Ysgol Gellifor School

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July 2nd / Gorfennaf 2ail

Dear Parents,

There is a real outdoor feel to the newsletter this week, with news of our Sports day, a visit to the park and to Moel Famau for the Numeracy Trail. The run up to the end of term is always a very busy time and we are all wondering whether we will ever get everything finished in time! Tonight, the Summer Fayre will be held. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us! I hope you can all make it and I would like to thank all the PTA members who have worked so hard in organising the event.

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae'r awyr iach yn thema amlwg yr wythnos hon, gyda newyddion am fabolgampau'r ysgol, ymweliad â'r parc a'r trywydd rhifedd ym Moel Famau. Mae'r cyfnod cyn diwedd y tymor wastad yn brysur ac mae pawb yn meddwl sut yn y byd fydd modd i ni orffen popeth cyn y gwyliau! Heno mae'r Ffair Haf ac rydyn ni'n croesi ein bysedd am dywydd braf! Gobeithio y dewch chi i gyd draw a hoffwn ddiolch i'r gymdeithas rhieni ac athrawon am eu gwaith caled yn trefnu.

Sports Day Fun!

Well the brollies didn't stay up for long! The weather was kind to us and I hope everyone had an enjoyable morning.  The children worked hard at all the activities and really showed team spirit for their respective houses. Famau were the victorious team and took the trophy this year.  They are pictured above holding the Sports Day cup aloft. The fastest Infants were Freya and Adam, the fastest Juniors, Fallon and Tom. It was wonderful to see so many parents and grandparents supporting the pupils!

Years 2 and 3 Numeracy Trail

Years 2 and 3 completed the Numeracy Trail last Friday.  They visited Moel Famau Country Park to carry out some practical maths activities.  They estimated distance, calculated how much wood you would need to make a gate, investigated shape, estimated the number of tadpoles and measured the perimeter of a pond.

Gymnastics Display!

We were treated to a fantastic gymnastic display during the break at Sports Day.

Well done to all the pupils who took part.  It was wonderful to see children from the Reception class all the way up to Year 6 taking part.  Thank you Miss Tami for preparing the children for the display.

Years 2 and 3 Forces in the Park

Years 2 and 3 had fun at the park on Monday morning!  They investigated the forces that happen when they play in the park!

Sad News

Unfortunately I have to end the week with some bad news.  Sadly, last weekend Polo, our school guinea pig passed away.  He was poorly last week and had an operation but he never really made a full recovery.  He is resting peacefully now in Mrs Jones' garden under some trees, one of his favourite spots. Polo had a lovely, happy life with all the pupils at Gellifor.

Achievers

Pupils were presented with certificates for the Welsh Quiz and for the Urdd Athletics. Congratulations to Iestyn who is our Star of the Week!

Football Tournament

A team has been selected to play for Gellifor on Saturday 4^th July at Llanefydd. Would all the boys be at the field opposite the school in Llanefydd at 12.30pm.  Please remember the school football kit.

Tennis

Just a reminder that anyone competing in the tennis competition on Saturday needs to be at Ruthin Tennis Club at 9.30am.

Trips Next Week

Ruthin Craft Centre

Years 2, 3 and 4 will be visiting Ruthin Craft Centre on Monday afternoon.

Oswestry Farm Park

Reception, Yr.1 and Yr.2 will be spending the day at Oswestry Farm Park and McDonalds on Wednesday July 8th. They will need a packed lunch, suitable clothing for the weather and they will be returning to school at 5pm.

Morning of Music

Year 6 will be spending a morning of music at Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Thursday 9^th July.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

June 26th / Mehefin 26ain

Dear Parents,

I can't believe how quickly the term is drawing to a close. This week has flown by. The weather has been very good to us - Years 3 and 4 enjoyed their River Clwyd trip, it was a glorious afternoon for the Infant tea party, we had a fantastic afternoon for our success at the Athletics and Years 2 and 3 are off today on their maths trail at Loggerheads. I would like to thank everyone for their support on Tuesday evening at my presentation. It was wonderful to see so many there and please remember I am always happy to meet with you to discuss your child's education.

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wythnos arall wedi hedfan heibio. Bu'r tywydd yn garedig - mwynhaodd Bl. 3 a 4 eu trip at yr Afon Clwyd, roedd yn bnawn gwych ar gyfer te parti'r babanod, cafwyd prynhawn bendigedig o lwyddiant yn yr Athletau ac mae gan Bl. 2 a 3 eu hantur mathemateg heddiw. Diolch i bawb am eu cefnogaeth nos Fawrth a cofiwch drefnu cyfarfod gyda mi os hoffech drafod addysg eich plentyn.

Vale of Clwyd Athletics - Congratulations Gellifor! It was great to see the pupils working together with fantastic team spirit.  They returned to school with the shield for first place for the ‘B' schools.  Megan E came 1^st in the sprint and both Fallon and Tom W. came 1^st in the sprint and long jump event. The relay team for the boys also came in first place. It was the contribution of the whole team, though, that brought us home the shield! Well done to them all! Fallon took part in the Victrix Ludorum sprint for the fastest runner in Denbighshire and came 2^nd in the competition for girls.

Please could all football, netball and athletics tops be returned to school. Thank you.

Also, we would be grateful if all the leavers' trophies, including music, netball and football, could be returned to school in preparation for this year's service. Thank you

Denbigh's Got Talent - Good luck to our Disco dancers who are competing in Denbigh's Got Talent on Saturday evening. Please meet Miss Lloyd and Mrs Weyman at 5pm.

