Sunday, 16 December 2012

Learning Log

Euan in Year 5 put together this fantastic slide show of Peak District wildlife as part of his learning log for this term.





Christmas Quiz was won by Joshua and Spencer.  They will receive their prizes in assembly tomorrow.

Mon 17th
Tue 18th
2 30pm Lower School Carol Service
Wed 19th
2 30pm Upper School Carol Service

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year

Sunday, 9 December 2012

Christmas Movies

If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, you should try watching one of these films.











Mon 10th
Tue 11th
Wed 12th
2 30pm Panto Yrs Pre-Prep-Year 4 Snow White
2-4.30pm Kindergarten and Transition Christmas Party
Thu 13th
Fri 14th
Fun afternoon for PPYrs123 and 4


Christmas Quiz is still available from the display board outside Year One.  I have had one completed entry so far...

Joke of the week
Who hides in the bakery at Christmas?

A mince spy!

Sunday, 2 December 2012

Countdown to Christmas



Annual Christmas Quiz.

Free to enter

The following are all either carols or Christmas songs.

Example MCE would be Merry Christmas Everybody by the Legendary Shakin Stevens

1. JTTW
2. WWYAMC
3. OLTOB
4. DTKIC
5. AIWFCIY
6. TFN
7. BICO
8. WC
9. WW
10. OCAYF
11. FTS
12. LISLISLIS
13. ICUAMC
14. HTHAS
15. IWICBCE
16. AIAM
17. LC
18. ISMKSC
19. WSWTFBN
20. OHN
21. RTRNR
22. TLDB
23. DHFC
24. FONY
25. SN

Ask Mr Britten for an answer sheet.

Last Week's question
The answer was Train à Grande Vitesse

Latest News
Salterford House won the first ever Gedling Lacrosse Tournament on Friday.  Congratulations to the team!

Mon 3rd
Year 1 visit to Sudbury Hall
Year 5 & 6 Rehearsals for Christmas production
Tue 4th
Wed 5th
Year 3 & 4 Rehearsals for Christmas production
Thu 6th
4pm onwards - Christmas Concerts Dress Rehearsal
Fri 7th
11am Kindergarten and Transition Concert
3.30pm PP rehearsal at Col Frank Seely
Sat 8th
2 00pm Lower School Christmas Concert
6 30pm Upper School Christmas Concert
10am Cross country Sutton Lawns

 

Sunday, 25 November 2012

Monday 26th November - Year 5 and 6 Play Rehearsal

Tuesday 27th November

Wednesday 28th November - Speech and Drama Exams

Thursday 29th November - On this day in 1972, the first commercially available video game was released.  It was called Pong.

Friday 30th November On this day in 1934, the Flying Scotsman became the first train to travel 100mph



Quiz of the week
What do the letters TRV stand for?

Joke of the week
What does a train do with food?
Chew-Chew!

Sunday, 18 November 2012

Monday 19th November

Mon 19th November

Yrs 3 and 4 Indoor climbing

Year 5+6 Rehearsals for Christmas production

Tue 20th November
On this day, in 1992, there was a fire at Windsor Castle.


Wed 21st November

Year 3+4 Rehearsals for Christmas production

Thu 22nd November
On this day in 1963, USA President John Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas.


Fri 23rd November

Yrs 5 and 6 Indoor climbing


All children in years 3,4,5 and 6 have the opportunity to go indoor climbing this week.
This takes place at Nottingham Climbing Centre.
Nottingham Climbing Centre first opened its doors in 1994. Since then it’s enjoyed many visits, including those from; individuals, school groups, corporate outings and children’s parties.
They boast over 800 square metres of climbing facilities. Including; bouldering, superb top roping and excellent lead climbing. Inside the centre every group is catered for, from first time beginners to professionals requiring a world class training facility.
Their fully qualified instructors, with their in depth climbing knowledge, can provide specialist tuition on using the wall.






Quiz of the week
Joshua G in Year 3 continues to be the King of Quizland.  Can anyone take his crown?
This weeks question - What can be found at Klimcentrum Bjoeks in the town of Groningen?

