Year 3- Science-Identifying Endoskeletons, Exoskeletons, and Hydrostatic Skeletons
This afternoon, our young scientists (supported by our excellent Science Ambassadors, Elijah and Harry) were busy investigating the frameworks that support life. We started by recalling the difference between vertebrates (animals with a backbone) and invertebrates (animals without one), and defining what a skeleton is. The main task was to become Skeleton Detectives, researching various animals to identify whether they possess an endoskeleton (internal, like humans and fish), an exoskeleton (external armor, like crabs and insects), or a hydrostatic skeleton (fluid-filled, like earthworms and jellyfish). For the final challenge, the children discovered an interesting fact about each animal's framework, explaining exactly how that specific skeleton helps them with movement and protection, showcasing their excellent understanding of biological support systems.
Year 3- A Look at Islam in Interfaith Week
This Interfaith Week, I was delighted to lead a wonderful worship session for the whole school, giving everyone an immersive look into my religion, Islam. I covered the foundations of my faith, explaining the significance of the Five Pillars of Islam, and shared a piece of my culture by having the children listen to Arabic Nasheeds and reading a verse of the Qur'an out loud in Arabic. To provide a personal and visual connection to my practice, I showed them my prayer mat, and we then looked at pictures from my visits to Makkah, Madinah, and Palestine, highlighting these three holy sites significant to Muslims. Following this, all the year groups had prepared thoughtful questions that I answered, tackling everything from why I wear the Hijab and how I perform my daily prayers (Salat), to which God I follow (Allah). The children listened exceptionally well throughout the entire session. To finish the children tasted foods that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended for our health, including wholemeal bread with honey, fresh figs, melon, olives, and fresh dates, making the session a truly comprehensive and deeply personal exploration of what it means to be a Muslim. This event was an example of how we can learn from one another's faiths and traditions in a spirit of respect and curiosity. It has undoubtedly enriched our collective understanding, fostering a school environment that values diversity and empathy, which is the true heart of Interfaith Week.
Year 3- Class Worship- Can technology ever help us too much?
Today in our collective worship, we discussed technology and reflected on the Christian Value of Wisdom. We looked at the new Nike Project Amplify powered shoe, designed to help people stay active, independent, and mobile. We talked about how technology is a useful tool but should not become a distraction. The Bible reminds us to focus on what truly matters, like our relationships with others. Renee read the prayer, where we thanked God for technology and asked for wisdom to use it for learning, connection, and kindness.
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Year 3 Presents their learning to Year 4
This morning, Year 3 confidently presented their learning all about the classical poem, 'The Spider and the Fly,' to Year 4. The children did a brilliant job, having memorised key parts of the original poem and then sharing the exciting ending of their own innovated version. The entire class then proudly said the poem's moral: 'Do not be fooled by flattery and compliments'. A huge well done to Year 3!
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Year 3- English- Capturing Interest: Language Features in The Last Bear
This week in English, we have started exploring our new class book, The Last Bear. The children began by examining the cover and blurb closely and used these clues to make thoughtful predictions about what the story might be about. We also spent some time researching Bear Island, and the children were excited to discover that it is a real island in the Arctic Circle. Today, we began reading Chapter 1 and collected some interesting phrases that captured our interest. Some examples the children noticed included a rather odd kind of normality, the wild, unkempt bramble bush and pure, untouched wilderness. The children have really engaged with the story so far, and we are looking forward to discovering what happens next as we continue reading.
Friday Celebration Worship: Children in Need
This morning in our celebration worship, we gathered as a whole school family to mark Children in Need, offering heartfelt thanks for the generosity shown in raising awareness and funds for such a worthy cause. This week, we have also celebrated the start of Anti-Bullying Week by wearing odd socks, a joyful reminder of the importance of uniqueness and individuality. Together, we reflected on how love, friendship, generosity and kindness can help us use our power for good and stand against bullying and nurture one another’s mental health. Throughout the week, our after-school clubs have brought great excitement and creativity, with children enjoying board games, football, forest school, Warhammer painting and a lively Let’s Go Sing workshop. Reception delighted in a terrific Trekking Tuesday, Year 3 welcomed Rev Ben and enjoyed a memorable visit to Nightingale Farm, and all classes began their new Design & Technology units as they prepare to create products for the Christmas Fair. Our worship continued with the presentation of awards. We celebrated our Value award winners Alfie, Beau and Haydn in EYFS and KS1, and Joshua, Luke and Mason across KS2, for demonstrating an excellent work ethic, thoughtful listening, teamwork, independence and our Christian values. We congratulated the whole of Year 3 for representing our school so beautifully during their farm visit, Darwen Tower as the overall value award winners with an impressive 233 points, and Year 2 and Year 3 as our attendance champions. We then celebrated our out of school star achievers. We celebrated Bo for earning both ‘Player of the Week’ in football and ‘Best in the Cast’ at Made for Stage, Haydn for his ‘Player of the Week’ award and an incredible 27 goals in just seven games, Ralphi for achieving his 5m swimming badge, Poppy for her wonderful dancing, Isabella for being ‘Star of the Day’ in acro, Hendrix and Maggie for completing Stage 1 gymnastics, Jack for his courage and skill as ‘Player of the Match’ with Blackburn Eagles, Marley for her dedication to Brownies, Grace for exceptional success across her dance competition, Freddie for swimming a fantastic 25 metres, Evie for achieving her laughter, communication, drawing and promise badges at Rainbows, Lydia and Naomi for demonstrating kindness, helpfulness and bravery at Rainbows and Brownies, and Ohana in Reception class for swimming an impressive 75 metres. We also celebrated our Year 5/6 football team for their two brilliant league wins last night in the DPSSA Football League and for representing our school proudly at the Blackburn Rovers Senior Ground on Wednesday as part of the KS2 BRFC Kids Cup. Mrs Ham and Mrs Govan then awarded certificates to Luna, Beau, Lyla, Skye, Olivia, Edward, Alana and Naomi for their success in the Spring Vale Ramblers Club Art Competition, with their artwork chosen for display in the Darwen Heritage Centre. Mrs Govan also introduced our Christmas ADVENTure Trail Art competition, inspired by the Nativity story and soon to be showcased in Whitehall Park, with a chocolate treat awaiting all who take part. We closed by thanking Renée, Callie and Harry for their beautiful prayers and offering our appreciation to everyone who joined us in worship, as well as to our whole school community for their continued support. We wish you all a peaceful and restful weekend as we look forward to the busy and joy-filled weeks leading up to Christmas.
