To help inspire a lifelong love of reading, parents were invited in to see how their children learn to read and to choose a book to take home and keep. Our aim is simple but powerful: to ensure every child has a book of their own and experiences the joy that reading can bring.

Throughout the day, classrooms were filled with exciting activities. From storytelling, reading for pleasure and art linked to favourite stories, the children enjoyed exploring books in many different ways. Reading truly was fun for everyone.

One of the most treasured parts of the week was welcoming parents into school to read with their children. Sharing stories together created a calm and special start to the day and is always a highlight for both children and staff.

Our Thursday assembly was also brought to life, with children and staff dressing up as their favourite book characters. It was wonderful to see such creativity and enthusiasm across the school.

World Book Day reminds us that reading opens the door to imagination. Thank you to all the families who supported the day and helped us celebrate the magic of books.

From assemblies to debates, children were given every opportunity to talk about good mental health. We created safe spaces in the playground for children to talk about things that made them sad or uncomfortable. We learnt that it was okay to feel worried, but how we deal with this emotion is much more important. By talking openly about our mental health, we were able to challenge the stereotypes and reduce the stigma around poor mental health. We know that Ranelagh truly is a school that promotes kindness, empathy and inclusion. What a great place to work and learn!

Where they showcased exceptional talent and teamwork. Year 2 displayed their prowess in batting, bowling and fielding throughout the tournament.Their strategic approach allowed them to win at second place. Well done Year 2!

The CEO of the National Literacy Trust states, ‘Reading is the foundation of a successful life – the key to unlocking potential, strengthening social cohesion, enhancing wellbeing and boosting skills.’ The National Literacy Trust says that reading is linked to a range of benefits including stronger writing skills, improved wellbeing and confidence, as well as increased creativity and imagination. More than anything, it gives you 15 minutes of peace in what I assume is a very busy day.

As a school, we promote children’s love of reading. There is a strong curriculum filled with rich literary books. There is a library in each class.plus a box of Ranelagh Recommends. Alongside this, there is a book hut in the reception area for children to take books that they love and keep them at home.

Children and families enjoyed a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including: Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Café with festive treats, Pin the Nose on Rudolph and many more fun-filled activities. Our Year 6 pupils proudly demonstrated their entrepreneurial skills by planning and running several stalls. Their creativity, teamwork, and confidence were clear to see, impressing everyone with their enthusiasm and responsibility. Under the tree’s lights, our school choir, led by Mr Murdoch, opened the fair with a performance of Christmas carols to mark the beginning of the evening. The support, participation, and positivity shown throughout the event reflects the strength and unity of our school community. Thank you to parents, carers, staff, governors, trustees, volunteers, and pupils who helped make this year’s Winter Fair a great success.

It’s been brilliant to see their confidence in the water grow day by day, showing real resilience and a wonderful sense of enjoyment. Learning to swim is such an important life skill. Developing water confidence and understanding water safety helps children to stay safe and enjoy themselves around water throughout their lives.

If you are looking to build confidence, improve your swimming strokes , float away any stress or  enjoy a swim with your family and friends, more information can be found here.

As part of their geography fieldwork, the Year 6 children are looking at pollution in their local area and coming up with ideas to reduce this. The children have learnt how Greenhouse gases are formed and how these can be reduced. Observing the amount of cars idling was part of the trip, but they had the opportunity to see how town planning works and to observe the solutions the building company has created to reduce Greenhouse gas. Beautiful flowers, new sapling trees and water fountains galore can be seen at Twelve Trees opposite West Ham tube station. It is well worth a look.

One parent, reflecting on the event, said, “The cause is brilliant, and I am happy to help.” Alongside the fundraising, parents had the opportunity to write heartfelt dedications to loved ones affected by cancer and enjoy friendly chats.

It was a lovely morning, full of kindness and community spirit, supporting a great cause.

Children  were taught different techniques to create their own sketches of the arts of work there, and shared their knowledge of primary and secondary colours. The children also had an opportunity to experiment with colour techniques when recreating their sketches with paints.

Despite the clouds and rain, Year 5 took the opportunity to visit The Artist’s Garden on the roof of Temple tube station to explore the sculptures there and to take in the view out across the River Thames.