Joke of the week
A little old lady, who lived on the third floor of a boarding house, broke her leg. As the doctor put a cast on it, he warned her not to climb any stairs. Several months later, the doctor took off the cast. "Can I climb stairs now?" asked the little old lady. "Yes," he replied. "Thank goodness!" she said. "I'm sick and tired of shinnying up and down that drainpipe!"



Sunday, 11 November 2012

Monday 12th November

An action packed week ahead at Salterford House School.

Monday 12th November 4.00pm Year 5/6 Play Rehearsal

Tuesday 13th November Indoor Athletics at Colonel Frank Seely School 1.00pm - 3.00pm Year 5/6 Teams

Wednesday 14th November ISA Mixed Hockey Tournament at Cannock Hockey Club

Thursday 15th November 1.00pm Highfield's School Cross Country Match Year 3/4/5/6

Friday 16th Year 6 Diwali Assembly

Saturday 17th Cross Country Races at Sutton Lawns


Diwali


Diwali is regarded as one of the most important festival of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated across the nation with great pomp and excitement. The festival is mainly associated with lights as it is called the festival of light. On the day of the festival diyas (small clay lamps) are lit in everybody's home irrespective of their social status. The name Diwali signifies 'rows of lighted lamps'. Diwali is a five-day festival, beginning on the 15th day of the Hindu calendar month of Kartika (Ashwin). By the Gregorian calendar, Diwali falls in October or November. Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu and Gujarati New Year and is celebrated with the lighting of lamps and candles, and lots of fireworks. People decorate their home with beautiful diyas and making rangoli pattern in the courtyard and in front of the gate. They put flowers and mango leaves on their doors and windows. Diyas and candles are placed on rooftops, rooms, and kitchen and even in the bathrooms. On this day, people worship Lord Ganesha, the foremost of all Hindu Gods and Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. It is time to exchange gifts and sweets with friends, relatives and neighbours.

Due to India's varied cultural diversity there are many manifestations of the Diwali festival. The festival begins with Dhanteras, a day set aside to worship the goddess of prosperity, Goddess Lakshmi. On this day, homes are cleaned and paintings are done. There are various legends associated with the celebration of Diwali. But people mostly associate the celebration with the legend of Lord Ram returning to his kingdom of Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and defeating Ravana, the demon king. In Bengal, the celebration is marked with the worship of Goddess Kali. People celebrate Kali puja with great fervour and enthusiasm. Joy and festivity reins every corner of the nation during the Diwali season. Diwali festival is the one Hindu festival that unites the whole of India. The exchange of sweets and the explosion of fireworks customarily accompany the celebration of the festival. Diwali is an occasion for cheerfulness and togetherness. This is that time of the year when people of all age and all class take part in its celebration.





Quiz of the week

Joshua G  of year 3 has been the quiz king for the past two weeks. Phoebe also had the correct answer.

This week's question - When will Diwali start next year?

Joke of the week
How did the farmer mend his jeans?
With a cabbage patch!

Sunday, 4 November 2012

Bonfire Night

Guy Fawkes & the Gunpowder Plot


Words of "Remember Remember" refer to Guy Fawkes with origins in 17th century English history. On the 5th November 1605 Guy Fawkes was caught in the cellars of the Houses of Parliament with several dozen barrels of gunpowder. Guy Fawkes was subsequently tried as a traitor with his co-conspirators for plotting against the government. He was tried by Judge Popham who came to London specifically for the trial from his country manor Littlecote House in Hungerford, Gloucestershire. Fawkes was sentenced to death and the form of the execution was one of the most horrendous ever practised (hung ,drawn and quartered) which reflected the serious nature of the crime of treason.



The Tradition begins...

The following year in 1606 it became an annual custom for the King and Parliament to commission a sermon to commemorate the event. Lancelot Andrewes delivered the first of many Gunpowder Plot Sermons. This practice, together with the nursery rhyme, ensured that this crime would never be forgotten! Hence the words " Remember , remember the 5th of November" The poem is sometimes referred to as 'Please to remember the fifth of November'. It serves as a warning to each new generation that treason will never be forgotten.



Mon 5th


Year 5 & 6 Rehearsals for Christmas production

Tue 6th

ISA Junior Swimming Walsall

1-3pm Pre-Prep visit to Southwell Minster

Wed 7th

Year 5 trip to Hathersage

Year 3 & 4 Rehearsals for Christmas production

Thu 8th


Fri 9th

BONFIRE NIGHT 5.30-8.00pm Can you please send any cakes and biscuits for the cake sale in a named container.

