Remember, this is just a summary. The full newsletter is here.
Happy New Year and welcome back to a new term at Kniveton! After a wonderfully busy autumn term filled with celebrations, performances and special events, we are looking forward to an exciting spring term with plenty more enriching opportunities planned for the children.
As always, thank you to all families for your continued support. It makes a huge difference to our school community and the experiences we can offer pupils throughout the year.
Forest School sessions return this half term
We are delighted to share that Forest School sessions will be recommencing for all children this half term. Following recent work to fell trees and clear the site, the area is now much safer, more accessible and ready for outdoor learning.
Class 1 will enjoy a half-day Forest School session every week, while Class 2 and Class 3 pupils will take part on a fortnightly basis. All sessions will take place on Thursdays, and we are excited to see pupils benefit from these engaging outdoor experiences.
Celebrating a busy and memorable autumn term
The autumn term was packed with memorable moments for pupils across the school. From nativity performances and church services to sporting events, class parties and theatre trips, it was a wonderful end to 2025.
A special visit from Santa was also a highlight for many children, helping to bring festive cheer and excitement to the end of term.
Choir spreading festive cheer in the community
Our school choir has been busy sharing their wonderful voices beyond school, spreading joy across the local community. Pupils raised an impressive £120 for charity through carol singing outside Marks and Spencer in Ashbourne, and also performed at Ashbourne Lodge Care Home.
It is fantastic to hear that the children are keen to continue singing in the community, and we are very proud of their enthusiasm and generosity.
Welcoming new members of the governing body
We are pleased to welcome new members to the Kniveton governing team. Matthew Mellor and George Smythe-Dillon have joined as governors, and Amy Flynn-Smith is now the new Clerk to Governors.
We are also delighted to share that Paul Heaney has become Chair of Governors, with Doug McConnachie as Vice Chair. Thank you to everyone involved for supporting the school.
Farewell and good luck to Reverend Phil
This term we also say goodbye to Reverend Phil, who is moving into a new role. Reverend Phil has played an important part in learning and worship at Kniveton, and he will be greatly missed.
Church services will continue in our beautiful village church, and we look forward to maintaining this important part of school life.
Additional updates at a glance
- Forest School sessions will take place on Thursdays; please ensure children bring named wellington boots, spare clothing and waterproofs in a named bag.
- A new procedure is in place for after-school collection: children collected after 3:30pm will be charged for After School Club.
- Autumn term attendance was 95%.
- Holiday absences during term time will not be authorised, and late arrivals can disrupt learning (doors open at 8:45am).
- All school communication is now via My School App; families are asked to ensure they have access.
- Children should bring healthy snacks only (no sweets, chocolate or crisps); fruit will be provided if an unhealthy snack is brought in.
- FoKS volunteers are always welcome; please contact Jo Burrows or Camilla Tosney if you can help.
- Key spring term diary dates include:
- 21 January – Church Service (9:15am)
- 22 January – Celebration worship
- 23 January – KS1 Fundamentals tournament (Ashbourne Leisure Centre)
- 3–10 February – Book Fair after school each evening
- 13 February – break up for half term and FoKS non-uniform day (£1)
- 5 March – World Book Day
- 16 March – INSET day (no children in school)
- 25 March – Church Easter service (9:15am)
- 26 March – Parents evening
- 27 March – break up for Easter and FoKS non-uniform day (£1)