Summer Fayre  - The Summer Fayre will be held next Thursday at 6 p.m. and all week there will be a list at the entrance to the school of activities the P.T.A. would like your help with on the night. The event looks like being fantastic fun with a bouncy castle, pony rides, welly throwing, barbeque, music and a gymnastics display.  It's going to be a great evening so come along and don't miss the fun!

Years 3 and 4 River Clwyd Trip - The pictures above show years 3 and 4 all kitted out for their river study. They did lots of investigating, which involved measuring and recording.  They had a busy afternoon and ended with a paddle to cool off! A big thank you to Mrs Mayall and Mrs McCabe for all their help.

The next river visit for Years 3 and 4 is on Tuesday afternoon.

Sports Day - Sports Day is on Tuesday 30^th June starting at 9.30am.

INSET Day - Just a reminder that there will be no school on Friday 3^rd July as it is an INSET Day.

Britland Trophy -This year's Poetry and Prose competition has the theme of ‘Moving'.  The children can work on the competition at home but all entries must be brought to school by Thursday 2^nd July.

Year 2 & 3 Trip - Forces in the Park - On Monday morning Years 2 and 3 will be visiting the park as part of their science studies.  They will be looking at forces and gravity.  They will need to be suitably dressed and only need a drink and a snack.

Photographs  - The whole school photograph, Yr6 and Reception group photographs are available to view and order on the school notice board. Orders to be in by Thursday 2^nd July.

Class One Tea Party Project - It was so lovely to see so many parents supporting their children with the gardening/tea-party project.  This week saw the end of the project in Class One.  The children had worked extremely hard to grow their fruit and vegetables and had designed fantastic invitations to give to their parents.  They made cakes and decorated them, designed bunting, made strawberry milkshake and sandwiches and created a vegetable basket with a unique design.  The weather was very kind and the parents were able to see and taste the hard work the children had put into the project. Many thanks to all the parents who attended and supported the children throughout the project.  

Uniform - This year will see a change to the buying procedure for school uniform.  It is now possible to order and try on Gellifor school uniform at R & R Embroidery & Printing Ltd on the industrial estate in Ruthin.  We hope this will be more convenient for you as parents as you will have the opportunity to purchase at your leisure.  Directions to the shop and a price list are attached to the newsletter.

Infant Trip -Due to unforeseen circumstances the Infant trip has now changed. Reception, Year One and Year Two will be visiting the Park Farm in Oswestry and McDonalds on 8^th July. The children will need a packed lunch and will be arriving back at school at 5pm. The trip will cost £10.00 and payment and Form C need to be in by 6^th July.

Clubs - We have a very busy week next week so unfortunately no clubs will be held except for Dance club on Monday. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Tesco Vouchers -Tesco Vouchers need to be sent off next Friday 3^rd July so please ensure all vouchers have been brought to school by then.  Thank you.

Year 6 Transition Day - Year 6 will be attending Ysgol Brynhyfryd for a transition day on Wednesday 1^st July.  They will need to wear Gellifor school uniform and will need to arrange transport to and from the school.

Achievers - Congratulations to our achievers this week who are Max for his fantastic swimming, Bradley for his football and to Steffan for being our star of the week.

Apologies for not including this photograph of achievers from two weeks ago. Congratulations to Joe, Jacob and Scott for playing guitar, Quinten, Bradley and Tom W for football, Matthew for Tae Kwon-do, Thomas for rugby and Nathalie for taking part in the Race for Life.  Freya showed us her brother Oliver's pony design that is being manufactured by a toy company!  Amy and Sian were our stars of the week!

As you may have noticed we have coned off the front area of the school this week at the beginning and end of the school day.  This is for the health and safety of your children and I am pleased to say the parking situation this week has been much improved. I would like to thank everyone for their efforts.

I do understand the difficulty in parking at the school to drop off and pick up your children but hope we can all work together as a team to ensure that the safety of our pupils is paramount.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

June 19th / Mehefin 19fed

Dear Parents,

I really don't know where this week has gone! Monday began with a very excited group of children being waved off on the minibuses to Nant BH. This was followed by a day of observing lessons and conducting interviews with our shortlisted applicants.  I am very pleased to say that we had a fantastic response to our advert and the candidates were of a very high standard. I would like to announce that the successful candidate who will be teaching Years 3 and 4 from September is Mr Richard Monteiro and I have no doubt he will be an excellent addition to our school team!

Annwyl Rieni,

Lle mae'r wythnos yma wedi mynd! Dechreuodd bore Llun gyda grwp cynhyrfus iawn o blant yn gadael ar y bysiau mini ar eu ffordd i Nant BH. Wedyn cafwyd diwrnod o wersi a chyfweliadau gyda'r ymgeiswyr am y swydd athro. Rydw i'n hapus iawn gyda'r ymateb i'n hysbyseb ac roedd yr ymgeiswyr o safon uchel iawn. Hoffwn gyhoeddi mai Mr Richard Monteiro gafodd ei ddewis i ddysgu Blwyddyn 3 a 4 o fis Medi ac rydw i'n siwr y bydd yn ychwanegiad gwych i dîm yr ysgol!

Nant Bwlch Yr Haearn

I would like to say a big thank you to all the pupils, Mrs Weyman and Miss Tami for a fantastic Nant BH experience. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with them all and was proud of the behaviour and attitude of the pupils, which was commented on by the course instructors.  We participated in rock climbing, hill walking, abseiling, gorge walking and orienteering. We also experienced the attack of the midgies! Many of us were bitten but Mrs Weyman definitely suffered the most! Many photographs were taken and I will be uploading them onto the website next week.

