty! The sandwiches were then devoured followed by the cakes, all washed down with copious bottles of pop. This was truly a day to remember and I’m sure the students will remember the event for many years to come. An enormous thank you to everyone who contributed to make the party so memorable, clearly the preparations had taken months and a great deal of hard work had been involved. I’m sure everyone involved will agree that it was well worth the effort.

God Save the Queen!

Darryl Davies

Chair

 

New Horizons

09th June

A great return to pre Covid times over the last half term enabled so many students to experience opportunities outside school. This was kick-started by a day of outdoor activities at Stanley Head Education Centre, sponsored by The Rotary Club of Biddulph. Our sincere thanks to them for their generosity.

Class AT spent three days on a residential visit to Standon Bowers, which helped to develop both independence skills in being away from home and teamwork on the joint activities. It provided a great opportunity to learn outside the classroom while developing self-confidence and personal resilience.

Class MW had a fantastic week of seaside fun at Butlins, Skegness with one student seeing the beach and sea for the very first time. Needless to say, partly burying friends and paddling in the North Sea were definite highlights. ‘Splash Waterworld’ was extremely popular as we enjoyed all the waterslides and swimming. There was a wonderful breakfast and evening meal buffer which was thoroughly enjoyed!

The older students have been working towards their expeditions as part of The Duke of Edinburgh Award and have been spotted regularly navigating their way around Staffordshire Moorlands while carrying heavy rucksacks – did anyone notice the rain?

It is fantastic to see so many activities, which have been put on hold, being reinstated. Well done everybody – a great effort – make the most of all these opportunities. You are only young once.

 

Well done Ryan…..A tremendous effort!

04th May

One of our school Sixth Formers held a Coffee Morning recently, at Trinity Church in Leek, to raise funds for the Ukrainian Crisis.

This was as part of the volunteering section of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Items for sale included homemade cake, hot drinks, jigsaws and plants.

The morning was hectic with lots of the early customers snapping up Rocky Road and Chocolate Brownie Cakes.

The fantastic sum of £870 was raised to help the humanitarian crisis in the Ukraine.

Congratulations Ryan on a first class achievement

A much deserved ‘Headteacher’s Award’ has been well earned.

Parents' Evening

01st April

It was such a pleasure to be able to hold the first ‘Parents’ Evening’ in over two years, actually in the building, this week. A lot of parents and carers, particularly of students in Years 7 & 8 were able to meet face to face for the first time, with school staff and view the school. Parents and carers of the older students who used to visit school pre Covid, were very pleased to see ’Normal Service’ resumed again.

There was a lovely atmosphere and the benefits were two way. We were able to sell tickets for our fund raising raffle for the Ukrainian crisis; thanks to everyone who took part.

As one staff member commented ‘It’s great that we are open for business again’

Another Big ‘THANK YOU’

02nd February

Mr & Mrs Harvey, landlords of The Winking Man pub in Upper Hulme, paid a visit to school to donate £300, as a result of fund raising among their customers over the Christmas holidays.

Once again we are grateful to the local community in supporting our school.

Thank you and ‘Cheers’

Great News!

26th January

A massive THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to our fund raising events, for the Donna Louise Children’s Charity last term.

We are thrilled to donate the final sum of £1052.

Thanks so much to those who donated in any way; we had great fun being involved in the activities.

The cakes sale was a particular highlight, with the chocolate tombola a close second!

Great effort!

Christmas Message from Darryl Davies, Chair of the LAB

14th December

Over the past two years we have all had to live with the awful pandemic called Covid. The pandemic has caused enormous problems in continuing the education of the young people, your children, grandchildren and friends who attend The Meadows and Springfield Schools. The dedication and commitment of all staff whether teaching or ancillary, has been exemplary and as Chairman of the Governors I wish to record my gratitude to them. Parents have worked tirelessly with the school staff in home tutoring, and in ensuring that the children continue to receive an education throughout these trying times, for that we Governors are incredibly impressed and grateful. Hopefully 2022 will allow us all to return to some form of normal life, and on behalf of myself and the Governors I wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas and we look forward to seeing you all in January.

Darryl Davies

Chairman

Merry Christmas!

14th December

It’s that Special Season once again!

