Latest News
Keep up to date with all the latest news happening in school at the moment.
-
Infant Challenge Partners QAR Report 2024
Mon 26 Feb 2024I am sharing some wonderful news about our infant school's recent participation in the Challenge Partners review. This rigorous evaluation process has provided invaluable feedback on our educational practices, particularly focusing on Physical Education (PE), Phonics, and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). With immense pride, I report on the outstanding outcomes we have achieved.
Firstly, I am pleased to announce that our EYFS Area of Excellence was validated during this review. This achievement directly reflects our dedicated staff's commitment, hard work, and innovative approach to early education. Their efforts to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for our youngest learners have been acknowledged and celebrated.
The review's overall Peer Evaluation has recognised our federation as Leading in all examined areas. This includes Leadership at all levels, the Quality of Provision and Outcomes, and specifically, the Quality of Provision and Outcomes for Disadvantaged Pupils and Pupils with Additional Needs. Achieving a rating of Leading across these critical areas is a testament to our inclusive ethos and our determination to provide exceptional educational experiences for all children.
Challenge Review Evaluation
Leadership at all levels - Leading
Quality of provisions and outcomes- Leading
Area of Excellence- Accredited
Excelling in the Early Years: Innovating EYFS education at Mount Stewart
Overall peer evaluation estimate -Leading
This recognition from Challenge Partners is a significant accolade for our federation. It highlights the effectiveness of our curriculum and the excellence of our teaching practices and underscores our collective commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in education. We are motivated more than ever to continue our pursuit of excellence, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of educational development and maintain our reputation as a leading federation where every child can thrive.
I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible staff for their unwavering dedication and hard work. I also want to thank our students for their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, and of course, you, our parents, for your ongoing support and commitment to our community. Together, we have created a vibrant and inclusive environment that fosters learning and development for every child.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we look forward to building upon this success. We are excited to enhance our educational offerings further and continue providing an environment where every child can succeed and flourish. I encourage you to read the report attached.
Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Your support and engagement are crucial to our success, and we are eager to continue this journey together, achieving even greater heights in the future.
-
Exciting New Developments at Mount Stewart: A New Playground for Reception!
Wed 21 Feb 2024Exciting New Developments at Mount Stewart: A New Playground for Reception!
Mount Stewart is thrilled to announce an exciting new development that promises to bring smiles and joy to our youngest learners and the entire school community. In our continuous effort to enhance the educational experience for our children, we have partnered with Pentagon Play, leaders in creating dynamic and educational play spaces, to design and construct a brand-new playground specifically for our Reception class.
A Space Designed for Learning and Growth
Set to commence the week of March 25th, with completion aimed over the Easter holidays; this project is a testament to our commitment to providing a holistic and enriching learning environment for our students. The new playground area has been thoughtfully designed to challenge our children, offering them more space for child-led play and exploration. Carefully planned areas will link directly to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, supporting our children in achieving their developmental milestones.
The new playground will feature a range of equipment and zones tailored to nurture physical, intellectual, and social skills, ensuring that our children can learn and grow in a fun, safe, and stimulating environment. From climbing structures that encourage physical development to imaginative play areas that foster creativity and social skills, this playground will have something to engage every child.
A Unique Opportunity for Our Children
An exciting aspect of this project is the opportunity for our children to witness the transformation of their play area. This real-world observation will be a source of excitement and offer educational value, giving them insight into project development and the importance of safety and planning in construction.
Community Involvement and Updates
Recognising the importance of community involvement, we invite parents and the wider Mount Stewart community to engage with this project. While the outdoor area will be temporarily closed during the construction phase, we will ensure to keep you updated on progress and provide alternative arrangements for drop-off and collection as needed.
To give everyone a glimpse of what's to come, we have prepared a special presentation accessible through a QR code provided in our communications. We encourage parents to view this with their children, sparking conversations about the new play area and the adventures that await.
A Bright Future Ahead
This project marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to create an enriching, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment for all our students. We believe that the new Reception playground will enhance our children's daily experiences and serve as a symbol of our vibrant, forward-thinking community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Mount Stewart community for your continued support and enthusiasm. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a future where our children can thrive, learn, and play in ways that will shape them into confident, curious, and compassionate individuals.
Stay tuned for more updates, and here's to a bright and joyful future at Mount Stewart!
-
Mount Stewart Federation's Young Entrepreneurs Lead by Example with Successful Fundraising Initiatives
Fri 09 Feb 2024Mount Stewart Federation's Young Entrepreneurs Lead by Example with Successful Fundraising Initiatives
The Mount Stewart Federation is abuzz with pride and excitement as our young entrepreneurs from Year 5 have shown the world that determination, creativity, and a heart for giving back can make a substantial difference. Through their innovative groups, 'Origami Masters' and 'Tuckshop Mania,' these students have embarked on a mission to support various charitable organisations, turning their entrepreneurial ventures into a force for good.
Origami Masters: Crafting Change with Every Fold
The 'Origami Masters,' a group of talented Year 5 students including Shayan, Max, Rohan, Reyan, Viyan, Rian, Ani, and Surina, took to paper folding with a purpose, raising an impressive £128. Their initiative, which involved creating and selling intricate origami pieces, was more than an artistic endeavour—it was a call to action to support those in need. The proceeds have been generously split, with £64 going to St. Luke's Hospice and another £64 to Children with Cancer, in a touching tribute to Rhea, a beloved member of our community whose legacy continues to inspire.
Tuckshop Mania: Snacking for a Cause
Not to be outdone, 'Tuckshop Mania' saw Year 5 boys Saiyan, Alexis, Eddie, and Yanis turn a simple idea into an impactful fundraising event. By managing a tuck shop sale, they invested £53.25 of their own money into goods, selling them for a profit of £101.85. Their personal contributions boosted the total raised to an admirable £155.10. The dedication and business acumen displayed by these students highlight their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to giving back to the community meaningfully.
A Unified Effort for Global and Local Impact
The combined efforts of the 'Origami Masters' and 'Tuckshop Mania' have culminated in a significant contribution to several charities, including Sufra, UNICEF, St. Luke's Hospice, and Children with Cancer: Running for Rhea. This initiative reflects the Federation's ethos of fostering a sense of responsibility, compassion, and community service among its students.
Celebrating Success and Looking Forward
The Mount Stewart Federation extends its warm gratitude to all students, staff, and community members who supported these initiatives. The success of the 'Origami Masters' and 'Tuckshop Mania' is a testament to what can be achieved when young minds are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute to their communities.
As we celebrate these achievements, we are reminded of the powerful impact of collective efforts and the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and philanthropists. We look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence and community service inspired by the remarkable efforts of our Year 5 students.
A massive thank you to everyone involved, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the Mount Stewart Federation as we continue to make a difference, one project at a time.
Mount Stewart Federation
Inspiring Excellence, Empowering Futures
