I must also take this opportunity to acknowledge the truly phenomenal team we have here at Bentley. Our staff go above and beyond to champion the children in their care, and I feel so fortunate to work alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals. They are the heartbeat of our school, and I know you join me in expressing gratitude for all they do.

I would especially like to congratulate Years 3, 4, and 5 for their magnificent performance of Tinsel and Teatowels. The singing was nothing short of breathtaking, and it was heartwarming to hear so many positive comments from family members as they left. Thank you for making this production such a memorable occasion!

The children also thoroughly enjoyed their Christmas lunch, served by the governors. Our wonderful kitchen staff worked incredibly hard to prepare a delicious meal, and the children loved dancing around to the Christmas music—it was a truly festive and joyful occasion.

This week, we held our second inter-house competition. Mrs. Rhodes and I hosted a Christmas activity session, where the houses competed against each other in answering questions, completing bauble challenges, and testing their Christmas music knowledge. We were incredibly impressed with all of the children’s teamwork and sense of fun! Congratulations to Tutu, who were the winning house!

A special well done also goes to Year R and Year 6 for leading the service at St. Mary’s Church. Your thoughtful presentation of the true meaning of Christmas was deeply moving and a perfect reminder of the values we hold dear as a community.

On behalf of all the staff, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the generous gifts and cards we have received this week. Your thoughtfulness and support mean so much to us and are a testament to the wonderful community we are lucky to be part of.

Today, we also bid a fond farewell to Mrs. Matthews, who is leaving us after years of dedicated service. Mrs. Matthews has been an integral part of the Bentley family, and her contributions to our school will never be forgotten. There will always be a space for her here, and she will be greatly missed by staff, students, and families alike. We wish her all the best for the future.

Finally, as we head into the festive season, I want to wish all our families a magical Christmas filled with joy, love, and laughter. Thank you for your ongoing support throughout the year. It truly makes a difference, and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2025 for another exciting term.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Mrs Hallett

Headteacher

 

ATTENDANCE

Governors have set the attendance target for the school at 97%. Last week the attendance rate for the whole school was 94.49%.

Last week’s class attendance figures are below:

 

THANK YOU…

…to Froyle Toddler Group for their generous donation. We are very grateful.

 

STARTING SCHOOL – SEPTEMBER 2025

Year R applications for new starters in September 2024 close on 15^th January and all applications need to be submitted by then. We still have one more open event on 7^th January for prospective parents. Click here to find out more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CATERING ASSISTANT VACANCY

Are you looking for a new career in 2025? There is currently a vacancy for a Catering Assistant at Bentley. Please click here for more information and to apply.

 

ECO UPDATE

Regift-Reuse-Relove Stall

Eco Council hosted another successful Regift-Reuse-Relove stall this week, raising about £26.00 for the PTFA.  We have some leftover items which we will be sorting out after Christmas and redistributing.  If you know any organisation who would appreciate some good quality books, toys and games, please get in touch with Madame Jones via the school office.

 

Litter Picker Backpacks

Thank you to all the families who have participated in litter picking this year.  If your child brings home a litter picker backpack, please remember to record your litter pick in the book and to check that all the items are returned to the backpack please – foldable litter picker, gloves, bag, book and hi-viz jacket.  Thank you in advance.  And finally, it would be lovely to see some photos of your litter picks!  If you are happy for them to be published in the newsletter, please send photos for Madame Jones to the office! Thank you!

Thank you for the wellies (and a plea for waterproofs!)

We have had a good few donations of wellies for Forest Explorers. Thank you so much. If you have any outgrown waterproofs, we would very much welcome your donations. 

Coming Soon – Bentley Butterfly Garden

Eco Council has some exciting news to share about plans for our Bentley Butterfly Garden.  Find out more in our next Eco Update!

Upcoming ACAN events

Saturday 11^th January – New Year, New You! -  3.00pm – 4.30pm - FREE!!!!

Come along to Alton Community Centre to find out ways in which you can live more sustainably.  This event includes a bar, hot food and snacks as well as talks. 

Saturday 25^th January – Eating for Tomorrow – 6.15pm

The screening of this documentary explores how you can eat better for our planet.

 

PTFA

The PTFA wishes everyone a brilliant break over the festive period. We look forward to seeing you all in January!

The disco and fun club are available to book on the website now. Www.pta-events.co.uk/bentley