2009-08-18 Newsletter

18.08.09

Dear Parents Andover Fire I am sure that some of you will have heard already about the unfortunate fire in the school staffroom. Due to an electrical fault the whole of the staffroom has been destroyed and there is a lot of damage to the main foyer. This happened, it is believed, on Saturday but was not discovered until yesterday morning. This was not a good start to the new term. Mr Sherrit, the cleaning staff and the Clerk of Works worked hard all day yesterday but it is likely the affected areas will be out of action until October. It is very fortunate that the fire was contained and the school has been able to open as normal today. There will be no access to the building through the main door until further notice. It may be possible to speak to clerical staff at the office sliding window but notices will be posted at the front door with guidance. New Pupils and New Staff Several new families have been enrolled at Andover over the holidays and I look forward to getting to know these children. This term we welcome new members of staff as follows: Nursery Mrs Claire Thompson P3 Miss Natasha Travis P7 Miss Caroline Duncan Primary Assistant Mrs Shari Hill Primary Assistant Miss Caroline Ather (Maternity Cover) I am sure all these members of the team will soon feel at home and contribute to the good practice at Andover. Mrs Monika Szymaszek gave birth to a baby girl, Gabriella just before the holidays. Both Mum and baby are doing well and I am sure will be in to visit us before long. Sadly, Mrs West is still on sick leave. Mrs Lindsay will continue to act as Senior Clerical every morning assisted by Mrs Morrow and Mrs Dunbar. I am very grateful to our office staff pulling together and working so hard to ensure the ongoing efficiency in the office. School Health Week The week beginning 24th August will be a Health Week and many activities and visitors have been organised to promote the various aspects of a healthy lifestyle. Details will be sent home in due course. On Wednesday 26th August Fiona Bird from Stirrin’ Stuff will lead cookery sessions and I would very much appreciate some adult volunteers to help clear away / prepare items etc. If you can help out please contact Mrs Lindsay in the school office.

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Help is also required with our after-school clubs which will be starting again soon. If you can help out or wish to organise an activity please let me know. You will be notified about enrolments for after school activities. Uniform As usual you have all endeavoured to send the children back to school with complete Andover uniform. They are looking terrific and a credit to the school. Please, please name sweatshirts and coats. I am dismayed by the amount of property that was left in school unclaimed. There will be a spot check on Thursday and on a regular basis thereafter. Your co-operation in this matter is appreciated. Scottish Executive visit to Andover. On Tuesday 25th, Keith Brown from the Scottish Executive will visit Andover to find out about our Partnership with Parents and view the work of the school. They will be joined by our Assistant Director, Mrs Susan Duff and the Vice Convenor of the Education Committee. We intend to flag up our good practice in working with you and of course the work of the Parent Council. New Pupil Council members will be involved in giving our visitors a guided tour. I am delighted Andover has been selected for a visit and we will take great pride in showcasing how things are done here. School Lunches School lunches now cost £1.70. It would be very helpful if dinner money could be exact if possible as this speeds up the system in the morning. All children having school lunches should check in prior to 8.55am. Best wishes for the new term. Yours sincerely

E.A. Howson Head Teacher

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