Science - Forces - Years 2 and 3 have been busy investigating in science this week. Here they are investigating ‘How does the ramp height affect how far the car travels?'

Forces in the Park  - On Monday 29^th June Years 2 and 3 will be spending the morning at the park looking at push and pull forces and gravity. They will only need a drink and a snack.

Urdd Athletics - Well done to all those who competed in the Urdd Athletics on Thursday. Megan came first in the Yr 3/4 javelin and Ieuan came second for Yr 5/6. Fallon came second in the Yr 5/6 sprint. All relay teams did well, each coming in second position. We are still awaiting some of the other results, in particular the ball throwing.

Sports Day - Sports Day will be held on Tuesday 30^th June weather permitting!

Minibus Update - Our new minibus should be arriving at the end of next week.  It has been purchased and we are just awaiting the addition of the school name and logo!

Years 2 and 3 - Numeracy Trail - On Friday 26^th June Years 2 and 3 will be participating in a Numeracy Trail at Loggerheads Country Park. Pupils will need a packed lunch and suitable clothing.

We would be grateful for a parent helper please.

Class 1 - Tea Party - Class 1 are off to the farm on Monday morning 22^nd June to pick their crops in preparation for their tea party.  They need to dress for the weather and have appropriate footwear.

Parents should have received their invitation from their child to come to the tea party on the school field on the 23^rd June at 2.30pm.

Assembly with Reverend Huw - Rev. Huw joined us for assembly this morning and gave a presentation on his trip to the Holyland. Pupils from Years 1and 2 played the recorders for us during assembly.

Achievers - Congratulations to Bradley and Tom for football, Eleri for becoming champion at Mynydd Delyn Riding Club, Matthew for swimming and Imogen for Tae Kwon-do.

Years 3 and 4 - River Clwyd Trip - Pupils in years 3 and 4 will be visiting River Clwyd, Ruthin on Tuesday 23^rd June as part of their Geography topic.  They will need a packed lunch, suitable clothing and wellies. Also a parent helper please.

Vale of Clwyd Athletics - A team of pupils will be participating in the Vale of Clwyd athletics at Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Wednesday 24^th June starting at 12.30pm. Details to follow.

Year 6 - Year 6 will be participating in sporting activities during an induction afternoon at Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Thursday 25^th June.

Good Luck Max  - Max is competing in the 2^nd leg of the qualifiers for the Welsh National League tomorrow. He is doing extremely well with his swimming and is ranked no. 6 in the breast stroke in Wales for his age group. We all wish him good luck!

Welsh Quiz - Congratulations to those who competed in the Welsh Book Quiz on Thursday! Even after a very tiring three days at Nant B.H. the pupils achieved a fantastic third place.  They performed a play in Welsh, took part in an oral session where they asked and answered questions and a reading activity related to their Welsh studies at school.

A Presentation to Parents - Just a quick reminder that all parents are invited to a presentation in the hall on Tuesday 23^rd June at 7pm.  It will give me the opportunity to share my vision and keep you informed about the planning and preparation for your child's education for the new academic year. It will be a brief, informal meeting with refreshments. I hope you are able to attend and look forward to meeting with you all.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

June 12th / Mehefin 12fed

Dear Parents,

As the closing date for applications has now passed for the post of new teacher for Years 3 and 4, I would like to keep you informed about the selection process. We were very pleased that we received over thirty applications for the post and following a meeting on Monday four applicants have been shortlisted for interview. The interviews will be held next week so I will keep you updated in next week's newsletter.

Annwyl Rieni,

Gan bod y dyddiad cau ar gyfer ceisiadau am swydd athro Blwyddyn 3 a 4 wedi pasio, hoffwn i roi'r newyddion diweddaraf i chi am y broses o benodi. Roedden ni'n hapus iawn bod dros drideg o geisiadau wedi dod i law am y swydd ac yn dilyn cyfarfod dydd Llun rhoddwyd pedwar ymgeisydd ar y rhestr fer. Byddwn yn cynnal cyfweliadau wythnos nesaf felly cewch ragor o wybodaeth yn y cylchlythyr nesaf.

On Wednesday June 10^th Years 5 and 6 visited Theatre Clwyd and enjoyed a day of drama activities on a historical theme. 

They travelled back to the 1960s and the Second World War in a play entitled ‘Yesterday'.  They also participated in a drama workshop.  As you can see we had some fantastic costumes and I would like to thank everyone for all their effort.

P.C. Chris  - On Monday afternoon P.C. Chris dropped in to talk to Years 5 and 6 about diversity.  He gave a very interesting talk about the topic and Mrs Dowell even got him to join in with some dance practices!

Denbigh's Got Talent! - Ysgol Gellifor's disco dancing team and individual disco dancer Emily Lewis will be representing the school and auditioning for Denbigh's Got Talent on Saturday 13^th June.  The competitors need to meet at Twm o'r Nant Theatre at 10am with Mrs Anita Lloyd. Good luck to all!

Clubs - All clubs except for Gymnastics club on Friday are cancelled next week due to the trip to Nant B.H. and the Urdd athletics.

PTA - Summer Fair - The PTA met on Wednesday to make arrangements for the Summer Fair, which is being held on Thursday 2^nd July at 4pm. A chart for donations will be going up soon.  Hopefully the weather will be glorious and lots of fun will be had by all! There will be a Sumo Wrestling competition, bouncy castle, coconut shy, barbeque and lots more!

Swimming  -  From next Friday 19^th June the Reception class children will be swimming.  We would be very grateful if any parents could help with transport.