Year 3- R.E-Exploring Purpose with Rev. Ben
This morning, Year 3 had an inspiring visit from Rev. Ben, who shared insights about the concept of a "calling" from the biblical story of Samuel. Rev. Ben passionately highlighted that every job is important and can be a calling from God, whether it's being a doctor, a teacher, or a bin lorry driver . The central message was that whatever we choose to do, we can honour God and help others through our work. He also explained that the stole he wore is a significant vestment, representing his role as a minister, and the children even had the exciting opportunity to try it on. The children demonstrated great preparation and curiosity by asking Rev. Ben the questions they had prepared, which he took the time to answer. During a moment of thoughtful silence, children were encouraged to reflect on what God might be calling them to do. Rev. Ben, who has been a minister for six years, also shared openly about his own faith journey, beautifully stating that while he sometimes feels close to God, the true assurance is knowing He is always with him, guiding his path in ministry. We are incredibly grateful for Rev. Ben's visit, which provided a wonderful opportunity for our children to explore faith, purpose, and the importance of all vocations.
After-School: Board Game Club
Wow, what an amazing first session of Board Game Club! The children showed all 4B’s, it was lovely to see them all taking turns and sharing. The older children were so great with helping the younger children and teaching them some of the games. They all had such a lovely time.
Year 3’s Adventure at Nightingale Farm
This morning, Year 3 had a fantastic visit to Nightingale Farm. The children saw chicks, Theo the goat, sheep, guinea pigs, and Ram the boy sheep. They even had the exciting opportunity to feel an egg that a chick had just laid! We learned how to care for farm animals and how to tell when chicks aren’t well, for example, if they are inactive, not eating, or if their comb is pale or shrivelled. The children were absolutely amazing throughout the visit. They were curious, kind, and respectful to all the animals, asking thoughtful questions and showing great care when feeding Theo and the pigs, who happily munched on the bread they were given. We also explored nutrition and the importance of looking after animals properly. This trip also helped us understand more about animals and humans, linking to what we are currently learning in science. Throughout the walk, Year 3 took time to appreciate God’s creation, noticing the beautiful colours of the trees, leaves, flowers, and surroundings, and they even paused to rest by the bus shelter, enjoying the fresh air and peaceful environment. As a special treat, Steph the farmer kindly gifted each child a little stationery pack, which made the day even more memorable! Along the way, the children received lots of encouragement from passersby, with horns honking and cheers of “Keep going!” Their energy, enthusiasm, and positive attitudes made the trip extra special. After visiting the farm, we continued our adventure at Blacksnape Park, exploring nature and enjoying life to its fullest. It was a truly wonderful day, full of learning, fun, and appreciation for the world around us.
Year 3 Explores Blacksnape Park
After visiting Nightingale Farm, Year 3 spent some time at Blacksnape Park. The children ran, played, and discovered different areas of the park, showing great curiosity and energy. It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to appreciate God’s creation and enjoy life to its fullest in a safe, outdoor environment.
Whole School Worship - Power for Good
Our theme in today’s collective worship was “Power for Good”. Continuing our focus on Anti-Bullying Week, Mrs Ham shared some of the fantastic answers the children gave on Monday about standing up to bullying. These included saying stop, being assertive, asking why, and telling a trusted adult. We learned of how Jesus was a power for good, even when others turned against him, and we reflected on the ways in which we can also be a power for good by being a good friend and spotting when someone needs our help. The WOW Group also shared how they are being a power for good, by protecting our planet and leading our school’s Switch Off Fortnight campaign. They shared posters recommending ways to save energy around school, including turning off lights and computer monitors when they are not in use, and they explained that they will be checking how well each class is doing at saving energy every break time and lunchtime during the campaign.
Year 3- PSHE-Celebrating individuality by wearing Odd Socks
Year 3 kicked off Anti-Bullying Week by wearing odd socks and exploring ways to support themselves and others who might feel left out or picked on. Miss Barnes led the lesson, using a variety of scenarios to help the children understand how they can make a positive difference. They discussed what to do if someone is excluded from a game, if a classmate is called names, or if unkind messages are sent online. The children also considered how to respond when rumours are spread, and how small acts of kindness, such as welcoming a new student at lunchtime, can have a big impact. The lesson provided practical strategies for standing up for each other, celebrating individuality, and fostering a kinder, more supportive school community.