Ysgol Gellifor School

Dear Parents,

Another week flies by and I have a lot of news to share with you again. It has been a very busy week at school as the half term approaches and the Urdd National Eisteddfod in Caernarfon!

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wythnos arall wedi hedfan heibio ac mae gennyf lawer o newyddion i'w rannu eto. Mae wedi bod yn wythnos brysur iawn yn yr ysgol wrth i'r hanner tymor ar Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd yn Caernarfon nesau!

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Urdd Cross Country - Congratulations to Heidi who came a fantastic 9th in the Urdd Cross Country National Championships on Saturday 12^th May in Aberystwyth.

Dangerpoint - The children had a wonderful day in Dangerpoint this week and discovered an awful lot about safety.  They found out about using the Highway Code, train safety, internet safety, how to keep safe when playing on the beach and being safe in the home.  All of the children were brilliant and many asked extremely astute questions!

Cricket Coaching - Years 5 and 6 were on the yard on Monday morning playing cricket.  The coach gave them a few pointers and all of the children benefited from the experience.

Cycling Proficiency Year 6 - Next week Year 6 will be taking part in Bikeability Training.  Please ensure that you have filled in the consent form given to your child earlier this week or your child will not be able to take part.  Also please make the necessary checks e.g. brakes, lights and tyres and ensure that your child has a correctly fitted helmet and a waterproof coat. Thank you.

Music Lessons 2012 -2013 - If your child would like to learn to play an instrument next year please ensure you have filled in the form and sent it back to school with the £20 deposit by the end of next week.  Thank you.

Nantclwyd Y Dre Project -    Pupils in Years 3 and 4 are taking part in a project along with five other schools.  Together the schools will be creating a guide book for children for Nantclwyd Y Dre house in Ruthin.  This morning the children took part in activities with Janys Chambers where they were given a brief history of the house. Over the two day sessions the children will be taking part in art, drama, report writing amongst other things. Next Tuesday Years 3 and 4 will need to come to school in old clothes to take part in the art and drama part of the sessions.

Working with Clay - The children in Years 5 and 6 have been very busy this week making models out of clay.  Fantastic creations!  

Clocaenog Forest Visit Years 3 and 4 - On Thursday 24^th May the children in Mrs Brookes Jones' class will be given the opportunity to visit Clocaenog Forest School.  They will be taking part in animal puzzle trail which includes Mathematics and Art activities.  The children will need to come to school in old clothes and bring a pair of wellington boots in a plastic bag.  We will be leaving school promptly at 9 a.m. so please ensure your child arrives in plenty of time. They will be returning to school in time for lunch so no packed lunch is necessary.

Diamond Jubliee Celebration Party - Auntie Jane, our new cook, is hosting a celebration party for the Queen's Jubilee at lunchtime on Tuesday 29^th May.  If your child would like to have a scrumptious party lunch on that day please let Auntie Shelley know by Monday 21^st May so that Auntie Jane knows how many to cater for. The cost is £1.90.

Healthy Schools - As part of our healthy schools initiative we encourage a healthy lunchbox.  Please discourage your child to bring in sweets or nuts (due to some pupils having a nut allergy).  We also request that pupils only bring in water (in a clear bottle) for break times.

Cylch Meithrin - A warm welcome to the new Cylch Meithrin team headed by Auntie Nerys.

Don't forget Ti a Fi (Mothers and Toddlers) runs on a Tuesday afternoon. If you know of anyone interested in joining Meithrin or Ti a Fi please contact us at the school.

Achievers - Congratulations to Anouska, Eva and Connie for swimming, to Thomas for completing an assault course, to Cai for Cycling and to Heidi for Cross Country.

Positive Points - Well done to Dylan, Matthew, Adam, Megan, Joe, Thomas and Freya.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Millie, Charlotte, Hattie and Deri.

Spelling Awards - The bronze award goes to Keri and Byron and the silver award to Amy, Sian, Harriet and Georgina.

Dear Parents,

With the Bank Holiday Monday it has been a shorter week but still very busy and eventful. It was lovely to have both schools together enjoying a wonderful performance of ‘Stig of the Dump' on Thursday morning. Years 5 and 6 also returned in the afternoon to join the Juniors at Ysgol Bryn Clwyd for our first session of ‘Pop Proms'.

Annwyl Rieni,

Gyda Gŵyl y Banc ddydd Llun mae wedi bod yn wythnos fyr ond eto yn brysur iawn. Roedd yn hyfryd cael y ddwy ysgol at ei gilydd yn mwynhau perfformiad gwych o 'Stig y Domen' ar fore dydd Iau. Dychwelodd Blynyddoedd 5 a 6 unwaith eto yn y prynhawn i ymuno â'r Adran Iau yn Ysgol Bryn Clwyd ar gyfer ein sesiwn gyntaf o 'Promiau Pop'.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Stig of the Dump - We were very lucky to have the Image Musical Theatre Company coming to give a performance of ‘Stig of the Dump' for both schools on Thursday morning.

The children had a wonderful time at the performance. Not only were they given the opportunity to watch a storybook come to life but also take part in the show.  They joined in with the songs and some children even got to perform with the actors. The show was entertaining and educational at the same time and was thoroughly enjoyed by all! James L, Eva, Louis and James T were the budding actors from Gellifor!

Pop Proms - As part of their transition to Ysgol Brynhyfryd Years 5 and 6 will be performing in a Pop Proms Concert on Monday 25th June. They will be rehearsing on a number of dates throughout May and June and the first rehearsal took place today.

Brass Lessons - Brass lessons will be taking place on Monday and Thursday next week so please could all the children remember to bring their brass instruments to school on those days.

Dangerpoint - On Monday 14^th May Years 1, 2, 3 and 4 will be visiting Dangerpoint in Talacre to learn all about aspects of safety before they start a Heartstart course.  Heartstart focuses on children being paramount in saving lives and teaches children how they can help in an emergency situation.  Please ensure that you have filled in the relevant form C sent out on Thursday and that your child arrives prompt in school at 8.55 a.m. on Monday morning.  They will need a coat and suitable footwear and a packed lunch and they will be returning back at school by 3.10 p.m.

Healthy Schools - Fruit and Water Bottles - Just a quick reminder that as part of our healthy schools intiative, all children are encouraged to bring in a bottle of water and a piece of fruit or vegetable sticks for breaktime.  We are aiming to gain another Healthy Schools Award which focuses on children eating part of their five a day in school and being aware of the need to eat a healthy diet.  We have seen a lot of children already taking part and we hope this has a very positive effect on their learning. 

Healthy Schools - Fruit and Water Bottles - Just a quick reminder that as part of our healthy schools intiative, all children are encouraged to bring in a bottle of water and a piece of fruit or vegetable sticks for breaktime.  We are aiming to gain another Healthy Schools Award which focuses on children eating part of their five a day in school and being aware of the need to eat a healthy diet.  We have seen a lot of children already taking part and we hope this has a very positive effect on their learning. 

24 Game Tournament - On Wednesday Emily, Murray, Ben and Dylan travelled to Ysgol Dewi Sant in Rhyl to take part in a mathematics tournament.  Congratulations to the four of them as they all worked really hard and did themselves proud.  Many thanks to Mrs Hughes for helping out with the transport and scores.

Instrumental Tuition

September 2012- July 2013 - Instrumental tuition is available for any child who is in Years 3 - 6 from September 2012.  We have provision for the tuition of flute, clarinet, violin, brass (cornet, trumpet, horn and baritone/euphonium) and guitars.  Other instruments may be available on request.  Please return the forms to school by 29^th May.

Piano Tuition - Chris and Vicky Sennett (Dip. RSAMD. PGCE) are friendly, sympathetic and experienced teachers of piano and singing and have some vacancies for pupils at all levels.

Lessons may take place at Ysgol Gellifor or Ysgol Bryn Clwyd after school.

Aural preparation and theory lessons also offered.  Accompaniment for strings, brass and wind examinations can be arranged. Pupils can be prepared for grade examinations or assessments with ABRSM, Trinity College etc. if wished. (100% success rate to date!). All ages welcome - it's never too late to start!  For futher information please phone Chris and Vicky on 01824 709847

Tesco Vouchers - Well done to everybody who is busy collecting Tesco vouchers. A massive 11686 vouchers were collected last year and we are hoping to break the school record this year, so keep up the good work! This scheme allows us to purchase valuable resources for the next school year.  Thank you!

Achievers - Well done to Olivia for skiing.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Megan, Georg, James and Henny.

Positive Points - Well done to Oliver, Joshua and Bradley.

Dear Parents,

Well, I hope there's a change in the weather ready for the Bank Holiday weekend! It's been a busy week with a visit from a prospective Olympic athlete who worked with the children on our Sports 4 All day! We also had a visit from teachers from Carreghofa Primary School in Powys on Thursday, who came to discuss and observe good practice.

Don't forget that school will be closed next Monday, May 7th for the May Day Bank Holiday so enjoy the long weekend.

Annwyl Rieni,

Wel, gobeithio bod y tywydd yn gwella ar gyfer penwythnos Gŵyl y Banc! Mae wedi bod yn wythnos brysur gydag ymweliad gan athletwr Olympaidd a fu'n gweithio gyda'r plant ar ein dydd ‘Sports 4 All'! Rydym hefyd wedi cael ymweliad gan athrawon o Ysgol Gynradd Carreghwfa ym Mhowys ddydd Iau, a ddaeth i drafod ac i arsylwi arfer da.

Cofiwch y bydd ysgol ar gau Dydd Llun nesaf, Mai 7fed ar gyfer Gwyl y Banc Calan Mai, felly mwynhewch y penwythnos hir.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Sports 4 All - On Wednesday, Rob Mitchell a local athlete who is competing to qualify for the high jump at the Olympics joined us to complete four sports activities.  The children completed four minutes of exercise and were congratulated for their efforts.  They all took part in an assembly which looked at the life of an athlete competing for a place in the Olympics.  We raised a fantastic £498, which will be shared between the Sports 4 All Project and ourselves. The money raised for school will be used to purchase play ground equipment for the pupils to use at break times. Thank you all for your support.

Music Lessons - The Juniors and Year 2 are invited to renew or take up instrument lessons.  Please see the form sent home with your child and return them by 24^th May.  Thank you.

