5th February 2010

Dear Parents and Carers,

Bullying Concerns
It has come to my attention that there has been some talk in the school playground about school bullying. The school behaviour policy defines bullying as –

Persistent and deliberate undermining of a person’s self-esteem and feelings of well-being in whatever form this takes.

Should an incident occur, which is perceived to be bullying we encourage all children to tell their teacher. The incident will then be swiftly investigated, recorded and appropriate action will be taken. If a child comes home feeling the situation has not been resolved parents need to inform the class teacher immediately. If after talking to the class teacher, the situation has not improved, please make an appointment to discuss the matter with the Headteacher. I will investigate fully, record all relevant information and take appropriate action. If parents still feel the issue has not been resolved satisfactorily, finally the School Governors should then be contacted.

At St Joseph’s School we will not tolerate bullying of any kind.

As a parent I do understand concerns about this issue. However in any school there will always be times when children have problems with relationships and although possibly upsetting, this if usually not bullying.

Generally the children in this school behave very well and demonstrate respect for each other – Ofsted judged children’s behaviour to be outstanding. When there is a problem we do our best to resolve it quickly, but can only do so if we are told about it.

SO IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN – PLEASE TALK TO US!!!

School Attendance
Good attendance all round. Well done to the following classes for achieving over 95% - Miss Wright’s class, Mrs Mantle’s class and Mr Conlon’s class, but a massive well done to Mrs Joseph’s class, Mr Sherwin’s class, Mrs Patton’s class and Mrs Bell’s class for all achieving almost 98%. Almost full attendance!

Bike it Ben
Bike it Ben will be available during Parents Evening on the 2nd March

Lost Property
Lost property will be on display again next Monday 8th February.

Music Tuition
Please could you ensure that music tuition fees are paid by Friday 12th February. If you are paying by cheque, please make it payable to Bristol City Council

After School Clubs
There are still places available on the following after school clubs - which start the week beginning 22nd February:-

Gymnastics - Monday - Years 3/4/5/6
Multi-sports - Tuesday - Years 1/2/3
Fencing - Thursday - Years 5/6

If you are interested in any of these clubs please contact the office for details

Payment Envelopes
Envelopes are for sale for the school office £1.50 for 50 or £2.50 for 100.

Celebration Assembly
There will be a celebration assembly on Monday 8th February at 9.15am, and the following children will receive their headteachers award:-

Dates for Diaries
Tuesday 9th February - Later Primary (Y5/6) Mass in Church
Friday 12th February - End of Term 3
Monday 22nd February - Start of Term 4
Tuesday 2nd March - Parent’s Evening
Monday 8th March - Parent’s Evening
Friday 26th March - PTFA Coffee afternoon 3.00-3.30pm
Thurday 1st April - End of Term 4
Monday 19th April - Start of Term 5

Yours sincerely,
Matt Condon
Headteacher