Here you will find our latest news of events and announcements. To give you greater flexibility in how you receive news you can join:
- our Twitter (https://twitter.com/smceps)
- our Facebook, which is fed from our twitter, (https://www.facebook.com/smceps)
- our mailing list (https://st-margarets.warrington.sch.uk/mailing-list)
We produce a weekly newsletter which is distributed by pupil post, usually on a Thursday, and also through our mailing list.
Alternatively you can look at one of our three noticeboards near our entrances!
Don't know what to do with your COVID Query?
Click on this poster to tell you what to do if you have a COVID query...
--------------
Local Authority Letter to All Schools
Please find letter to parents from the local authority about COVID requirments in schools: LA Letter to Parents
--------------
Is my child's bubble/class open?
The following classes are open:
Nursery ¦ Class RC ¦ Class RD ¦ Class 1L ¦ Class 1M ¦ Class 2B ¦ Class 2J ¦ Class 3T ¦ Class 3S/V ¦ Class 4L ¦ Class 4C ¦ Class 5M ¦ Class 5T ¦ Class 6C ¦ Class 6M
The following classes are closed: There are no classes currently closed.
A polite reminder to all parents - please wear a face mask or covering whenever arriving on site for drop off or collection. We also request that you arrive on time for your time slot at the start & end of the day and avoid waiting outside the gates for long periods; this reduces the risk of bubbles crossing and keeps everybody safer.
General advice - .all children except those that are in closed classes should attend as normal. We have strict hygiene routines, however it is appearing as though single infections in classes are coming into school from family members/community/outside school rather than within school. If your class is closed please note that online classroom is Live for your child's continued learning, look at the chrome book loan scheme and if entitled to free school meals, and the class is closed for 5 days or more, you can collect a food parcel from outside the school office on Monday/Tuesdayor Wednesday mornings between 10.30 and 11.30am. Any essential queries please use LiveChat.
Media statement - available from Communications tab.
-------------------------
What's on in Warrington at half term - ADDvanced Solutions
During Autumn half term, ADDvanced Solutions Community Network are running a number of sessions offering support to children, young people and families around neurodevelopmental conditions. To access the information please click here
-------------------------
Meet the Teacher information
Nursery Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Reception Meet the teacher - Please find attached the information in place of our Meet the teacher meeting:click here
Year 1 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Year 2 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Year 3 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Year 4 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Year 5 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
Year 6 Meet the Teacher information - Please find the information, which would have been shared via the Meet the Teacher: click here
-------------------------
Chromebook Loan Scheme Launched
We have launched our Universal Access Device Loan scheme to enable those children without access to devices to be able to enagage with our Google Classroom. It requires a £30 non-returnable deposit an academic year.
This runs alongside the device schemes being run by the DfE for those with a socail worker or have disadvantage.
Look at our Device Access & Online Safety page for details: https://www.st-margarets.warrington.sch.uk/pastoral/onlineaccess
Please use Live Chat for queries.
-------------------------
Return to School Guidance
We want to say a big THANK YOU! We really appreciate your patience and support in ensuring our school community stays safe.
We realise that the changes we have had to make, have made drop off and collection more challenging than normal. We have made the decision to stagger the start and end times to reduce the number of people on our school site, to keep us all safe. Other areas have been placed into 'local lockdown' and we want to do our bit to avoid this happening in Warrington. As we all get used to the new arrangements, we know that drop off and pick up will become easier and take less time. In order to help us achieve this as quickly as possible it is vital PLEASE ARRIVE AT SCHOOL AT THE CORRECT TIME FOR YOUR CHILD'S CLASS SLOTS.
Pupils in classes RC, 1L, 2B, 3S, 4C, 5T, 6M (for bubbles A, B, E) should arrive at school for 8.45 and collect at 3.10pm.
Pupils in classes RD, 1M, 2J, 3T, 4L, 5M, 6C (for bubbles C, D, F) should arrive at school for 9.00 and collect at 3.25pm.
IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE SECOND SLOT, PLEASE DO NOT ARRIVE AT SCHOOL BEFORE 8.55 SO THE SCHOOL SITE IS CLEAR.
If you are unclear of the arrangements and to see the timings of the day please follow the link here: https://www.st-margarets.warrington.sch.uk/pastoral/covid-update (Nursery & reception class currently have slightly different arrangements in place.) We have published the latest guidance for parents, including a new year group specific factsheet, on the return to school for your child. Please look at our COVID Update page under 'Pastoral Care' section to access the factsheets in PDF format: https://www.st-margarets.warrington.sch.uk/pastoral/covid-update
-------------------------
Information Quick Links:
 |
Learn Online |
 |
Symptoms? NHS111 |
 |
Class Google Sites |
 |
School Covid |
 |
Apply for FSM? |
-------------------------
Google Classroom 'Relaunch'
Our online Google classroom is being relaunched during the next few weeks. We have used it since April and fundamentally the layout will feel familiar and children engaged with it during lockdown. All children will receive a new username and password (which they may change when they login) for this year. Those bubbles in isolation have already received their username and password and have access to our online curriculum. We will be publishing our online curriculum planning shortly.