Tombola prizes can be left in the main entrance. Many Thanks!



The Firework Code
Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin

Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately

NEVER put fireworks in your pocket

Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp. NEVER use a naked flame to read the labels

Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter

Stand well back and NEVER return to a firework after it has been lit, it could explode in your face

Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised

NEVER throw fireworks

Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks

Keep all pets and animals indoors

Take care with sparklers, wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished.


Quiz of the week

Who wrote "The firework maker's daughter"?

Joke of the week

Question: Why does Guy Fawkes have the best birthdays?
Answer: His parties always go with a bang!






Wednesday, 31 October 2012

Year 6 Work

Over the half-term holiday, year 6 were very busy.  They have been learning about micro-organisms and have created some excellent work in their learning logs.



 






 
If you have been doing something exciting in class and would like to see some of your work here, please send it to Mr Britten.
 
 
Joke of the week
 
Q.What did one slice of bread say to the other slice of bread when he saw some butter and jam on the table?

A. We're toast!
 
Quiz of the week
 
No one got the answer from before the holiday.  Ian Flemming wrote 2000 words a day - No more, no less.
 
Why is Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset famous?
 
 


Sunday, 14 October 2012

Bravery at Sutton Lawns

Cross Country
Saturday mornings in autumn has traditionally seen the Salterford Cross Country team at Berry Hill braving all sorts of weather.  This year, the competition has moved to Sutton Lawns.  A far more picturesque location.  If you have never been, it has a wide variety of play equipment, an outdoor adidas gym, a skate park and plenty of open space for running around.
After much persuading, seven fantastic Salterford children turned out on Saturday for the first race in a series of three.  Tatziana, Jessica K, Sarah, Jessie and Lois did Year 6 proud.  They all worked extremely hard and completed the course in style.  It takes an enormous amount of courage to tackle a cross country race and the girls had it in spades.  Jessica took the honours as the first girl from Salterford  to return to Mrs Sunman for a well deserved mini-roll, the rest followed quickly behind.
The boys, though smaller in numbers, were no less lacking in courage.  Despite being the youngest runners at the competition, Daniel and James (both Year 3), performed fantastically.  Being surrounded by older and somewhat larger boys did not frighten the boys.  They set off at a terrific speed and were soon making their way around the course.  Daniel was the first to return and finished in a very creditable position, beating over forty much older boys. James ran fabulously for two-thirds of the race. Unfortunately, he developed a stomach cramp and found it very uncomfortable to run.  Any lesser boy would have stopped but not James.  He struggled through the last 400m and bravely finished his first Cross Country race.
Mr Britten was very proud of all the children who gave up their Saturday morning and represented the school in a most outstanding way.  A mention must also go to Jorja (Year 3) who came along to support the team and was very helpful looking after an unwell James at the finish line.

National Baking Week

Monday 15th October - Individual Photographs

Tuesday 16th October -

Wednesday 17th October - On this day, in 1979, Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.


Thursday 18th October - It's Paul Elliot's birthday!  64 Today!



Quiz of the week
Mrs Venn's run has come to end.  Joshua G from Year 3 correctly named Mo Farah's twins Aisha and Amani


This week's question - A new James Bond movie comes out during half-term.  James Bond was created by Ian Fleming. He had an unusual way of writing.  He used to write an exact number of words every day.  Question is - How many?

Joke of the week
What do you call James Bond in the bath?

Bubble 07!






Sunday, 7 October 2012

Cross Country

Welcome to another week at Salterford House School.  We have a busy week to look forward to. Despite their efforts on Friday, the boys football team both lost at Plumtree.  They will be looking forward to getting back into action on Tuesday at the ISA Football Tournament in Birmingham. The girls had a better experience at Plumtree.  The netball team came away with a comfortable victory and will also be in action again this week.  Wednesday afternoon, they will be taking part in a tournament at Old Vicarage school and will be hoping to return to school with the first silverware of the season.  Fingers Crossed.

The quiz of the week continue to be dominated by Mrs Venn who correctly identified
Schroeder as the piano playing character from Peanuts.  Will she be able to make it a hat-trick or will somebody stop her?

