Ash Class Inspire, nurture and challenge 

Although Christmas preparations continue apace, the learning has not stopped in Ash Class. The children are excitedly counting down the days and the anticipation is palpable but we are trying to maintain some normality as we reach the final full week.

In maths, the children have been using base 10, or dienes, to work out the tens and ones – ones used to be called units – in two digit numbers. They have been so excited about this learning and even started chanting “we want more maths!” last week!

In English we are working on “life story books”, in which the children are sequencing significant events in their lives. We have had a lot of impromptu discussion about all sorts of grammatical features including common and proper nouns. Their thirst for learning always amazes me.

As a final part of our learning about Petworth, Mr Costello from the Petworth Society came to visit the class, bringing with him some fantastic photos of Petworth in the past. It was very exciting to see some of the changes that have occurred in town and lots of questions were asked. Mr Costello was excited to learn how many of the children were second or third generation Petworthians and was delighted to have the opportunity to engage them in the history of the town. We thank him for taking the time to come and talk to us. Lots of things can be learned on the internet, and in books, but sometimes the experience of a real person is unbeatable!

We look forward to seeing you at the performances next week, and at Petworth House on Monday the 17th.