Download July’s full newsletter
As we reach the end of another busy half term, it is clear just how much our pupils have achieved and enjoyed in recent weeks. From sporting successes to exciting trips and brilliant performances, it has been a fantastic end to the school year at Kniveton.
A busy half term full of enrichment
The past half term has been packed with enrichment opportunities and exciting learning experiences for pupils across the school. Sporting events have continued throughout the term, with pupils taking part in a wide range of activities and tournaments.
Years 1 and 2 successfully completed their Scootability and Balance-ability sessions, while Year 6 rose to the challenge of their Bikeability course. Key Stage 2 pupils have also taken part in rounders tournaments, demonstrating great teamwork and sportsmanship.
Amazing wildlife trips and excellent behaviour
One of the biggest highlights this term has been the fantastic class trips to wildlife parks. Class 1 pupils enjoyed an exciting visit to Peak Wildlife Park, while Classes 2 and 3 travelled further afield to Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
Pupils had the chance to see animals up close, including meerkats, wallabies, lions and even polar bears. Everyone had a wonderful time, and staff were extremely proud of the exemplary behaviour shown throughout the trips.
A message from school leadership
As the newsletter is written, the Headteacher reflects on nearing the end of their first year at Kniveton. It has been an eventful and rewarding year, and the school community has played a huge part in making it such a success.
A heartfelt thank you is shared with families for all the support given over the past year, and there is a strong sense of excitement about the plans and opportunities ahead for September.
Celebrating brilliant results
We are incredibly proud of our pupils for their excellent outcomes in recent statutory assessments. Positive results have been achieved across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, including phonics screening checks, end of key stage assessments and multiplication checks.
The Foundation Stage results have also shown strong progress, reflecting the hard work of both pupils and staff and giving everyone plenty to celebrate.
Exciting fundraising support from Broughton Heath Golf Club
We are delighted to share some fantastic news: Kniveton C of E Primary School has been selected as the Captain’s Charity choice for the year by Broughton Heath Golf Club in Church Broughton.
This means that funds raised through raffles, auctions, charity days and other events will be donated to support our pupils, particularly around wellbeing. The school is extremely grateful for this generous support, and we look forward to seeing what exciting opportunities this will bring.
The club’s Captain’s Day was also a great success, including an auction, a Q and A with former Derby County player Ted McMinn (also known as “Tinman”), and teams competing throughout the day.
A farewell to Mrs Gorman
This July we will be saying goodbye to Mrs Gorman, who will be leaving on 24th July after almost 22 years at Kniveton. Over the years she has had a huge impact on countless children and families and has been a much-valued member of staff.
Although we will be sad to see her go, we wish her every happiness in her next chapter, and we are delighted that she will still be returning to school for supply teaching. Thank you, Mrs Gorman, for everything you have done for Kniveton.
A brilliant performance from Class 3
Huge congratulations to our Class 3 pupils for their fantastic production of The Wrong Way Round. The show was a tremendous success and reflected many hours of rehearsals, learning lines, singing, dancing and preparing costumes and scenery.
We are incredibly proud of every pupil involved for their effort, confidence and teamwork. Well done, Class 3!
Supporting school through Friends of Kniveton
A huge thank you goes to the Friends of Kniveton (FoKS) for their continued dedication and fundraising support. This term they have helped organise and fund a number of brilliant events including the Summer Fayre, an inflatable day, wacky hair days and cake sales.
The school is extremely lucky to have such an enthusiastic and supportive group of parents helping to enrich school life.
Safety first with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue
Pupils in Years 1, 2, 5 and 6 recently welcomed Derbyshire Fire and Rescue into school for an important visit. Abi delivered sessions focused on keeping safe at home and helping children understand how they can protect themselves and others.
Pupils took part brilliantly, showing excellent behaviour and thoughtful participation throughout.
Additional updates at a glance
- Attendance remains a key focus, and holidays during term time may now result in a local authority fine under updated guidelines.
- Summer term attendance was recorded at 93.8%.
- From September, the school will move to a new communication platform called My School App, replacing Parentapp.
- Families are encouraged to follow the school on Facebook and check the website for updates: https://knivetonprimaryschool.co.uk/
- Safeguarding leads are Mrs Popple (DSL) and Mrs Gorman (Deputy DSL).
- FoKS welcomes any new volunteers, please contact Jo Burrows or Camilla Tosney if you would like to help.
- Key diary dates for Autumn term 2025 include:
- 4 and 5 September – INSET days
- 8 September – children return to school
- 17 September – school photographs
- 10 October – Hello Yellow day
- 22 October – Year 6 Bikeability (Level 1)
- 24 October – break up for half term and FoKS non-uniform day (£1 donation)
- 3 November – return to school
- 15 November – Children in Need
- 10 December – pantomime visit