Can you believe that another year has passed and here we are at Christmastime again? It has been a year of varied challenges, for everyone in so many different way; but still the seasons roll along. Time and tide wait for no man.

Christmas is a time for sharing love and the special magic that is unique to this time of year.

Let us hope that each of us get, just a small sprinkling of the seasonal fairy dust in our homes and our hearts this Christmas.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas!

santa claus emojiChristmas Tree, Tree, Christmas, Christmas DecorSnowman, White Christmas, Christmas, Merry Christmas, Snow

Class NB Enterprise

07th December

Class NB pupils have completed their AQA Unit Award Enterprise Unit this term.  They have had great fun running a mini-enterprise cooking lunches for staff on a Friday.  They have also raised over £250, some of which will get them a Christmas treat for all their hard work and a proportion of which will be donated to the Donna Louise Trust.

Pupils planned their menus, politely collected orders from all the staff and then split into two smaller groups which alternated each week – one group cooking, one group writing up and collecting money. Feedback from staff has been excellent with word getting around and orders increasing week on week. 

Some pupils have really shone and proved themselves to be an excellent asset and these pupils will be the ones delivering the final Christmas meal on the last day of term.

Pictures of the Enterprise are in the Gallery 'Class NB Enterprise'.

Gardening at The Meadows

30th November

It’s been a busy term in the gardens at The Meadows.

The main school-based priority has been rejuvenating a neglected Crescent Road allotment. Groups have been going across to harvest various fruit and vegetables and weed and cut back all the wild growth that bubbling and other restrictions have allowed. It should be set fair for an even more productive growing season next year.

We’ve planted a variety of saplings including Rowan, Crab Apple and Elder at the top of the school for Sustainable Staffordshire. This is all part of Staffordshire County Council’s green agenda and we’re proud to take part.

Under the direction of the town council, groups have been visiting Sparrow Park beds by the Nicholson War Memorial in Leek to maintain and replant that prestigious and prominent area in the town centre. It’s good to see the local populace enjoying our efforts, especially on a Summer’s day. It’s also good Public Relations for the school, as local people stop to chat and ask about the project.

We’re about to start linked work in Leek with the mental health charity, Rethink, in their lovely walled garden at John Hall Gardens. This will see us working with colleagues at Rethink to make this a beautiful and peaceful facility for those recovering from mental health issues.

We also won the Leek Allotments Society’s “Biggest Marrow Grown in Leek 2021” prize. Though we’re not quite sure what to do with it, it would make a cracking door stop.

All in all, a busy time and a very useful outdoor activity during this tricky and restricted time in school.

Operation Christmas Child - Shoebox Appeal

30th November

We were delighted to collect 37 filled shoeboxes, some of which were posted online, for The Samaritans Charity.

The mission of 'Operation Christmas Child' is to show love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. The shoe boxes are posted to over 160 countries to children who are a victim of war, poverty and disease.

Many thanks to all who contributed to an outstanding response to this annual appeal.

Let us hope that the shoeboxes bring as much joy to the children receiving them as they have done to those of us who have donated.

Children In Need

30th November

Many thanks to all who joined in and donated on our 'Bright Clothes Day' for Children In Need. In total we raised £127.10!

Climate Change Art Competition

12th November

To help raise awareness of Climate Change and the endangered status of Curlews, The Moorlands Climate Action (MCA) team designed a competition to get the local community involved. The competition required the students to draw, make, or paint a Curlew, which was then photographed and sent to The Moorlands Climate Action Team. The entries were judged by a local artist, an RSPB naturalist and a member of the Moorlands Climate Action committee. Student Support won several prizes which include vouchers and 10 greetings cards printed with their design, envelopes and a winner's certificate.

Class NM Donna Louise Cake Sale raised £211!

03rd November

Many thanks to everyone for your support with the fabulous cake sale. A grand total of £211 was raised.

We are hoping to continue our fund raising activities for the Donna Louise Hospice throughout this Half Term.

Half Term Approaches...

19th October

Autumn days are with us now, and the half term holiday week will soon be here.

We are holding a cake sale on Thursday 21st October, to raise funds for the Donna Louise children’s hospice, and would appreciate your support.  Details have been sent home.

