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A Year of Excellence

INTRODUCTION

It is with great pride and excitement that we present the highlights of our remarkable achievements throughout the academic year. As educators, we hold dear the belief that every child possesses unique strengths and has the potential to excel in various aspects of life, whether it be academics, arts, or sports. We are thrilled to share that our children have not only performed but have truly excelled in all these areas.

 

Our students have consistently demonstrated their dedication to learning and the pursuit of knowledge. With their thirst for understanding, they have embraced the challenges presented to them, reaching new heights of academic excellence. From mastering complex mathematical concepts to crafting eloquent prose, our children have exemplified intellectual curiosity and a relentless pursuit of educational growth.

 

Creativity has flourished within our school community. Our students have unleashed their imaginations through various artistic expressions, captivating audiences with their vibrant paintings, captivating musical performances, and awe-inspiring theatrical productions. Their artistic brilliance serves as a testament to the nurturing environment we provide, fostering a love for the arts and empowering our students to explore their creative potential.

 

On the field, our young athletes have soared to new heights, pushing the boundaries of physical achievement. With determination, discipline, and teamwork, they have showcased their skills in a range of sports, triumphing in local and regional competitions. Our children's commitment to sportsmanship and healthy competition has been commendable, reminding us all of the power of dedication and perseverance.

 

We firmly believe that education extends beyond the classroom walls, encompassing the holistic development of each child. Our commitment to providing a diverse range of opportunities has allowed our students to flourish in extracurricular pursuits. Whether it be through participating in debate competitions, community service initiatives, or cultural exchanges, our children have demonstrated their ability to thrive in various facets of life, nurturing their personal growth and character development.

 

None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated teachers, support staff, and parents who have worked collaboratively to create an environment conducive to success. Our collective efforts have empowered our children to shine brightly, celebrating their unique talents and nurturing their potential.

 

As we reflect on the achievements of the academic year, we are reminded of the incredible capabilities of our students and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of our students for their outstanding achievements. Together, we celebrate their growth, resilience, and determination.    We look forward to continued growth and success as we embark on a new academic year, providing our students with boundless opportunities to shine.

Inspiring Kindness:

Our school unveils inspirational 'values' banners at Reading University, celebrating the power of kindness

Our school had the incredible honour of being chosen to participate in a prestigious project at Reading University, where our pupils were given the opportunity to design visually captivating banners centred around the value of kindness.   A total of six children, working in pairs, dedicated their time and passion to create three truly remarkable banners. Each pair brought their unique perspectives and artistic skills to the table, resulting in a diverse range of designs that captured the essence of kindness in different ways. 

 

When the selection committee reviewed the submissions, it was immediately evident that our students had created something extraordinary. All three of our school's banners were chosen to be displayed prominently throughout the Reading University campus. This recognition not only showcased the exceptional talent of our students but also highlighted the importance of kindness within the university community.

 

As the banners find their places around the campus, they will serve as a constant reminder of the value of kindness. They will inspire students, faculty, and visitors alike to embrace empathy, extend a helping hand, and foster a supportive environment.  We are immensely proud of the creativity, dedication, and teamwork demonstrated by the six children who designed these remarkable banners. Their artwork serves as a testament to their ability to convey powerful messages through visual means, and it reinforces our belief in the potential of our students to make a positive difference in the world. Through their involvement in this project, they have not only enriched their own educational journey but have also left an indelible mark on the campus of Reading University.   Well done to Morise, Chloe, Stacy, Lily, Eleanor and Moriah.

Defying the Odds :

Our athletics team emerges victorious, triumphing over dominant rivals and claiming first place

Earlier this year, our school's athletics team embarked on a thrilling journey of competition, facing off against formidable opponents from 20 other schools, including athletic powerhouses like Nine Mile Ride, Westend, and St. Paul's, who have a reputation for dominating sporting events.

 

With grit, determination, and steadfast team spirit, our athletics team (Hannah, Nathaniel, Noah, Ella, Kian, Amelie, Euan, Chloe and Sammy),  rose to the challenge, defying all expectations and surpassing even their own wildest dreams. The news of their triumph was nothing short of exhilarating as Gorse Ride Schools emerged as the champions of the entire day, securing the coveted first place.

 

The significance of this victory cannot be overstated. To outperform schools known for their sporting excellence is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of our students. They displayed exceptional skill, technique, and sheer athleticism across various disciplines, and we couldn't be prouder of our young athletes for their outstanding performance. Their commitment to training, their coaches' guidance, and the support of their fellow teammates have undoubtedly been instrumental in achieving this momentous feat.