Stig of the Dump Performance -  All of the children will be watching the performance at Ysgol Bryn Clwyd on Thursday 10^th May at 9a.m. Llandyrnog Village Hall will hopefully be able to accommodate the large scenery the actors need to perform!  If it is possible could you please transport your child to Ysgol Bryn Clwyd on this day at 8.50 a.m.  Children in Breakfast Club will be transported by minibus and must arrive by 8.30 a.m.  We will be finished and back to school by dinner time so please pick up your child as usual from Ysgol Gellifor.

Cycling Proficiency - The Year 6 pupils will have the opportunity to take part in this cycling experience from Monday 21^st May to Thursday 24th May and are required to bring in their bicycles and helmets to school, having been fully checked, the day before.  Please ensure that you fill in the relevant safety and consent forms that will be sent out next week.  Thank you.

Pop Proms - As part of their transition to Ysgol Brynhyfryd Years 5 and 6 will be performing in a Pop Proms Concert on Monday 25th June.  They will be rehearsing on a number of dates throughout May and June. The first rehearsal will be taking place on Wednesday 9^th May so please make sure your child brings their instrument to school on this day. The instrumentalists are Sarah, Harry, Imogen and Emily.

Clean Mud Modelling - The Reception and Year One children were modelling with mud this week and came out really clean!  They were using soap and paper to make a pulp and made a model from it. 

Piano Tuition - Chris and Vicky Sennett (Dip. RSAMD. PGCE) are friendly, sympathetic and experienced teachers of piano and singing and have some vacancies for pupils at all levels.

Lessons may take place at Ysgol Gellifor or Ysgol Bryn Clwyd after school.

Aural preparation and theory lessons also offered.  Accompaniment for strings, brass and wind examinations can be arranged. Pupils can be prepared for grade examinations or assessments with ABRSM, Trinity College etc. if wished. (100% success rate to date!). All ages welcome - it's never too late to start!  For futher information please phone Chris and Vicky on 01824 709847

Breakfast Club - Please can I, once again, request that your child is registered to attend Breakfast Club on specific days. We need to ensure our staffing ratios are correct for health and safety reasons. Children not attending breakfast must only be dropped off after 8.45 a.m. as they need to supervised by staff on the yard.  Thank you.

Swimmers - Congratulations to all the children who achieved their level 3 or level 5 School Swimming Awards.

Achievers - Congratulations to Murray and Joseph for football, Elspeth for gymnastics and to Freya's Mum (Katy) who ran the London Marathon.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Well done to Imogen, Byron, Iestyn, Olivia, Heidi and Eva.

Positive Points - Congratulations to Connor, Murray, Emily, Millie, Megan and Ben.

Dear Parents,

I'm sure you'll all agree that Easter already seems a distant memory! The weather has been quite wet and miserable this week but this hasn't dampened our spirits as we've all been busy working on our Olympic themes across the school!

We have a busy term ahead and please note that half term will be the week beginning 4th June and the pupils will return to school on Monday 11th June.

The INSET (Staff Training) Day has now been confirmed as 29th June (not 1st June as previously stated) so there will be no school for pupils on that day. The school closes for the summer holidays on Wednesday 18th July.

Annwyl Rieni,

Wrth i'r Pasg ddiflannu i'r cof mae'r tywydd wedi bod yn eithaf gwlyb a diflas yr wythnos hon ond dydy hyn ddim wedi effeithio ar ein hysbryd fel yr ydym i gyd wedi bod yn brysur yn gweithio ar ein themâu Olympaidd ar draws yr ysgol!

Mae gennym dymor prysur o'n blaenau a nodwch y bydd hanner tymor yn cychwyn ar 4ydd Mehefin a bydd y disgyblion yn dychwelyd i'r ysgol ar ddydd Llun

11eg Mehefin. Mae'r HMS (Diwrnod Hyfforddiant Staff) bellach wedi cael ei gadarnhau fel 29ain Mehefin (nid 1af Mehefin fely nodwyd yn flaenorol) felly fydd ysgol ar gau i'r ddisgyblion ar y diwrnod hwnnw. Mae'r ysgol yn cau ar gyfer gwyliau'r haf ar ddydd Mercher 18fed Gorffennaf.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

P.C. Chris - On Thursday the Infants had a visit from P.C. Chris. Years 1 and 2 learned all about emergency situations and people who help us.  They watched and discussed a presentation of a small child phoning for help from the police. The Reception pupils also discussed emergencies and 999 through a story book. 

Planting Sunflower Seeds - Years 3&4 have been very busy planting sunflower seeds with Auntie Jill this morning. The race is on to see who can grow the tallest sunflower.

Stig of the Dump Performance - Unfortunately we were unable to watch a performance of ‘Stig of the Dump' this week due to a slight technical hitch, as they say in the performing arts!!! Actually the fantastic scenery wouldn't fit in the school hall! We have re-scheduled and the performance will take place at Llandyrnog Village Hall on Thursday 10^th May.

Jubilee Celebrations! - Llangynhafal Community Centre Committee are organising a Jubilee Party on the playing field on Monday 4^th June.  A time to commemorate 60 years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth, celebrating our heritage and remembering times gone by.  There will be music, games and lots of fun. So come along and bring a picnic and be part of the community celebrations on this special day.

Infant Camp - The children in Years 1 and 2 will be going to summer camp with Mrs Weyman on Wednesday 20^th until Thursday 21^st June. The trip will cost £30 and will include accommodation at Ty Clwyd, Llanfair T. H, a trip to Greenwood Park, McDonalds and food for their stay.  If you would like your child to attend please send in a deposit of £10 in a clearly marked envelope as soon as possible. Thank you.                                  

Swimming Gala Success! - Well done to the Gellifor boys' swimming team! Ben, Adam, Joseph and Tam who came second overall in the Vale of Clwyd Swimming Gala.

P.E.Kit- Sports for All! - The children have received sponsor forms to raise money for Sports equipment for playtimes and to help an athlete train for the Olympics.  All the children have been practising their four exercises and will need to have their P.E. kits in school on Wednesday 2^nd May.  The children will not only get fit but the majority of the money raised will go towards footballs, skipping ropes aimed at getting the children active at playtime.

Maths Day - Pupils from Year 5 were joining over 100 pupils competing from all over county in a Maths Day at Ruthin School today. There will be lots of mathematical challenges including an indoor orienteering task, and prizes will be awarded throughout the day. The winning school at the end of day will be awarded a laptop as their prize!

Childline - The pupils in Years 5&6 will have an assembly from ‘Childline' next Thursday morning - please see attached letter.

Fire Safety Assembly - Bethan Williams from the Fire Service joined us this morning for assembly to talk to the children about the importance of fire safety.

Welcome - A warm welcome to Manon who joined Year 1 on Monday.

Achievers - Congratulations to Emily for achieving a pass with distinction for her recorder playing, to Megan for competing in a Tetrathlon and to Lewis for rugby!

Seren Yr Wythnos - Well done to Emily, Keri, Steffan and Manon.

Dear Parents,

I'd like to welcome you all back to the new term and a warm welcome to our new pupils, Bella and Solomon.

I want to thank you all for your wonderful support with the fundraising for our work in Nepal. Mrs Dowell and I had an amazing opportunity to visit Jalashwary School and Sonrisa Orphanage and we plan to share our experiences with you soon.

Annwyl Rieni,

Hoffwn croesawu chi gyd yn ôl i'r tymor newydd a chroeso cynnes hefyd i Bella a Solomon.

Hoffwn ddiolch i chi gyd am eich cefnogaeth wych gyda'r codi arian ar gyfer ein gwaith yn Nepal. Cafodd Mrs Dowell a finnau gyfle anhygoel i ymweld â Ysgol Jalashwary a Sonrisa Orphanage ac rydym yn bwriadu rhannu ein profiadau gyda chi yn fuan.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Trip to Nant B.H. - The weather did not dampen the pupils' spirits at all in Nant B.H this week.  They were absolutely brilliant and took part in canoeing, gorge walking, mountain climbing and hiking.  They were extremely busy and very bleary eyed on their return!

Poor Mrs Brookes Jones was unwell so I joined the children Monday evening still not having unpacked my suitcase from my trek through the Himalayas but I thoroughly enjoyed being at Nant with this group of very well behaved pupils!!  A big thank you to Auntie Jill and Mr Monteiro for their support and we hope Mrs Brookes-Jones will get better very soon! 

School Council - Our School Councils from both schools visited the Council Chambers in Ruthin with Cllr. Gwilym Evans yesterday afternoon.

Stig of the Dump Performance - We are very lucky to have the Image Musical Theatre Company coming to give a performance of ‘Stig of the Dump' for both schools next Wednesday afternoon at Llandyrnog Village Hall. We would be grateful for a contribution of £2 towards the cost of this performance.

Breakfast Club - Please can I, once again, request that your child is registered to attend Breakfast Club on specific days. We need to ensure our staffing ratios are correct for health and safety reasons. Thank you.

Eco Day - We had a wonderful end to the term with an Eco Day which involved group activities such as planting, making paper and recycling amongst others.  A great day was had by all.  Many thanks to Miss Adie for all her hard work in organising the event.

Freya's Charity Project

ACE - Animal care Egypt

During the last week before the Easter holidays Freya in Year 5 organised an auction of 20 of her Teddies for charity.  The Charity is ‘ACE' Animal Care Egypt, a Charity Freya has become familiar with through the Pony Club, specifically redesigning harnesses for working donkeys and ponies.  Thank you to pupils and staff at Ysgol Gellifor Freya has raised £62 for ‘ACE', this will save the lives of many donkeys and ponies.  Thank you for your support.

Years 5&6 - Science at Brynhyfryd - Pupils in Years 5 and 6 enjoyed a very loud and exciting Chemistry Show at Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Thursday morning.

Welcome to our New Pupils - It was lovely to greet two new pupils to Gellifor this week.  Isabella has joined Year 2 and Solomon has started in our Nursery.

A Warm Welcome to Student Teachers - It was lovely to welcome two new staff members to our team. Miss Bateman will be working with Mrs Weyman and Miss Littlewood will be working with Mr Monteiro.

Achievers - Congratulations to Deri and Ben for swimming and to Neisha, Hattie, Heidi and Maisie for gymnastics and to Matthew for achieving his silver award in Rookie Lifeguarding.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Well done Joshua, Dominic, Bella and Sam.

Positive Points - Congratulations to Sarah.