🐢 EYFS – Saving the Turtles-Our youngest learners explored how small actions can make a big difference. They designed posters with important messages and created turtle ornaments to sell in support of the charity Save the Turtle. 

🐻 Key Stage 1 – Protecting Polar Bears KS1 children became passionate campaigners for polar bears, learning about how climate change threatens the Arctic and sold polar bear cakes to support Polar Bears International.

🌳 Year 3 – Defending the Rainforest Year 3 pupils supported the Rainforest Alliance after learning about the impact of deforestation. They created rainmakers using recycled and natural materials to remind the community that even small steps can make a big difference.

Everyone came to school in non-uniform to celebrate the day and show their support. It was wonderful to see so many bright and spotty outfits around the school!

Thank you to all our families for your generous donations and for helping us make a positive difference.

Year 6 led a moving assembly around Armistice Day culminating in a 2 minute silence to show their respect and gratitude towards those who lost their lives.

As part of their learning about Kings and Queens, the children explored famous monarchs from history. A special highlight of the day was meeting ‘Queen Asantewaa’ of Ghana, wonderfully portrayed by one of our own queens. The children were captivated as they learned about her bravery, leadership and importance in Ghanaian history.

At lunchtime, the hall was transformed into a royal banquet, where our young kings and queens enjoyed a feast fit for royalty. It was a fantastic celebration and a memorable way to bring history to life!

  
A huge thank you to all parents and carers who came along, braved the chilly morning and supported the School Council’s hard work. They are already buzzing with ideas, we can’t wait for their next project!

As usual, Ranelagh was able to send in lots of items - as you can see by the photograph. 

    

Parents and staff alike were blown away by the professionalism, passion, and teamwork displayed on stage. It was a triumphant celebration of all they’ve achieved, a roaring success in every way!

Every year, all of our pupils from Reception to Year 6 participated in Forest School sessions, each one of them growing in confidence and curiosity. Whether it was learning how to build dens, identifying trees, taking part in storytelling circles around base camp, lighting a fire safely or marshmallow toasting around the fire, every child had the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into nature, rain or shine!

The sessions encouraged hands-on learning, problem-solving, and teamwork. Teachers have reported noticeable boosts in children’s confidence, particularly among those who may struggle in more traditional learning environments. “One of my quietest pupils now takes the lead in group activities during Forest School,” said one Year 4 teacher. “It’s incredible to see how the sessions bring out the best in them.”

As we look ahead to next year, we’re excited for another fantastic year of muddy boots, smiling faces, and magical learning in the wild and unforgettable experiences for our young explorers.

The gardening journey began with the children preparing the soil. They worked together to till and aerate the ground, ensuring it was ready for planting. Once the soil was prepared, they carefully planted a variety of crops, learning about the needs of each plant and how to give them the best chance of thriving.

Over the course of the year, the children demonstrated commitment and teamwork by regularly weeding the garden beds and ensuring the plants were well-watered. Their efforts helped the crops grow strong and healthy, and they took great pride in watching the fruits of their labour develop week by week.

This project has not only supported the children’s understanding of the natural world and healthy eating but has also fostered a sense of achievement and community spirit.

Our Annual Summer Fair was a huge success, bringing together the entire Ranelagh community for a day filled with laughter, creativity, and joy! The playground was alive with music, games, delicious food, and smiling faces as families, children, and staff came together to celebrate the end of another brilliant school year.

From traditional games and face painting to, sweet treats, and incredible performances from our talented pupils, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The raffle was popular as ever—thank you to everyone who donated prizes and took part!

We are especially grateful to our amazing PTA, whose tireless efforts made the event possible. Your time, energy, and creativity brought the fair to life and helped create lasting memories for all.

A heartfelt thank you to all the families who attended and supported the fair—we raised valuable funds that will go towards enriching the learning experiences of our children.

 Here’s to community, celebration, and another fantastic year at Ranelagh! 

There was a real buzz of excitement as we cheered on our nominees and celebrated their achievements. We are incredibly proud of the Ranelagh pupils and staff who were recognised for their contributions:

 Outstanding Contribution to School Life
– Iqra (4M4)
– Teah (G1)

 Creativity Award
– Anastasia (6T5) – Winner for the Trust!