- Details
Are you one of our new Reception Starters in September?
MISS COLEMAN'S E-BOOK FOR RECEPTION STARTERS
MISS DAVIES' E-BOOK FOR RECEPTION STARTERS
A huge welcome to all children who are starting in one of our Reception classes in September, along with their parents. This is our Reception Induction page.
We were delighted to meeting you at our induction settings earlier this week.
In September we are having a staggered start for children for the first three days, Wednesday 3rd September, Thursday 4th September and Friday 5th September. Children will be invited to half a day session, excluding lunch. We will be writing to your child individually inviting them to the seperate sessions during these days. The sessions will be:
FOR MISS COLEMAN'S CLASS (RC)
For ONE HALF of Miss Coleman's Class (Subset RA and half of RE) on Wednesday 2 September 8.45am to 11.40am, Thursday 3 September 12.30 - 3.10pm and Friday 5 September 8.45am to 11.40am.
For the OTHER HALF of Miss Coleman's Class (Subset RB and half of RE) on Wednesday 2 September 12.30 - 3.10pm, Thursday 3 September 8.45 to 11.40am and Friday 5 September 12.30 - 3.10pm.
FOR MISS DAVIES' CLASS (RD)
For ONE HALF of Miss Davies' Class (Subset RC and half of RF) on Wednesday 2 September 9.00am to 11.55am, Thursday 3 September 12.40 - 3.20pm and Friday 5 September 9.00am to 11.55am.
For the OTHER HALF of Miss Davies' Class (Subset RD and half of RF) on Wednesday 2 September 12.40 - 3.20pm, Thursday 3 September 9.00am to 11.55am and Friday 5 September 12.40 - 3.20pm.
Every child and parent in their home will receive a letter specific to them.
Please take time to watch our Reception Induction Videos, whether you know our school or not. There is one that gives you key information and one is a tour of both classrooms.
You can use the pause button to be able to take in all the information.
Our Downloadable Information Pack is now available. All documents open in pdf, hoever where this is a form for return it is available in MSWord.
| RECEPTION STARTERS DOWNLOADABLE INFORMATION PACK |
Please return all forms either to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or bring them along for your induction session on Monday 20th July. Paper copies will also be available at the session.
- Details
Are you one of our new Nursery Starters in September?
A huge welcome to all children who are starting in our nursery in September, along with their parents. This is our Nursery Induction page.
We are so looking forward to meeting you, finding about about the things you like doing and building a fantastic relatioship together.
Please take time to watch our Nursery Induction Video, whether you know our school or not.
You can use the pause button to be able to take in all the information.
Our Downloadable Information Pack is now available. All documents open in pdf, hoever where this is a form for return it is available in MSWord.
| NURSERY STARTERS DOWNLADABLE INFORMATION PACK |
Please return all forms either to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or bring them along for your induction session on Tuesday 21st July. Paper copies will also be available at the session.
------------------------------------------------
Letter sent to Nursery Parents
Dear Parent /Carer of New Nursery Starter
We are delighted to be welcoming your child to start with us at St Margaret’s Nursery in September.
This will be a new beginning of a great relationship between home and school as they start their first steps of education in our school.
To help prepare your child for their first day we are inviting you and your child to come into school on Tuesday 21st July. One parent may attend with your child and they should come for up to a 40 minute visit at (time specific to child).
As we have put in place ‘COVID secure’ arrangements it is important that you do not come at a different time.
When you come to school, please enter the site through our normal ‘Nursery’ gate, also labelled as Gate B.
During this visit your child will spend some time with a small group of other children and the nursery staff. You will drop them off to staff at the door and then pop into the classroom next door to complete some paperwork. If you have to hand your child’s medical record with the 2 year old check in it please bring this. If not do not worry.
Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the school. At the moment using the Live Chat on the website will be the most effective method.
---------------------------------------------
- Details
--------------------------------
Pupils' Video Message for Return to School
This video is to help prepare children for the return to school following the COVID lockdown. It emhasises the importance of social distancing and handwashing. Parents are encouraged to sit with their child and watch it together, discussing also the factsheet below.
- Details
- Details
Healthy Lunches & Snacks
At St Margaret's we encourage all children and adults to maintain a healthy balanced diet.
School Lunches
Our lunches are provided by Warrington Borough Council School Meals Service. The cost of a school lunch is £2.40.
The menu operates on a three week rotation. We publish the rotation on the school newsletter, emailed out to all subscribers.
The menu can be downloaded from here: SCHOOL LUNCH MENU - AUTUMN & WINTER 2019/2020
Some children bring to school packed lunches. We encourage all parents to make healthy choices when putting together a packed lunch.
