Elm Park Primary School

Latest Newsletters

• 17 Oct 2024
  FAO Year 5 & 6 Pupils

  We have been given the excellent opportunity to provide free Bikeability Training at Level 1 & 2 to our children in year 5 & 6. The date for this will be 4th to 8th November 2024. This safe, structured and standardised programme is designed to make your child a more competent cyclist and prepare them for eventually cycling on road.
  
  Training will be carried out by Cycle Confident, the borough’s cycle training provider, and will be delivered by 2 fully accredited National Standards cycling instructors with enhanced DBS checks.
  
  The following information is provided by Cycle Confident and aims to answer any questions you may have.
  
  Bikeability is the nationally recognised cycle training programme.
  
  It’s about acquiring the practical skills to cycle safely and with confidence on today’s roads.
  
  For children to participate in school Bikeability training, they must have basic riding skills (without stabilisers). Free individual training may also be available in your area and is a great way to get your child riding prior to the course commencing, so they can then participate. Check the Cycle Confident website at www.cycleconfident.com for details.
  
  There are three Bikeability levels. (See above which level(s) your child’s course is.)
  
  Level 1 is designed to give your child control over his / her bike and takes place in groups in a space away from traffic such as a playground or closed car park. 
  
  
  
  
  Level 2 will ensure your child is prepared for short journeys such as cycling to school. Training takes place in small groups on quiet, local streets, giving trainees a real cycling experience.
  
  What does my child need to take part in Bikeability?
  
  Your child will need a bike which is in a roadworthy condition, the right size for them, have pumped up tyres and two working brakes. Instructors will show children how to check their bikes at the start of the first session and will ensure that your child’s bike is safe for training purposes. BMX bikes are permitted in most circumstances so long as the bike has working brakes, and has not been adapted to the extent that it is no longer suitable for use on the road. The instructors will have the final say on whether your child’s bike is safe for them to complete the training on but allowances will be made wherever possible.
  
  
  What if my child does not have a bike?
  
  Cycle Confident may be able to arrange for your child to borrow a bike for the training. Please check this with your school.
  
  Can my child share their bike with a child who does not have one?
  
  There is a provision on the consent form which you can tick if you are happy for another child to borrow your child’s bike when his or her group is not in training.
  
   
  
  What should my child wear to take part in Bikeability?
  
  In most cases, your child may wear their normal school clothes, suitable for the season and weather. Excessively loose clothes may be hazardous and should be avoided. In colder months, warm layers and gloves are recommended. High visibility tabards will be provided by Cycle Confident.
  
  Does my child need a cycle helmet?
  
  Please see the consent form for more information on whether the borough stipulates that helmets are required for training. This is usually left up to parental discretion so if you do require your child to wear a helmet, please be sure to provide one or check with your school if they are available to borrow.
  
  My child is not able to participate in Bikeability. Can he/she do it outside school time?
  
  In many boroughs, Cycle Confident runs free holiday courses that cover the same outcomes as the Bikeability school courses. Children are welcome to join these whether or not they have done training at school. Check out the services the council offers on the Cycle Confident website www.cycleconfident.com
  
  What will my child receive on completion of Bikeability training?
  
  Children who successfully complete Bikeability training are awarded a badge and certificate.
  
  My child didn’t complete the Bikeability training. What happens now?
  
  Your child will be given some feedback from their instructor on areas that need a bit more work. It is recommended that you discuss these with your child so that they can be clear on how they can improve their skills and confidence. You might be able to help your child practice these areas, or you might want to sign them up for further free training or holiday courses. Check out the Cycle Confident website www.cycleconfident.com for details.
  
  Please see attached form to complete

• 16 Oct 2024
  Information about the Year 4 MTC

  Please find the letter attached outlining the Multiplication Tables Check that all Year 4 pupils will take this year. It would be beneficial for you to attend the Times Table Workshop on Wednesday 13th November at 9am in the school hall and again at 3.30pm in Beech Class if your child is in Year 4.
  
  Please see attached letter

• 14 Oct 2024
  Total amount for "Hello Yellow Day"

  Dear Parents/Carers
  
  We wanted to say a big thank you on behalf of Young Minds for getting involved in 'Hello Yellow' day, to raise awareness for children and young people's mental health. Together we are showing our young people that they are not alone with their mental health. Together we raised £198.25 which can be used to help Young Minds to answer calls from parents or carers, to their Parents Helpline.
  
  Thank you for your continued support!

• 09 Oct 2024
  Parent Forum Dates

  Please see attached letter

• 09 Oct 2024
  NELFT Parents Virtual Drop-in Sessions

  Please see attached letter