Congratulations to Matthew! - Matthew won the Special Award for the Denbighshire County Training Band and came second in the slow melody competition. Well done Matthew!

Welsh Book Quiz - Two teams of Year 6 pupils will be participating in the Welsh Book quiz at Ysgol Borthyn next Thursday 18^th June. Good luck to those competing.

Dance Practice - A big thanks to Becky this week for coming in to school to help the different year groups prepare and practise their dance routines ready for the end of term concert.

Our Talented Musicians - Our pupils are making pleasing progress with their music lessons. The guitar players are busy practising with Mr Luke and Jo has been working very hard at his violin lessons.  I dropped in on a very interesting Windband Practice on Thursday.  The musicians were busy practising for their performance at the Summer Fair.  The Pink Panther theme tune is sounding fantastic! I even got the chance to see Fallon and Sam have a go conducting!

Please see Mrs Jones about amended brass tuition bills.

Urdd Athletics - A team of pupils will be taking part in the Urdd Athletics on Thursday 18^th June. Details will be found on the attached sheet for those participating.

Years 5&6 - Nant B.H. - We are all very excited about the impending residential trip to Nant B.H. We will all be busy packing this weekend, plenty of old clothes for our rock climbing, gorge walking, orienteering etc! Staff accompanying the pupils are Mrs Roberts, Mrs Weyman and Miss Tami. We suggest a maximum of £5 spending money and ask that pupils do not bring mobile phones. We will be leaving full of energy at 9.30am on Monday 15^{th June} and returning extremely tired by 3pm on Wednesday 17^{th June}!!

Bag 2 School - Our Bag 2 School collection is due on Wednesday 17^th June.  We would be grateful if those pupils going on the Nant B.H. trip could bring any Bag 2 School donations on Monday.  Thank you.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

June 5th / Mehefin 5ed 

Dear Parents,

The half term was full of practices and rehearsals which culminated in our pupils representing both the school and the county on a national stage in Cardiff at the Urdd Eisteddfod. I feel I must thank all the pupils, families and staff involved for the massive support and huge commitment everyone made to ensure our pupils had such a fantastic range of opportunities.

We are welcomed back to the last half term of the school year with this glorious summer weather and I am pleased to announce that we have this week authorized the purchase of a new minibus for Ysgol Gellifor and I would like to thank everybody involved with the fundraising.

Annwyl Rieni,

Roedd y gwyliau hanner tymor yn llawn ymarferion wrth i'n disgyblion ni baratoi i gynrychioli'r ysgol a'r sir ar lwyfan cenedlaethol yng Nghaerdydd yn Eisteddfod yr Urdd. Hoffwn i ddiolch i'r disgyblion, y teuluoedd a'r staff am eu cefnogaeth anhygoel a'r ymrwymiad enfawr roddodd pawb er mwyn sicrhau bod y plant yn cael cymaint o gyfleoedd gwych.

Rydyn ni'n cael ein croesawu yn ôl i hanner tymor olaf y flwyddyn addysgol gyda thywydd gwych ac rydw i'n falch i gyhoeddi ein bod wedi cael caniatad i brynu bws mini newydd ar gyfer Ysgol Gellifor a hoffwn ddiolch i bawb fu'n weithgar wrth godi arian ar gyfer hyn.

Scarecrows arrive on the farm!  Mrs Weyman was seeing double on the farm this week.  Aunty Jill and her husband had made four scarecrows (without heads), so the children were set the task of working in teams to fix a head to the body.  It was really fun and the children worked very well in their teams.  The children also had the opportunity to taste the fruits of their labour as their radishes were ready.  We also saw the first signs of the strawberries and the lettuce and cabbage are growing extremely well.   We would also like to say a big thank you to Carolyn Threlwall, parent of Alia and Seren, for taking the children on an adventure with goblins and fairies in the wood.  The children made magic potions and wands and scared off the naughty goblins and helped the fairies get their treasure.  We were all very tired after an extremely busy day.  The children will be visiting the garden again on Tuesday and will need a sandwich box and appropriate clothing for either rain or shine.

Dates for your diary -Below is a diary of confirmed dates of activities being held over this half term.

Mrs Weyman Presents! - We are all very proud of Mrs Weyman who was asked to give a presentation to Headteachers of local primary schools on Wednesday.

It was a fantastic presentation all about the excellent practice that is going on at our school in the Foundation Phase.

Tempest Photographer - The Tempest photographer will be visiting the school again on Thursday 11^th June to take a whole school photograph and a Year 6 class photograph.

PTA - A PTA meeting will be held at The Griffin on Wednesday 10^th June at 7pm. 

Theatre Clwyd plus consent form - On Wednesday June 8^th Years 5 and 6 will visit Theatre Clwyd, Mold for a day of drama activities on a historical theme. 

They will be travelling back to the 1960s and also back to the Second World War in a play entitled ‘Yesterday'.  There will also be a drama workshop for them to enjoy which will give them opportunities to use their thinking skills.

We would be grateful for a contribution of £5 towards the trip.

Could parents also fill and return the attached consent form.

Fitness factor - Before the half term break Year 5 enjoyed an interesting afternoon at Ysgol Brynhyfryd as part of a health and fitness research study within Denbighshire.  The pupils took part in a series of aptitude tests, including stamina, strength, speed and agility.  They also had to face the ‘Bleep Test.'

Well done to them all!

Road Safety Conference - Road Safety Officers Nathalie and Sam attended the annual Road Safety Conference at Faenol Fawr, Bodelwyddan on Tuesday June 2^nd.

