Dear Dorchester Families,

Thank you to those parents who completed our Parent Survey that was sent out in last week's Newsletter - your views are very much appreciated.  So far, though, we have only had 18 responses.  Often when people are keen to fill in surveys such as this, it is because they have very strong feelings, one way or the other, about the school; it doesn't give us a true indication of the views of a wider parent body.  I know everyone is really busy, but if you can make time to complete the survey, we would be very grateful.  Please follow this link to take part.  Thank you.

It was lovely to welcome our new Reception parents to their Induction Meeting yesterday evening.  It was great to meet families brand new to our school community, as well as see so many familiar faces.  A big thank you to the Early Years Team for organising the evening, the take-home packs and for giving up their evening to host the event - particular thanks go to Annabel, our EYFS Lead, for spending her birthday evening at work!  There's dedication for you - and we hope you make up for it by being spoilt this weekend Annabel.

It is a really busy time of term (although I do seem to say that most weeks!).  This week our children have been involved in a Tchoukball Festival and today we have District Sports and the Swimming Gala to look forward to.  Our UKMT Maths Challenge top scorers took part in their 'Kangaroo Round' and our Maths Quiz Clubbers are heading off to Oxford University for the National Finals next week.  Furthermore, our Top of the Form team are hosting the Final of this local competition on Tuesday, after their semi-final win against All Saints.  We also have our tea-time concert to look forward to on Wednesday.  Whether it's a big thing, or a smaller one like supporting a friend or going above and beyond in class, your children certainly give us something to be proud of every day!

Have a lovely weekend.

Kind regards

Cathy Bell
Headteacher