What a fantastic start we've had in Lantic Class! This week, the children really shone during their first PE session. They practiced their throwing and catching skills with great enthusiasm and took part in the exciting game of Dishes and Domes. It was wonderful to see everyone so active, working together, and having such fun! In DT, we've been busy exploring wheels and axles as we prepare to design and make our very own pull-along toys. The children showed brilliant curiosity and creativity as they got hands-on with the mechanisms. We have also been incredibly proud of the children's writing this week. Inspired by our class book Mrs Armitage and the Big Wave, the children produced some fantastic pieces of work, full of imagination and detail. Well done, Lantic Class - what a brilliant start to the term!

We have had a great first full week of the Autumn Term. Please find all the latest news and events from our wonderful school in, this week's, Brunel Bulletin.

w/e 12.9.25

What a crazily busy first week back we've had! Including last week, we've done so much already. 

In English, we've started our unit of work based on the really fun book, 'The Beasties'. We have used our word classes to write exciting sentences about the characters!

In Maths, we're all starting the year off with our learning about place value - such a useful skill. We've used some manipulatives to help. 

In Science, we thought about what we already know about materials and how they can be changed. In computing, we learned about search engines. In RE, we are learning about how the Golden Rule is something that all faiths follow, including Humanism. In PSHE, we learned how to create a class charter. 

In Art, we've started a process towards creating a self-portrait using carbon paper, tracing paper and poetry! It was really exciting!

Plus, in Music, the year 4 children (and Miss Henning!!) have started learning how to play the violin with Sally! What fun!

Terrific Tregantle!

What a fantastic first week it has been in Tregantle Class!

Our new school starters have settled in beautifully and have loved getting to know their new classroom. The children have had so much fun exploring all of the different areas, from painting and construction to role play and the ever-popular mud kitchen.

One of the highlights of the week has been meeting their very own reading buddy. The children really enjoyed sharing stories together, and it was wonderful to see how engaged and excited they were during story time.

We are so proud of how well everyone has started their school journey. It has been a week full of smiles, laughter, and learning, and we can't wait to see what adventures next week will bring!

Hello and welcome back to Lantic Class! We've had a really fun few days getting settled back in. We have been getting to know each other with games and a circle time. We have made a very special display about celebrating our differences. Please see attached the curriculum overview for Lantic Class this half term. 
We're looking forward to another fun filled week of learning next week! 

Welcome back!

It was wonderful to greet the new year 6 children today for their final year at Brunel. We have an exciting year ahead with many memories to make. 

Today we started with some icebreaker questions. This helped me to get to know the children and I was intrigued and interested with some of their answers. Please see the photos for some of my favourites. 

Next week, we will be starting our new topic called 'Where Does Energy Come From?' Please see the knowledge web below to find out what we are learning in each subject. 

The children will be coming home with their class dojo logins. Please use these to see how your child is earning points in class. I will also post messages on there occasionally so make sure you check it regularly. 

Miss Burton

Welcome to Duckpool...

Hello everyone and welcome back to Brunel Primary and Nursery Academy and the new school year. We hope you've had the best Summer and enjoyed plenty of sunshine, whether that was on holiday or at home. 

We are so excited to be back as we've lots of great plans for this term which we can't wait to share, as we know it's going to be fun.

Its been a busy time here, just look at all the wonderful projects that have been completed over the holiday, we now have a fabulous outdoor classroom, an amazing pond and new playground equipment. We've already had a taster session using the Builders' Yard, so we're looking forward to having time to explore that more fully too.

Our ClassDojo details are coming home on Thursday, do please sign up and join us to find out more about what's going on in Duckpool and allow us to share messages.

In the meantime, take a look at the knowledge planner for Autumn Term 1 and also our Maths policy below, which is helpful in that it shows you which methods we use in our maths lessons.

Each week, we'll be sharing our learning here, so please watch this space!

Welcome Back Brunel Families!

We hope you've had a wonderful summer making special memories.

A very warm welcome to all our families - and an especially big hello to those joining Brunel for the first time. We can't wait to begin another exciting school year together! Staff News We're delighted to welcome: Mrs May-Bracey (Duckpool & Leadership Team) Mrs Scott (Lantic) Mrs Morris (Mousehole - Fridays) And huge congratulations to Mrs Swabey on the safe arrival of her baby boy.

What's New Around School
Issy's Nursery has moved to a bigger EYFS space with a fantastic outdoor learning environment. Tregantle Class now has a brand-new classroom and outdoor area.
Our pond is alive again thanks to CO-OP funding & the BFA.
A huge thank you to Brook and his team from Total Landscape Ltd for all their hard work.
A new outdoor classroom has been created in the garden. 4
KS2 playground equipment has been upgraded.

