Gems News

Read on to find out what we have been up to in Gems this week.
Our final newsletter of the year and what a great year it has been.
I feel particularly sad, as I write this, and look back on a brilliant two years working in Gems. It will be a huge wrench, but I know the provision is in very good hands and the SRP will continue to be a happy, productive place, where the children are placed at the front and centre of all we do.
We are excited that four pupils will be starting Y2, two will transition to Y1 and most excitingly, we get to welcome two new boys in YR. We are also delighted that Tarnia Houllier, who knows all the Gems pupils well, will be taking over as our lead.
We said goodbye to James Burton, who begins his teacher training and Jo Balaram, who will work in YR. They have both been incredible staff members and have given everything to ensuring our young people are safe, educated and happy. They will be sorely missed but we are excited for their new adventures.
Our year ended on a high with our trip to Hobbledown. Pupils navigated a taxi journey, new setting, biblical rainstorms, meerkats, and still came home smiling. We loved the animals, soft play and interactive play stations. As a staff team, we were proud to see a level of independence and maturity form our pupils, particularly when it came to waiting, talking to the staff, engaging with the public and following instructions.
It's been an exceptional year and I thank all Gems staff, pupils and families for helping me on this journey.
Have a great summer.
Please email jrigby@vineyard.richmond.sch.uk with any queries and the Gems team will be happy to help.
Please continue Phonics work at home if you can. There is no expectation to know all phonics. All pupils are on a journey, and we want them to work at the pace that suits them.
We also recommend “reading for pleasure” as much as possible. If stories are too difficult, even just looking at the pictures and seeing what their attention is drawn to, is great for developing concentration and awareness.
We find that LittleBig Foxes, Number Blocks and RWI songs on their websites are a great source of fun and education.