Dear Parents,

We have reached the end of a very busy term culminating in a very eventful week with the County Urdd Eisteddfod on Saturday, the Easter Fun Run on Sunday, our Easter Service this morning, a wonderful ECO day today and Mrs Dowell and me flying off to Nepal this evening!

I would like to thank all the staff for their commitment and dedication through this busy term and I would like to wish you all a Happy Easter and look forward to seeing you all when we re-open on Tuesday 17^th April.

Annwyl Rieni,

Rydym wedi cyrraedd diwedd tymor prysur iawn gydag wythnos yn llawn gweithgaredd, gydag Eisteddfod Sir yr Urdd ddydd Sadwrn, Ras Hwyl y Pasg ddydd Sul, Gwasanaeth y Pasg y bore yma, diwrnod ECO gwych heddiw a bydd Mrs Dowell a finnau'n hedfan i Nepal heno!
Hoffwn ddiolch i'r holl staff am eu hymrwymiad a'u hymroddiad drwy'r tymor prysur a hoffwn ddymuno Pasg Hapus i chi i gyd ac edrychaf ymlaen at eich gweld i gyd pan fyddwn yn ail-agor ddydd Mawrth 17 Ebrill.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Easter Bunny Fun Run / Easter Fayre - A big well done to everyone who turned out for the Easter Fun Run on a glorious Sunday morning! We had an amazing 140 competitors! A fantastic £500 was raised! Thank you to Auntie Fran and Miss Tami who organised the event and to the PTA who helped make this event a success by arranging a wonderful Easter Fayre to run concurrently.

ECO Day - The pupils have had a fun filled ECO day today organised by the Groundwork Team. A big thank you to Miss Adie for her work on this project!

The pupils have all had a go gardening, paper making, designing coaster mosaics and plant pots plus lots of games and helping to build our new story chair!

Success at the Urdd Eisteddfod -

Congratulations to all who took part in the County Eisteddfod on Saturday. The children

were a credit to the school and these were the results of the pupils who were staged:

Ymgom                                  2^nd

Group Recitation                     2^nd

Individual Recitation Years 5/6 1^st Millie

Individual Recitation Under 7   4^th Liam

Woodwind                             1^st Sarah

                                            3^rd Emily

Both Millie and Sarah will be representing Denbighshire at the National Eisteddfod

in Caernarfon during the Whit Half Term.

Well done to all those who competed and thank you to Mrs Weyman and Mrs Hughes for all their support in preparing the children.

Fun in the Sunshine - This week's lovely sunshine has meant the pupils could enjoy the new Trim Trail on the school field!

Easter Service - There was a lovely spring feeling to the Easter service this morning. Rev. Phillip took the service in the hall and the children sang, played instruments and staff told the Easter Story. Many thanks to Rev.Phillip.

Infant P.E - The children in Year 2 will be going swimming the first part of the Summer Term. Please ensure they have their swimming kit with them on a Friday, starting the second week back.  Years 3 and 4 will be completing their swimming sessions on the first Friday back due to the ECO day.

Nant B.H. - Please remember that all those pupils visiting Nant B.H. after Easter need to be in school by 9.45am on Monday 16^th April. This is an INSET day.

Thank you Mr Kellett! - Mr Kellett will not be with us for a short time after Easter but we look forward to him returning later on in the year. As a token of our appreciation we gave Mr Kellett a gardening hamper so he will be kept busy over Easter!

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Freya, Byron, Maisie and Louis.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Dear Parents,

I would like to say how proud I am of all those pupils who have been busy preparing this week for the County Eisteddfod and I'd like to wish all our competitors the best of luck tomorrow at Ysgol Glan Clwyd.

A big thank you to everyone for their hard work and effort in preparing for the competitions and, as always, for the fantastic support from parents.

Annwyl Rieni,

Rydw i'n falch iawn o'r plant sydd wedi bod yn brysur yn paratoi ar gyfer Eisteddfod y Sir a hoffwn dymuno pob lwc i bawb sy'n cystadlu yn Ysgol Glan Clwyd yfory.

Diolch yn fawr i bawb am eu gwaith caled wrth baratoi ar gyfer y cystadlaethau a, fel bob amser, am y gefnogaeth wych gan rieni.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Sports Relief - Everyone turned up in their best sporting gear today and we were all busy with some form of physical activity throughout the day.  A sight to see was the whole school dancing on the yard to the Get Up and Go CD while some of the Juniors have been swimming and they have all had their running shoes on, completing a team mile! Congratulations to the winning team - Oliver, Josh, Amy and Charlotte!

We have raised a fantastic £108.50 today for Sports Relief!

Sponsored Readathon - Please can I thank everyone who has brought in their sponsor money so far! I am extremely grateful and the money raised is increasing daily!! 80% of the proceeds will be going to Jalashwary School and 20% for new purchases for our school library.

Please can I ask that any remaining sponsor money is brought in on Monday so that I can change the funds into travellers' cheques ready for my trip next Friday. Thank you.

Eisteddfod Urdd Times - Saturday 24^th March - Could everybody taking part in the Group Recitation, Ymgom and Individual Recitation at the Urdd Eisteddfod this Saturday please meet at Ysgol Glan Clwyd at 8.15am for the prelims.  The Woodwind Competition is straight to stage at 8.30am. Any one coming 1^st, 2^nd or 3^rd in the prelims will be staged in the afternoon.  The staged County Eisteddfod starts at 1.00pm.

Maths Workshop - Dylan, Emily, Ben and Murray attended a Maths Workshop at Ysgol Brynhyfryd last week, working on maths puzzles and investigations with pupils from local schools.

PTA Easter Fun Run - Our annual Easter Fun Run will be held on Sunday 25^th March.  If you would like to join us please be at school by 10 a.m. to register!

The race will start promptly at 10.30 a.m.  

This year we will also be holding an Easter Fayre running concurrently in the hall so why not pop in to join our Easter celebrations.

Don't forget the clocks go forward one hour on Sunday morning!!!

Eisteddfod Art Success! - Megan Roberts was awarded third place in the recent Eisteddfod for her colour prints. Well Done Megan!

Church service -   Our Easter service will be held in the school hall this year at 9.15 a.m. on Friday 30^th March. We invite all parents to join us and Rev. Phillip at this very special time of year.

Inset Day - Monday 16^th of April is an INSET day and there will be no school for pupils on this day. We break up for the Easter holidays on Friday 30^th March and pupils return to school on Tuesday 17^th April.

Nant B.H. - Junior pupils who are attending the Outdoor Education Residential trip from 16^th - 18^th April at Nant B.H. need to be in school on Monday 16^th April (INSET Day) at 9.45am.

Please ensure all payments are received in full by Thursday 29^th March. Thank you.

School Council Visit - Our School Council will be visiting the Council Chambers in Ruthin with Mr. Monteiro and Cllr. Gwilym Evans on Thursday 19^th April.

Achievers - Well done to Steffan for swimming.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Ben, Iestyn, Ceiran and Steffan.

Positive Points - Well done to Megan R, Morgan, Emily, Jordan, Ben and Megan E.

Dear Parents,

It has been a very exciting and rewarding week at Ysgol Gellifor beginning on Saturday with our success at the Eisteddfod, followed by a Mystery of Dragon Castle performance and workshops on Tuesday, then two visits from Techniquest Glyndwr on Wednesday and Thursday! A big thank you to everyone who supported our Trishaw Challenge last Friday!

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wedi bod yn wythnos gyffrous iawn a gwerth chweil yn Ysgol Gellifor, gan dechrau ddydd Sadwrn gyda‘n llwyddiant yn yr Eisteddfod, wedi'i ddilyn gan berfformiad a gweithdai Mystery of Dragon Castle ddydd Mawrth, a wedyn dau ymweliad gan Techniquest Glyndwr ddydd Mercher a dydd Iau! Diolch yn fawr i bawb a gefnogodd ein Her Trishaw ddydd Gwener diwethaf.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Urdd Eisteddfod Results - Congratulations to all who took part in the Cylch Eisteddfod last Saturday. The children were a credit to the school and I would like to say a big thank you to all the parents who came to support and a special thank you to Mrs Weyman and Mrs Hughes for all their hard work.

Recitation Yr 2 and Under

1st Liam D-Jones

3rd William Harper

Recitation Yr 3/4

2nd Keri Evans

3rd Sian Evans

Recitation Yr 5/6

1st Millie Collins

2nd Megan Evans

Group Recitation

1st Ysgol Gellifor (Millie, Megan E, Sarah, Megan R, Murray, Oliver, Matthew, Adam and Nicholas)

Dialogue

2nd Ysgol Gellifor (Megan E, Murrary, Ben W and Millie)

Woodwind

1st Emily

2nd Sarah

All of the children who were place 1st or 2nd

go through to the County Eisteddfod on

Saturday 24th March.

Read-a-thon - The children are really throwing themselves into the Readathon at the moment with lots of reading enjoyment going on as well as some fantastic fundraising. Some children have already made it to their second bookmark! We have a further week to read and then it will require lots of mathematical skill as pupils tot up the amount going to the very worthy causes, Jalashwary School and the Ysgol Gellifor library. Keep up the good reading children!

Please note that all the Readathon sponsor money needs to be in school by Wednesday 28th March in order for me to purchase travellers' cheques to take to Nepal on the Friday. Thank you so much for your support!

The Mystery of Dragon Castle - The whole school was treated to a fun packed day on Tuesday on a spooky theme. They started with a full length performance of a castle adventure with science sleuths and questions being set. The children took part in workshops in the afternoon and all of them were very aware of how to prepare food safely and how to store it by the end of the day. All the pupils enjoyed the activities learning about the four Cs of food hygiene through drama activities.

Science Workshop - All of the Juniors took part in a workshop on Tuesday about a solar car adventure.

Out of the Toybox - The Infants were learning their science through a toy box presentation this week. The performance by Techniquest really made them think about all of the Physical Processes, in particular materials and forces.

Tennis Workshop - On Thursday the Juniors were able to work with a tennis coach, teaching them the necessary skills to be the next Andy Murray!

‘Tri-Shorn' Challenge - Thank you for all your sponsorship and support last Friday as I cycled 11 miles pulling Mrs Dowell in the Trishaw! A big thank you to our support team on the day... Jeff, Katy, Tina, Vicky and Rob! I also have to thank Mr Hughes, Mike Parker and Jeff Lewis for fixing my numerous punctures last week!!! We have raised over £1000 so far for Jalashwary School in Nepal. Connor's name was drawn from the hat to cut the first of Mrs Dowell's ponytails off!!

