Headteacher's Newsletter

12^th December 2025

Headteacher’s Newsletter

Dear Parents, 

Advent

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

During the third week of Advent, we will focus on joy as we continue preparing for the coming of Jesus. In school, we will explore what joy really means and how each of us can bring it to others. We will think about noticing the good around us, celebrating each other’s achievements and sharing happiness through kind words and actions. We will look for chances to make others smile, help classmates and show gratitude for the people and things we have in our lives.

In the classroom and on the playground, we talk about joyful choices like praising a friend for their effort, sharing exciting news, and joining in activities with a happy and positive attitude. As we light the third Advent candle, we will remind the children that joy grows when we spread it to others, and that every day gives us an opportunity to make our school a brighter, happier and more caring place for everyone.

Reception Nativity and Year 4 Christmas Performance

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

We very much enjoyed the Reception Nativity and the Year 4 Christmas performance this week. The children had worked hard in their rehearsals, and they were beautiful and moving as they shared the Christmas story. It was wonderful to see them remembering and celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. We were very proud of their enthusiasm and effort. All performances were recorded and made available to purchase as a download, allowing family and friends to enjoy these special moments too.

Reading Ambassadors

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

On Monday, a group of our Reading Ambassadors visited Altrincham Library to share stories with younger children during a special seasonal Story Time session. They read a range of Christmas books with confidence and enthusiasm. Librarians and parents praised the children for their maturity and reading skills. They represented our school with pride and let their light shine! Well done children!

Year 3, 4, 5 and 6 Christmas Service Monday 15 December

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

When: Monday 15 December

Where: St Vincent’s Church Altrincham

Time to arrive: 6:00pm

Time service starts: 6:30pm

What to wear: School uniform

Children in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 have been practising for the Christmas Service. Year 6 will be leading the prayers, while Years 3, 4 and 5 will support with the singing, helping to create a joyful and prayerful atmosphere. The service will be a beautiful celebration of the Christmas story, filled with music, prayers and moments to reflect on the meaning of Christmas.

As usual, at the end of the service, we will have a Christmas collection for local hospices, as a way of remembering and supporting others during this special time of year. We look forward to welcoming families to join us in this Advent celebration.

Christmas Holiday Club: It’s Back — for One Day Only! Monday 22 December

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

We are very excited to announce that our Christmas Extravaganza Holiday Club is returning for one magical day on Monday 22nd December! Get ready for a day bursting with festive fun, games, crafts and Christmas magic, the perfect way to kick off the holidays in merry style! From sparkling activities to joyful laughter, it’s going to be a day to remember! The children have so much to look forward to lots of activities listed on our activity planner.  Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out! Please email us on sunshine@stvincentsnursery.com Book your spot now and let the Christmas countdown begin!

SEND Link Newsletter December 2025

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

Please see the Winter edition of the SEND Link Newsletter:  SEND Link Newsletter - Winter 2025.

In this issue there are:

• Tips to help you manage the festive season
• Info from Advocating Together (STEP), and their Christmas Parcel Project
• EHC Team Communication Practice Standards
• Read all about SEND Week of Action 2025
• Introducing Trafford Out Loud – our new SEND Youth Forum

We also have our SEND What's On which includes upcoming activities, events and training.

We wish you all a safe and happy festive season. May your home be filled with love and the magic that makes your family so special. 

What’s On Guide

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

The Winter issue of Raring2go! Altrincham & Sale magazine is now available. The magazine includes useful information about local events, clubs, festive days out and more

Please follow the link to find out what’s on:  https://bit.ly/R2GAltrincham-Winter25

Reception School Places- September 2026 Applications

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

As the local birth rate is currently very low, we have a higher number of Reception places available for September 2026. For this reason, we are actively welcoming applications from all families to St Vincent’s.

Places are available both within and outside our usual catchment area, and we also warmly welcome children who may not be Catholic but who support and appreciate our school’s values. If you, friends or family are applying for a Reception class place for September 2026, please ensure the following steps are completed:

• State your school preference via Primary School Admissions on the Trafford website (trafford.gov.uk) or your local authority where you reside. Please be aware that the deadline for Reception place applications is 15 January 2026
• Bring or send the completed supplementary application form along with a copy of the baptismal certificate, if appropriate to, to the school infant office.

Further information can be found on the admissions page of the school website or please do not hesitate to contact our admin team on 0161 911 8040 (infant department) or email admissions@stvincents.trafford.sch.uk  if you have any questions about the admissions process.

Whole School Dates List

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

The key dates have been set for the academic year. On the list, you will see the date, event and location. The full list can be seen on this link St Vincent's Catholic Primary School Trafford: Key School Events and Dates and Autumn 2 dates can be seen below:

AUTUMN 2

Attendance and Punctuality

School Values: Make a Difference Be Passionate about Learning Be Kind Be Respectful

Please note that holidays in term time are not authorised. Before booking any trips, we ask parents to check our term dates to ensure holidays are arranged within the designated school breaks.

You can view the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 term dates here:

St Vincent's Catholic Primary School Trafford: Term Dates and Times of the School Day

We warmly welcome parents to ask about school life. Your first point of contact is your class teacher. In addition, Mrs Farrell (infant deputy) and Mrs Sutton (junior deputy) and I are available to work in partnership with you to support your child’s learning and wellbeing. We value open communication and welcome all to work together for the benefit of all our pupils.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs A Harrop

Headteacher