Year 3- Class Meeting- Should TIKTOK be banned?
During our class meeting, James and Alice led a debate on whether TikTok should be banned. The children shared many strong points, with those in favour of a ban arguing that the app can be unsafe for young children, time-consuming, and sometimes used for unkind behaviour. On the other hand, those who disagreed pointed out that TikTok is a fun way to be creative, learn new skills like dancing or crafts, and stay connected with friends. After a long discussion where everyone gave good reasons for their opinions, we held a vote. The "Yes" side received the highest number of votes, so we will be taking further action on this in a few weeks. We also looked back at our work raising money for a brain tumour cure, showing how important it is for our class to speak up and take action for things we believe in. We will be baking to raise money soon. It is wonderful to see the class so eager to speak up and take real action to help others.
Online Safety: App and Play Stores
With millions of apps available and children accessing them from an increasingly young age, app stores can present a range of risks. From malware and copycat apps to inappropriate content and persuasive in-app purchases, this Wake Up Wednesday guide highlights how easily young users can encounter issues – even when using official platforms. It also offers clear, practical advice to help parents and educators manage these risks. From setting up parental controls and checking app credibility to having open conversations about safe usage, the guide supports adults in building children’s awareness, encouraging safer choices and promoting more balanced, responsible app use
Year 6 - Hop, Skip and Jump - East Lancs Hospice
Today, our Year 6 children completed their hop, skip and jump challenge in support of East Lancs Hospice. They took part wearing their own beautifully decorated Easter crowns, adding a splash of colour and creativity to the event. We are so proud of their enthusiasm, effort and the way they came together for such a wonderful cause! Well done, Year 6!
Year 3- East Lancashire Hospice Hop, Skip and Jump
Today, our Year 3 class hopped, skipped, and jumped. They took on our 1k track to raise money for the wonderful East Lancs Hospice, and they did it in style, wearing their own, handmade Easter crowns. We are so proud of their incredible effort and teamwork. To celebrate their hard work, every child was rewarded with a chocolate egg. Parents, you can still support this amazing cause! Donations can be made easily via ParentPay.
Online Safety: Online Trends Encouraging Violence
Violent clips, online conflicts and shock-value challenges can spread rapidly across social media platforms. Many young people are exposed to this content through algorithms or messaging groups, even when they were not actively searching for it. Our latest #WakeUpWednesday guide explores how viral trends can encourage risky behaviour, normalise violence and create anxiety or fear within communities. The guide also highlights: • The emotional and legal risks of sharing violent content • How social media algorithms amplify harmful material • Practical advice for parents and educators Download the guide and support safer online conversations with young people: https://vist.ly/4vah7 #OnlineSafety #Safeguarding #DigitalWellbeing #WakeUpWednesday
.jpeg)
Reception: Muddy Monday
Our Reception explorers had a fantastic time during today’s session at Whitehall Park. It was a joy to see them immersing themselves in nature and building so much confidence in the great outdoors. Today, we took a moment to ask the children what they love most about their woodland adventures, and their answers perfectly captured the spirit of the morning. Chester told us that he loves climbing trees and collecting twigs to create fires, while Coban shared that he really enjoys the process of making fires too. In the heart of the trees, Bowen explained that he just enjoys playing in the woodland, while Max was busy building dens and Poppy told us she enjoys making bug houses for the little creatures. The session was also a wonderful chance for discovery; Erin mentioned how much she enjoys finding all the different leaves, and Alfie told us he loves to dig for treasure that nobody can find. Luna highlighted the social side of our trips, saying, "We love to talk about what we can see outside with our friends." Of course, it wouldn't be a true session without a bit of mess—Indie happily told us she simply enjoys getting muddy! It is wonderful to see our class growing so much through these outdoor experiences.