After School Clubs

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

May 22nd / Mai 22ain

Dear Parents,

It has been an incredibly busy week at school with the pupils working on end of year assessments, our Rainforest workshop from Zoolab and in particular getting ready for the National Finals at the Urdd Eisteddfod, with 31 children travelling to Cardiff and flying the flag for not only Ysgol Gellifor, but also Denbighshire. It will be an experience they will remember forever and one I hope they really enjoy. The standard of competition will be really high, but then the standard of Ysgol Gellifor's competitors is also high.  I'm sure you'll all echo my words in wishing them all the very best of luck!

Annwyl Rieni,

Bu'n wythnos eithriadol o brysur yn yr ysgol gyda'r disgyblion yn gweithio ar asesiadau diwedd tymor, ein gweithdy Fforest Law gyda Zoolab ac wrth gwrs y paratoi am Eisteddfod yr Urdd, gyda 31 o blant yn teithio i Gaerdydd i wifio'r faner nid yn unig ar ran Ysgol Gellifor, ond hefyd Sir Ddinbych. Bydd yn brofiad y byddant yn ei gofio am byth a, gobeithio, wir yn ei fwynhau. Bydd safon y cystadlu yn uchel iawn, ond wedyn mae safon cystadleuwyr Ysgol Gellifor hefyd yn uchel. Rydw i'n siwr y byddwch i gyd yn ymuno gyda mi i ddymuno pob lwc iddyn nhw i gyd!

Zoolab - On Thursday the pupils had the opportunity to experience the Rainforest workshop by Zoolab. They were taught all about the rainforest and had the chance to meet lots of creatures. They saw a large millipede, a snake, a toad, an enormous cockroach and a tarantula (which I wasn't too keen on!!) to name but a few!

Infant School Trip - Due to a difficulty with the Ty Clwyd booking system we were unable to secure the necessary dates for Infant Camp this year.  Therefore, Mrs Weyman has organised a long day trip to Greenwood Forest Centre near Caernarfon on the 8^th July.  The adventure park has the world's only people powered roller coaster, theatres, den building areas and archery, along with other exciting activities.  They will be having a packed lunch for dinner and on the way home they will be visiting McDonald's for tea.  I will be giving out further details, such as times and what to wear, nearer the trip. The price will be £10 per child and will include a McDonald's meal and an ice lolly or ice cream.

Camera and Action! - Children in class one have been very busy this week filming their Science investigations.  The children were finding out what conditions plants need to grow.  Some had no water, another group tried different materials and others found out whether they needed light.  There were some very interesting results and they filmed these using a mini video camera.  Stars in the making!

Congratulations! - Congratulations go to Tobias, Eleri, Matthew, Ieuan, Peter and Gordon for taking part in the Ruthin Town Band Competition.

Tobias came first place in the U10s brass solo and Eleri came second in the U12s brass solo and Matthew was awarded the special award for the U12s.

Well done to them all!

Tennis Sessions with Andreas - Our weekly tennis sessions with Andreas are going very well and the pupils are making very pleasing progress.  This week Andreas brought the nets with him and the pupils had the opportunity to play doubles.

Fitness Factor - Pupils in Year 5 visited Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Wednesday to participate in a fitness session to learn about the importance of keeping healthy.

Whitsun Half Term Holiday - School will be closed this week for the half term Whitsun break and will recommence on Monday 1^st June.

Bag 2 School  - Bag 2 School is a company that specialises in good quality second hand clothing.  A collection will be made from our school after half term so please help us fundraise! All bags collected are weighed and the company pay £200 per tonne. Visit the website for more information: http://www.bag2school.com/

Llanfair Sports Day - Llanfair Sports Day is being held tomorrow, Saturday 23^rd May at 1pm.

Good luck to the boys competing in the football tournament.

Urdd Final Arrangements

Pupils travelling to Cardiff for the Urdd Eisteddfod have been given their tickets and any costumes that they are responsible for bringing.

I would like to thank everyone for their support in arranging transport and accommodation.

Below is a timetable of when we would like the pupils to arrive for the relevant competitions.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

May 15th / Mai 15fed

Dear Parents,

Another week has flown by, bringing us nearer to half term and the Urdd National Eisteddfod in Cardiff.  Next week will be a very busy week with pupils working on end of key stage assessments and on Thursday we have an exciting visit to the school by Zoolab to look forward to!

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wythnos arall wedi hedfan heibio, gan ddod a ni'n agosach at hanner tymor ac Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd yng Nghaerdydd.  Bydd yr wythnos nesaf yn brysur iawn gyda disgyblion yn gweithio ar asesiadau diwedd cyfnod allweddol ac mae gennym ymweliad cyffrous i'r ysgol gan Zoolab i edrych ymlaen ato ddydd Iau hefyd.

Class One  - Class One saw the fruits of their labour with lovely flower displays in the tyres at the front of the school.   Nursery have been very busy finding colours of spring and using their senses to examine all the different types of leaves on the field.  On Tuesday Reception and Year One will be visiting their vegetable garden to water and weed and Forest school will be joining them doing activities based on the theme ‘fairies and goblins at the bottom of your garden'.  Could all children in these two years have wellies, raincoats and a packed lunch.  Many thanks.

Vale of Clwyd Swimming Finals -Boys are champions for 2009 and the girls, who swam with confidence and determination, achieved second place!

We are very proud of the whole team, not only for sporting achievement, but for their sportsmanship, supporting other teams in the area!

Congratulations also to Max who has been selected to represent Denbighshire in the Welsh National Swimming League.