Achievers - Well done to Anouska for Karate, Murray for football and Oliver for swimming.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Emily, Jake, Tommy and Lucy.

Positive Points - Well done to Freya and Matthew.

Spelling Bronze Award - Congratulations to Steffan, Iestyn, Lauren, Georg, Eileigh, Georgina and Sian.

......And Auntie Jill is 21 again tomorrow!!!!

Dear Parents,

I would like to say how proud I am of all those pupils who have been busy preparing this week for the Eisteddfod on Saturday. I have seen dedication and commitment from pupils who have decided they would like to take part. I would like to wish good luck to all those competing on Saturday but most of all I would like them to enjoy the experience and have fun.

Annwyl Rieni,

Rydw i'n falch iawn o'r plant sydd wedi bod yn brysur yn paratoi ar gyfer yr Eisteddfod ddydd Sadwrn. Mae'r rhai sydd wedi penderfynu cystadlu wedi bod yn ymroddedig iawn yn ymarfer. Pob lwc iddyn nhw a gobeithio y byddant yn mwynhau'r profiad a chael hwyl wrth gystadlu.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Tri-Shorn Challenge! - In my madness I have been giving pupils rides in the trishaw this week in preparation for our challenge today!

I will update you next week with photographs of the ride and Mrs Dowell's new haircut! I will let you know how much money we have raised for out partner school in Nepal! That's presuming and hoping I make it!!!

A Big Thank You! - Our best wishes and good luck for the future go to our two students, Miss Gray and Miss Walsh who have completed their teaching experience here at Ysgol Gellifor.

Parents Evenings - Please ensure that you send your preference slip back to school on Monday. Please note that Nursery Parents are not required to attend but if you have any concerns please see the relevant member of staff.

Urdd Eisteddfod - Saturday 10^th March

Prelims

Year 5 and 6                  Roli a'r Troli                   8.30 - 9.45a.m.              Room C2

Year 2 and Under           Amser Gwely                 9.45-12.00noon            Room C2

Year 3 and 4                  Fy Ngol Gyntaf               10.00-12.00 noon          The old canteen

Please ensure you are at Ysgol Brynhyfryd 15mins before the prelim is about to start.

The Eisteddfod itself will be taking place in the main hall at Ysgol Brynhyfryd in the afternoon. It is very difficult to estimate timings but I would be grateful if all the pupils competing in the Ymgom would meet me at 1pm and the pupils competing in the Group Recitation and Woodwind competitions would meet me at 1.45pm by the main entrance. Thank you.

Years 3&4 Building Pyramids! - Years 3 and 4 have been busy studying their topic this term of Ancient Egypt. They were very interested to find out how the Great Pyramids of Giza were built and how long it took. So, they decided to build their own (a little smaller though!).

Through maths the pupils have worked out just how many blocks or sugar cubes they would need for each Pyramid. 140 in total!!

After School Club - Pupils who attend After School Club have been busy planting hedges as part of our ECO project.

Jalashwary School - Thank you to everyone who has supported our fundraising! We hope everyone is busy completing the Readathon Challenge and filling in their bookmarks! Mrs Dowell is having her hair cut short by one lucky pupil today and will be celebrating her 50^th birthday on Saturday too!

Frog Hopping! - The pupils have been very interested in what's going on in the school pond this week! We have lots of frogs that the pupils have been caring for.

Year 5 & 6 Assembly Line! - In Design and Technology Years 5 & 6 have been investigating and then designing wallets and purses.  They are now measuring, cutting and sewing different types of material to create their finished product.  Their completed wallet or purse should fasten and include compartments. 

Achievers - Well done to Maisie for gymnastics, Anouska for Karate and to Ben for swimming.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Millie, Sian, Liam and Katy.

Positive Points - Well done to Dylan, Joshua, Harry, Imogen, Sarah, Lauren and Georgina for achieving their Positive Point Bronze Award.

Dear Parents,

It was lovely to see signs of spring this week and the children looking so smart in traditional Welsh costume. It has been an enjoyable week with lots of activities going on. The Wind Band played in our St. David's Day assembly and the pupils have been busy with preparations for the Eisteddfod! It was great to see the array of colourful costumes to celebrate World Book Day.

Annwyl Rieni,

Roedd yn hyfryd i weld arwyddion y gwanwyn yr wythnos hon, ac roedd y plant yn edrych mor smart mewn gwisg draddodiadol Gymreig. Mae wedi bod yn wythnos bleserus gyda llawer o weithgareddau yn digwydd. Chwaraeodd ein Band Chwyth yn ein gwasanaeth Dydd Gŵyl Dewi, ac mae'r disgyblion wedi bod yn brysur gyda'r paratoadau ar gyfer yr Eisteddfod! Roedd yn wych i weld amrywiaeth o wisgoedd lliwgar i ddathlu Diwrnod y Llyfr.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

World Book Day - The children came to school dressed as their favourite book character today and there will be prizes for the most creative

costumes - the names of the winners will be announced in next week's newsletter! Thank you for your continued support in providing such wonderful costumes for the children to wear. It stimulated a lot of conversations about our favourite stories!

Urdd Eisteddfod 2012 - Saturday 10th March

Next Saturday some pupils will be taking part in the Regional Eisteddfod in Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin. The children will need to wear full school uniform, black shoes not trainers and bring something quiet to occupy themselves as it will probably be a long day! The prelims will take place in the morning and we will inform you of times next week as soon as we are informed by the Urdd Office.

Clay Collage - All the classes have been working hard with Mr Dalrymple to create our new clay collage for the front of the school.

St David's Day/World Book Day - We celebrated 2 days of reading in English and Cymraeg this week. On St. David's Day the children listened to some traditional Welsh stories and Councillor Gwilym Evans read to the pupils and Mrs Glenys Evans told them the story of Cantre'r Gwaelod.

Reception - Healthy Eating Talk - The school nurse came to talk about healthy eating and washing hands to our Reception pupils.

Meithrin Sponsored Bike Ride - The weather was lovely for Meithrin's sponsored bike ride on Thursday.

Dates for Diary - March

March 10^th Urdd Eisteddfod

March 13^th Mystery of Dragon Castle

March 14^th Solar Car Science KS2

March 15^th Toy Box Science Foundation Phase

March 19^th / 20^th Parents' Evening (details to follow)

March 24^th County Urdd Eisteddfod

March 25^th Easter Bunny Fun Run

March 29^th Easter Church Service

March 30^th ECO Day and end of term

Readathon - Today the children have been given their bookmarks to begin the Readathon Challenge. If your child completes a book over the weekend please don't forget to sign the bookmark. Thank you.

Parents' Evening - We will be holding Parents' Evenings for you to come to view your child's work and discuss progress with your child's teacher on Monday 19^th and Tuesday 20^th March. Further details to follow next week.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Thomas, Georgina, Neisha and Henny

Positive Points - Well done to Emily, Thomas, Dylan, Joshua, Lauren and Heidi.

Spelling Award - Well done to Morgan, Amy and Harriet for achieving their bronze spelling award.

Dear Parents,

It's been another busy week at Ysgol Gellifor, with the launch of our new reading initiative! We have lots of various activities going on and I'd like to encourage everyone to share their joy of reading with our pupils. Pupils have been busy preparing pancakes on Shrove Tuesday and today we are hosting our Wind Band Play Day and have a range of talented young musicians performing this evening.

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wedi bod yn wythnos brysur arall yn Ysgol Gellifor, gyda lansiad ein cynllun darllen newydd! Mae gennym lawer o weithgareddau amrywiol yn digwydd a hoffwn annog pawb i rannu'r mwynhad o ddarllen gyda'r disgyblion. Bu'r disgyblion yn brysur yn paratoi crempogau ddydd Mawrth, a heddiw rydym yn cynnal Diwrnod Chwarae Band Chwyth ac mae gennym nifer o gerddorion ifanc dawnus yn perfformio heno.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Jalashwary School, Nepal - For over 10 years our school has had an association with Jalashwary School in rural Nepal and in 2004 Ysgol Gellifor was instrumental in helping to fund the new school building. Now we would like to help build upon our previous support and forge links for our pupils and also provide resources for the pupils at Jalashwary School. As part of our fund raising efforts to support our partner school Mrs Dowell and I will be taking part in a Tri - Shorn challenge on 9^th March and are seeking your support. We have acquired a Tri-shaw and I will be riding from Llandyrnog to Ruthin via Gellifor. This is an estimated distance of 7 miles and, as I will be carrying Mrs Dowell, I would like this mammoth effort to be rewarded by raising lots of money!  For her part, Mrs Dowell is having her hair cut ... by children! We will both be travelling to Nepal during the Easter Holidays, visiting the school, taking the money raised with us and ensuring it is spent in the best way possible.Please consider supporting us, by sending donations to school in a clearly marked envelope and on behalf of the children of Jalashwary ... thank you!

World Book Event - Next week we will have a two day event to celebrate Reading.   As World Book Day falls on Thursday 1^st March the children will listen to traditional Welsh tales and be given the opportunity to take part in our St. David's Day assembly. We will also be having a cake day to raise money for Marie Curie.  On the 2^nd they will be able to dress up as characters from books and there will be prizes for the most imaginative and inventive costumes.  Three further competitions will take place and children will be able to bring in a bookmark they have designed, a 500 word story or a picture book they have created to take part.  There will be winners for both infant and junior entries.  it will also be the start of the Ysgol Gellifor Read-a-thon which will be taking place from World Book Day for four weeks.  80% of the money raised will go to Jalashwary School in Nepal and 20% will go towards reading books for the children here at Ysgol Gellifor.  Please see attached leaflet and sponsor form. 

Pancake Day - There was much tossing of pancakes and laughter in Ysgol Gellifor on Tuesday as the children found out all about Shrove Tuesday and its meaning.  Many of the classes designed healthy pancakes............ I'm not convinced as Mrs Weyman was sure she saw evidence of chocolate and syrup around some mouths!

Windband Play Day - A big thank you to Mrs Jones who has had a range of talented young musicians from schools around the area join us for a Wind Band Play Day. They will be performing in a concert this evening at Llandyrnog Village Hall at 6pm. There will be no Wind Band practice next Thursday.