It had been hoped to hold the Autumn Parents’ Evening, face to face, but this was not to be. Thanks to everyone for your understanding and patience with telephone calls and Teams meetings.

Wishing everyone a good half term and a reminder to look out those Winter coats, and reflective items, as the weather turns towards Winter, and the dark evenings approach.

Autumn Term 2021

21st September

A warm welcome is extended to those students and their families who are new to our school this term.

We have also welcomed Miss Lowri Thorburn, as Head of Sixth Form, and are sure that you will soon get to know her.

I am so pleased to see that everyone has settled back into school routines and lots of exciting activities are underway, with excursions on ‘The Beatrice’ narrowboat taking place, as well as weekly swimming lessons!

It is great to see our more usual programme of enrichment being gradually resumed!

Happy Holidays Everyone! And Farewell to Mrs Thirlaway!

15th July

The Summer Holidays have finally arrived, and whether you are spending them at home or in Britain on a staycation, may I wish everyone a happy and healthy vacation.

It has been a rollercoaster of a school year, and I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support to us all here at school. The staff have worked hard to maintain the education of our students, whether in school or working from home, and we are appreciative of the assistance given by parents and carers in enabling this to succeed.

Mrs Thirlaway, Head of Sixth Form and Assistant Headteacher is retiring this week, after 24 years at The Meadows School. We thank her for her diligent professionalism in helping meet the individual needs of students and their families, and her excellent support to staff. We wish her well, for a long and happy retirement!

Outdoor Adventure Champions - Medals and Trophy

05th July

Since September 2020, here at The Meadows, we have been running an awards scheme, each half term, for students taking part in Outdoor Education. Learning in the ’Great Outdoors’ is an integral part of our school curriculum and is valued on many levels. There are individual, desirable, hand-made, wooden medals up for grabs, as well as a handmade, wooden class trophy, for the overall winners, whose class have scored the most points.

Bronze, Silver and Gold Outdoor Champion Medals are awarded to students in each class taking part, and a trophy at the end of each half term, which is inscribed with the class name.

There are points awarded to young people for working hard, perseverance, helping others, trying new activities, such as different food, challenging experiences, overcoming fears, letting go of leadership, altering behaviours, and putting in extra effort, showing empathy and care for others, that provides challenge on a personal level, and takes out of their comfort zone.

If someone is particularly good at something, helping others to get better at it will gain them points.

Class points awarded towards the trophy are for the class to work together as a team.

A short description of the winners’ achievements of bronze, silver and gold medals, is read out to the class and sent home to parents, to explain the reason for its having been awarded.

The Head of School presents the medals and trophy to the winners with much aplomb, as the results are eagerly anticipated. This is a forerunner to encourage students to take part in Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Thanks to Jackie Robinson, Outdoor Education tutor for running the scheme and making the eco-friendly medals and trophy.

Thanks Again to ASDA!!

10th May

A further 5 Laptops have been received in school, from the ASDA Foundation.

We extend our thanks once again to Jonathan Edwards and his team at our local, friendly ASDA supermarket, Leek for nominating The Meadows. Much appreciated!

 

Donation of laptops by ASDA supermarket

25th March

The Meadows is thrilled to have been given a very generous donation from the ASDA Foundation, Dell and Vodafone, who have worked together to provide IT equipment, to support teaching and learning in these challenging times. Our sincere thanks go to our local Leek ASDA store who nominated us for this initiative. We are grateful to manager Jonathan Edwards and his colleagues for their continuing support to our school.

The donated package includes 5 laptops, with headphones, a dongle with 3 months access to the internet and a laptop rucksack to keep everything safe.

We are astonished at the generosity and can now steam ahead with our online learning.

Thank you ASDA!

Comic Relief 2021 and a Free, Fish and Chip Lunch!

25th March

Many thanks to everyone who contributed to turning the school into a sea of red for Red Nose Day, by wearing something red and in one case colouring hair! We have raised £114 to go to the charity, which may not seem a lot of money… but to borrow a well known phrase; every little helps!

Just to add to the fun, all students and staff  were treated to a free cooked school lunch from our new caterers, Mellors.