 

This achievement underscores the importance of fostering a culture of sportsmanship, resilience, and healthy competition among our students. Our school places a strong emphasis on physical education and extracurricular activities, recognising the invaluable life skills and character traits that sports nurture in our young learners.   Our students' success in athletics is not just a reflection of their sporting talent but also a testament to the holistic approach to education we embrace.   As we bask in the glory of this remarkable achievement, we extend our sincere appreciation to our athletes, coaches, parents, and the entire school staff for their support.    Congratulations to all involved - you have made us immensely proud.

Mathematical Brilliance Shines Bright:

Year 5 champions Oliver and Hannah secure first place at Luckley House Maths Competition, inspiring excellence in all

Four brilliant mathematicians from Year 5 embarked on an exciting journey of numbers and problem-solving as they participated in the highly anticipated Maths Competition held at Luckley House School in Wokingham. The stage was set, and our young prodigies were ready to put their mathematical prowess to the test.   Facing a series of stimulating challenges, each team of children had a tight timeframe of just 8 minutes to crack five mind-bending questions in each of the six intense rounds. The puzzles presented were far from ordinary; they required sharp analytical thinking, creative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. However, our students rose to the occasion with unrivalled enthusiasm and determination.

 

A special commendation goes to Oliver and Hannah, whose exceptional skills and mathematical brilliance led them to claim the top spot in the competition. Their dedication, hard work, and exceptional problem-solving abilities were recognised, and they truly shone as bright stars among the galaxy of young mathematicians.    However, it is important to note that each and every participant from Gorse Ride Schools demonstrated incredible perseverance and tenacity throughout the competition. The camaraderie and support among the team members were evident, showcasing the positive and nurturing learning environment fostered at our school.

 

The Maths Competition at Luckley House School proved to be an unforgettable experience for our Year 5 mathematicians. It not only challenged their mathematical acumen but also taught them invaluable lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, and the thrill of rising to meet challenges head-on.

 

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants who represented our school with pride and passion. As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we are reminded once again of the boundless potential within each child, and we eagerly look forward to the many more achievements that lie ahead on their journey of academic and personal growth. Well done to our young mathematicians, Oliver, Hannah, Sammy and Freya - you have made us all incredibly proud!

Unleashing Champions :

Our pupils emerge victorious, securing 2nd place at District Sports among 25 competing schools

The pupils of Gorse Ride Schools have once again showcased their incredible talent and determination, achieving a remarkable 2nd place at the highly competitive District Sports event. In an impressive display of athletic prowess, these budding athletes competed against 25 schools, leaving a lasting impression on the spectators and their peers alike.

 

The outstanding achievements of three exceptional students, Freya, Hannah, and Mia, deserve special recognition for their extraordinary performances. Freya soared to new heights, claiming first place in the high jump event, leaving her competitors in awe with her remarkable leaps. Hannah, a true force to be reckoned with, conquered not just one but two events, emerging victorious in both the 600m race and the long jump. Her incredible speed and agility were a sight to behold. Mia, a rising star in her own right, demonstrated her lightning-fast speed in the 80m race, leaving her competitors trailing behind as she sprinted her way to first place.

 

These remarkable achievements not only reflect the immense dedication and hard work put in by these pupils but also highlight the supportive and nurturing environment provided by Gorse Ride Schools. With a curriculum that values both academic excellence and physical well-being, Gorse Ride Schools instils in its pupils a passion for sports and encourages them to reach for the stars.

 

The success of the Gorse Ride Schools team at the District Sports event is a testament to the collective effort of all the pupils who took part, teachers, and coaches involved. It exemplifies the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship that permeates throughout the school community.

 

Congratulations to all the participants from Gorse Ride Schools for their exceptional performance, and a special round of applause for Freya, Hannah, and Mia for their outstanding achievements. Their success serves as an inspiration to their fellow pupils and reminds us all that with determination and hard work, the sky's the limit.

Unlocking the Power of Literacy:

Key Stage 1 Children Achieve 100% Phonics Success

We are thrilled to announce a momentous achievement as our Key Stage 1 children have all reached an extraordinary milestone by scoring 100% in the phonics screening.  This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of our Year 1 pupils, the commitment of our teachers and teaching support staff, and the support of parents and the entire school community.

 

The phonics screening check is a crucial assessment administered to children in Year 1, which evaluates their ability to decode words using phonics knowledge. It is a foundational step in the development of strong literacy skills, ensuring that our young learners have the tools they need to read and understand texts independently.    