Monday 8th October
This week is national curry week!  This is a recipe for the first day.  There is a new recipe for every day at www.nationaleatingoutweek.com
Coriander Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, I like to use rapeseed
2 onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
4 bay leaves
2 teaspoons coriander seeds, roughly crushed
1 teaspoons ground cumin powder
1 tablespoon garlic paste
4 fresh chillies, 2 finely chopped and 2 just stabbed with a knife
4 - 6 chicken joints, skin removed but bone left in
1 pint hot chicken stock or water
4 tablespoons fresh coriander, roughly chopped
4 tablespoons low fat plain yoghurt
salt, to taste
Serves 2


Method
1. In a pan gently heat the oil and saute the onions for around 10 minutes, or until they are starting to change colour.
2. Add the turmeric powder and bay leaves and saute for about a minute before stirring in the coriander seeds and cumin powder.
3. Add a little chicken stock if the masala is starting to stick and burn.
4. After around 2 minutes stir in the garlic paste and all the chillies.
5. Saute for a few minutes and add the chicken pieces. Stir well and try and get all the masala off the base of the pan.
6. Pour in the chicken stock and add half the fresh coriander.
7. Bring to a simmer before popping a lid on and leaving the chicken the cook through for 35 - 45 minutes.
8. Check the chicken is cooked through before carefully removing it from the masala and setting aside for a few mins whilst you finish off the sauce.
9. Turn the heat down to low and stir through the yoghurt. Allow it all to heat through before tasting it and adjusting the salt if needed. Remember that the chicken stock will have salt already so you may not need to add any.
10. Add the chicken back to the sauce and sprinkle over the remaining coriander (and any extra chillies if you like yours with more heat).
11. Serve with some simple fresh pilau rice.

Tuesday 9th October
ISA Football tournament - Under 9 and Under 11

Wednesday 10th October
Under 11 Netball tournament Old Vicarage

Thursday 11th October
1982 The Mary Rose was raised from the bottom of The Solent 

                                                                                           
Friday 12th October 1492 Christopher Columbus lands in The Bahamas and discovers The New World, although he thought he had discovered India!



Saturday 13th October
Notts School's Cross Country Championship Race 1
10.00am
This race is a open to all children in years 3,4,5,6.  It takes place at Sutton Lawns and is 1500m.  We have competed in this competition ever year since it started and it would be great if we can continue this tradition.  If you wish to take part and represent the school please see Mr Britten for more details.
I can promise better weather than this!


Be Like Mo!  Run for fun, run for fitness, run for your school!

Open Day 11.00am - 3.00pm 

Quiz of the week.
Mo Farah famously won two gold medals at the London 2012 Olympics.  He dedicated his medals to his, at the time, unborn twins.  They were born after the Olympics.  What are their names?

Joke of the week
 I am going to try Chicken Tarka Masala tonight. It’s meant to be like Tikka but this is a little ‘otter!



Tuesday, 2 October 2012

Midweek treat

To demonstrate understanding in English, Year 6 have prepared a learning log.  Katie M's work can be viewed below.  The first part is a poem written by Katie.  The other pieces are part of a larger piece that demonstrates understanding of metaphor, simile and personification.

*If you click on the poem, you will be able to view a large copy of it.







As always, if you want your writing, art work or jokes to appear on the blog - Hand them to Mr Britten and who knows... you could find your work on here!

Sunday, 30 September 2012

Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit


"Rabbit rabbit rabbit" is one variant of a common British superstition which states that a person should say or repeat the word "rabbit" or "rabbits", or say the phrase "white rabbits", or some combination of these elements, out loud upon waking on the first day of the month, because doing so will ensure good luck for the duration of that month. Today, it is a frequent tradition in many English-speaking countries.

Monday 1st October Year 5 and 6 rehearsals 4.00pm -5.00pm

Tuesday 2nd October 1950 The first "Peanuts" cartoon strip was published,


Wednesday 3rd October 1.30pm Friendly Swimming Gala v The Elms


Thursday 4th October This is the first day of World Space Week.  On this day in 1957, the first human-made satellite was launched in to space.  It was called Sputnik 1 and it opened the way for space exploration.