Exciting Extras
Plymouth Argyle joining us every Monday & Friday lunchtime.
Clubs start w/c 15th Sept (letters coming soon).
The Brunel Builders Yard & new play equipment will keep children active at playtimes.
Little Locomotives toddler group returns Wednesday 17th Sept (10:00-11:15am) - free, teacher-led, open to all!
Reminders Gates close at 8:45am sharp - being on time every day really matters!
Free Breakfast Club (Rec-Y6) runs daily 8:15-8:45am.
Kids Club wraparound care available via ParentPay before and after school.
Healthy snacks at playtime & water only in bottles (unless medical note provided).
Children must wear Brunel uniform & school shoes, with PE kit on PE days.
Please remember our pre-loved rail which is accessible for all and absolutely free. We're so proud of our wonderful staff who have worked hard over the holidays to get everything ready - and we can't wait to see you all on Thursday 4th September (please note this is different for some of our Reception children) for another brilliant year at Brunel. Have a great last few days of the Summer holidays.

We are so excited to begin a brand new school year together. Our new classroom has been carefully designed to support the needs of all our children, and we can't wait to see it filled with learning, laughter, and curiosity.

For the first half of the autumn term, our class topic is 'All about Me.' Children will have the opportunity to talk about themselves and find out more about their new friends. We will be learning a new song or rhyme each week and our focus texts for the half term will be Farmer Duck, Whatever Next, Slug needs a hug and Tadpoles promise. Our story time author books will be by Eric Carle and Tom Fletcher. We will be starting our phonics lessons following the Read Write Inc program straight away. Our maths sessions will focus on numbers to 5, counting accurately and making and continuing patterns.

This year we have lots of exciting learning opportunities planned and we're really looking forward to getting to know each and every child as they begin or continue their journey in Tregantle Class. Here's to a wonderful year ahead!

With warm wishes, Mrs Grinsted, Mrs Orchard, Mrs McIntyre, Mrs Bennett, Mrs James & Mrs Newman

Wishing you all the best Lantic Class...

'Oh please don't go, we love you so!'

So, we've arrived at the last day of term and indeed the school year, which means  it's time to bid goodbye to Lantic class and wish you all a very happy Summer holiday

This term has been full of thrills and excitement, including a Forest School evening, complete with a campfire and a science trip to Tincombe Nature Reserve. We presented our class assembly all about the Wild Things and were so pleased to show you all our lovely outdoor classroom with a vegetable patch and beautiful flower beds.

We also celebrated the talent at Brunel Primary with several events including Sports day, Music of the Afternoon and of course this week's Brunel's Got Talent.

We've enjoyed playing on our brand new playground equipment and our recent introduction to the Builders' Yard, which has endless opportunities for exploration and creativity..

However, that's just a small part of Lantic's journey, for the class have also worked incredibly hard in all areas of the curriculum, which was so apparent in the vast numbers of books they've been bringing home!

So, now's the time to reflect on all the fun, friendship and naturally lots of laughter along the way - it's been great.

Thank you so much for all your support, particularly this term.

With love from the Lantic team xxx

Lantic Update 18.7.25

Well, it's the last full week in Lantic class and it's been such a busy one.

Here are just a few of our highlights:

PE was fun on Monday, we tried out some new athletics techniques including, javelin, shuttle relay and hurdles.

On Tuesday, Mrs Williamson made a courgette cake for us using our home grown courgettes, not everyone wanted to try it but most of us found it delicious.

Sadly, Music of the Afternoon (MOTA 2025) on Wednesday wasn't possible on the field due to the weather, so we did it in the hall. Lantic class sang beautifully and we all felt very proud. Do check the recording out on social media.

On Thursday, we had a special visit to our Brunel Builders' Yard, where we built some amazing structures and had the best fun choosing the scrap items to make our own designs. We also had the heats for the Lantic class entry for Brunel's Got Talent and are delighted to announce our winners were: Emily and Liliana with their fabulous dance and April with her amazing karate moves.

They will be representing us on Monday 21^st in the grand final.

Next Monday, Jane is going to kindly cook us some courgettes and beans from our vegetable patch. We shall try to encourage everyone to try them!

Also, on Friday, it was time to have another visit to see Miss Pentreath and spend the whole afternoon there in our new classroom,. We went home with all sorts of information about next year and we're really looking forward to it.

Have a lovely weekend, everyone.

17.7.25

As we end our final full week in Years 3 and 4, we certainly haven't slowed down!

On Monday, Daymer enjoyed their 'End of Project' party at St Anne's, with heaps of food and smiles all round!

We were also treated to the Brunel's Got Talent auditions - well done to those who have made it through to the Finals next Monday!

On Tuesday, we enjoyed the Year 6 Leavers Assembly and wow! What a great show it was!

On Wednesday, it was Music of the Afternoon! It was sadly rained off but here's a video to enjoy of the performances in the hall! Exceptional talent all round, I'm sure you'll agree!

On Thursday, we had our class reward time at Longstone Park - that was great fun!

And on Friday, we were not only in awe of some EGGS in Science but we were treated to some more transition time in our new class with our new teachers! Wow!

