Dear Parents & Carers / Annwyl Rieni a Gwarchodwyr,

A very difficult week for Rhos Street comes to a close, following the sad death of our colleague and friend, Jill Jackson. Despite the tragic circumstances, the reaction of the school community and the way everybody has supported one another has been notable and is something we can gain great comfort from. As I said in my letter to you all on Wednesday, her roles at the school were wide-ranging and always carried out to the highest of standards. There is now a gulf in her absence. A Book of Condolence is in the entrance area for anyone who wanted to to have a private moment and write a personal message to recognise and remember Jill. We all sympathise greatly with Jill’s family as they grieve. Any details regarding further arrangements that the family wish to share, will be done in due course. Thank you for your messages, emails and offers of help and support. They have meant a lot to us this week.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Bryn D. Jones, Headteacher / Pennaeth

Other than recognize our achievers, and our plans for next week, I am going to wait until the next edition to share news from activities and so forth. Likewise, the twitter account will tweet as normal from Monday.

Achievers – In a poignant service this morning, all classes were recognized for their strength, sensitivity and empathy while dealing with the events of the week. Class awards were also shared with Kaden, ConnieD, ConnieT and Lily. Holly received an Over and Above award, a Welsh award went to Maizie, and a swimming award to Kian. Tiffany has also received a silver award in gymnastics.

Arrangements for Year 2 – Our very best wishes go to Mrs Liddy, who has unfortunately suffered fractures to her leg and ankle after a mishap out running at the weekend, while training to run a marathon. We hope she’s feeling better very soon as she recuperates from her operation. Mrs Jan Hughes has agreed to cover Year 2 in the interim period. Mrs Hughes is well known to the school and has worked with us for significant periods over the last three years and is highly capable. She’s been wonderful with the Year 2 pupils in what has been a difficult week. Of course, we have to also make arrangements to replace Jill in Class 2 and Jayne Mayers has been entrusted with the support role in Year 2 for the time being. Jayne has significant experience of working with Mrs Liddy, so is also highly suited to this role, due to her knowledge of the way Year 2 operates so succesfully. We also have Miss Davies, a student teacher on placement in this class, so have additional support for the pupils.

Parental Consultations – These will commence from Monday.

‘Shwmae Sumae’ – We will on Wednesday be taking part in a day of Welsh activities to promote the use of the language. More news next week.

Urdd Football – Good luck to our squad in the Urdd Football next week.

Site Update – I have received the following information regarding addressing the school field:
“The DCC Grounds Maintenance team will undertake work to improve the shared playing field surface. To take advantage of the good weather, they started Wednesday, by cutting the existing grass to expose the areas that need addressing. They will cut back the hedge between the field and the main playgrounds to avoid the need for other contractors to enter the playing field. Work will then start over the coming weeks to improve the surface of the field when high quality topsoil will be bought onto the site.“
I will as ever, endeavour to keep you updated,