Healthy Snacks
The school provides a snack trolley at lunchtime. This term the School Parliament have already undertaken a review of the sugar, salt and fat content of the items the school sells to ensure that they are enabling children to make healthy choices.
- Details
Courageous Advocacy - Suzanna's Thanks
Following Year 6 choosing to raise money for a baby rescue centre in Nairobi,, the children exceeded all expectations as they achieved over £815 to provide essential nursing equipment.
Suzanna Bastable, on behalf of the trustees and staff, came to visit Year 6 to explain the great hope the centre gives to hundreds of babies born wither as orphans or to parents with HIV. The work of the Christian rescue centre, New Life Home Trust, continues to thrive through the work of such fnd raising and the staff have benfited from two high specification inspection lamps ungently needed.
Here is Suzanna saying thank you to our Year 6 as her older children take out the two medical inspection lamps this August.
- Details
Back to School with Jesse
We were delighted to have Jesse Lingard into school last halfterm to coach our children as he returned back to us as his former primary school.
Thanks to Mr Cummins and the football team participation a great afternoon saw Jesse referree games and participate with the children, promoting football with the Manchester United Foundation.
Click on the picture below to go to further information on the Man U Foundation site.
- Details
At St Margaret's we take the stance that all of us our God's children, created in the image of God, upholding the biblical scriptures in accordance with the school's Trust Deed.
We do not directly or indirectly intend to exclude any person from our school based on any of the protective characteristics. This includes a persons beliefs, identity or view.
To supoport this we are working towards achieving the Rainbow Flag Award to demonstrate our commitment to preventing bullying of certain sections of our community. For more information visit: https://www.theproudtrust.org/news-archive/rainbow-flag-award-for-schools/
JUSTICE FORTNIGHT - Wed 27 Feb to Wed 13 March
As part of our Justice Week - 'Fair Treat-Fair Trade' we will be exploring with our older pupils how society responds to different views of sexuality, sexual orientation religious belief and political views and how this is interpreted with the protected characteristics and British Values.
All work in school is inline with the expectations of the Liverpool Diocese.
Return to this page to see examples of our work.
Please click on the following links to LGBT advice.
https://www.educateandcelebrate.org/
https://www.mermaidsuk.org.uk/
https://www.allsortsyouth.org.uk/
Valuing All God’s Children (2017)
Guidance for Church of England schools to prevent homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying.
- Details
THRIVE FOR LIFE (AUTUMN '19): A SENSE OF PLACE
Focusing on Geography and Culture, families joined us for two hours of fun and learning as they completed an orienteering course with age expected knowledge of countries and their features (such as capital cities). Children made different types of bread from around the world, they made biscuits to represent different flags as well as the opportunity to make from scratch a curry base (to add meat or veg to at home) and chippatis.
THRIVE FOR LIFE (SUMMER '19): BE HAPPY, BE HEALTHY
A fantastic evening was attended by a record number of parents - we think over 300!
Families took part in activities within four zones that promoted healthy lifestyles, online safety, anti-bullying and being safe with our national 'Kid Safe' programme.
We ran a competition during the event for family tickets into local and regional attractions ncluding family trip to the zoo, swimming, or cinema
Look at our Twitter feed for photos of the event.
- Details
- Details
New Non-Smoking Policy 
The school is consulting on a new non-smoking policy that the PSHE Team have developed. This is to improve the air enviromnment as well as prevention of smoking behaviours within children later in their lives.
- Details
Parental Satisfaction Survey
Please find HERE a link to the results of our parent satisfaction survey.
We are pleased that from the 195 responses on parents evening they continue to show that:
100% parents agree that their child is happy at St Margaret's.
100% parents would recommend St Margaret's to another parent.
- Details
OFSTED REPORT PUBLISHED
The OFSTED Report Letter from February 2018 is shown below:
OFSTED REPORT FEBRUARY 2018Letter from Headteacher & Chair of Governors:
Dear Parents and Carers
- Details
STEP UP...TO SUCCESS
The Home and School Agreement found in every child’s planner, clearly sets out the expectations for pupils, parents and the school in how we can best work together to ensure that our children achieve an exciting, impactful education and enjoy their time at St Margaret’s.
The most important part of this agreement focuses how we can support our children in getting the most from the first part of their learning journey.
This means the best way to achieve success is for all of us to collaborate in supporting our children in their learning and prepare them for the future and their lives beyond St Margaret’s.
We now have access to programs that give our children more opportunities to develop their learning outside the classroom. Parent’s can support their child’s learning by making sure the programs are used regularly at home.
We would like to ask you to consider these three simple steps to support us in ensuring all our pupils are able to…Step Up to Success!
1. Step up ...in reading
2. Step up ...in maths
3. Step up ...with homework
Use our online STEP UP TOOLS. All available from our Learn Online website page.