Gymnastics - Congratulations to those pupils who have achieved their A-Z Gymnastics Foundation Award in Bench. They have all received a certificate and badge.

Georgia and Thomas were also awarded medals for their outstanding performance.

Well done to them all!

Race Night Success - A big thank you to everyone involved with last week's Race Night! A fantastic £600 was raised.  We are very grateful for the support given to the event and would like to thank those who couldn't attend the evening, but still sponsored horses and races.  It was wonderful to see so many people from the community.  Thank you all.

Non School Uniform Day - Next Friday 22^nd May will be a non school uniform day.  

Tempest Photography - Photographs were taken yesterday of the children. Please send in your sealed photograph envelopes to school no later than Friday 22^nd May as they will be sent to Tempest on that day.

The whole school photograph and Year 6 photograph will be taken on Tuesday 9^th June.

Urdd, Cardiff - Please refer to the enclosed letter and ensure that it is completed and returned to school on Monday. Thank you.

Football - The A Team and B Team put up a brave challenge against Ysgol Rhos Street on a very dreary, wet Wednesday afternoon.  There was good team spirit shown by all the boys and it was wonderful to see such great support from families and friends and even a cheerleading routine from the girls!

Years 3 and 4 Sandwich Making - Years 3 and 4 have been busy preparing and tasting various sandwiches as part of their work in Design and Technology.

Zoolab - Zoolab offer curriculum based workshops for children.  On Thursday 21^st May all the pupils will be experiencing the Rainforest Workshop at school and we will therefore require a £2 contribution payable on Monday please from each pupil to enable this to take place.

For further information please visit their website.  

http://www.zoolabuk.com/

Years 5 and 6 - Cookery - Wholemeal scones were the wonderful results of this week's cookery lesson! They looked and I'm sure tasted delicious! Do you know I wasn't even offered one!!!

Year 5 - Fitness Factor - On Wednesday 20^th May Year 5 will be attending a Fitness Factor afternoon at Ysgol Brynhyfryd from 12.30 until 3pm. Please refer to the information sent home earlier this week.

Rugby Congratulations - Geraint and Ieuan played their first rugby match for the North Wales U11s team on Wednesday. Congratulations to them both.

Llanfair Sports Day - Llanfair Sports day will be held on Saturday 23^rd May.  We will be selecting a football team for those who are interested and available to take part.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

May 8th / Mai 8fed

Dear Parents,

Hopefully you all enjoyed a long May Day bank holiday weekend! Even though it was only a four day week we have still had a very busy time at school! Class 1 have been off shopping at the Garden Centre, Years 5 and 6 have been cooking again! (I've noticed a distinct aroma of leeks this week!!), tennis sessions have been held and I must say I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to our talented musicians and watching our brilliant dancers and gymnasts.

Annwyl Rieni,

Gobeithio eich bod i gyd wedi mwynhau'r penwythnos hir dros Galan Mai. Er mai dim ond pedwar diwrnod gafwyd rydyn ni wedi cael amser prysur iawn yn yr ysgol! Bu Dosbarth 1 yn siopa yn y Ganolfan Arddio, bu Blynyddoedd 5 a 6 yn coginio unwaith eto (sylwais ar arogl arbennig cennin yr wythnos hon!!), cynhaliwyd sesiynau tenis ac mae'n rhaid i mi ddweud fy mod wir wedi mwynhau gwrando ar ein cerddorion talentog a gwylio ein dawnswyr a'n mabolgampwyr gwych.

Class 1 Off to the Garden Centre!  - The children in Class One were very lucky with the weather again this week.  They visited the local nursery and saw the plants from seed to fully grown flowers. They had lots of questions to ask Mr and Mrs Evans, (the nursery owners) and they searched for artefacts to bring home to remind them of their visit.  Thanks to the generosity of the Nursery owners we were able to plant three tyres at the front of the school with summer flowers.  Later the children visited their own vegetable garden, watered it and put signs in the ground describing what they had planted.  Once again we were all very tired but very happy with the results.

Wind Band - I had the opportunity to drop in on wind band practice this week. Mrs Jones has developed a wonderful group of talented musicians who were beginning work on the Pink Panther theme tune. I have to say they sounded fantastic and I'm sure you will have the opportunity to hear them for yourselves before the end of term.

Cookery for Years 5 and 6 - This week Years 5 and 6 have been busy cooking leek pie with Mrs Hinchliffe and Auntie Jill. I think we may have some budding Jamie Olivers out there from the feedback I've had from those who had the opportunity to taste the goods.

Gymnastics - Pupils who participate in gymnastics club on Friday after school have been busy working towards their Welsh Gymnastics Bench Badge.

Football - I have arranged a football match with Rhos Street School after school on Wednesday 13^th May for both the A and B teams. Teams will be announced on Monday.

Congratulations Year 6 - All of the pupils in Year 6 were successful in passing their Cycle Proficiency.  They all received their certificates this week during our assembly.

Tennis - Pupils were lucky this week and got to enjoy their tennis sessions during the brief glimpse of sunshine.  Andy the tennis coach even stopped to join the pupils for our ‘Europe Day' lunch. 

Years 5 and 6 - Nant B.H. - Pupils from Years 5 and 6 will be attending Nant B.H. from Monday 15^th June until Wednesday 17^th June.  Please find attached a kit list and a consent form that needs to be completed and returned to school.

I am thoroughly looking forward to spending time with the pupils on our outdoor educational visit to Nant Bwlch yr Haearn.  I have a keen interest in this area of education and have spent a lot of time up at the centre in Llanrwst. Opportunities there are endless and include gorge walking, canoeing, rock climbing and orienteering. 