Topics in School - As anyone who has visited the infant department over the last four weeks has probably noticed, space is their topic this term, it was no surprise to see the infants busy making space pictures this week.  Class two are working on their Egypt topic and in their maths sessions working out the number of sugar cubes to build a large pyramid.  Quite a challenge! Whilst Years 5 and 6 have been researching the lives of fictional and non-fictional characters and presenting them to the class in the role of their chosen character. Next week we have local artist, Neil Dalrymple working with us to produce a fantastic new mural, in clay for the school.

Girlguiding Thinking Day - As part of Thinking Day on Wednesday 22^nd February we supported theGirl Guiding association and gave pupils the opportunity to come to school in their Brownie Uniform.

Scholastic Book Club - If you want to order from the scholastic book club brochure sent home with your child on Tuesday, please return the form with full payment and your £1 book day voucher (for books £2.99 and over) by Friday 2^nd March.  Thank you.

Seren Yr Wythnos -Congratulations to Bella, Eileigh, Ben and Sam.

Positive Points - Well done to Murray, Oliver, Nicholas and Bradley

Achievers - Congratulations to Ben, Neisha, Maisie and Eva for swimming.

Dear Parents,

We've arrived at the end of what I can only describe as another eventful and fulfilling half term at Ysgol Gellifor.

We had a fantastic time on our trip to Cardiff. Mr Monteiro, Auntie Sue and I were very proud of all the children!

I wish you all an enjoyable half term break and I look forward to welcoming the children back on Monday 20th February.

Annwyl Rieni,

Rydyn ni wedi cyrraedd diwedd hanner tymor brysur arall yn Ysgol Gellifor.

Cawsom amser gwych ar ein trip i Gaerdydd. Roedd Mr Monteiro, Auntie Sue a finnau yn falch iawn o'r plant i gyd!

Gobeithio y byddwch yn mwynhau'r hanner tymor ac edrychaf ymlaen i groesawu'r plant yn ôl ar ddydd Llun 20ain Chwefror.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Cardiff Trip - A great time was had by all on our trip to Cardiff! Our visit included a guided tour of the National Assembly, where the children debated in the chambers, a tour of the Millennium Centre, a visit to Techniquest, a tour of the Millennium Stadium, a trip down the mine at Big Pit, a visit to St Fagans National History Museum of Wales and even a trip to the cinema to watch Monsters in Paris 3D. Mr Monteiro has been busy preparing a DVD of the trip for all the pupils to share the experience with their families. We ask for a small donation of £3 to cover the cost of the DVDs. Thank you.

Years 3 &4 Ruthin Craft Centre - The children in the lower juniors travelled to the Craft Centre in Ruthin this week to learn about impressions in clay.  They investigated materials in nature and made stunning impressions in clay.  All of the children worked extremely hard and Aunty Jill was very impressed by their hard work.  Although at one point they thought there were ghosts in the building as they were covered in clay dust.  Well Done!

County Cross Country - Congratulations to Heidi and Harriet who ran in the final of the County Cross Country this week. They travelled to Blessed Edward Jones High School playing field in Rhyl and  both worked extremely hard to complete the gruelling course. Heidi finished in 7^th place which is quite an achievement.  They were both awarded certificates in assembly this morning.  Well Done!

Years 3&4 - Trip to Nant Bwlch Yr Haearn - After the Easter break Years 3 and 4 will have the opportunity to attend a three day residential trip to Nant Bwlch Y Haearn Outdoor Education Centre. They will have the opportunity to experience gorge walking, orienteering and rock climbing. The trip will be from Monday 16^th April - Wednesday 18^th April. More details to follow after half term.

PTA - Film Night - The children were treated to the film, ‘The Lion King' on Tuesday evening and all appeared to enjoy the event. The evening raised £100 towards P.T.A. funds for the school. 

Wind Band Play Day - There will be a Wind Band Play Day on Friday, 24^th February for the talented musicians in our school.  It will be held at Ysgol Bryn Clwyd and there will be a performance for parents at the end of the day. 

Warm Clothing - There has been a real chill in the air this week. Hopefully things will warm up after half term but if not please ensure that your child brings a warm coat to school every day.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Joe, Steffan, Rab and Lewis.

Positive Points - Well done to Connor and Amy.

Achievers - Congratulations to Hattie for achieving Bronze in Gymnastics. A massive well done to Harriet and Heidi for their achievements in the Cross Country this week.

Dear Parents,

It has been an exciting week here at Ysgol Gellifor with a lots going on! The Infants travelled to Llandyrnog on Thursday for a Space Workshop with Techniquest Glyndwr and we had great success at the Cross Country on Wednesday.

Pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 are excited at the prospect of our residential trip to Cardiff and need to be up bright and early on Monday to meet at school at 6am!!

Annwyl Rieni,

Top of Form

Mae wedi bod yn wythnos gyffrous yma yn Ysgol Gellifor gyda llawer yn digwydd! Aeth y babanod i Landyrnog ddydd Iau er mwyn cael Gweithdy Gofod gyda Techniquest Glyndwr, ac fe gawsom lwyddiant mawr yn y Rasus Traws-gwlad ddydd Mercher.
Mae disgyblion Blynyddoedd 4, 5 a 6 yn edrych ymlaen at ein taith breswyl i Gaerdydd ac mae angen iddyn nhw fod wedi codi'n cynnar ddydd Llun i gyfarfod yn yr ysgol am 6 o'r gloch!!

 Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Space Dome - The children in the infants were very starry eyed on Thursday as they were treated to a Space Dome interactive activity by Techniquest Glyndwr.  They were able to watch the stars and planets as they were sent through outer space to observe and investigate the Solar System.

P.T.A Film Night - On Tuesday 7^th February there will be a Film night held at school to raise money for the P.T.A.   All the children who are not going to Cardiff are invited to join the P.T.A. to watch ‘The Lion King' and there will be hot dogs and treats to buy on the night.  See attached flier.

Cardiff Arrangements - We are off to Cardiff on Monday 6th February and returning on Wednesday 8th February. The children will need a packed lunch for Monday for the journey. A reminder that the children need to be in Ysgol Gellifor by 6.00am prompt. We will be returning at approximately 7pm on Wednesday - please can you ensure I have an up to date mobile phone number and I'll text everyone if there is any delay or alteration to the arrival time.

P.C.Chris - P.C. Chris visited the Juniors on Thursday and Years 3 and 4 were put through their paces on what they should do to prevent bullying and how to deal with a bully.  Years 5 and 6 were taught about anti social behaviour and how they should behave outside of school.  

Craft Centre - All Year 3 pupils and those Junior pupils who are not on the Cardiff trip will be visiting Ruthin Craft Centre for a Clay Workshop on Wednesday morning, 8^th February. The cost is £3 per pupil, payable on Monday morning please.

Half Term - Just a reminder that we break up for the half term holiday on Friday 10^th February and return to school on Monday 20^th February.

Urdd Membership - Please ensure, that if your child is entering any Urdd competition this year, that they have paid their Urdd fees of £6.50. Thank you.

Mistar Urdd's 90^th Birthday -  Last Friday it was Mistar Urdd's 90^th birthday and the school marked the day by wearing red, white and green.  There were Urdd colouring competitions as well as Welsh jambori sessions.  £70 was raised towards the Urdd Eisteddfod.

Cross Country Success! - Although a very cold day on Wednesday the children warmed up enough to achieve high standards in the Vale of Clwyd Cross Country competition.  Well done to all who competed and in particular, to Heidi who received a medal for 1^st place in the Lower Junior race, Tam, Murray and Harriet who all qualified for the final next week.

Urdd Art Competition - There are many categories in the art, craft and design section including drawing, painting, weaving, collage, photography and computer graphics. The theme for this year is Movement, Excitement and Celebration and this can be interpreted literally or in an abstract way. The work will be judged during the third week back after half term, so I'd be grateful to receive all entries by Friday 2^nd of March. I hope the children who wish to take part very much enjoy doing so. See Mrs Weyman or myself for further details if your child is interested in entering.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Megan, Seren, Heidi and Spencer

Achievers  - Congratulations to Ben for his swimming at the Urdd in Cardiff, to Heidi for Show Jumping and Hattie for Gymnastics. Congratulations to the Cross Country Team!

Positive Points - Well done to Harriet.

Dear Parents,

We celebrated the Chinese New Year this week, as you can see, with lots of fun activities. The pupils were also treated to a fantastic Road Safety workshop called ‘Jugglestruck'.

Today we joined in with Mr Urdd's 90^th birthday celebrations with many other schools across Wales.

Annwyl Rieni,

Fe wnaethon ni ddathlu Blwyddyn Newydd y Tsieineaid yr wythnos hon, fel y gwelwch, gyda llawer o weithgareddau llawn hwyl. Cafodd y disgyblion weithdy gwych hefyd o'r enw 'Jugglestruck' am Ddiogelwch ar y Ffyrdd.

Heddiw fe wnaethon ni ymuno â dathliadau pen-blwydd Mr Urdd yn 90 oed gydag ysgolion eraill ledled Cymru.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Chinese New Year - Everyone was saying ‘Kung Hei Fat Choy' at school on Monday. The children took part in a Chinese New Year celebrations, completed Chinese activities and sampled foods from the Orient. The school was awash with the colour red and thank you to Mr Kellett for cooking a spectacular Chinese lunch. The Infants made dragon masks as it is the Year of the Dragon and Years 3 and 4 made Chinese lanterns and lucky red money envelopes!

Jugglestruck Road Safety Show - Our pupils were awed by a show combining magic, juggling, balloon modelling and... roadsafety!! The importance of The Green Cross Code message ‘Stop, Look, Listen and Think' was delivered to the whole school. This excellent presentation was part of a nationwide campaign by the Road Safety Office to spread awareness of dangers on the road.

Sgwad Sgwennu / Welsh Writing Squad - Megan and Sarah travelled to Ysgol Borthyn to join other pupils from the Ruthin cluster to take part in the first session of the Welsh Writing Squad - Sgwad Sgwennu.

Urdd Membership - If your child is going to take part in the Urdd Eisteddfod this year, and has not already joined please, ensure that the membership fee of £6.50 is paid by Friday 3^rd February. Thank you.

Nursery Dance - Nursery were chasing imaginary balloons around the hall with Miss Adie and Auntie Sara as part of their creative dance lesson.

Urdd Swimming Gala - Good luck to Ben who is competing in the Urdd National Swimming Gala Finals at Cardiff International Pool tomorrow.

Cardiff Residential Trip - Just a reminder to those pupils who are travelling to Cardif to please return the Medical Form, Form C and any outstanding payments by next Monday 30th January. Thank you.