For more information and downloads of flyer and leaflet look here:
A4 SIMPLE STEP UP FLYER (explains the tools)
STEP UP LEAFLET (explains why)
- Details
Hopes and Dreams
October found our pupils exploring their future employment and career opportunities during our BOLD Cluster 'Hopes and Dreams' events. It included visits to Chester University, service personnel; vets, fire fighters, police, NHS, those with talents in catering, artistic dance and sports at Warrington Wolves.
- Details
Mastery Maths Research
We were delighted to be asked to provide one of seven research teachers to a research project being led by Deep Learning TSA and Unversity of Cumbria.
Paula Spenceley, a Specialist Leader of Education with Warrington Teaching School Alliance, was asked to support the project, including providing model lessons for video distribution for professional development.
A copy of the full report is here: FULL REPORT OF MASTERY RESEARCH
and Paula's lesson can be seen here: PAULA SPENCELEY'S LESSON
Paula delivers training for Deep Learning and Warrington Teaching School Alliance. If you would like to receive further information please contact WTSA using the details in our Partnership tab menu on this website.
- Details
Kenyan Visitors
We were delighted to host 10 Kenyan's from Thika Diocese. Fr Daniel celebrated Eucharist with Year 3 - Year 6 pupils and we were joined by the worship teams from four other schools.
Our children found out about their churches and homes and were able to make comparisons. Some children asked some challenging questions about how they encouraged people to attend church in East Africa (not an issue in Kenya where they come in their hundreds!).
Our own worship group treated our visitors to a sandwich lunch before they went to their afternoon programme of events.
- Details
Winners Performance!
As winners of the primary ensemble group for Warrington and Halton at the Parr Hall: Accent Music Hub Competition; St Margaret's Strings Out Loud were delighted to participate in the prestigious Love Music Concert last Sunday afternoon.
It was a super afternoon and our children played exceptionally well! Thank you Mrs McAuslan for bringing out our children's talent!
Click here for more PHOTOS
- Details
Outstanding Section 48 SIAMS Inspection
The governors, staff, parents and pupils are proud to have been judged OUTSTANDING in ALL FOUR AREAS at the end of a Section 48 SIAMS Inspection on Thursday 8th December.
A rigorous and robust inspection that included: lesson observations, observation of Collective Worship, review of school RE data, meetings with teachers, subject leaders, governors and parents as well as a substantial amount of time spent talking, listening and evaluating the impact of our provision on children.
- Details
Inter-Act Nativity
This is your chance to get a selfie with Mary, Joseph, the Inn-Keeper, Angel Gabriel, one of the Shepherds or a Wise Man!
On Tuesday and Thursday after school, during our Infant Library time, parents are invited to bring their children in and use the dressing up clothes to become a Nativity character.
You can then take a selfie-picture of yourself with the your son or daughter as a character in our stable back-drop. It would make a super Christmas card/gift? If you post on social media please hashtag #interactnativity
- Details
THRIVE 2020 - New 4 Year Strategy
The headteacher launched a new 4 Year Strategy for St Margaret's at the Governor and Staff Conference last night.
The strategy looks at three main themes in order for it to enable children to 'be the best they can be.' It builds on its success during the last few years and uses the latest research to make child's abilities, whether more able or additional need, the centre of our work.
It also looks at how we build partnerships with local schools including, how we harness the opportunities from forming a Diocesan multi-academy trust.
Principal themes are:
- Details
Summer Reading Challenge - Roald Dahl
We are setting the children a Summer Challenge this year all linked to Roald Dahl. It is his birthday in September and we are going to visit Tatton Hall in which there are featured activities all about his books.
To prepare for this we are encouraging children to tke part in our Summer Challenge. Completed challenge sheets should be returned to school on the first day back with an opportunity to win a Kindle!
Further information can be found on:
Whole School Summer Challenge sheet
Year group specific sheets can be found here:
New Year 1 | New Year 2 | New Year 3
New Year 4 | New Year 5 | New Year 6
Good luck with all your reading, book reviewing and making/designing!
- Details
Outstanding writers!
Waterstones, through BCA’s support, hosted the second annual celebration of the BOLD’s Year 5 Talented Writers project. Outstanding writing from St Margaret's was shared through green screen technology for parents, staff and two wonderful children’s authors; Cathy Cassidy and Curtis Jobling! During the evening children learned from their ‘adopted’ authors how they pursued their careers in writing – daydreaming and following your hobbies their two key ingredients!
Guests and participants after the event said:
“It was my absolute pleasure to attend the BOLD writers literary celebration. As a Warrington lad, it had me bristling with pride to see so many children who grew up in the same town as me, taking those early steps with their creative writing that quickly became great strides. The quality of work was superb, and the future is bright and BOLD for Warrington’s future storytellers and talespinners. Congratulations to all the boys and girls who took part, and heartfelt thanks to all the teachers and parents who supported them.” CJx @curtisjobling on Twitface
- Details
Year 6 SATs Information Evening
Please see below a video of the PowerPoint slides used during the information evening.