Friday 5th October Under 11 Netball, Under 9 + Under 11 Football v Plumtree Away

Quiz of the week
Last week's answer was Finnish and was correctly answered by Mrs Venn.  This week is a Peanuts related question. What is the name of the piano playing character in the cartoon strip?

Joke of the week
A guy walks into the doctor's office. A banana stuck in one of his ears, a peanut in the other ear, and a carrot stuck in one nostril. The man says, "Doc, this is terrible. What's wrong with me?" The doctor says, "Well, first of all, you need to eat more sensibly."




Sunday, 23 September 2012

Hockey Success

The girls hockey team started the season with a comfortable win against Saville House.  After taking an early lead, Mr Britten saw the game as an opportunity to give everyone a game.  All eleven girls took part and had a chance to play a variety of positions.  The final score was 12-5.

The Under 9 boys football team had their first taste of competition at Old Vicarage.  A inexperienced team coped well against some tough teams and played well throughout.  A win in a group game was the highlight of the afternoon and I'm sure the boys will have gained much from the experience.

This week
Monday 24th September - Tennis 1.00pm, French 3.30pm, Football 3.45pm

Tuesday 25th September - School book sale begins in the main entrance at 3.30pm, Years 3 & 4 have tennis coaching 1-3pm

Wednesday 26th September

10 things you need to know

Here are 10 key things you need to know about the European Day of Languages!
1. The European Day of Languages is celebrated annually on 26 September.
2. It is a Europe-wide celebration of language and culture involving 47 countries.EDL Council of Europe logo
3. It is an initiative organised by the Council of Europe.
4. It is coordinated in the UK by CILT, the National Centre for Languages.
5. 2011 is the 10th European Day of Languages.
6. The first European Day of Languages was held in the European Year of Languages in 2001.
7. It has a European website - http://edl.ecml.at/
8. It's a celebration of all languages, not just European ones.
9. Everyone can get involved! Take a look at our suggested activities for more ideas on how to celebrate.EDL character - kareoke singer
10. It's brilliant fun!

Year 4 are going on a school trip to Yorvik


Under 9 Girls Netball tournament at Old Vicarage

Thursday 27th September

It's Denis Lawson's birthday today!  Born in 1947.  65 years old today!
If you don't know who he is... watch this!

Denis played the character Wedge Antilles in three of the Star Wars films.

Friday 28th September
Year 5 &6 Lacrosse Training.

Joke of the week

Luke and Obi-Wan are in a Chinise restaurant and Luke's having trouble with his chopsticks. Finally, Obi-Wan says, "Use the forks, Luke."

Quiz of the week

Hyvää päivää is hello in which language?




Sunday, 16 September 2012

Week Beginning 17th September


After the first whole week back after the holidays, we have our first sports fixtures of the season.  The Under 11 girls will be taking a trip to Saville House for a friendly game of hockey.  The under 9 boys will be taking part in a football tournament at Old Vicarage.
Remember, if you want to be considered for any team at Salterford you will need to come to training.

Mon 17th
 Today is Yuji Naka's birthday.  Who? I hear you cry!  He is a very famous computer programmer.  He is the creator of Sonic The Hedgehog.
Tue 18th
Year 6 Meeting 7PM
Wed 19th
2pm Hockey Match @ Saville House
U9 boys Football Tournament (6 a-side) v Old Vicarage
Thu 20th 
Fri 21st On this day in 1937 "The Hobbit" was published.  


Joke of the week
Q: What is a hedgehog’s favourite flavour of chips? A: Prickled Onion! 

Quiz of the week No one got the answer right last week :( 42.195 kilometres (26 miles and 385 yards) was the answer.

This week's question is related to The Hobbit.  In the story, what is the name of the dragon?

Sunday, 9 September 2012

Week beginning Monday 10th September

Welcome to the first full week of term.  Salterford children will be back on timetable and homework will begin!


Monday 10th September At the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, Abebe Bikila becomes the first sub-Saharan African to win a gold medal, winning the marathon in bare feet.




Tuesday 11th September 

Wednesday 12th September 490 BC – Battle of Marathon: The conventionally accepted date for the Battle of Marathon. The Athenians and their Plataean allies, defeat the first Persian invasion force of Greece.



Thursday 13th September

Friday 14th September 1741 – George Frideric Handel completes his oratorio Messiah




Quiz of the week
Each week there will be a general knowledge question posted on the blog and printed on the notice board.  A red square will be given to the child with the first correct answer.