Rec and Yrs 1&2 Techniquest Space Dome - As part of their topic on Space, Reception, Years 1 and 2 will be taken to Llandyrnog Village Hall next Thursday afternoon. Techniquest are bringing a Space Dome and presenting an exciting workshop for the pupils. We are subsidising the event but we do ask for a donation of £3 towards the cost. Thank you.

Cross Country - The Cross Country competition will be taking place at Ysgol Fron Goch at 3.45pm on Wednesday 1st Feb. Mrs Brookes Jones has informed those pupils taking part.

Art Club will be cancelled next Wednesday due to the Cross Country Event.

P.T.A Request - If you have any second hand uniform items that you don't want, please pass it on to Mrs Legg who is busy collecting them for a fundraiser. Thank you.

Achievers - Congratulations to Neisha for show jumping and to Anouska for gymnastics.

Positive Points - Well done to Millie and Ben.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Murray, James, William H. and Deri.

Dear Parents,

It has been another busy week at Ysgol Gellifor. We started with a two day ‘Thinking Skills' event on Monday involving all the pupils and this morning the Junior classes presented a Dance Showcase.

We will soon be starting to prepare the pupils for the Urdd Eisteddfod and I am hopeful that the Urdd competitions will once more be embraced with enthusiasm and excitement.

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae wedi bod yn wythnos brysur arall yn Ysgol Gellifor. Dechreuodd yr wythnos gyda gweithgareddau 'Sgiliau Meddwl' i'r holl ddisgyblion ac y bore yma cyflwynodd y dosbarthiadau iau Arddangosfa Ddawns.
Byddwn yn dechrau paratoi'r disgyblion ar gyfer Eisteddfod yr Urdd cyn bo hir ac rwy'n obeithiol y byddwn unwaith eto yn cystadlu gyda brwdfrydedd a chyffro.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Thinking Skills Day - The pupils were really challenged this week as they were put through their paces during thinking skills sessions. They had to balance penguins onto a wobbly island as a team and complete a variety of puzzles, one of which had 70,000 different possibilities!  All of the children worked extremely hard and many of the staff were challenged too!  Oh dear!!!

Urdd Eisteddfod 2012 - Preparations have begun in school towards our involvement in this year's Urdd Eisteddfod.  We are eager that all pupils learn the individual recitation for their particular year group as part of their Welsh second language studies and any interested pupils, will be encouraged to compete individually in the Eisteddfod itself. There will be several other competitions for our talented pupils to participate in, which include group recitation, dialogue, cerdd dant, musical instrument and disco dancing.

Dates are as follows;

District Eisteddfod: Ysgol Brynhyfryd - Saturday March 10^th

County Dance Eisteddfod: Ysgol Brynhyfryd - Friday March 16^th

County Eisteddfod: Ysgol Glan Clwyd - Saturday March 24^th

Urdd National Eisteddfod: Caernarfon - W/B June 4th

Wind Band - The Wind Band have been working hard on a number of new pieces over the last two weeks. Mrs Jones is very proud of their hard work!

Criw Celf - Congratulations to the three pupils who attended the first Criw Celf Art Masterclass session at Bodelwyddan Castle on Saturday. They had a great day!

Junior Dance Success! - A big thank you to Miss Tami for all her hard work last term whilst working with the Juniors on their creative dance project. Their performance in assembly today was outstanding!

School Council Meeting - Cllr. Gwilym Evans attended the School Council meeting with the pupils on Thursday afternoon.

Breakfast Club - Thank you to all those who returned the Breakfast Club attendance sheets. We now have 29 pupils registered. If your child is not registered can you please inform Auntie Tracey on Monday so that we can arrange the appropriate staffing ratios.

In the interest of Health and Safety can we please request that you do not drop your child off at Breakfast Club before 8a.m. and that you pay Breakfast Club fees (50p a day or £2 a week) for the week ahead on a Monday morning.

Chinese New Year - Monday 23^rd January is the start of the Chinese New Year and this year is the Year of the Dragon. The children will be taking part in activities to celebrate and learn all about this tradition. The pupils may dress up in traditional Chinese costume or wear red and Mr Kellett will be doing us proud, serving up a Chinese meal. It will be an exciting day for all year groups and we hope that the children learn a lot from this experience.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Morgan, Harriet, William and Mabel. Well done to Emily for performing a solo on the recorder during assembly.

Dear Parents,

The new term is in full swing by now and the children are settling in to their new routine once again. We have a busy few weeks ahead starting with a ‘Thinking Skills' day on Monday involving all the pupils!

It has been drawn to my attention that local pedestrians are becoming concerned about the speed that cars are travelling in and around the village. Please may I ask for your consideration in this matter and may I also ask you to be mindful of where you park your cars. Thank you for your understanding as the health and safety of our pupils is of paramount importance.

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae'r tymor newydd ynei anterth erbyn hyn ac mae'r plant yn bwrw iddi o ddifri gyda'r drefn newydd unwaith eto.

Mae gennym rai wythnosau prysur o'n blaenau gan gychwyn gyda diwrnod 'Sgiliau Meddwl' ddydd Llun yn cynnwys yr holl ddisgyblion!
Rydw i wedi cael ar ddeall bod cerddwyr lleol yn pryderu am gyflymder rhai ceir wrth iddyn nhw deithio o amgylch y pentref. Os gwelwch yn dda ga i ofyn i chi fod yn ofalus yn hynny o beth, a hefyd ga i ofyn i chi gymryd gofal wrth ddewis rhywle i barcio eich car. Diolch am eich dealltwriaeth - mae iechyd a diogelwch ein disgyblion yn hynod o bwysig i ni.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

P.C.Chris - The infants had a visit from P.C. Chris on Thursday and all of them were able to say what they thought was the right and wrong way to behave.  They talked about their own classroom rules and how to behave in the community in which they live. It was so good to know we have children who know right from wrong, Mrs Weyman, Mrs Jones and Miss Adie are very proud!

Scholastic Book Club - Please find attached a Scholastic Book Club brochure. If you wish to place an order please return the order form and full payment to school by next Friday, 20^th January.

Infants Techniquest Event - As the topic in the Infants is ‘Space' Mrs Weyman and Mrs Jones have requested Techniquest to provide a ‘Spacedrome' event in school.  Reception, Year One and Two will be taking part in a space afternoon and learning all about the milky-way through an interactive performance.  We are subsidising the event but we do ask for a donation of £3 towards the cost.  Please put your donation in a clearly marked envelope and placed in the black box to cover the cost of this exciting experience.

Cardiff Trip -  We are off to Cardiff on Monday 6^th February and returning on Wednesday 8^th February. Mr Monteiro, Auntie Sue and I will be accompanying the pupils on this exciting trip to our capital city! Just a reminder that the next payment for the Cardiff trip was due today and the final instalment is due on Friday 27^th January. The total cost for the trip is £110.

Welcome - A warm welcome to the students from Bangor University who are teaching in the Under 7's.  They will be with us until March and we hope they have an enjoyable experience.  Miss Walsh is working with Mrs Jones and Miss Gray with Mrs Weyman.

Thinking Skills Event - Monday 16^th January

On Monday 16^th January all of the children will be taking part in a Thinking Skills Event in Ysgol Bryn Clwyd that we have organised for all of the schools in the Brynhyfryd Cluster. Please note that all of the pupils in the Juniors will be late back from school on this day. The pupils will be arriving back at 3.30 p.m. as they are taking part in the final session of the day. 

Calling all parents!  If you want to take part in this fantastic event with your children you are invited to join us on Tuesday 17^th January in the School Hall at 3.30 p.m.

You will be able to take part with your child in a Happy Puzzle Company afternoon as part of our Thinking Skills Event.  Please see attached a voucher to use for a free Thinkathon book with any purchase over £5.  Please come along and see some of the brilliant games and ideas to aid your children in their learning!   

Achievers - Well done to Ben for gaining two trophies in a karate competition and to Maisie, Heidi and Hattie for gymnastics.

Seren Y Wythnos - Congratulations to Nicholas, Millie, Amy, Charlotte, Hattie and Befan.

Dear Parents,

Happy New Year to you all! I trust you had a peaceful break and enjoyed the festivities over the Holiday. The school has soon got back into the swing of things and I'm sure you all have too.

It has already been extremely busy as we have had eight new children arrive to join our school community.  We have had some success with pupils receiving notification that they will be taking part in an Art Masterclass.  Congratulations to all those who competed for a place and were successful!

Annwyl Rieni,

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda i chi gyd! Gobeithio eich bod wedi cael cyfnod hamddenol dros y gwyliau ac wedi mwynhau'r dathliadau. Rydyn ni wedi dychwelyd i'r hen drefn yn sydyn ac mae'n siwr eich bod chithau hefyd. Mae eisoes wedi bod yn brysur iawn wrth i wyth o blant newydd gyrraedd i ymuno gyda chymuned yr ysgol. Rydym hefyd wedi cael llwyddiant gyda phlant yn clywed y byddant yn cael cymryd rhan mewn dosbarth Meistr Celf. Llongyfarchiadau i bawb wnaeth gystadlu am le ac a oedd yn llwyddiannus!

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

New Pupils! - A warm welcome to all of the new children who have joined various classes this week.  Nicholas, Megan, Charlotte, William, Edward, Anna, Sam and Megan look very smart in their new uniforms!

Masterclass Success! - It is with great pride that we acknowledge the achievement of three pupils who have gained a place with Criw Celf, an arts initiative to nurture gifted and talented young artists. Congratulations to Emily, Megan E and Dylan.  Keep 14^th January free in your diaries!

Clubs

Monday        3.10 - 4 p.m.         Dance (Commencing on 23^rd January)

                     12 - 12.30 p.m       French Club (Jolie Ronde Tuition)

Tuesday       3.15 - 4 p.m           Football (Commencing on 17^th January)

                    12.30 - 1 p.m        Recorders

Wednesday  3.15 - 4 p.m          Art Club

Thursday      3.15 - 5.00 p.m    Windband                                                 

Friday          3.15 - 4 p.m          Chess                                        

                     3.15 - 4.15 p.m.   Gymnastics

Cardiff Trip - February 6th-8^th  - As it is only 4 weeks before those children in Yrs 5 and 6 travel to Cardiff for an exciting residential trip, we request that the outstanding payment is sent to school please. The total cost for the 3 day trip and all the activities is £100 per pupil. All those attending have paid a £20 deposit so we would be grateful if a payment

of £40 can be paid by next Friday, 13th January and then the final instalment of £40 by Friday 27th January - weekly instalments can also be made if you prefer.