Whilst there were some sample papers viewed by parents on the evening, we have provided here a link to the example papers on the government website.
SPAG SAMPLE PAPER LINK
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/2016-key-stage-2-english-grammar-punctuation-and-spelling-sample-test-materials-mark-scheme-and-test-administration-instructions
READING
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/2016-key-stage-2-english-reading-sample-modified-test-administration-instructions
MATHS
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/2016-key-stage-2-mathematics-sample-test-materials-mark-schemes-and-test-administration-instructions
- Details
{gallery}/galleries/y32015-16{/gallery}
Fantastic writers used the opportunity of a Wizzard of Oz theme day to get some great writing. Visit their classroom to see their wonderful words!
- Details
Now with over 20 students practicing on a Wednesday after school, our Strings Out Loud performed their Christmas repertoire to the school. If you are interested in joining them see Mrs Mcauslan in school.
- Details
Scrumpdiddlyumptious!
What a fantastic term we have had with our topic ‘Scrumpdiddlyumptious ‘. During the term we have visited Kenyon Hall Farm to find out about the seasonality of fruits and vegetables. We have made our own fabulous fruit smoothies and even made delicious homemade bread. Our book has been ‘Charlie and the Chocolate factory’ and the children have been rewarded with ‘golden tickets’ for a surprise next half term. Finally we finished with a vegetable orchestra choir! What fun we had!!!!
Enjoy Half term Mrs Makin and Mr Lankertis
- Details
Warrington Town Football Manager Inspires League Winners!
Nationally acclaimed Warrington Town Football Manager, Shaun Reid, today addressed pupils and parents as he presented the football team members with awards from winning the Warrington Football League.
Proud parents and child listened as Shaun inspired the talented team onto further football success as he presented a trophy and medals for all the team members.
- Details
Read more: Warrington Town Football Manager Inspires League Winners!
Election of Parent Governor - Result of Poll
A huge thank you to both parents for putting themselves forward for election. Your support has been appreciated.
The person elected as Parent Governor today is NICOLA YEOMANS
I would like to thank all those who participated in the vote. The actual numbers of votes for each candidate are available from the school office and will be put on the noticeboard near the school office. the election count was overseen by Mr Metcalfe (Headteacher and Returning Officer).
- Details
Results Show Impact On School Priority!
The school's children and staff are celebrating really successful reading results again this year. As you know, reading has been a priority and, as a result of improved teaching and further support from parents, children in Year 6 achieved 91% Level 4 and above with 35% of children achieving Level 5.
Our children (and staff) should be congratulated in these extremely good results!
With our ambitious team we look forward to building of these results next year.
- Details
Outstanding Writers!
Following twenty weeks of preparation, with fortnightly visits at Beamont Collegiate Academy's English Dept, the BOLD partnership celebrated wonderful outstanding primary writers in Waterstones' Book Shop ( Warrington). Our seven Year 5 writers developed some fantastic stories and attended the event, meeting authors Cathy Cassidy and John Meyhew.
Look athe BOLD website (managed by St Margaret's) for further information: BOLD
- Details
Tell Us Your Views - Parent Questionnaire 2016-2017
The Governing Body is keen to gather the views of parents again. Questionnaire booklets were completed during parents eveninmg on 11 January and are also available from the school office. You can contribute through an online version which asks the same questions using the link here: https://kwiksurveys.com/s/vUd7HkD3 The questionnaire will be available until 20 January. Thank you to those who have aleady taken part.
- Details
Parent Forum
We have a Parent Forum to hear the views of parents and to look at ways we can improve. These are held at least termly on Friday mornings at 9.00am during the Friday Café time.
I am pleased that we now have a group of eleven parents who have agreed to share their views. If you would like to join them please email me at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name, child's name and class.
If you have something you would like considered for the Parent Forum please put it in the Comments Box by the front office or email me it. Mark it clearly for Parent Forum.
The Parent Forum set the dates to coincide wiith Friday Cafe (9.00 - 10.00am) of:
Friday 20 October 2017, Friday 15 December 2017, Friday 9 February 2018, Friday 25 May 2018, Friday 20 July.
Mr Boyle
---------------------------
Feedback form our tenth meeting (14/07/2017)
Residential visits: There was discussion whether there could be a payment scenario that accrued payments well before, ideally in other the year before.
Bikeability: There was a request whether there could be additional bikeability sessions perhaps after school for younger children.
The forum reflected on the year. Mr Metcalfe shared that he was pleased with the results this year and the forum expressed that they were pleased with the work they had undertaken.
---------------------------
Feedback form our nineth meeting (26/05/2017)
Suncream: It was asked whether staff could apply suncream to children when it gets hot. HT explained that many suncreams work for long periods and even waterproof so there is no reason why parents could not apply before coming into school. This would avoid any issues of some creams being used by children who may have allergies. It was agreed that PTA would provide some general advice for parents on non-alergic suncream to support school.