How far is the modern marathon?

Joke of the week
Q. What is a runner's favourite subject in school ? A. Jog-raphy !

Get involved
It would be great if children could get involved with the blog.  If you have any jokes, questions, pictures, poems etc you would like to see on here, please give them to Mr Britten.

Thursday, 21 June 2012

Cranedale Day 4

Return of the mac


Cranedale Day 4


North Yorkshire Moors

The weather forecaster said rain would begin at 7.00am and continue throughout the day. How often do they get it right? Unfortunately, very often.

It rained, then it rained and then it rained some more. Would this put us off having a good time? Maybe a little but it was very difficult to tell.

After a 45 minute journey we arrived at the North Yorkshire Moors. We knew we were there because there was a sign post telling us where we were. It was a good job the sign post was there because it was so misty, we could barely see anything else.

The initial part of the visit involves walking down a “dry” river bank known locally as a Griff. The Griff at the top of the hill is quite shallow. To measure the height of the Griff our guide, Chris, used Georgia as a measuring stick. The first measurement was 4 Georgias. As we continued down the Griff, the depth became greater. When we were 15 Georgias deep we stopped for refreshment.

A plant which grows in the banks of the Griff is called sorrel. It is a pleasant looking, green plant with heart shaped leaves. Chris waxed lyrically about is refreshing qualities and pleasant taste. Each child tucked in and described the sorrel using words such as bitter, sour, apple flavoured and lettuce like. Still, it was better than nothing and after consuming a handful we continued our journey down the valley.

The rain continued to fall and some of us found out about the waterproof qualities of our clothing. Mr Britten, wearing a Cranedale centre purple “waterproof”, had so much water in his pockets that he was considering offering a hand washing station for all the children who discovered the delights of the “outdoor toilet” Soon, the dry Griff became full with the sound of running water – thank you boys. Francesca and Isobel complained about the boys’ natural advantage in the toilet department. However, James P informed the group that he had the same problem as the girls due to his fly-less trousers. On hearing this, the cry of “Too much information James!” could be heard for miles around. Fortunately, this was only heard by Salterford Children. No one else was mad enough to be on the moors on a day like today.

Once we reached the bottom of the Griff we found a stream. It was just after twelve and Chris decided that this was the perfect location for lunch. Idyllic on a summer’s day – cold, wet, sitting on plastic sheeting, eating soggy sandwiches for us! Despite all the rain, no one complained!

After lunch the weather changed. It was no longer just raining; it was absolutely throwing it down. It was obviously the perfect time to study wildlife in the stream. The children manfully collected, identified and recorded a variety of nymphs, shrimps and flies. Who would crack first?

Some quotes from the afternoon

James S “I’m cold, wet, miserable and “this close” to crying!

Georgia “I’ve got Granny hands!”

Rosie “I like most things but this is ridiculous!”

Anna “Do you think my denim rucksack will keep my sandwiches dry?”

James P “Can’t we go back the long way?”

Everyone else “Shut up James!”


With no obvious signs of improvement; a decision had to be made. Would we continue with the fieldwork or would we cut the activity short and head back to the centre, like a pack of wimps, for hot chocolate and classroom based study. I have to report that the hot chocolate was delicious.

Tonight is our last evening at the centre. The children have a lesson in the classroom with microscopes followed by moth catching. It is still raining at the moment so I’m not sure how many moths we will catch.

Wednesday, 20 June 2012

Cranedale Day 3

Cranedale Day 3


Sustainability in farming

After the excitement of last night’s football, there were a few tired looking faces around the breakfast table this morning. This didn’t prevent the children from consuming a man mountain of breakfast items. I’m not sure Mr Britten’s new policy of changing from Frosties to Special K is going to make that much difference in the total calorie count.

The morning was spent with Ruth who is a farmer. She runs a mixed farm with her 70 year old father. Ruth explained to the children about the different crops grown on her farm and about the difficulties faced by farmers in areas with poor soil and exposed land. As well as growing wheat, barley and corn, Ruth also breeds English Longhorn cows.

