Welcome to Torfield School

Each term at Torfield, our children enjoy lessons built around carefully chosen, high‑quality texts. This ensures that all pupils experience a rich range of literature across a broad selection of genres, including fiction, non‑fiction, poetry and plays. Although many of our texts are set in advance each year, we always a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } Each term at Torfield, our children enjoy lessons based around a carefully chosen text. This ensures all our pupils benefit from accessing high‑quality literature across a broad range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and plays. While most texts are set each year, we always leave one term’s choice open so that our school community can select a book they feel is important for our pupils to enjoy. Last year, we chose a new book, The Café at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please, and we are proud to see that it was such a hit in our school that one pupil chose to celebrate World Book Day by coming to Torfield dressed as Glumfoot, one of its characters. Another pupil chose to dress as Hilda from Luke Pearson’s Hilda and the Hidden People. This was an exciting choice, as it is a new book we do not yet have in school—and it may even become one the children study next year. Today’s optional costume day has been just one part of our week‑long World Book Day celebrations at Torfield. Other activities have included book hunts around the school, tours of book‑themed classroom doors and, of course, lots and lots of opportunities to enjoy books and reading! keep one term open for a text chosen by our school community. This allows pupils, families and staff to help shape our reading curriculum by selecting a story they feel is important for our children to enjoy. Last year, the community chose the beautiful new book The Café at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please. We were delighted to see how much our pupils loved it, so much so that one pupil chose to celebrate World Book Day by arriving at school dressed as Glumfoot, one of its main characters! Today’s optional costume day has been just one highlight of our week‑long World Book Day celebrations at Torfield. Other activities have included book hunts throughout the school, tours of our book‑themed classroom doors, and of course, plenty of time spent enjoying books and reading together.

This week, we ended the term in style with our annual Dance Showcase, where each class took to the stage to share the dance techniques they’ve been developing in their PE lessons. It was a wonderful opportunity for pupils to perform, celebrate their hard work, and enjoy the excitement of presenting their learning to an audience. From our younger learners exploring simple rhythm and movement, to our older pupils demonstrating more complex choreography and control, the showcase highlighted the clear progression of skills throughout the school. Watching how pupils’ coordination, confidence and creativity have grown from year group to year group was truly impressive. The atmosphere was full of energy and enthusiasm, and it was fantastic to see children taking part, supporting one another, and showing pride in what they have achieved. Events like this not only celebrate physical education but also help pupils develop teamwork, resilience and a love of performing.

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } To mark Safer Internet Day, all pupils have taken part in age‑ and stage‑appropriate lessons and activities focused on using the internet safely. A key theme this year has been the safe and responsible use of AI, helping pupils understand both the opportunities and the potential risks associated with new technologies. At Torfield, we recognise that keeping children safe online is a vital part of our safeguarding role. Online safety is therefore taught regularly throughout the school year—not just on Safer Internet Day. Pupils are supported to use technology safely, responsibly and confidently as part of their everyday learning. To help you continue these conversations at home, class teachers will be sharing class‑specific ideas and resources on Class Dojo. Please remember that if you ever need support or advice—particularly around setting up safety controls on new devices—staff at Torfield are always available to help.

Don’t worry – we haven’t posted this picture upside down! This week, pupils from Oceania Class took part in an exciting and highly active circus skills workshop, giving them the opportunity to try a range of new physical activities in a fun, inclusive environment. Led by experienced instructors, the session introduced pupils to a variety of circus disciplines and each activity was carefully adapted to ensure that all children could participate, succeed and be challenged at their own level. The workshop broadened our pupils’ experiences of physical activity beyond traditional sports by exploring alternative movement skills, pupils developed key aspects of being active, such as balance, coordination, agility and core strength — all essential foundations for lifelong participation in physical activity. Importantly, the session also promoted confidence, resilience and perseverance. Pupils showed great determination as they mastered techniques that were completely new to them. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience and left feeling proud of their achievements — and perhaps a little like circus stars themselves!

As part of our science curriculum, Oceanian Class began the new term with a visit to Bedgbury to observe seasonal changes in nature. This is regular visit at the start of each term, gives the children the opportunity to see firsthand how the natural world transforms throughout the year. Today’s visit was particularly special. Bedgbury was beautifully icy, offering the perfect setting for a true winter observation. It provided an ideal backdrop to deepen their understanding of how plants and wildlife adapt during the colder months. These visits are an important part of our learning journey, helping pupils connect classroom science with real-world experiences. We look forward to seeing how Bedgbury changes again when we return in spring!

