Early Years & Primary Weekly Updates (20/2 - 24/2)

Dear Parents

This week, Nicola Davies, zoologist and author from the UK, visited BVIS. She worked alongside our teachers and our children and expanded their minds. She focused on storytelling on the theme of Animals and Sustainability with years 1 to 3. With years 4 to 7 she conducted a series of writing workshops. We are very fortunate to be able to provide such rich and inspiring experiences for our pupils and our school community.

It is our intention that Nichola’s visit will inspire our pupils to produce great writing, and also to read and read. For every great writer was first a great reader.

It is never too early to start reading with your child. A pregnant colleague of mine and her husband are already reading to their child in the womb (there is research supporting this). I can remember reading poetry to my new-born son and him listening calmly and intently.

Nor is it ever too late. My 11-year-old daughter and I are currently relishing reading retellings of great plays by Shakespeare together every few days, and I hope that this will continue for years to come. In fact, reading aloud can be a shared pleasure into adulthood and old age. So, I hope that my daughter will read to me when my hair is white and my eyes are weak.

One thing that is certain is that reading expands your vocabulary, your experience, your knowledge, your understanding, your ideas, and your enjoyment of life. It makes you and your child wiser and more thoughtful. It helps us to see the world from a wide range of perspectives and this can teach us empathy and humility. TV cannot get you into the mind of another to the extent that reading can.

It is important to choose the right text for the interests of the intended audience; the right moment free from competing demands; and the right environment for relaxed alertness.

I find that a comfy sofa when the rest of my family are settled to quiet activities works better than in the kitchen, when a meal is being prepared or a noisy debate is underway.

I wish you a great weekend. I know what I will be doing…

Warm regards
MALCOLM WOOD
HEAD OF PRIMARY