The total cost of the trip will be £95. Everyone has paid their deposit of £20 so I would be grateful if the remaining £75 could be sent in to school.  If parents would prefer to pay in instalments over the next few weeks, I am quite happy for them to do so.

British Red Cross Week - Pupils ‘Dressed in Red' on Wednesday to raise money for the British Red Cross.

School Photographs - Next Thursday Tempest Photography will be taking individual and school photographs. If you have yet to return the slip, then please do so on Monday.

Vale of Clwyd Swimming Gala Final -The Vale Swimming Gala is to be held on Monday 11^th May at 12.45pm. Would the following pupils please remember to bring their swimming kits: Fallon, Nia, Emily, Robyn, Kieran, Gordon, Peter and Max.

Llangynhafal Community Hall -The AGM took place on Tuesday evening and I would like to ask anyone who would like to support the Community Hall to do so by joining the 100 CLUB. Please ask for more information at the school.

The committee would also like to remind everyone that the hall is available for hire for birthday parties, etc. See the hall notice board for details.

Achievers - Achievers this week include Bradley for football,

Lucy, Shanon, Emily and Robyn for playing their clarinets and Ffion for being star of the week.

Congratulations to them all and happy birthday to Megan and Peter!

Year 6 Induction Days -Year 6 pupils please find attached information from Ysgol Brynhyfryd about forthcoming transition days.

Thursday, June 25^th - P.E. kits needed for a transition afternoon at Ysgol Brynhyfryd.

Wednesday, July 1^st - Whole day spent at Ysgol Brynhyfryd.

Under Starter's Orders! -Many of you have purchased tickets for our much anticipated Race Night, which is being held tonight in the hall at 7.30pm. It is all set to be a great evening and I would just like to thank all those involved with the PTA for their hard work in organising and preparing for the big event. 

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts

Headteacher / Pennaeth.

May 1st / Mai 1af

Dear Parents,

I would like to thank everyone - pupils, staff and parents - for all your support and kindness in helping me to settle in at Ysgol Gellifor. It truly is a wonderful school and it really is a very busy place where a dedicated staff give the pupils a fantastic, enriched curriculum. Once again, pupils from Mrs Weyman's class have been out and about on the farm enhancing the foundation phase.  Pupils in Years 5 and 6 have been cooking Glamorgan sausages! A tennis coach has visited the school to coach the older pupils and Class 2 have been busy planting seeds and plants. 

Annwyl Rieni,

Hoffwn i ddiolch i bawb - y disgyblion, staff a'r rhieni - am eich holl gefnogaeth a charedigrwydd wrth fy helpu i setlo i mewn yn Ysgol Gellifor. Mae wir yn ysgol wych ac yn lle prysur iawn lle mae staff ymroddedig yn cynnig cwricwlwm anhygoel, cyfoethog i'r disgyblion. Unwaith eto, mae disgyblion dosbarth Mrs Weyman wedi bod allan ar y fferm, yn ychwanegu at y cyfnod sylfaen. Bu disgyblion Bl.5 a 6 yn coginio Selsig Morgannwg! Ymwelodd hyfforddwr tenis i hyfforddi'r plant hŷn a bu Dosbarth 2 yn brysur yn plannu hadau a phlanhigion.

Tennis - Andy, a local tennis coach, held sessions at the school on Thursday with Years 5 and 6.  He is hoping to put a team of players together, ‘Gellifor Gorillas', to play against other local school teams. Pupils in Years 5 and 6 need to remember their P.E. kits on Wednesday and Thursday.

Cookery - Glamorgan Sausages - You may have noticed the strong aroma of onions wafting around the school on Wednesday! Years 5 and 6 were very busy with Mrs Hinchliffe and Auntie Jill cooking Glamorgan sausages!

Off to the Farm! - Pupils from Mrs Weyman's class made their second visit to the farm this week. They have been busy planting vegetables.

Music Tuition - Letters have been sent home re. music lessons for next year.  Please return them as soon as possible as numbers need to be confirmed.

Under Starter's Orders -Don't forget the Race Night on Friday 8^th May in the hall. It is all set to be a great social evening! A buffet and bar are available.  Tickets are £5 and are selling like hot cakes so be quick, don't lose out, purchase your tickets now from Mrs Weyman!

Year 6 - Pupils in Year 6 will be going to watch a performance of ‘Oliver' at Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Friday May 8^th during the afternoon.

Europe Day - We are celebrating Europe Day on Thursday with a special lunch menu.

Photographer - Tempest Photography will be visiting school on Thursday 14^th May at 9am to take individual and family photographs. Please return the attached slip next week.

Cycle Proficiency - Congratulations to Year 6 who were all successful in passing their cycle proficiency. Their 100% level 2 pass rate and excellent attitude to the course was commented on by the instructors. Certificates are expected next week.   

Urdd Eisteddfod, Cardiff - I would like to thank all those involved with the Urdd for their hard work and also to the families for being so supportive with the accommodation arrangements and tickets!

Red Cross Appeal Week - Next week is Red Cross Appeal Week and we have decided to join other schools across the country to ‘Dress in Red' on Wednesday to raise donations for the British Red Cross.  We ask for a 50p donation and the money we raise will go to provide care and support for people in crisis due to natural disasters and individual emergencies at home and overseas.

May Day Bank Holiday - School will be closed on Monday for the May Day bank holiday.

