Reception children have been talking about what they expect to be doing in Year 1.  The children have all had an amazing journey over the last twelve months and have produced some fantastic work. They have discussed their forthcoming Summer holidays; where in the world they are going and how they will get there.

The highlight of their week was their journey on the Severn Valley Railway to visit Arley Arboretum. They had a wonderful time collecting natural materials to make fairy pictures in the woods followed by a lovely picnic lunch.  Wishing you all a wonderful summer break.

On Thursday 27^th June, Year 2 spent a morning of Scientific and Artistic exploration at the beautiful Winterbourne House and Gardens in Edgbaston.

Part of The University of Birmingham, Winterbourne is an historic Edwardian house, set in 7 acres of stunning grounds which was built for John Nettlefold, a pioneer of early housing reform in Birmingham.

The pupils loved exploring the Tropical House and the gardens; they were able to create nature logs and got the chance to explore, observe, identify and learn many facts about plants and their habitats.

Arbuthnott Hall really was alive with the sound of music on the evening of Tuesday 25th June. After weeks of rehearsing, the efforts of the children and hard-working staff had paid off, with parents, friends and dignitories thoroughly enjoying the vast array of musical offerings, with everything from The Percussion Ensemble’s own composition, Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, Dream On by Aerosmith, The Foo Fighters’ Learn to Fly, an incredible medley from Les Misérables, to the finale of Bohemian Rhapsody which saw a standing ovation, led by the Mayor of Kidderminster.  Well done everyone.

Not deterred by inclement weather, Year 1 pupils had a lovely time at the award winning Sycamore Adventure on Tuesday 25th June. The centre boasts a desert island complete with boat, hammocks and a palm tree, a carved wooden dragon, an indoor play barn, a sensory room, go karting and a mini waterfall.  The children also enjoyed painting and the popcorn making demonstration. A great time was had by all.

On Monday 24th June, Year 3 had a really enjoyable trip to Conkers in the National Forest.  In a hands-on team building session, the children were given the task of building a shelter, using natural woodland materials.

Next up was the Scooter Challenge, designed to use team and problem solving skills to the full.  The pupils worked to a set of instructions and put together their very own scooters which resulted in a fun time racing them.

A trip on the train and time on the Adventure Play area concluded a great day for the children.

On Saturday 22nd June, Prep pupils, staff, parents and friends joined together on a glorious day to recognise and celebrate our pupils’ achievements.

The Headmaster of Bromsgrove School, Mr Peter Clague opened the proceedings, paying tribute to Headmistress Mrs Toms and her hardworking staff, thanking them for everything they do for our pupils.

After thanking Mr Cotterill, Mr Mitchell and all staff, Mrs Toms talked about the pupils’ academic, music and sporting achievements throughout the academic year, the recent new addition of the Radio Winterfold radio room, the new astro-turf pitches and the exciting planned developments for the future of Winterfold, from the re-development of the Nursery, to a state-of-the art theatre, with tiered seating.

The afternoon’s Sport Day was enjoyed by pupils and parents alike. The day’s winning Pack was Eagles but which Pack will be the overall winner and attend the Pack Treat?

On Friday 21st June, Pre-Prep pupils, parents and staff enjoyed a wonderful morning celebrating the achievements of our youngest pupils.  Before collecting their certificates and trophies, we had the opportunity to hear again some of the wonderful songs the children performed at the junior summer concert.  An afternoon of races followed, with a wonderful tea on the lawn, accompanied by Note to Self and The Groove Diggers.

This week, our Early Years pupils performed in their second Music Makers’ concert.  It was another musical success, with the young children singing an array of songs beautifully. We heard songs ranging from I Can Sing a Rainbow to Daddy’s Taking Us To the Zoo. Well done everyone!

Our junior musicians gave a lovely performance at their Summer concert.  The Junior Band with Mr Sproston started the concert with the Bare Necessities from the Jungle Book, followed by the Floral Dance and the theme from the Flintstones.  Mrs Price’s Junior String Group and Year 2 Strings and Mrs Porter’s Year 2 Fife Group showed the audience just how far the children have come in a short time.  Head of Music Mr Price commented that the Year 3 Recorder Group, who played Old MacDonald and Indian Warrior was the best recorder group he has had in many years.  Mrs Richardson’s Year 1 and 2 Choir, followed by the Junior Choir put everything into their performances, even singing in round at such a young age.  We particularly liked The Winterfold Summertime Blues!

Children from Years 4 and 5 gathered in Penryn this week to watch Le Bistro de Dan Roro. The audience was entertained by this humorous, educational production centred around Dan Roro, an eccentric café owner, who invited everyone to join him whilst preparing for his bistro to open.

Memorable moments included laying tables and counting spinning plates (en francais, bien sur!), learning about English words that have been derived from the French, preparing the meals and listening to René, a puppet, who sang some lovely French songs.

The production was almost entirely in French and it was highly interactive, with many opportunities for the audience to engage. The children learned many new words and expressions and were thoroughly entertained.