Parent Forum Poster: Still needs to be undertaken and displayed. Needs to have next forum date on it so will last throughout the years. Needs to be marketed in a 'Parents Update and Views Session' as parents felt Parent Forum could be seen to be too formal.
Y6 Activity Week: Was raised that Y6 had not had bell boating yet - HT to follow up with admin to check on dates.
Sports Day: Feedback from last year was very well received and parents really liked the use of the whole site around the school. The HT confirmed it worked well from a staff perspective too and therefore agreed to go with the new format again this year (hopefully leaving out the inside hall if fine weather).
PTA: This needs new members and so agreed to have a Welcome to Friends/PTA meeting on Wed 13th September 6.30pm, possibly with fizzy orange juice!
PTA Tuckshop: It was suggested that the PTA could run a tuck shop. It was considered that if only once a week then it would be fine to still be a healthy school as most families go to icecream man anyway. We could offer healthier options e.g. icepops than icecream. One member agreed to do the puchasing from Costco and run it. Need a freezer.
FACEBOOK: School has a facebook. Fed by its twitter feed. Parents raised that not all photos could be enlarged in facebook. HT to look at settings. PTA have a facebook therefore felt no need to have a seperate Parent Forum one. Agreed to market the sites on bottom of forum poster.
---------------------------
Feedback from our eighth meeting (10/02/2017)
Maths: The meeting began with a short presentation from Mrs Spenceley, the school's maths subject leader, about the new approach to mastery maths; specifically Singapore. Discussion included the overview of the principles, that it was based on international research and the resources available for parents in the use of the videos. There was also a good discussion that took place about how we teach multiplication.
Action: Miss Spencely to put maths parent videos on school website.
Minor accidents: Communication with home was raised and Mr Metcalfe was asked to consider reviewing what action school takes when notifyoing parents about minor accidents at lunchtime for older children. A slip is in use, however, perhaps how these are used needs a review.
Action: Mr Metcalfe agreed to review the process.
School trips: The cost of school trips is reportedly coming out too late. Pupils do not always bring home letters. Could the school look at an estimate of costs across a year? Mr Metcalfe said that reception had tried this last year and would look at how this can be taken forward.
Action: Mr Metcalfe to look at how the longer plan for trips can be shared more quickly.
Parent Forum Dates: Parent forum dates to be put onto a poster to be put up in parent noticeboards.
---------------------------
Feedback from our seventh meeting (13/01/2017)
On the first day of snow in Warrington the Friday Cafe hosted the planned Parent Forum. We discussed and agred the following:
Holiday Pattern :Parents noted the diffeence in holiday prices during term time but due to the week and a few days on the half-term it enabled two families present to book cheaper time periods and therefore appreciated this.
Parents Evening Layout : Parents wanted to see more space from the waiting area from the parents who were talking to parents. Mr Metcalfe agreed to open up the Learning Resource Area adjacent to the hall to enable the tables to be more spread out at the next meeting.
Online Safety : Parents discussed the Keep Safe Anti-bullying Week in November and Mr Metcalfe informed them that posters were now put into the childrens toilets to promote online safety, making use of every opportunity to reinforce key messages.
Dress Up Days : Parents appreciated the option of children bringing a topical item in rather than the dress up expectations for theme days.
Publication of Parent Forum Dates : Whilst dates for the year went on this page and also on school facebook it was agreed that a poster be put up in some of the noticeboards and text out to parents a few days before. It was also discussed that some parents are very busy and find it hard to come to Friday Cafe. Dates of Friday Cafe to also go on the poster.
---------------------------
Feedback from our sixth meeting (18/11/2016)
This meeting coincided with Children in Need but unfortunately the weather was deadful and we only had a smaller number turn out - thank you to those who did. We talked about:
- Employability Curriculum
St Margaret's is leading a local network (BOLD) to develop an Employability Curriculum to compliment the version they will use at BCA high school. Mr Metcalfe explained that he was looking for parents who could help such as those who work in companies etc with some of the activities and also to help design the programme. This would also comliment our Enrichment Curriculum that will include a family STEM club after school in the new term.
- KeepSafe Week (Anti-bullying and Online Safety)
Parents were told about a Kidsafe Week which is part of Anti-bullying Week but focussing on Online Safety too. There will be an online prtfolio of the activities undertaken.
- Grant Application
Mr Metcalfe's secretary is liaisng with GD Funding to access up to £10k towards an envirnment project. Mr Metcalfe will be seeking a contribution of £250 from the PTA towards the cost of application.
- Why low turn out at Meet the Teacher and Video Messaging
There was a very low turn out this year to the Meet the Teacher meetings. Mr Metcalfe sought the reasons from the forum. They identified that it was due to: parents already know the school well, they are meeting on a 1:1 with teachers two weeks time from the general meeting, if they came last year they felt they didn't need to come again, the time was not always convenient such as shirft workers.
