December 2008 Stradbroke Monthly Article

I start with a piece of sad news; you may have noticed that another of the willow trees at the front of the school playground has had to be removed. Thank you to all of you in the village who alerted me to the fact that the tree was infected with “honey fungus”. Although not poisonous unless eaten in large quantities, the tree had died and did need to be removed- sad news as the willow tree is our school emblem. On a happier note the children recently had a visit from Dr. Ken, a very talented Scientist. Dr. Ken performed an “Entertaining Science Circus skills” workshop for each class and rounded off the day with a science show. It was a really enjoyable day, good for promoting Science and showing the children how much fun this subject can be. We were able to book pantomime to be performed in school from school funds this year, a touring production of “The Snow Queen”. Rehearsal of our own Christmas productions are underway and I have purchased a brand new stage for our budding thespians. A Carol Service has been planned for the end of term at Stradbroke Church. Our brass band will play at the service; it will be a chance to show off the new addition to our band- trombones! It really is a privilege to work with children at this time of year, they become more and more excited as the end of term approaches and it is lovely to share that with them. As this is the last submission before the festive season I would like to wish all the readers of “The Stradbroke Monthly” a very happy Christmas and wonderful New Year.