Well who can resist fish and chips on a Friday with a chocolate brownie to follow! Healthy choices were also available….. with delicious colourful fruit pots.

Thank you to Mellors.

School lunch menus are on the website. Please contact the school office for any further details about applying for free school meals, if you think you may be eligible.

Helping the Rescuers

18th March

Many of you will have seen that a member of the Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team, based in the Lake District, was involved in a terrible accident while out on a rescue this February.

The team member fell 500 feet down an icy slope and severely injured his spine while going to help two hikers in trouble.

We talked about his situation in class and how, as a volunteer helping others, this man had sacrificed so much.

In response to this a group of Meadows 6th Formers, including some of our Duke of Edinburgh group, set up a fundraising project.

They held a bake sale, baking some delicious cupcakes and washed staff cars to raise £82.70 towards helping the injured man and the Team. All car washes are shut at the moment so it was a good chance to clean some very dirty cars. All staff gave very generously, many staff even paying for the students not to wash their cars! 

Well done 6th Formers for your hard work and thanks to all for their generosity.

World Book Day 2021

05th March

We had ‘Great Expectations’ of a fun packed day at The Meadows for World Book Day and we were not disappointed!

Staff and students prepared an excellent, creative display in the school foyer, with a wide selection of reading books being enjoyed.

There was work covering classics, such as Gulliver’s Travels and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, with a look at more modern stories such as The Mr Men Books and the Percy Jackson series.

Students working from home submitted photos of themselves reading at home, and one student in school was photographed with her feet on the table, reading from a swivel chair in Mr Best’s office…it must have been lunchtime!  There are some great pictures of staff and students reading in the school grounds and at home, with several folk enjoying a good read in the Spring sunshine. Optimistic staff were spotted reading books entitled, ‘ The Holiday’ and the Yorkshire Shepherdess!  We can but dream!

The highlight of the day was organised by ‘Our Mutual Friend’, Mr Harvey who held a competition called The Masked Reader, where staff recorded a favourite poem or rhyme, with their faces disguised by a comic filter on the computer screen. This proved to be hilarious. Mr Pritchard’s class won the prize for the most correct answers.

It was a dicken’s of a day!  Thanks everyone. Keep calm and carry on reading!

Spring Half Term 2021

08th February

It has been a challenging start to the New Year for everyone, but we are now almost at half term. Thank you to all staff and students who have carried on with teaching and learning either within school or from home. Thanks also to parents, carers and families who have supported students at home and in school.  There have been some wonderful examples of independent learning and the development of life skills,  building personal resilience. As the days are lengthening, we can look forward to Spring and in the words of captain Sir Tom Moore hope that

 

‘Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day’

 

Enjoy the holidays everyone and challenge yourself to try something new!

' A Winter Scene ' written by a Sixth Form Student

10th December

A Winter Scene

It was Christmas Day and I decided to go outside for a while. 

I sat on a bench and looked at the wonderful scene, admiring it. 

I could see the tiny, beautiful snowflakes falling from the sky. 

The sky was milky and foggy because it was filled with snow. 

When I walked on the snow, I could hear it cracking and I looked down to see my footprints engraved into the snow.

The trees had since lost all of their soft, green leaves and were dancing in the wind as the snow fell off the branches.

I could see the sun high up in the clouds, shining down on the snow scene, trying it's very hardest to melt all of the snow away.

I could see birds soaring across the sky and I could hear them singing their sweet tune as they flew away into the distance.

My face was completely numb since the air surrounding me was bitterly cold.

I couldn't stop myself from gazing at the beautiful scene.

 

Written by a student in the Sixth Form (December 2020)

 

Vacancy - part time Exams Officer

08th December

We are currently looking for a part time Exams Officer for 7.5 hours per week (term time + 2 weeks) who can adminster the delivery of exams/assessments to a small number of secondary special needs students. Please see vacancies page for further information/application forms

Anti -Bullying Competition Winner ‘All Different, All Equal’

01st December

There was such a great deal of excellent art and written work produced by the students for Anti Bullying week, that it was difficult to choose prize winners, but eventually it was decided to award class prizes to three classes.  Classes BP, NG and JH had put in a lot of effort, and were rewarded with certificates and tubs of chocolates to share; though the hot favourite was Class JH’s display of a long line of youngsters all holding hands, under the title

           ‘All different, all equal!’