Mr Metcalfe explained that he had spoken to the Governing Body about it and considered the use of video messaging, via text or email nesletter distribution, might help parents gain information followed up by opportunity for Question and ANswer (perhaps at Friday Cafe or after school). The Parent Forum thought this was an excellent idea. Mr Metcalfe explained he is not from the BBC/ITV so parents will need to understand - and request to promote this with the parent body.
- Set the dates for the remainder of the year
The Parent Forum set the dates to coincide wiith Friday Cafe (9.00 - 10.00am) of:
Friday 10 February 2017, Friday 26 May, Friday 14 July.
-------------------------------------
Feedback from our fifth meeting (07/10/2016)
Unfortunately had to be cancelled.
---------------------------------
Feedback from our fourth meeting
- school discipline policy
Every year the Governors have to approve the school's discipline policy. To check it is effective, from parental viewpoint, Mr Metcalfe brought it to the Parent Forum. Parents looked at it and they felt that behaviour was usually very good and that based on this the policy seems to work. Parents said that if they weren't happy they would come and and it is dealt with.
- new assessment approach
Mr Metcalfe gave parents information about how we do our new assessments and what the new termly reports (slightly tweaked) would look like. Parents thought it sounded sensbile.
-------------------------------
Feedback from our third meeting
- appointment of first Parent Forum Chair
The Forum appointed Mrs Joanne Hones as Forum Chair.
- recap on uniform
Mr Metcalfe confirmed that the uniform would not be changing.
- Academy Status
Mr Metcalfe explained that a number of school were looking at becoming an academy. When asked whether we would go with BCA, Mr Metcalfe explained that we couldn't as BCA is not in a church multi-academy trust but one with the Collegaite. Parents asked to be kept informed if there were any developments.
-------------------------------------
Feedback from our second meeting (10/07/15)
We took the opportunity at the end of the year to review the progress of the school, or end of year processes and ny actions taken from the previous parents forum meeting.
- follow up to Breaktime Tuckshop
Mr Metcalfe agreed at the last meeting that the school would look into providing fruit. He had discussed wthis with the school kitchen and storage of fruit is a key issue. The cost too from the kitchen would be much more than at a supermarket. Mr Metcalfe is making contact with Longford Nurseries to see if they have a good supplier.
- standards
Mr Metcalfe informed the parent forum of the outcomes at the End of Key Stage 2, KS1 and phonics Year 1. They noted the improvements in all areas and had also seen these improvements in other areas of the school.
- library opening
Mr Metcalfe explained that the opening will take place on Monday and that parents are welcome to come and see the new library during Open Evening, also on Monday
- End of Year Reports
Some parents expressed concern regarding their lack of understanding of the A - E system used on the report. Whilst mr Metcalfe explained that there is a leaflet that explains this, it was agreed that the use of text within the report could explain the grading e.g. 'George has been given a B for achievement because... to get an A George will need to show...'
- homework
There was strong requests from parents not to set homework during holidays. They appreciated the family time without additional demands. Mr Metcalfe agreed to not send homeowrk home during the three main holidays. He explained that children need to keep reading, which was appreciated by parent forum, and that the school may send home competitions and initiatives to support learning e.g. libabry schemes. This was supportd by the parent forum.
- request for outdoor picnic area/seating area to have shade
Parents requested the school to consider providing shade over the picnic table area for sunny days. This was noted by members of the PTA who said that they could make this their next project. This was agreed.
- St Roccos Partnership
The school chaplain and parish vicar, Rev Canon Stephen Boyd, spoke to the parents about the highly positive messages he had received independently from St Roccos about the project we are beginning with the hospice.
---------------------------
Feedback from our first meeting (24/04/15)
We discussed the following agenda items which were pre-announced on this webpage:
- improving our school uniform
Mr Metcalfe raised that from conversations with some people that the light blue polo shirt did not help children to look smart. One view was that it looked washed-out. It was proposed that the colour could change to either golden to go with the school badge and same as nursery or royal blue and blend with the sweatshirt. At this stage the school order had been placed for reception so it could not change tioll next year but Mr Metcalfe wanted to start the conversation to see what parents thought. The members of the forum had mixed views. It was decided that it would be re-visited at a future parents forum, possibly after canvassing the views of a wider group.
- what you would like to see offered at breaktime tuckshop
Mr Metcalfe provided the range of foods and drinks offered at the breaktime tuck shop. It was noted that the items were available from local supermarkets but the school tried to provide it at cost. It was raised by members whether the school could provide fruit. Mr Metcalfe agreed that a fruit option would be good, but not easy to store so he would look at the feasibility of this and perhaps work with local suppliers once a week or once a month.