 Young Achiever Award
– Eloisa (G3)

 Outstanding Educational Achievement
– Tianna (5T6)
– Emlyn (G1)
– Hasan (RG8) – Winner for the Trust!

 Sport Achievement Award
– Sharmeela (6T8)

 Unsung Hero Award
– Sgt Robert Sewell

 Staff Member Who Enhances School Life Award
– Abdul Miraz

 External Provider Award
– Jeremy Fallows (Aviva Investors)

A huge Well done to all our nominees for their incredible efforts, and a special Congratulations to our Trust winners, Anastasia and Hasan, who represented Ranelagh brilliantly on this prestigious platform.

We are so proud of you all!

After months of virtual sessions, the volunteers joined the children in person for a joyful visit filled with fun activities, laughter and meaningful connection. It was a wonderful celebration of the relationships built through reading and a memorable way to end the year together. 

Although we know it is not the winning that counts but the taking part-we did feel a burst of pride when Ranelagh were in the top 3.

Ranelagh and Curwen joined forces to raise the roof alongside five other Newham primary schools at the Hackney Empire on Tuesday. With a theme of ‘Hope and Harmony’ the children wowed a packed theatre with some sensational singing and dynamic dance moves. With uplifting songs such as ‘Sunshine on a Rainy Day’ and a toe-tapping Bob Marley Medley, it was truly a night to remember. We hope that the children enjoyed their evening as much as the very proud audience did!

We were truly privileged when some of our students had the exciting opportunity to visit Zippo Circus at Central Park. It was a  wonderful day filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

We were amazed by the talented jugglers who tossed balls, rings, and even fire, really high into the air with their dazzling skills. The acrobats took our breath away as they flipped and soared above the ground, while the strongmen, with their muscles, impressed everyone by lifting heavy weights—and even each other!

The big top was bursting with colour, lively music, and lots of applause. The children cheered, clapped, and beamed with delight throughout the show. It was an experience none of us will have for a long time to come!

Our Year 1 and 2 children had a wonderful time at Chalkwell Beach this week. With the sun shining brightly, the day was perfect for adventure and exploration.

The children enjoyed hunting for seashells, spotting cheeky crabs, and paddling in the (very!) chilly sea. There were squeals of laughter, brave splashes, and even a few who dared to dive right in!

It was a magical day full of discovery, sunshine, and shared smiles between children, parents, and teachers. A special thank you to all the adults who helped make the trip such a memorable experience.

The school choir melted hearts with their angelic voices, singing with passion and joy. Year 3 impressed us all with their confident ukulele playing, while Year 6 brought flair and rhythm to the stage with a stunning Flamenco performance.

It was a joy to see every child shine and take pride in their performance. Events like this remind us just how powerful music and the arts are in building confidence, expression, and a sense of togetherness.

The day began with a community breakfast, where children, staff, and guests enjoyed a traditional English breakfast together. This was followed by wartime songs and a variety of engaging, themed activities in the classrooms that helped our pupils understand the significance of this historic day.

We were honoured to welcome Councillor Charlene McLean and James Asser, Member of Parliament for West Ham and Beckton, who joined us in recognising the importance of remembering those who lived through and contributed to the events of World War II.

Throughout the day, the children took part in meaningful activities such as writing letters to veterans, designing posters, writing poems, and exploring key moments in history. Many children proudly wore traditional clothing representing their heritage and made beautiful flags, combining the Union Jack with flags from countries linked to their family backgrounds.

It was a wonderful celebration of remembrance, unity, and learning, and we are so proud of how thoughtfully and creatively the children took part.

Thank you to our community for your continued support in making events like these so special.

Children and staff came to school dressed in their comfiest clothes – from fluffy slippers to cosy blankets – creating a warm and cheerful atmosphere throughout the day. More importantly, your generous donations have helped our School Council move closer to their fundraising goal, supporting a cause that touches so many lives.

It was heartwarming to see our school community come together in such a meaningful way. We’re so proud of our school community for coming together to make a real difference. Thank you for helping us turn comfort into kindness.