Three individual students received special certificates and a small chocolate prize!

Well done everyone and remember the message that Bullying is unacceptable at all levels; everyone should be treated with respect!

Poppy Appeal 2020

19th November

We have raised a fantastic total of £131.85 for the Poppy Appeal through the sale of poppies, wristbands, zip pulls and other small items supplied by the Royal British Legion. Students were able to select items from an order form for a small donation. It is wonderful to see students enthusiastic about such an important cause.

Children In Need Day 2020

19th November

We held a non-uniform day in aid of the Children In Need appeal on Friday 13th November and raised a total of £95.90 which is a super amount and will help to improve the lives of children across the UK.

Thankyou for your support as always, especially in these difficult times. 

Anti-Bullying Week 2020

19th November

The theme for this year is United Against Bullying, and here at The Meadows we kicked this week off with an ‘Odd Socks Day’, as a fun way to start the week. There were some great colour combinations of socks, with fantastic patterns too.

Students and staff have been working on a range of activities to explore Anti Bullying, and are creating some thoughtful written work and imaginative Artwork.

Shoebox Appeal

19th November
Thanks to everyone who donated so generously to our shoebox appeal, for Operation Christmas Child. We have gathered in 44 shoeboxes, which exceeds all previous years. Clearly, some people enjoyed decorating and packing their boxes as an activity in these unusual times, while thinking of others.
The boxes have been passed to the collection point and we hope that they put a smile on the face of a child when they arrive at their destination.
 
Sent with love from The Meadows!

Remembrance in 2020

06th November

As we approach Remembrance Day on 11th November, staff and students have been remembering and reflecting on the bravery, service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.

 

This year marked 75 years since the end of the Second World War and texts studied have included ‘Goodnight Mr Tom’, with others reading War Horse and the poetry of First World War poets.

 

You may have seen a large red poppy in the big window facing Springfield Road---this has been made by the young people in ‘Student Support’. An imaginative arch of paper poppies has been created over their classroom door, together with a display of ceramic poppies, made under the direction of Mr Gell, our Pottery teacher.

The poppies are a reference to the poem, ‘In Flanders fields the poppies blow’, by the Canadian military doctor and artillery commander Major John MaCrae, an everlasting reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

In this extraordinary year when the Armed Forces personnel have been supporting at the COVID testing centres…

 

‘ At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them ‘

Autumn Half Term holidays

22nd October

Thank you to the whole school community who have helped to keep the school COVID secure over this last half term, and have risen to the many challenges.

Well done everyone! Have a great Half term break and ‘Stay Safe’

Medals Awarded for Outdoor Learning and Bushcraft

22nd October

Although opportunities for activities have been limited this half term, Jackie Robinson, Outdoor Education leader has organised a range of outdoor pursuits within the school grounds, while maintain social distancing and strict hygiene practices. Students in some Key Stage 4 and 6th Form groups have been spending time in the great outdoors, learning a range of Bushcraft skills, and importantly, also learning soft skills such as team building, cooperation with peers and leadership.

Points have been given each week for individual effort, and this week as half term draws to a close, medals have been awarded to the top three students, in each class.

The medals have been handmade from wood cut from fallen branches, and have been classed as bronze, silver and gold, according to the ribbon colour.

Mrs Wright took great pleasure in presenting the medals to each class group, with some surprising winners. Well done everyone!

There is a trophy to ready to be given to the class who have shown the most effort and determination.

 

Special thanks to Jackie for organising an exciting programme and more significantly making the medals and trophy in her own time!

The competition starts again after half term; with more points to be earned and medals to be won!

Christmas 2020 shoebox appeal

20th October

This year at The Meadows we are once again going to participate in 'Operation Christmas Child' which is a charity lead scheme by Samaritans Purse, which provides international support to children. The aim is to gather as many filled Christmas themed shoeboxes as possible to donate to other countries whose children may not receive the same luxuries as we do.  