 

The enthusiasm and eagerness of our Key Stage 1 students have been nothing short of inspiring. They embraced the challenge of learning phonics with enthusiasm, soaking up new knowledge like sponges, and applying their skills with unwavering determination. Their hard work and positive attitudes towards learning have been pivotal in achieving this remarkable feat.

 

As each child's progress was monitored, our teachers and teaching support staff provided personalised support and guidance, ensuring that no one was left behind. This individualised attention and tailored support empowered every child to reach their full potential and become confident readers.

 

The resounding success of our Key Stage 1 children in the phonics screening is a clear reflection of the nurturing and inclusive learning environment at Gorse Ride Schools. Our commitment to fostering a love for learning, combined with our dedication to academic excellence, has paved the way for this extraordinary accomplishment.    As we celebrate this significant achievement, we are filled with immense pride and joy for each and every one of our Key Stage 1 children.   Congratulations to our brilliant children for this outstanding achievement.

Flipping to Success:
gymnastic glory as our KS2 Gymnasts clinch Silver Medals in dual competitions at Pinewood, amongst 12 talented school teams

In the Spring term our school embarked on a thrilling gymnastic journey, participating in two highly competitive events at Pinewood alongside 12 other esteemed schools. The collective effort of our budding gymnasts led to a resounding success, as our team achieved coveted silver medals in both competitions.   

 

With hearts full of pride, we celebrated the silver medals earned by our incredible girls, Freya, Pheobe, Erin, Bella, Amelie and Amy. Their achievement reminds us that within our community lies an abundance of talent, waiting to be nurtured and given the opportunity to shine. We are honoured to have such gifted gymnasts in our midst, and we eagerly anticipate the bright future that awaits them on their gymnastic journey.   

 

Both our Y3/4 and Y5/6 teams also celebrated winning silver medals – well done to Isabelle, Madeleine, George, Isaac, Hosanna, Jamie, Julia, Morise, Gianna, Sheryl, Oliver and Finley.

The Victorious Stride:

Our school takes third place in the Cross Country League, celebrating individual and team excellence

The cross country season proved to be an exhilarating journey for our school, culminating in a remarkable achievement as we clinched the third position in the league.   The season was a display of remarkable athleticism and fierce determination, with our students pushing their limits to achieve their personal bests.   Among the standout performances were our exceptional individuals who brought home an array of impressive awards. Tom, a remarkable talent in the years 3 & 4 boys' category, sprinted past the finish line, securing the coveted first prize. Amelie, in the years 5 & 6 girls' category, showcased her extraordinary endurance and skill, earning a well-deserved second prize. Furthermore, Hannah, also competing in the years 5 & 6 girls' category, demonstrated her exceptional running prowess, clinching the first prize. Lastly, Euan, in the years 5 & 6 boys' category, delivered an outstanding performance, capturing the first prize with his unfaltering determination.

 

The achievements of our individual athletes were not the sole highlights of the season. The years 5 & 6 girls' team, in particular, set an outstanding example of teamwork and perseverance. Together, they conquered the challenges, crossing the finish line in resounding triumph. Their exceptional performance earned them the well-deserved first prize in the team category.

 

Congratulations to each and every student who participated in the cross country league this season. Your remarkable achievements have exemplified the true spirit of sportsmanship, resilience, and determination. Through your incredible efforts, you have showcased the strength and talent that resides within our school.

Celebrating Sporting Brilliance:

Hannah L's extraordinary triumph at District Sports unveils a rare and exceptional honour

The arrival of the District Sports trophies brought a delightful surprise to our school community, as we discovered that Hannah L., one of our exceptional athletes, had been bestowed with an extraordinary award. The prestigious accolade recognises her outstanding sporting ability, a distinction rarely given and reserved only for individuals who truly embody excellence. To be selected from among the entire Wokingham community is a remarkable achievement in itself, underscoring the magnitude of Hannah's talent and dedication.

 

Hannah's sporting prowess extends far beyond the boundaries of our district. Her accomplishments extend to the Berkshire School Games, where she emerged as the second overall female, standing tall amongst a pool of exceptional athletes. This achievement, alongside her success as the top girl overall in our cross country league, further solidifies her position as a true force to be reckoned with in the realm of sports.

 

The entire school community joins together in celebrating Hannah's extraordinary achievements. We are privileged to have Hannah as a shining example of the immense talent that resides within our school.

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