DEAR PARENTS
It has certainly been a very busy fortnight with examinations for the Seniors and Christmas preparations for the Primary pupils.  I do hope you are enjoying your festive preparations at home..

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Our foyer is looking extremely festive this year!  I hope the staff and pupils enjoy the lovely atmosphere that the decorations have created.

EXAMINATIONS
S9, S10 and S11 have now completed almost all of their examinations.  Results will be sent out formally in the New Year.  The results of the NFER CAT tests for J4 and S7 will be returned to us within 28 days; we will then inform you of the results.

KNOWLEDGE BOX
We have recently taken delivery of an exciting new Internet based resource that will be a stimulating educational tool for our pupils, especially those in the Primary Department.  Staff are currently undergoing basic training and we hope to have the system in use next term.  I am sure the pupils will tell you about it!

BOOK FAIR
We held our annual Book Fair in the hall today, with all commission from books sold being shared between departments in the school.  Thank you for your support, and thanks also to Mr Lowey for his organisation.

INFANT PRODUCTION
Our annual Infant Christmas Production will be performed in the hall at 2pm on Friday 7th December.  It is always one of my favourite events – it is a joy to see the excitement in our youngest children as they perform for their parents and friends and the show is always beautifully presented – a visual spectacular!  Tickets are available from the office – all parents and friends are welcome.

CAROL SERVICE
Our annual Carol Service will be held on Tuesday 11th December at 2.15pm at the Romford Evangelical Church, Brentwood Road, Romford.  All parents and friends are welcome, no tickets are required although there will be a collection on the day for the church’s annual charity.  I shall be sending out a separate detailed letter next week.

CHRISTMAS DINNER
We shall be hosting our annual Christmas dinner for all the pupils on Tuesday 4th December.  Please ensure you return the reply slip & payment (if applicable) as soon as possible.  Please note there will be no swimming for the Juniors on that day as they will be rehearsing for the Carol Service.
 
CHRISTMAS QUIZ……
Watch out for our first Raphael Independent Christmas Quiz.  Designed by Mr Walsh for all the family to enjoy, entry is £1 and there will be a cash prize for the winner. Completed entry forms should be handed to the Office for marking by Friday 11th January, so you have the whole of the Christmas holidays to work out the answers!  Quiz sheets are available from the Office - pick yours up now!

…….AND QUIZ EVENING
A magnificent  £360 was raised at our Quiz Night on the 16th November.  It was a most enjoyable evening and a good chance to get together with friends old and new. Thank you to all those who came along and supported the evening and a special thanks to Mr Howland for setting the questions.

AFTER SCHOOL/HOMEWORK CLUB
Please note that there will be NO Homework Club, or After School Care with Pat Gunning on Tuesday 11th December or Friday 14th December.
Please could you kindly make alternative arrangements for your child.  I apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause.

DIARY
Tuesday December 4th  – Christmas Dinner.
Wednesday December 5th  – Infant Production Dress Rehearsal to Seniors.
Friday December 7th  – Infant Production to parents 2.00pm.
Senior trip to Calais Christmas Market.
Tuesday 11th December – Carol Service 2.15pm.  NO Homework Club/After School Care
Wednesday 12th December – Primary Christmas Party.
Thursday 13th December – Primary Pantomime trip.
Friday 14th December – END OF TERM.  NO Homework Club/After School Care
New Term Begins Monday 7th January at 8.40am.

AND FINALLY……….
Wishing you all a lovely weekend