A small shoebox can have a big impact, the items placed inside do not need to be fancy or even expensive. A small cuddly toy, colouring books/pens, small games/puzzles, card games, a toothbrush, hair clips/bobbles for girls, toy cars/vehicles, hats, gloves, even a pair of socks; whatever you can think of!  All these things will bring such joy to a child who has far less than we do.  It is a lovely activitiy to do with your child as you pick out items to put into your shoebox and you will be helping teach your child about thinking of others less fortunate than ourselves.

This year Miss Fitzpatrick will be working alongside Mr Harvey to ensure that we can try collectively to gather as many filled shoeboxes as possible before the 9th November 2020, to help change children's lives all over the world, even amid a global pandemic, because now more than ever, children need hope. They will then be checked and collected and safely sent on to those most in need.

Thank you.

 

Teacher vacancy

20th October

Springfield School is currently advertising for a class teacher to start in January 2021. Please see the vacancies page for further information. Closing date for applications is Friday 6th November.

Autumn days when the grass is dewy…..

08th October

As we move into October it has been wonderful to see how students and staff have settled back into the Autumn term, within their class bubbles. The lovely sunny days have afforded many opportunities to be outside, and Jackie Robinson, our outdoor education specialist has led many interesting activities in the school grounds taking advantage of the weather. There have been scavenger hunts, tree identification quizzes, as well as fires lit, and a great den built by Class NG.

Thanks, everyone for the enthusiasm shown, and the team building skills developed.

It is time to look out those warm coats, hats and scarves!

Teaching assistant vacancy at The Meadows

08th September

We are currently seeking a full time (32.5 hours per week) teaching assistant to work at The Meadows. Further information can be found under the Staff tab / Vacancies. Closing date for applications is Monday 28th September 2020.

Autumn Term 2020

03rd September

Welcome back to school everyone!!

It is great to see both students and staff return to school this week, as once again we begin a new academic year. Of course this has been an unprecedented time for schools, and challenging for everyone, whatever  their personal circumstances.

Nevertheless it is wonderful to see everyone back in the school building and working together to adapt to the COVID secure, health and safety rules that are in place. Thanks to parents and carers who have worked with school staff to ensure such a smooth return to school.

Let us all hope that we can keep safe and well, so that we are able to achieve high standards of education as we seek to make up for lost time, while enjoying school life and the company of our friends.

GCSE Results

18th August

To those students who were being entered for GCSE's this summer please note that school will be open on Thursday 20th August between 11am and 12noon should you wish to collect your results in person. If you are unable to attend, your results will be posted home to you.  

GCSE Results Day - Thursday 20th August 2020

07th August

For those students who are expecting GCSE results on Thursday 20th August we are hoping to be able to open for a hour in the morning for students and their families to pop along to school to collect their results in person should they so wish, as we have done in previous years. For those students this affects, we will send a text message out nearer the time with further details.

Best wishes, Rachel (Exams Officer)

School re-opens Wednesday 2nd September 2020

17th July

We look forward to welcoming students back to school on Wednesday 2nd September. All up to date information can be found on this website under the Information / Returning to school page. Any updates over the summer holidays regarding the return to school will be sent via the usual methods to texts to parents/carers and information on the school website.

We wish you all a happy, healthy and safe holiday whatever you are doing, and we look foward to seeing everyone back in school in September.

With best wishes from all The Meadows School family.

RETURNING TO SCHOOL UPDATE - 8th June

08th June

Important letter for parents and carers, along with further information on returning to school is now on the school website. PLEASE READ AS A MATTER OF URGENCY.

 

VE Day 75th Anniversary Celebrations from the School Community

12th May
VE  Day 2020       'Adapt and Overcome!'
 
When the school year began last September, staff began planning ahead for VE Day, so that we could have a memorable event, including music, dance, artwork and party food, culminating in a whole school street party with everyone decked out in red, white and blue,;acknowledging the supreme sacrifice of World War 2. A fitting occasion to honour and reflect upon six years of warfare, and it's consequences.
 
However, it didn't turn out as planned.....
 
Nevertheless, we are delighted to be able to say that we have adapted, to commemorate VE Day, in the current climate. Those few students and staff who are in school have made bunting, learned songs from the 1940s, and sampled the food. A classroom was decorated with flags and bunting, to set the scene and food was enjoyed at a social distance!    'Adapt and overcome!'
 
