Mischievous elves love being in classrooms as they get to finish earlier than their house-based colleagues. The elves from Mrs Marlow's and Miss Egan's rooms met up last night and, having crafted a giant paper aeroplane, have now headed off for their holidays - which is exactly what everyone else at school is going to do. Happy Christmas everyone, have a wonderful break and we will see you in the New Year!

The guitarists and ukulele players have been working very hard over the last few weeks to make sure that they were able to perform for the whole school today. They played Jingle Bells very accurately and enthsiastically and with huge control (it took a lot of concentration too). We would love to encourage more children to give ukulele club a go - they meet at 8.15am on Tuesday mornings for 30 minutes - please do get in touch with the office if you would like to join - complete beginners welcome.

Last week came to an end with the sound of Christmas songs ringing in our ears as Y1 performed beautifully in the afternoon to parents/carers in their Chirstmas singalong. The audience were treated to old favourites such as Jingle Bells and Rudolf the red nosed reindeer interspersed with other songs that the children obviously enjoy singing. KS2 children headed to All Saints Church for their whole Key Stage assembly where each year group had the chance to perform a favourite seasonal song and Y3 also shared their Christingles. It was very much a celebration of light with short readings from some Y6 pupils about how light is an important symbol in many world religions.

One of the best things about cross country is the team spirit it encourages. Although runners compete as an individual, they are always so encouraging to others from the mighty Team EPS. Individual finishing positions also go into a team competition, the winners of which are announced at the end of the season. Congratulations to all the runners this morning who raced in the wintery sunshine at Concord Park, we are very proud of ALL of you. Thanks also, as always, to staff who volunteer to organise our runners, this week, Mrs Earl - it is really appreciated.

Sophie (Y5) was very proud to receive a letter from the House of Commons today. It was from our MP Olivia Blake who Sophie had emailed to ask about safer cycle lanes on Ringinglow Road to make it safer for children to cycle to school. It was written as part of a brownies badge on speaking out about issues important to you! She also made a cycle safety poster! Well done Sophie - we fully support you too!