Race for Life - Judith and Sacha Wynne are participating in the cancer research ‘Race for Life' in Rhyl on May 31^st. Any parents willing to sponsor them could do so by accessing: www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/judithwynne

Years 2 and 3 Science Project -Pupils in Years 2 and 3 have been busy again this week planting their seeds and plants. They have also been observing different habitats to see what grows there and why.

Years 4 and 5 -Years 4 and 5 have also been busy planting this week.  They are studying germination and are recording the growth of their sunflowers.

Congratulations Mrs Dowell! - We would all like to offer our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Mrs Kate Dowell who will be leaving us at the end of the summer term to take up her first headship position at Ysgol Llanbedr D.C.

Mrs Dowell is a hard working, dedicated member of staff who will be greatly missed by everyone here at Gellifor.  However this promotion is very well deserved and we all wish her every success in her new role!

Achievers - Achievers this week include Gwilym and Jacob for rugby, Bradley, Gordon and Peter for football, Joe for swimming, Fallon, Sam and Matthew for music, Lauren for being our star of the week and both Geraint and Ieuan have been chosen to play rugby for the N.Wales U11 team! Congratulations to them all and happy birthday to Amy!

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts

Susan H. Roberts,  Headteacher / Pennaeth.

April 24th / Ebrill 24ain

April 19th / Ebrill 19eg

April 3rd / Ebrill 3ydd

A Final Note - It seems a long time now since I informed you that I was moving on to pastures new.  Although I am extremely excited and looking forward to the new challenges brought about by my move to Rhos Street School, I have been dreading this day, because I will be saying goodbye to so many pupils, colleagues, parents and Governors, many of whom I would now consider to be good friends.

I could never be more grateful to Ysgol Gellifor for offering me my first Headship and it has been a period of my life that I have cherished, being the most rewarding four years of my career so far.  This is because from day one, I have received the backing of a committed, hard working and highly skilled staff, of Governors eager to do the best for their school, of parents who want the best for their children and of delightful pupils who have been an absolute pleasure to teach, drive and motivate.  Ysgol Gellifor is a school of opportunity, a place where pupils can flourish in all aspects of academic life and in the same vein it offers a platform for the professionals who work there to develop themselves.  Without Ysgol Gellifor, I would never have been given the opportunity I have now and for that I will be eternally grateful.

Thank you all for the good wishes, cards and gifts and also for the ipod speaker system and itunes vouchers that you contributed towards.  It was a marvellous gesture that was greatly appreciated.  Last night, there was a lovely get together of parents, staff and Governors and the evening will live long in the memory!

I'd like to wish Sue Roberts every success in the future.  Having met her on a number of occasions, I am sure that the school is in good hands.  I'd like to wish you all and your families good health and happiness for the future.  With my not being far away, I look forward to being able to keep in touch with goings on at this wonderful school.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Bryn D. Jones, Headteacher / Pennaeth

Urdd County Eisteddfod  - Another long day was had by all, but it was certainly worth all the patience.  We had a fantastic set of results and the school was awarded the Shield for being the best performing Welsh second language school and second overall among all the schools in Denbighshire.  All individuals and parties finishing in first place will go on to compete in the National Urdd Eisteddfod in Cardiff.  The cerdd dant party who finished second have also won through after being given a wild card.

Urdd County Eisteddfod - Full Results

Cardiff Arrangements - Please refer to the letter given out at the beginning of the week in order for you to make the necessary arrangement for Whit week.  See Mrs Dowell and Mrs Weyman if you have any enquiries.

Easter Church Service - As is the fashion, we celebrated the end of term with  a service at the local church.  Rev Huw led the occasion and reminded us of the Stations of the Cross.  Mrs Dowell's power point montage certainly brought a lump to my throat at the end!

Easter Fun Run - We had a fabulous turnout of a hundred runners and fantastic spring weather.  Thanks go to Julie Salmon and Tamsin Jones for organising the event.  I'd also like to thank Fran and Lucy Mills, Jeff Salmon, Mark Jones, Sue Kay, Adie Griffin and Alison Weyman for marshaling and to Carole Williams and Vicky Sennett for making the tea.  Finally, I'd like to thank Tesco for donating all of the eggs awarded to the finishers.  I apologise if I've left anyone out! 

PTA Easter Disco  - We had a great turn out for this week's disco and I'd like to thank Jeff Jones for once again DJing for us.  Iestyn, Adam, Gwilym and Ellie were awarded prizes for their decorated Easter eggs.  A total of £166.75 was made and I'd like to thank everyone in the PTA for their efforts once again, not only for this event but in all the fantastic events during my time here.  The funds raised have certainly made a difference to the children's education. 

Ruthin Swimming Gala  - The swimmers had a successful time in the local pool at Brynhyfryd, with the boys winning their group and the girls finishing second.  The girls were also highly praised for their team spirit and for being extremely sporting and encouraging to one another and towards the other teams.  The squad will compete in the county gala after the Easter break.

PC Chris - PC Chris visited on Wednesday and spoke to Years 5 and 6.  He will return after the break on the 23^rd April to speak to them again.

Cycling Proficiency - Year 6 will be following a cycling proficiency course for four days, beginning on the first Tuesday after the Easter break.  They will need to have read the attached booklet and answered on the worksheet given to them yesterday over the holiday.  Could they also ensure that their bike is in full working order and that their helmet is properly adjusted so that it fits them please.  I hope they really enjoy the course.

Year 5 and 6 ICT - Years 5 and 6 had a very productive day at the ICT centre in Middle Lane Denbigh.  They worked with spreadsheets, Logotron and also with sensor equipment.  Remember that the History newspaper they created a couple of weeks ago is downloadable from the Website.