Most of the animals are sold for breeding although some are sold to the supermarkets for meat. These were mainly castrated males who are sent for slaughter at two and a half. After a tour of the fields the children were able to ask questions which Ruth answered openly. Apparently, bulls become steers at an early age using a rubber ring! Some of the boys are now determined to avoid the local swimming pool.

Lunch was eaten at the farm and our time at the farm finished with a game of fetch with a very friendly collie called Sweep.

The afternoon was spent studying the local ecology and the children were able to count plant species, measure various weather conditions and study insects under a magnifier. Rosie collected so many snails that we may be able to recreate dinner in Normandy this evening. Even Alex, who was convinced everything was going to kill her, joined in and survived the day.

A lot of the learning at the centre is reinforced with fun activities. Today, we had a worm charming competition which was won by William and Remy. A consolation prize must go to Maddy, Isobel and Rosie who not only charmed 20 worms out of the ground but also had a song and dance routine which seemed to be the secret to their success.

The final game of the day taught the children about the importance of warmth and food during the winter months. The children were each given five nuts and an egg. Their instruction was to warm the egg and hide the nuts. Unfortunately, Harvey misheard the introduction and was nearly arrested for indecent exposure before Ben could scream “No Harvey, warm the egg not the nuts!” The game was eventually won by Isabella who provided food whilst keeping her egg the warmest. William collected by far the most food but neglected to care for his egg and it perished in the cold. Multi-tasking not being a skill most males possess.

After the heroics of the English football team – not to mention the myopic referee – most of the children are looking forward to the next match. Tonight, it’s back to normal with an evening activity. The children will be taking part in some team building activities and traversing across a course of low ropes.

Last bit. We have a few more misconceptions to add to Monday’s list. All these were said today by certain nameless children.

1. Leaves make wind.

2. Bulls get lonely in a field full of females.



Despite these setbacks, the children continue to impress us. Their effort, intelligence and behaviour has been first rate all week and I’m certain will continue to be so.

Tuesday, 19 June 2012

Cranedale Day 2

Flamborough Head


After a quiet evening, the children were out and about early this morning ready for breakfast. Each day breakfast is served at 8.15am and the children begin activities at 9.15am. This sounds reasonable to all I’m sure. Rosie didn’t agree and was prepared to snarl at anyone who attempted a conversation with her. Obviously not a morning person.

Breakfast was a variety of cereal, toast, croissant, bacon, sausage, egg, hash browns, beans and juice. How Mr Britten managed to eat it all is a mystery.

Today was mainly spent at Flamborough Head. It is the perfect location to learn about coastal erosion and also has plenty of opportunity to learn about eco-systems on the wave cut platform. If this sounds all very educational, I can also write in more child friendly language. Flamborough Head is the perfect location to hunt for crabs in rock pools, climb through caves and eat ice cream!



Weather today was very sunny. The purple rain coat has yet to be seen. The forecast is good until Thursday afternoon so we may get to see it on the moors.

The crabs were fairly tricky to find especially for some of the girls – Isabella, Isobel, Georgia and Alex who complained that the seaweed was too wet, the rocks too slippery and the crabs too nippy. Many of the boys attempted to encourage them with insults such as “stop being such girls” but this didn’t seem to bother them at all.

James S, amongst others, has a new word – beast! It’s a perfect example of how language changes with the generations. In the past everything was cool, wicked, mint, fab, brill, groovy, bad, sick etc. It basically depends on your age. Now everything is beast. No idea why, but there it is. I’m sure next year a new word will have replaced it. By the way, if you are over the age of 30, don’t attempt to use the word “beast” unless you want to deeply embarrass either yourself or your children.

After the crab hunt, the children had their lunch on the beach. Each day, there is a choice of five different sandwiches. The children select one of the sandwiches and these are ready for collection in the morning. There is a little bit of flexibility with the sandwiches e.g. mayo or no mayo. No salad was on every selection! I’m sure, by the end of the week, some of our more fussy ones will be choosing bread no tuna, no mayo, no salad, no butter.

The afternoon was spent looking at and sketching some coastal features. Stacks, arches, caves, cracks and geos were all spotted and made notes on. Georgia was very honoured to find out that a coastal feature had been named after her.