- homework approach
Mr Metcalfe was keen to find out the views of parents about the amount of homework being sent home and specifically how children and parents are responding to the comprehension approach started in September. All the parents said that their children were managing the amount of homework, even though it had increased, and that they did manage to do the comprehension. The standard approach to the comprehension expectation was appreciated as parent knew what to expect. Their children did need to get used to it but after a few weeks were managing it well.
- parent support in developing their child's reading, spelling, maths
Mr Metcalfe asked if parents wanted any additional support in helping support their child's learning e.g. workshops etc. It was said that parents found the 'Mad Hatter's' maths evening really good and helpful so could the school do another one. Mr Metcalfe said he would take it back to the leadership team to look at planning another event.
Parents were asked if they wished to raise anything else but they felt they had nothing further to add and said they liked having the meeting.
--------------------------------------------
- Details
Warrington Wolves players visit school
We had a big WOW factor as two players joined our school during an assembly. Wolfie and the community coach also joined us to bring the message of healthy fitness and participation in sport being important to healthy lifestyles.
- Details
Year 3 Winter Warmer (in Spring!)
With Active Hope, the Christian charity specialising in providing outdoor education, our Year 3 went to the SMILE building for intro activities, Delamare Forest and a Baptist Church for Breakfast.
The pictures are here...
{gallery}galleries/y3warmer2015{/gallery}
- Details
Manga High Year 6 Maths Online
https://www.mangahigh.com/en-gb/login
If you forget your password please ask your parents to email Mr Metcalfe: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Details
Enrichment Day: E-Safety
On Tuesday 10 February the school is holding its next Enrichment Day on E-safety.
During the day children will take part in drama, video work and online activities promoting good safety practice online. We have our PCSO visiting classrooms and leading four assemblies to get the message through.
In the evening at 6.30pm PC Burgess will be giving a Parents' Information Evening - all parents should try to attend.
- Details
Outstanding Chapel Choir
Our Chapel Choir performed at St Elphin's and St Margaret's Churches on Tusday and Wednesday evening as part of two Christmas Carol Concerts/Services. They sang beautifully and received thunderous applause.
Abbie Lucock represented our school in clearly reading a gospel. Well done to al who took part.
{gallery}galleries/xmaschoir{/gallery}
- Details
Christmas Jumper Day
We were proud of all our children and staff as they participated in our 'Save the Children' Christmas Jumper Day on Friday.
Here are some photos of the event!
{gallery}/galleries/xjumper{/gallery}
- Details
Maths Learning Summit
Our school is part of a cluster with six other schools called Innov8ed. They are holding a Maths Learning Summit in which children from each participating school will be talking about how they have use manipulatives to support their learning. Staff, governors and guests have been invited to this event that St Margaret's are hosting in their SMILE conference hall.
- Details
Antibullying Week
We all have a responsibility to act against bullying. In school we have been having an anti-bullying week.
In our whole school workshop by the Magic Club of Great Britain (see picture below), our children have been learning about bullying and learning that bullying is STOP: Several Times On Purpose.
Please can I draw your attention to the document titled 'Advice for parents and carers on cyberbullying'.
The document is a recent publication from the Department for Education and offers very useful advice and guidance as well as links to helpful websites. There is also a list of contact details for various social networking sites.
Please take the time to familiarise yourself with what has fast become a huge area of concern.
Do you know of a child who is being bullied - perhaps by a child in school, in another school or out of school...PLEASE 'TELL SOMEONE'.
Who can you tell? Contact Mrs Brown, our Pastoral Manager, your child's class teacher or ANY member of staff.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 
- Details
New Bishop of Liverpool Visits
Our children's Worship Council were delighted to welcome Bishop Paul, the new Bishop of Liverpool to a whole school Eucarist service. Children read from the bible, sang and acted out scenes to bring the service alive.
Bishop Paul spoke with the children and remarked how engaged our children are and how well they participated.
At the end of the service Bishop Paul was presented with a framed letter from the Worship Council and had tea with parents.
(Photos taken by Diocesan Communications)
- Details
Chapel Choir performs to Mayor
Eleven children from our Chapel Choir were invited to perform to the Mayor of Warrington during the annual presentation of certificates to Warrington's Music Ambassador Schools. St Margaret's has been an Ambassador School since 2011 and is delighted to work with Accent Music Hub in supporting music education in primary schools. The school is currently developing a music teachers' centre to develop resources for use in classrooms.
- Details
Good OFSTED
The school is very pleased to be awarded the judgement of GOOD in EVERY area by a team of three inspectors earlier last term.
Good in Teaching and Learning, Good in Pupil Achievement, Good in Behaviour and Safety, Good in Leadership and Management.
Despite the OFSTED inspection process becoming increasingly challenging the the staff team have shown through quality teaching, some of which was outstanding, that the children make good progress in our school.
A copy of the report can be viewed on OFSTED's website or downloaded from below:
OFSTED REPORT SEPTEMBER 2013 (171.58 kB).
- Details