We are delighted to announce the release of our latest school newsletter, capturing all the wonderful events and achievements from the autumn term. This edition is packed with stories, photos, and updates that showcase the hard work and creativity of our pupils and staff. One of the standout features is a detailed look at our festive Christmas celebrations. It was truly a magical week filled with joy, community spirit, and memorable performances. For those who couldn’t attend in person—or simply want to relive the magic—videos of the performances are available on Class Dojo. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this term so special. We look forward to an exciting spring term ahead!

We are proud to announce that Torfield has been accredited with the Sounds-Write Silver Award as part of the Sounds-Write Schools Accreditation Programme. This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to delivering the highest quality phonics education, ensuring that every student develops the essential skills needed to become confident readers and writers. What the Award Means Strong leadership in phonics teaching: The Silver Award acknowledges the dedication and expertise of our staff in leading phonics instruction across the school. Consistency and fidelity: We have worked hard to ensure the Sounds-Write programme is delivered with accuracy and consistency. Ongoing improvement: Our team remains committed to continually refining our practice to achieve the best outcomes for all students. Looking Ahead This achievement reflects our dedication to continuous improvement in literacy education. We will continue to build on this success, striving to provide the very best opportunities for our students to thrive. For more information about the Sounds-Write programme and resources for parents and carers, please visit the Sounds-Write website.

Oceania Class treated the school to a very special assembly this week. Miss Booth’s class shared the wonderful art work they have been creating while studying the artist Laurel Burch and her vibrant, colourful pieces. All the children in Upper Key Stage 2 have been learning about Laurel Burch this term as part of our art curriculum, which aims to introduce pupils to lesser-known artists alongside more established names. What made Oceania’s assembly extra special was how the children led the whole school in a live drawing session, showing everyone how to recreate Laurel Burch’s distinctive style. The result was a hall filled with fantastic artwork!

We’ve had a wonderful day celebrating Children in Need!  Events like Children in Need are about more than just fun—they help our pupils understand the importance of charity, empathy, and supporting those in need. Learning to give and contribute fosters a sense of responsibility and kindness, values that will stay with them for life. It also helps children feel connected to their wider community and appreciate that even small actions can make a big difference. Being part of a nationwide event gives our pupils a sense of unity and belonging, showing them that they are part of something bigger than themselves. These experiences encourage teamwork, gratitude, and the belief that together we can create positive change. Thank you for all your generous donations and support for such a worthy cause. 

Today, pupils and staff at Torfield School came together to mark Armistice Day with a series of thoughtful and creative activities that honoured the memory of those who have served and sacrificed in conflicts past and present. Pupils engaged in a range of classroom activities designed to help them understand the significance of Remembrance Day. In one class children made their own poppies, using a variety of materials to produce beautiful and heartfelt tributes. Ahead of Remembrance Sunday we held a  whole-school assembly, where pupils learned about the history of Armistice Day and the symbolism of the poppy. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families who generously donated to the Royal British Legion. Your contributions will go a long way in supporting veterans and their families, and we are incredibly grateful for your kindness and support. At Torfield, we believe it is vital to help our pupils understand the importance of remembrance and to foster a sense of respect and empathy for others. We are proud of how thoughtfully our pupils engaged with this important time.  

Please see the attached flyer inviting you to join a closed group (for Torfield parents only) focusing on parenting children with SEND. In the past, parents have found these opportunities really useful to come together with other parents in similar situations and facing similar difficulties. This is open to any of our parents from Reception through to year 6. You need to be available to attend all of the sessions and they will take place at our Croft Road site. The course is run by the parenting team, who usually operate from the family hubs so we are really pleased to be offering this to parents and carers in the school. If you would like to book onto the course, please either use the details on the flyer or alternatively you can message Mrs Love via Class Dojo and she will book you a place.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donations of food items for our Harvest celebrations this term. Your kindness and support have made a real difference in our community. The donations were proudly showcased during our special Harvest Assembly, where pupils reflected on the importance of sharing and helping others as well as learning about where food comes from and the important role of farmers. Following the assembly, a class delivered the collected items to our local food bank. The staff at the food bank were incredibly grateful and expressed how much these contributions will help families in need. Thank you once again for your continued support and generosity. You are helping to make a positive impact beyond our school gates.