Under 7s - Just a few reminders to ensure a successful New Year.   Fruit money is payable on a Monday, please ensure it is placed in the pot provided for Miss Adie or Mrs Weyman to collect.  The children in Reception/Year One who are with Mrs Jones will need wellington boots on their pegs in a clearly marked carrier bag.  Thank you

P.E. Timetable

Infants need to keep their P.E kit in a bag on their pegs.

Under 7's           Thursday (Dance)

                        Friday (Gym)

Years 3 and 4    Wednesday (Gym)

                        Friday  (Swimming)

Years 5 and 6    Wednesday (Gym)

                        Friday (P.E.)                   

Themes for this Term!  - The topic in the Infants this term is space and the children have been researching rockets, what they look like and where they travel to.  Anouska is busy designing her rocket on the interactive whiteboard.  Years 3 and 4 are studying the topic of Ancient Egypt. Years 5 and 6 are studying the topic of Water.

Reading, Reading, Reading! - As you are probably aware there is a drive within Wales to raise standards in reading and ensure children enjoy books.  We will be encouraging the Juniors to help with this by reading with the Infants in the morning.  We will also be organising a Reading Club which will involve children swapping books that they have enjoyed with others. More information to follow soon!         

Breakfast Club - Breakfast club numbers are swelling due to its increasing popularity! So that we can ensure staffing ratios are correct we would be grateful if you would complete the attached form indicating which days you require your child / children to attend Breakfast Club.                      

Healthy Schools - As a healthy school you will be aware that we promote healthy eating throughout the day.  We ensure that at break time children are encouraged to bring in fruit to eat and all Infants have fruit provided at a small cost.   Please discourage any unhealthy snacks such as biscuits or crisps unless it is provided purely for their lunch.

Seren Y Wythnos - Congratulations go to Oliver, Morgan, Wiliam H, Edward, Sam and Anna this week.

Dear Parents,

I'd like to send out a very special Christmas message to you all! Thanks to the staff for their hard work and dedication, not only during Christmas, but also throughout a very busy year. There's been a lovely Christmas atmosphere here and a great feeling of community.

I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas with your families and wish everyone a Happy NewYear and hope that 2012 brings good luck and happiness to you all! I look forward to seeing you all again in January when I hope the children will be ready to face the exciting new challenges that the New Year will bring.

Annwyl Rieni,

Hoffwn i yrru neges arbennig i bawb! Diolch i'r staff i gyd am eu gwaith caled gydagweithgareddau'r Nadolig a thrwy gydol y flwyddyn. Mae yna awyrgylch Nadoligaidd hyfryd wedi bod yma a theimlad cymunedol braf. Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda I bawb -pob lwc a hapusrwydd i chi yn 2012! Edrychaf ymlaen at weld pawb eto ym mis Ionawr a gobeithio y bydd y plant yn barod am sialensau cyffrous y Flwyddyn Newydd.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Infant Christmas Concert - The Infants' performance of ‘Christmas with the Aliens' was wonderful and a delight to watch this week. It was greatly appreciated by the audiences and all of the children were little stars - acting and singing so well and looking fantastic in their costumes!

Junior Christmas Concert - The Juniors have worked extremely hard on their performance of ‘The Stars Come Out For Christmas' and we are very proud of them all! My thanks go to both the Infant and Junior staff for all their hard work in preparing the children for the performances and making all the props. A DVD of both performances will be available to purchase in the New Year for £3.

Christmas Carol Service - As is traditional, the final morning of this term was spent in church for our Christmas Carol Service. Following a frantic week of concerts and festive fun some very bleary eyedstaff and Year 6 pupils gave the readings and the wonderful Wind Band accompanied the carol singing. Thank you to all who attended.

Lots of fun at the Panto! - The whole school enjoyed a trip to the pantomime to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on Monday. It was lovely to see the children totally immersed in the entertainment and the

staff commented on how well behaved they all were.

Christmas Party - All the pupils had a wonderful time at the Christmas party. They were treated to lots of fun and games and even Santa made an appearance and gave all the children an early Christmas gift. Thank you to all of the P.T.A and Mr and Mrs Legg for all their hard work over this very busy period especially printing all of the cards and calendars and for collecting all the raffle prizes.

Llangynhafal Church Service - I would just like to thank all those who attended the Community Service at Llangynhafal Church last Sunday. It was a beautiful service with a strong sense of community spirit. The children performed extremely well.

BrassTuition - Mrs Jones is requesting that any child wishing to learn to play a brass instrument,following the brass demonstration, should please return their form with a deposit of £20, on the first day of the new term.

Holiday Dates - Just a reminder that the pupils will be returning to school on Wednesday 4th January.

Ysgol Gellifor PTA

Once again a big ‘thank you' to the PTA for organising all the wonderful events over this busy term. Their hard work, dedication and commitment to raising extra funds for the benefit of all the pupils is greatly appreciated.

Seren Yr Wythnos - All the pupils have been awarded ‘Seren yr Wythnos' this week as the staff have been so impressed by their wonderful performances at the Christmas Concerts and their outstanding behaviour at the Panto!

Dear Parents,
The wintry weather arrived this week with a real chill in the air! Christmas is definitely on the way at Ysgol Gellifor as Thursday saw the first of the festivities with our School Governors joining us for Christmas dinner. A wonderful meal was prepared by Mr Kellett for over one hundred members of our school community!
Preparations are gathering momentum for our Christmas concerts and the Christmas Church Service next week!
Annwyl Rieni,
Mae'r tywydd gaeafol wedi cyrraedd yr wythnos yma! Mae'r Nadolig ar y ffordd yn bendant yn Ysgol Gellifor - gwelwyd y cyntaf o'r dathliadau ddydd Iau gyda'n Llywodraethwyr Ysgol yn ymuno â ni ar gyfer cinio Nadolig. Cafodd pryd o fwyd hyfryd ei baratoi gan Mr Kellett i dros gant o aelodau o gymuned yr ysgol!
Mae paratoadau yn casglu momentwm ar gyfer ein cyngherddau Nadolig a'r Gwasanaeth Eglwys Nadolig wythnos nesaf!
Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,
Susan H. Roberts,
Headteacher / Pennaeth

Community Christmas Event - Thank you to everyone from our school community who joined us on Saturday to enjoy our start to the Christmas Festivities! We were treated to wonderful performances from Cor Meibion Bro Glyndwr, Jodie Williams and Hamish Sennett. The children also had the chance to hand deliver their letters to Santa!

A big thank you to Richard Penhaligan for donating his ‘Auction of Promises' bid for the choir to us and to Mrs Dowell for organising everything for us on the day.

Dates for Diaries

Sunday 11^th December                Llangynhafal Community Church Service  6 p.m.

Monday 12^th December               Pantomime Rhyl Pavilion (back approximately 4.30pm)

Tuesday 13^th December              Infants Dress Rehearsal      2 p.m.

                                                Infants Concert                   6 p.m.

Wednesday 14^th December          Junior Dress Rehearsal        1.30 p.m.

                                                Junior Concert                     6.30 p.m.

Thursday 15^th December            Christmas Party                 1 p.m.

Friday  16^th December                 Christmas Church Service    9.15 p.m.

Pupils will be breaking up for Christmas on Friday 16^th December and returning to school on Wednesday 4^th January.

Christmas Tree - It was lovely to see the Christmas Tree decorated by the children in After School Club in time for Christmas dinner.  A big thank you to Harry Taylor's Dad (Stryt Fawr Farm - where Christmas trees are available to purchase now!) for donating the tree.

Congratulations Miss Tami! - We are all very proud of Miss Tami who received the Participation Coach of the Year for Wales award last weekend in Cardiff.

Road Safety Competition Results - Well done to all the children who competed in the Design a Road Safety Poster this term.  There were some wonderful entries and all the children who took part received a pencil today.  

1^st place - Freya Jones

2^nd place - Harriet Hughes

3^rd place - Jordan Jones

Many thanks to our two Road Safety Officers, Megan and Dylan for making this competition a huge success.

PTA -  Please can I remind you to send in your raffle ticket stubbs and payment as soon as possible as the raffle will be drawn on Thursday. More tickets are available from the school.

Please return your pro forma and payment for calendars on Monday so that orders can be processed and sent home with your child by the end of term.

French Club - Just to inform all those who have joined up to attend Madame Lovelle's French lessons that they will be commencing at lunchtimes on Monday 9^th January. Madame Lovelle will be contacting parents in the near future.

Pantomime - Just a reminder that pupils will be attending the ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves' on Monday 12^th December in Rhyl Pavillion Theatre.  They will be travelling by coach or minibus and I anticipate a late finish.  Could you please pick up your child at 4.30 p.m. from the school.  After School Club will run as normal. Please send in any outstanding payment of £7 on Monday morning. Thank you.

Christmas Dinner - Once again, Mr Kellett did us proud on Thursday with a fine Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.  Our thanks to the kitchen staff for all their hard work.

Dinner Money - Could you please send any outstanding dinner money and next week's dinner money on Monday so Auntie Shelley can balance the books for Denbighshire County Council.

Achievers - Congratulations to Sarah and Lauren for Gymnastics, to Maisie, Keri, Neisha and Eva for going up a level in swimming, to Joe for his performance at Twm o'r Nant Theatre, to Anouska for karate and to Ben for his success in swimming.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Well done to Harry, Tam, Liam R. and Liam J.

Positive Points - Congratulations to Emily for achieving gold, Murray for silver and Steffan for bronze.

Dear Parents,

Preparations are gathering momentum for our Christmas concerts as the dates of our final performances approach. The pupils are hopefully all busy learning words for songs or practising their speaking parts!

I hope you will be able to join us for our Community event tomorrow at 5.30pm. To start the festivities we have Bro Glyndwr Male Voice Choir singing for us and the children will have the opportunity to bring their letters to Santa! 

There has been a real buzz around the school this week as the children completed their T.A.S.C activities with great success.  Well done to everyone!

