Dear Families and Friends,

It is now one week until our PTA Summer Fayre. Thank you so much for your generous donations so far, they are hugely appreciated. If you were unable to send items in on Friday, we would still be delighted to receive them. There is also plenty of help needed to make this another fantastic event, so do get involved if you can. Our raffle tickets are already proving popular, with the chance to win some superb prizes. It promises to be a wonderful afternoon for all.

On our recent non-uniform day, I had a memorable conversation with some of our younger pupils. Seeing me without my usual suit, one child exclaimed, “Mr Restall, you look like a dad!” They were quite right. With Fathers’ Day this weekend, it is a good moment to reflect. As a father, I know I am far from perfect, and I suspect many would say the same. Yet we are reminded that, whatever our experience of earthly fathers, we have a perfect Father in heaven, one who is constant, loving and faithful. As it says in Matthew 7:11, “how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him”. That is a comforting truth to hold on to.

Looking ahead, our plans for September are beginning to take shape. One important change will be a new catering partner. This will affect how parents order meals for their children, so please keep an eye out for further information in the coming weeks.

One of the highlights of this week was seeing our children perform their Oliver! medley at the Whitley Bay Playhouse. What a talented group we have. It was especially lovely to welcome back an ex pupil who joined them on stage. It is a wonderful reminder that once you are part of the St Bart’s family, you are always part of it. If you know anyone who would like to join our school family, particularly in Nursery this September, please do spread the word as we still have a few places available. You could say we are always happy to say, “consider yourself” invited.

Class photographs were taken on Tuesday, and we encourage families to place orders as soon as possible.

The World Cup is now underway, and England have begun their campaign with an entertaining win. Here is hoping for many more moments to cheer about.

Finally, with warmer weather forecast this week, please ensure children come to school prepared. Sunscreen should be applied before arrival, hats are encouraged, and children should bring plenty of water, no juice or fizzy drinks please.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Yours sincerely,
Mr Restall & The St Bart’s Team