At Torfield, we view our personal development curriculum as just as important to a child’s growth as our academic curriculum. We measure and celebrate pupils’ success in personal development through our Rainbow Awards, and each week we choose one pupil to receive the Rainbow Star of the Week. This recognition may go to a child who has made exceptional progress, as identified during the class’s pupil progress meeting, or to someone who has truly stood out by embodying a particular Rainbow Award value. This week’s Rainbow Star of the Week is a pupil who showed what it means to Be a Good Friend. On the first day back, he greeted his classmates with a friendly smile and a warm welcome as they came through the gate. By being a good friend, this pupil helped ensure that everyone in the class started the new school year feeling welcomed and supported at Torfield.

We are delighted to share with you our Summer Newsletter, a showcase of all the exciting experiences and achievements the children enjoyed during Terms 5 and 6. We hope it brings you joy as you read through the highlights of the summer term.  

The sun was shining and spirits were high as children at the Parker Road site of Torfield School celebrated a fantastic Sports Day filled with energy, laughter, and teamwork. For the reception children in England Class, this was a particularly special occasion—it was their very first Sports Day at Torfield! It was a joy to see them enjoying all the different activities and games on offer. We’re already looking forward to many more Sports Days to come with them! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents and carers who came along to support their children. Your encouragement and presence made the day even more memorable, and it was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the afternoon together.

Asia and Oceania classes embarked on an unforgettable journey to London’s West End to watch the spectacular Matilda the Musical—a perfect complement to their current literacy topic. The trip was not only a celebration of their hard work in class but also a powerful way to bring literature to life. From even before the curtain rose, the children were captivated. Seeing Matilda’s courage, Miss Trunchbull’s menace, and Miss Honey’s kindness on stage helped the children connect more deeply with the characters they’ve been reading about in class. The experience also offered a unique opportunity to compare the book with its theatrical adaptation. Pupils were able to compare how the story was interpreted for the stage for the first time. Beyond the story itself, the children learnt about the many careers that make a production like Matilda possible. From lighting and sound design to costume, choreography, and stage management. This the trip opened their eyes to the incredible teamwork and talent behind the scenes and was a valuable insight into the world of theatre and the many paths it offers them. We are incredibly proud to say that the children’s behaviour throughout the day was impeccable. Their enthusiasm, respect, and curiosity were a credit to Torfield. Mr. Dobson and Miss Booth were absolutely beaming with pride, and rightly so. We would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who supported the trip, especially as it extended beyond the usual school hours. Their time, care, and commitment ensured the day ran smoothly and safely, making it a truly memorable experience for all.

Pupils at Torfield’s Croft Road site enjoyed another fantastic Sports Day this year, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and plenty of smiles. Each class took part in a variety of events they’ve been practising during PE lessons, including hurdles, sack race, egg and spoon race, and—for our upper Key Stage 2 pupils—sprints. It was wonderful to welcome so many parents and carers to the event. Their support and encouragement created a brilliant atmosphere and helped make the day feel like a true celebration. At Torfield, we’re committed to helping all our pupils enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle and, where appropriate, experience the benefits of competitive sport in a supportive and inclusive environment. We are proud of all our pupils and how well they engaged with today’s activities. Next week, it’s Parker Road’s turn! We’re looking forward to seeing the England, Scotland, and Wales classes enjoying their own Sports Day, packed with games, activities, and just as much fun.

Following the half-term holiday, Torfield’s pupils enjoyed an inspiring Enterprise Week, with classes learning more about the wide range of job opportunities available to them as adults. We were delighted to welcome special visitors from the police and fire brigade, who spoke to classes about careers in their services and how they help keep people safe. Pupils learned about fire safety, tried on real firefighter gear, and even had a go at using the hose! The firefighters shared stories about their work and answered lots of curious questions from our enthusiastic young learners. Officers from the local police also visited to talk about their role in keeping the community safe. Children explored a police vehicle, learned about the different tools the police use, and discussed the importance of kindness, responsibility, and helping others. Our older pupils also gained insight into the various jobs adults carry out within the school. Each child had the opportunity to ‘shadow’ a member of staff for the day to learn more about their role. Some chose to help younger children at Parker Road, others assisted our IT technician, and one even joined Mr. Preece to help make important decisions about the future of the school. Supporting our pupils’ future employability is a key aim at Torfield, and we hope that Enterprise Week has inspired them to discover a career they will love.

You may have seen on the BBC news website that there is an inter-school golf tournament taking place in Hastings today. I am very proud to say that Torfield is being represented by our team ‘Torfield Tornadoes’ with the support of Mr Dobson and Miss Massey. We hope they have lots of fun!

Today marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a moment in history that symbolised the end of the Second World War in Europe and the triumph of peace, unity, and resilience. At Torfield, classes came together as a community to commemorate this significant milestone with activities of remembrance, learning, and celebration. Including a very popular tea party!