Online Safety: Streaming Services
Streaming platforms have quickly become one of the most popular ways for children to watch TV and films. But behind the convenience of on-demand content are several risks that parents and educators should be aware of. From excessive screen time and binge watching to age-inappropriate material and algorithm-driven recommendations, our latest #WakeUpWednesday guide explores the realities of children’s streaming habits. It also provides practical advice to help families create safer viewing environments, including: ✔️ Setting up individual profiles and PINs ✔️ Managing screen time and autoplay ✔️ Talking to children about algorithms and stereotypes Download the free guide and help support safer streaming habits at home. https://vist.ly/4uh7n #OnlineSafety #WakeUpWednesday #DigitalWellbeing #SafeguardingChildren
Online Safety: Creative ways to encourage reading
Tomorrow is World Book Day, and it’s the perfect chance to spark a love of reading in every child. Stories don’t just build literacy skills, they inspire curiosity, boost confidence and open doors to new worlds. This week’s #WakeUpWednesday highlights simple, practical ways families can make reading part of everyday life. From creating cosy reading spaces to showing children that reading is fun, small habits can make a big impact. Download your FREE copy here >> https://vist.ly/4tnsk #WorldBookDay #WUW #EncouragingReading
.jpeg)
Online Safety: WhatsApp
With its end-to-end encryption and huge popularity, WhatsApp is often seen as a private and secure way to stay in touch; however, that same privacy can make it harder for trusted adults to see when things go wrong. This week's #WakeUpWednesday guide explains how features like group chats, disappearing messages, ‘Channels’ and location sharing can expose young users to pressure, unwanted contact and inappropriate content. Download your FREE copy here >> https://vist.ly/4ryfu
The Big Winter Wander
Good morning, A huge thank you to those who have taken part in The Big Winter Wander, an annual event organised by the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature). This challenge has been a wonderful way for our children to connect with the natural world during the colder months while raising vital funds to help protect our planet and its amazing wildlife. The UK is currently one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, and by joining this "wander," our pupils are helping to fund WWF’s work in restoring habitats and tackling the climate crisis. It is not too late to take part and what a great way to give something this Lent. We would love to celebrate every child’s effort and see the "winter wonders" they discover along the way. Donations: Please make your contributions directly to our school fundraising page here: https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-nzymxvnokwdn?currentTab=feed A special thank you to Lyla who has made our first donation! Please send details of distances achieved and any photos of your child’s wander to Mrs Wilkinson or Mrs Ham. We would love to see pictures of them in action or any wildlife they spot! Remember, spending time in nature is proven to boost mental health and well-being, especially during the winter. By taking part, the children aren't just raising money; they are also learning to appreciate and protect the local environment right on their doorstep. Thank you for your continued support in helping St Barnabas make a difference for our world. Thank you, Mrs Wilkinson
Year 4 Lead Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week Worship
This morning, Year 4 led a truly inspiring Whole School Worship, centering their message on Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. It was a colourful and vibrant start to the day, as all the children arrived 'Dressed to Express.' It was wonderful to see the hall filled with different outfits showcasing the children's unique personalities, hidden talents, and favourite colours—a perfect reminder that being ourselves is key to our wellbeing. The children did an amazing job showcasing their oracy skills. They projected their voices clearly and confidently, ensuring their important message was heard by everyone. The other classes were captivated, listening intently as Year 4 explained the vital link between kindness and mental health. They highlighted how simple acts of kindness are not just good for others, but also boost our own happiness and sense of belonging. The class reminded us all that kindness is a superpower that supports a healthy mind and a happy school community. We brought the worship to a close with some beautiful, thoughtful prayers and raised the roof singing along to ‘My Lighthouse.’ A huge thank you to the parents and carers who came along to support the children; your presence made the morning even more special.
Year 5 - Growing Our Future
Year 5 visited Jacks Key to contribute to a new micro forest in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council and Lancashire County Council Treescapes. Even though the weather was inclement and the ground was muddy, the children embraced the opportunity to get their hands dirty and plant our trees. It was also a great way to support our mental health and wellbeing for Children's Mental Health Week. We cannot wait to see how it grows!