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae paratoadau yn prysuro ar gyfer ein cyngherddau Nadolig fel mae dyddiadau ein perfformiadau terfynol yn agosau. Gobeithio bod y disgyblion yn brysur yn dysgu geiriau'r caneuon neu'n ymarfer eu darnau siarad!
Rwy'n gobeithio y byddwch yn gallu ymuno â ni am ein digwyddiad cymunedol yfory am 5.30pm. I ddechrau'r dathliadau, mae gennym Gôr Meibion Bro Glyndwr yn canu a bydd gan y plant gyfle i ddod â'u llythyrau i Siôn Corn!
Roedd yna deimlad cyffrous o gwmpas yr ysgol yr wythnos hon wrth i'r plant gwblhau eu gweithgareddau TASC gyda llwyddiant mawr. Da iawn i bawb!

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

T.A.S.C Week - This week was T.A.S.C week and there was a general buzz around the school as every child completed a project on a variety of topics. 

Infant T.A.S.C - Our Reception class were extremely busy making the stable where the baby Jesus lay.  Years 1 and 2 were split into two groups, one designing and making a set of tablemats for the Christmas table and another designing and making an advent calendar. 

Junior T.A.S.C - The children in Years 3 and 4 designed and made a Christmas game for the Christmas toy market and Years 5 and 6 have been working on T.A.S.C. activities all based on the theme of Communication.

Family Learning Session - Mrs Weyman was delighted to see so many eager parents, grandparents and children willing to learn something new on Tuesday. There were lots of tips for learning spellings in a fun way and making reading a challenge as well as an introduction to the TASC wheel.  The highlight of the session was, without a doubt, the card war game which I am sure will be used throughout the year to enhance their Maths skills. 

Film Night - On Thursday night the children were treated to popcorn and a lovely Christmassy film to warm their hearts. The film was ‘The Nativity', and there was much chuckling and giggling around the audience throughout the evening.  I hope some of you managed to do a little Christmas shopping that evening too. The P.T.A raised £170 and our thanks go to all who helped out on the night. 

Christmas Reminders

Christmas Dinner - On Thursday 8^th December the children, staff and Governors will be enjoying  Christmas dinner at Ysgol Gellifor.  Please ensure that if your child is staying for dinner on this day but does not usually have lunch on a Thursday, that you send payment of £1.90 in a clearly marked envelope in the black box on Monday morning.

Christmas Cards - Don't forget to place your order for Christmas Cards as soon as possible.

Christmas Pantomime - The pupils will be travelling to the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl on the afternoon of Monday 12^th. We will return to school at approximately 4.30pm. Please send any outstanding payments, of £7 per pupil, in to school on Monday morning. Thank you.

Christmas Church Services - Ysgol Gellifor's Christmas Service will be held on Friday 16^th December at 9.15am at Llangynhafal Church.

Christmas Holiday Dates - Just a reminder that the pupils will be breaking up for Christmas on Friday 16^th December and returning to school on Wednesday 4^th January.

Christmas Concerts - It is that time of the year again, when all of the staff are starting to look a little frantic and are busy painting scenery or sewing costumes. Once again, the staff would like to thank all the parents who have helped with the task of making and providing costumes.  Please ensure your child's costume is on their peg by Thursday 8^th December or handed to a member of staff if they are an infant. 

Christmas Concert dates are as follows:

Tuesday 13^th December

Infant dress rehearsal   2 p.m.

Infant Performance       6 p.m.  

Wednesday 14^th December 

Junior dress rehearsal    1.30 p.m.

Junior Concert                6.30 p.m.

Achievers - Well done to Neisha for swimming, Heidi for pony riding and to Lauren for gymnastics.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Bella, Harriet and Ceiran.

Breakfast Club Award - Well done to Ben who received a helpfulness award in Breakfast Club.

Dear Parents,

It's that time of year again when everyone is reaching for their winter coat, hat and gloves. It has been yet another busy week here at Ysgol Gellifor with building on the front yard and field and sporting activities such as the Urdd Swimming Gala and an Orienteering Festival. With all the excitement that is growing in the preparation for the Christmas Festivities there is a real buzz around the school!

Annwyl Rieni,

Mae'r amser wedi dod unwaith eto I bawb wisgo eu cotiau, hetiau, sgarff a menig. Mae wedi bod yn wythnos brysur iawn yma yn Ysgol Gellifor, gyda'r adeiladu ar yr iard flaen a maes chwaraeon a gweithgareddau fel y Gala Nofio'r Urdd a'r Wyl Gyfeiriannu. Gyda'r holl gyffro sydd yn tyfu wrth baratoi ar gyfer y Dathliadau'r Nadolig mae yna deimlad braf yn yr ysgol.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Orienteering in Llangollen -  Pupils in Years 5 & 6 from Ysgol Gellifor and Ysgol Bryn Clwyd had the chance to participate in an Orienteering Festival held at Plas Newydd in Llangollen on Tuesday. It was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon with our pupils demonstrating some excellent skills in orienteering.

Trim Trail! - Thanks to Miss Adie's hard work and our After School Club we have been fortunate, this week to have a trim trail constructed on the field. The workmen have also been busy creating a play area for the younger children at the front of the school. I am sure you will agree that this will be a great asset to both After School Club and the school community. Many thanks to all those involved in After School Club, which is an excellent asset to Ysgol Gellifor, that so many of you make use of and have used in the past.

Urdd Swimming Gala - Although it was a long wait for many of our swimmers this week, they performed extremely well in the Urdd Swimming Gala in Rhyl. It is a highly competitive competition and, although we had many winners in the races, only the fastest in front crawl, back stroke and breast stroke will go through to the National Competition which will be held in Cardiff this year. Well done to all who competed and congratulations to Ben Woodward who will be travelling to Cardiff to represent Denbighshire taking part in the National Finals at the beginning of the New Year.

Family Learning Session - On Tuesday 29th November the children, parents and grandparents of Years 2 and 3 are invited to take part in a Family Learning Session with Mrs Weyman in Class One. The session will start at 3.10pm and finish at 4pm. It will be an opportunity to learn a number of techniques and find out about websites which will enhance the learning experiences of your children at Gellifor. So come along and pick up some homework tips!

PTA - Please see attached leaflet for details about the Christmas Film Night to be held on Thursday 1st December. The Big Christmas Raffle - Raffle ticket books will be sent home with your child on Monday. More than 50 great prizes to be won listed onthe tickets!

Year 2 - Smoothies - There was an abundance of fruit in the Under 7s this week as Year 2 designed and made their own fruit smoothies. There were some delicious recipes and Mrs Weyman was very pleased with all of their ideas.

Years 3&4 Weaving Workshop - This week the children in the lower Juniors had the opportunity to visit Ruthin Craft Centre and take part in a weaving workshop.

Achievers - Congratulations to Lauren and Amy for achieving their ‘to be me' badge in Brownies.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Well done to Sarah, Rufus, Anouska and Eva.

Positive Points - Congratulations to Joshua and Nathan.

Breakfast Club Award - Well done to Heidi.

Dear Parents,

It was wonderful to watch everyone pulling together in aid of Children in Need today. There was certainly a buzz around the school and we were all seeing spots before our eyes. Yet another busy week has passed and a massive well done to all of the cheerleaders who performed in Ruthin on Sunday. A big thanks to Miss Tami who works extremely hard to ensure they can perform with such flair.

Annwyl Rieni,

Roedd yn hyfryd i weld pawb yn tynnu at ei gilydd at achos Plant mewn Angen heddiw. Roedd yna deimlad gwych o amgylch yr ysgol, ac rydym i gyd yn gweld smotiau o flaen ein llygaid. Wythnos brysur arall wedi pasio unwaith eto a da iawn i bob un o'r 'cheerleaders' a berfformiodd yn Rhuthun ar ddydd Sul. Diolch yn fawr i Miss Tami sy'n gweithio'n hynod o galed i sicrhau y gallant berfformio mor dda.

Yours sincerely / Yn gywir,

Susan H. Roberts,

Headteacher / Pennaeth

Raising Standards in Literacy - Over this term, Denbighshire's Chief Executive Dr. Mohammed Mehmet has been visiting our school to listen to children read. Last week he was joined by Karen Evans, Head of School Improvement and Inclusion and Beryl Price, a representative of a charity raising funds for literacy. Some of the children had the opportunity to discuss aspects of literacy with our visitors.

Children in Need - A spotty treat greeted us today as the children and staff dressed in spotty clothes. There were also spotty cakes and a massive £200 was raised for Children in Need. An excellent effort

Spooktacular! - On Sunday our cheerleaders performed in the Ruthin and Denbigh Gymnastics Club  achieved their Level One Cheerleader Award. Well done girls!!

P.T.A News - The P.T.A will be holding a Christmas film night on the Thursday 1st December 5.30 - 7.30. It will cost £3.50 to attend and will include popcorn and a drink. A great time to do some Christmas Shopping.

Pantomime - Just a quick reminder that payments for the Pantomime ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves' need to be in. The cost of the trip is £7 which includes an ice lolly in the interval.

Football Festival - Well done to the children who travelled to Ysgol Frongoch this week to play in the Football Festival. A valiant effort!

Urdd Swimming Gala - On Tuesday 22nd November some children will be travelling by minibus to Rhyl High School to take part in the Urdd Swimming Gala. All of the children taking part have been informed and will need their swimming kit and two towels on the day.

Orienteering - The children in Years 5/6 who are not swimming will be taking part in an Orienteering Festival in Llangollen on the same day. I will be transporting them by minibus and they need suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.

Everyone taking part in these two activities will need to bring a packed lunch to school on Tuesday. Thank you.

P.C.Chris Juniors - P.C. Chris visited the school on Thursday to speak to the Juniors about harmful substances. They discussed both drugs and alcohol and the bad affects they can have on the lives of people.

The Harvest Goes on! - Children in Years One and Two were able to see the fruits of their labour in the Eco Garden this week, as it was time to harvest the beetroot.

School Council - The School Council held their own competition to raise money for Children in Need. They had a colouring competition for the Infants and Years 3&4 and a design a Pudsey poster for Years 5&6. They raised £40 for this very worthy cause. The winners of the competition were Neisha, Harriet and Imogen.

Seren Yr Wythnos - Congratulations to Joshua, Byron, Ceiran, Rab and Lucy.

Positive Points - Well done to Morgan, Georgina, Keri, Seren, Alia, Eileigh, Iestyn and Heidi.

Breakfast Club Award - Congratulations to Cai for excellent manners!

Achievers -Well done to all our Cheerleaders and Gymnasts for their success at the Spooktacular Event!