Mrs Ball led the campaign to get everyone at home, both students and their families and carers, as well as school staff, to get 'In the Mood', and organise their own celebrations. Everyone was invited to make bunting and decorate their homes, sing 'We'll Meet Agian, 'Do The Lambeth Walk', bake from War time recipes, and generally make it a day to remember for all manner of reasons!
Staff and students were asked to send in photos and videos of their party! There are some delicious looking scones and cakes from Madison and Joe, as well as some fabulous dancing from Rebecca at her street party! Mrs Rushton baked some wonderful wartime recipes at home and Miss Fitzpatrick baked a cake for her street party. Reece, Kieron, Ryan, Alex and Stephanie also contributed photos of their homes decorated with bunting, their wonderful bakes and family parties. And not forgetting Mrs Wright in her wonderful hat enjoying an afternoon tea, who is always first to join in and show her love and appreciation to those who sacrificed so much during the World Wars. And lastly a big thankyou to Mrs Ball who was so keen to make sure that the occassion didn't go unnoticed by The Meadows School Community. Please take a look at the photos on the website.... Our School / Galleries (scroll to the bottom!)
 
Well done everyone! We have done them proud!

Have you spotted The Meadows Rainbow?

04th May

Anyone passing on Springfield Road may have seen our tribute to NHS Staff and all Key Workers as staff and students have made a giant rainbow to show their support and appreciation at this challenging time.

We are looking forward to the end of the rainbow and hoping for a little bit of magic. We are not seeking the pot of gold on this occasion;we are simply looking forward to seeing all our friends and family again, and even our teachers, and being able to do those ordinary things which have now become so precious.

 

To see a rainbow, you need to look up, and turn your head to the sky. That's the clue; if you are  passing The Meadows School, look up!

Stay Safe Everyone

 

 

VE Day Celebrations at home Friday 8th May

24th April

Meadows VE Day Home Party Celebrations

On Friday 8th May The Meadows would like to remember the 75 years since the the end of WW2 by celebrating with home parties since we had planned to have a party in school but this is not possible to do at the moment due to lock down. We can do this by making Union Jack Flags or bunting, cooking or eating war time food and recipes using rationed or home grown foods available at the time. Bake a WW2 cake. Drink water or apple juice or make other non alcholic drinks available at the time. Sing popular WW2 songs such as We'll meet again, White Cliffs of Dover etc. Learn how to ,Jitterbug, or do 'The Lambeth Walk' as part of your fitness routine. At the party you could also wear union Jack coloured clothes i.e. red, white and blue or clothes that would have been worn at the time if these are accessible. If the weather is good you could have a picnic party outside. We would love to see any photos or videos of your at home celebrations - and if you are happy for us to share them we could add them to the school website.

Coronavirus Crisis

09th April

We'll Meet Again , sung by Vera Lynn, and quoted by Her Majesty The Queen

 

What strange times we are living in, with such glorious Spring sunshine,and all the flowers and blossom out, and the World facing this pandemic.

So much has changed in our society and indeed throughout the World.

While there is so much sadness, there is also a great amount of goodwill, as people pull together, to help each other.

I hope that everyone is Staying Safe, and following government guidelines.

School staff have prepared work for students, and are keeping in touch with families, and it is our fervent hope that our school community will soon be back together as we know it.

 

In the meantime perhaps you could be listening to Dame Vera Lynn sing her famous song from World War 2,  'We'll Meet Again', which reminds everyone that though we are parted now, from our usual routines, families and friends, we will soon be back together once more.. Her Majesty The Queen who lived through the Second World War has asked us all to stay strong and be resilient.

Perhaps you could be searching for other songs which provide Inspiration, and make yourself a playlist, ready to share when we get back to school.

 

In the meantime Stay Safe and show compassion to others.

 

Happy Easter everyone!!  Enjoy those chocolate eggs, and don't let them melt in the sunshine!

 

 

Food vouchers for free school meal pupils

07th April

If your child usually receives Free School Meals you will now be receiving weekly vouchers to help pay for food at the supermarket. Please click on the Information page, and select School meals for further details.

URGENT LETTER REGARDING SCHOOL CLOSURES - CORONAVIRUS

20th March

Please click here to open