What a week! 2 more days til the summer...

w/e 10.7.25

We've had a wonderfully busy and productive week in Year 3 and 4 - even with the soaring temperatures!

The children have shown real resilience and maturity in coping with the heat, staying positive and focused in their learning.
Here's a snapshot of what we've been up to this week...

English - Non-Chronological Reports
In English, we've been diving into the world of non-chronological reports. The children have been learning to use generalisers such as most, some, and usually to make their writing more informative and formal. We've also been focusing on using clear subheadings to organise our ideas and are in the process of planning our own reports, which we're excited to begin writing next week.

Geography - Where Does Our Food Come From?
In Geography, we've been exploring the journey food takes to reach our plates. From tropical fruits to locally grown vegetables, we've discussed the different climates and countries that produce the food we eat, and the impact of food miles. It's been a great way to link our geography skills to everyday life!

Maths - It's Time to Tell the Time!
Year 3 pupils have been practising telling the time to the nearest five minutes, both on analogue and digital clocks. We've been using real-life contexts to help the children understand why time is such an important skill. Year 4s have been consolidating their time knowledge too - keep an eye out for time-related challenges at home!

Science, Computing & Online Safety
In Science, we've continued exploring teeth and digestion, while in Computing, we've had important discussions around online safety - understanding how to stay safe and responsible when using the internet and digital devices.

PE - Rounders in the Sun
Despite the heat, PE has been a highlight this week. We've been developing our skills in rounders, practising batting, fielding, and team strategy. The children showed great sportsmanship and determination - well done all!

Art - Abstract Flowers
Our stunning abstract flower art continues to blossom! The children have been inspired by famous artists and have created some truly beautiful pieces. Be sure to take a look at the photos - their creativity is really shining through!

Music, French & More
In Music, we've been rehearsing for music of the afternoon which takes place on Wednesday afternoon-we hope to see you all there! French lessons have included learning new vocabulary and simple conversations. We've also been weaving in PSHE and topic discussions throughout the week - it's been full of variety!

Transition Time
This week, we've had our class transition swaps, giving the children a chance to meet their new teachers and get a taste of what next year might look like - including the new Brunel Shed! It's been exciting and reassuring for the children, helping them feel confident about the changes ahead.

Coming Up - Brunel's Got Talent!
A quick reminder - on Monday, we'll be holding class auditions for Brunel's Got Talent! Children are encouraged to bring in any props or music they might need. We can't wait to see the range of talents in our class - from magic tricks to musical performances, it's always a joyful event.

Thank you, as always, for your support.
Please make sure your child continues to bring a water bottle and hat each day, especially while the warm weather lasts.

Have a lovely weekend!

w/e 3.7.25

Here's a snapshot of the exciting learning that has taken place in our Year 3 and 4 classes this week:

English: Exploring Non-Chronological Reports
We have embarked on our new unit focusing on non-chronological reports. The children have been identifying key features such as clear headings, introductory paragraphs, subheadings, and the use of formal, third-person language. They have also been practicing how to group information into paragraphs and support their points with relevant details and examples.

Mathematics: Fractions and Time
In Year 3, we concluded our work on fractions, reinforcing our understanding of unit and non-unit fractions. We then transitioned into exploring time, learning to read both analogue and digital clocks, including those with Roman numerals. Year 4 students built upon this by delving into 24-hour time formats, enhancing their ability to read, write, and compare times across different clock systems.

Geography: The Journey of a Cocoa Bean
Our geography lessons took us on a journey tracing the path of a cocoa bean from farm to chocolate bar. We examined the stages of cocoa production, the challenges faced by cocoa farmers, and the environmental impacts of cocoa farming. This study linked back to our previous discussions on Fair Trade, highlighting the importance of ethical consumer choices.

Science: Understanding the Digestive System
In science, we explored the human digestive system, learning about the roles of the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. The children discovered how each part contributes to the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Religious Education: Significant Christian Figures
Our RE sessions focused on important figures in Christianity and the concept of sacrifice. We discussed individuals such as Abraham, Moses, Ruth, and Mary, exploring how their actions and sacrifices have influenced Christian teachings and values.

Physical Education: Football Skills Development
In PE, the children have been honing their football skills, particularly dribbling and ball control. Through various drills and activities, they practiced maintaining possession, changing direction, and improving coordination on the field.

Art: Inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe
Our art lessons were inspired by the works of Georgia O'Keeffe. The students studied her technique of zooming in on flowers to create abstract pieces. They then applied this approach to their own artwork, focusing on details and experimenting with colour and form.

Reading at Home We kindly encourage continued reading at home, as it significantly enhances learning across all subjects and fosters a love for literature. We always enjoy hearing about your children's current favourite books!

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Thank you so much for your continued support again this week. It has been a busy week with trips, wonderful learning opportunities and, of course, our Summer Fair. Please find all the latest news and events from the past 7 days in our Brunel Bulletin.