There were brilliant discussions with the Year 6 boys about their favourite author - it was a close call between Anthony Horowitz and JK Rowling. They remembered all  the books that they have read in English - Firework Maker's Daughter by Phillip Pullman, When Jessie came across the sea by Amy Hest , 

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales by Jon Scieszka and The Boy in the Back of the Class by Onjali Q.Raúf- all wonderful pieces of literature. Their favourite, at the moment, is High Rise Mystery by Sharna Jackson.

Ranelagh is remarkably lucky to  have a reading curriculum that inspires children to comment on their favourites. This could not be done without the support they have at home and that was seen by the brilliant turn out for Reading week.

World Book Day is about lighting that spark - and by the costumes on show , on both the children and adults, a flame burns.

As Victor Hugo , author of Les Miserables, says’ “To learn to read is to light a fire”

TTLT is a Well Beacon Trust and our schools are always eager to showcase the magnificent things we do to make sure our children are happy and healthy. Each school’s curriculum ensures that physical and mental healthiness is essential. Each school showcases this in a different way : this is what makes our Trust so unique. 

You can imagine our absolute thrill when our schools were asked to be part of ‘Let’s Dance’ - a national campaign founded by Angela Rippon CBE to inspire everyone in Britain to embrace dance as a way to improve their health, connect with others and have fun. 

Ranelagh’s curriculum uses dance in all subjects. They use it as a tool to assess children’s knowledge and understanding . This allows inclusion for all. The children who find speaking and writing difficult can show their knowledge through dance interpretation . Children who find learning easy are challenged by applying and synthesising  their understanding through art forms. That’s the education bit , but ultimately  ‘Learning is Fun’ as many of the pupils at Ranelagh state.

Ranelagh was privileged to have the brilliant stars of Strictly Come Dancing visit the school and see this in all its glory. Dianne Buswell and Kai Widdrington watched with joy, then joined in as children in KS1 showed them the Number Bond Dance ( creating number shapes with their partners to make 10 ) and they watched in amazement as Year 5 showed their science knowledge of the planets and their understanding about the concepts of day and night through dance.This was all filmed for the BBC’s  One Show and aired on Friday 21st February 2025. 

The children and parents were so excited to see their children on the TV . Ranelagh and all the schools in the Trust  are delighted to be part of this wonderful campaign. Dancing can be used in all aspects of the school day and the Trust schools are testimony to this. Dancing makes children happier, healthier and makes learning fun. 

The Gold REQM recognises:

• Inspirational Teaching – High-quality lessons that inspire curiosity and understanding.

• Inclusive Dialogue – Open discussions promoting respect and critical thinking.

• Community Engagement – Strong ties with local faith groups and organisations.

• Pupil Leadership –Children actively shaping the RE curriculum.

• A Vibrant Curriculum – Diverse perspectives and enriching experiences.

“The excellent RE curriculum team led by the RE lead are

supportive of each other and the students and it is clear that

they value the caring environment.”- Assessor

This achievement is the dedication of the staff, pupils and community. Thank you to all who contributed to this success!

This award is important as it belongs to not just the school but to the community as a whole. Throughout the day, pupils, staff, parents and governors alike spoke with passion about what inclusion means to them. 

“We have been blessed to find this school for our daughter”, was just one view of a parent whose child attends the school and how the parent could see how valued her child was in the classroom and in the school.

The pupils talked earnestly about the different programmes offered by the school, the support given to all children and how important the role they play in helping to achieve this.

Staff feel passionate about the inclusive ethos within the school and the assessor noted how all staff work incredibly hard to make sure that all pupils’ needs are met, and pupils make significant progress in their learning.

As a school community, we should be very proud of this accolade, which highlights how each and every one of us are important and included within Ranelagh Primary School. 

Click below to read the IQM 2024/2025 Report in full. Click here

From the week's assemblies to debates, children were given every opportunity to talk about good mental health. We created safe spaces in the playground for children to talk about things that made them sad or uncomfortable.

We learnt that it was okay to feel worried, but how we deal with this emotion is much more important.

By talking openly about our mental health, we were able to challenge the stereotypes and reduce the stigma around poor mental health. 

We know that Ranelagh truly is a school that promotes kindness, empathy and inclusion. What a great place to work and learn!

For more information please click on the link:

https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/families/