We then drove up to Bempton Cliffs. This is an important site for the RSPB and is very popular with bird watchers. The children were given a pair of binoculars each and set off in search of puffins, razorbills, fulmars and a type of cormorant popular with school children everywhere. (Look it up if you don’t know what I’m talking about. We didn’t manage to spot any of those birds but did see all the others. Normally, the puffin is the most exciting bird we see but today was different. For the first time ever at Bempton, a peregrine falcon has decided to nest there. Many birdwatchers had spent the whole day watching the nest and allowed the children to look at the falcon using their high powered equipment. After the excitement of the falcon, we went and had an ice cream to calm us down.



This evening is a free choice evening. Some children are studying sea creatures in the labs, some are writing a diary, some are helping with recycling and some are watching England vs. Ukraine. I’ll let parents guess which choice their child has made. Except Mrs Wellings who will be pleased to read that Ben is determined to find out the difference between hard and soft shelled crabs.

Monday, 18 June 2012

Cranedale Day 1

Cranedale


Day One

The annual year six trip to the Cranedale environmental studies centre began today. The children arrived at school bright and early carrying enough clothes to last a fortnight.

The journey to the centre was fairly uneventful, apart from an impromptu stop for the toilet at a garden centre. Unfortunately, a coach load of octogenarians had the same idea so there was a bit of a queue at the ladies.

We arrived at the centre just after eleven and were given a guided tour of the facilities and found our rooms. The children quickly unpacked and were then given a packed lunch consisting of a sandwich, crisps, cake and a variety of fruit.

Unlike previous years, we were met with bright sunshine. Sitting in the courtyard, eating our lunch, was most pleasant. Suntan cream and short trousers were the order of the day.

The afternoon activity was orienteering. The children were sorted into pairs and set off individually to find various markers around the site. This was a friendly competition which was eventually won by Remy and Isobel. Their team name was the “Royal Surfers” – No idea why?

Evening meal was served just after six. The food at Cranedale is always exceptional and tonight was no exception. Vegetable soup with a roll, jacket potatoes, sausage, beans, cheese and a cherry crumble.

During the day a few gaps in the children’s knowledge have become apparent. These were, of course, dealt with immediately but did provide a bit of light relief.

1. Someone who travels to work in a car is a communist.

2. The North Yorkshire Moors National Park is an acronym of Nymph.

3. Dubai is part of Europe.

I’m sure, as the week progresses, this list will lengthen ;)

Previous readers of the blog will be pleased to hear that the purple waterproof is back. Hopefully, it won’t be needed but you never know. Mr Britten has remembered his towel this time although Miss V has forgotten her waterproofs, sun cream, glasses etc. despite bringing four bags!

More tomorrow…

Thursday, 24 May 2012

Salterford Guide to Triathlon


This Week at Salterford guide to Triathlon
A triathlon is a multi-sport event involving the completion of three continuous and sequential endurance events. While many variations of the sport exist, triathlon, in its most popular form, involves  swimming, cycling, and running in immediate succession over various distances.
This week, 12 members of Salterford got to experience a triathlon.  At an event ran by http://www.britishtriathlon.org/take-part/events/tata-kids-of-steel the children swam, cycled and ran with gusto and completed the course and were awarded a medal and goodie bag for their efforts.

Triathlon is an Olympic event.  At London 2012 there will be two triathlon races (men/women) and Great Britain has an excellent chance of a medal - even Gold.

Men's and Women's Triathlon
1.5km Swim
43km Cycle
10km run

These will take part at Hyde Park.  The largest of London’s Royal Parks, Hyde Park has been open to the public since 1637.



In the men's event, GB will be represented by three athletes.  Two are these are likely to be brothers.  Jonnie and Alastair Brownlee are two of the top triathletes in the world.



Alistair Edward Brownlee (born 23 April 1988) is an English triathlete who is the reigning, and back-to-back, ETU European Triathlon champion and a two time Triathlon World Champion having regained the title he first won in 2009 in 2011 in Beijing.

Jonathan Brownlee (born 30 April 1990) is a professional English duathlete and triathlete. Brownlee is the two time and reigning World Sprint Triathlon Champion and is the former Under 23 Trathlon World Champion (2010). In 2011 he finished second in the world following the conclusion of the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series in Beijing.


Helen Rebecca Jenkins (born 8 March 1984 in Elgin, Moray, Scotland), is a British professional triathlete and the 2008 and 2011 ITU World Champion.