The Durham Dales Federation is a federation of small rural primary schools, which was formed in September 2023. Staff from all schools work together to share expertise and to plan and deliver the curriculum. Our subject leaders co-ordinate their subjects across all the schools within our federation, which ensures that we can offer the same high-quality experiences to all pupils in our schools.
The Upper Dales schools of Wearhead and St John’s Chapel work together on a regular basis each week. At the start of the week, each school works in their own building and on Thursdays and Fridays, the schools come together on the St John’s Chapel Primary School site. On Federation days, we take advantage of the opportunities to work in larger groups with other children of the same age, and we often arrange visits and visitors for these days so that everyone can participate.
Wearhead Primary School EYFS children have been listening to the story of 'The Three Billy Goats Gruff' this week. They have been building bridges for the goats to cross the river and they have been building towers as part of their topic work around fairy tales.
View this PostWearhead Primary School This afternoon, we changed our plans in our forest school session when we couldn't unlock the shed! We continued with some gardening and began to move the fire circle to a more sheltered spot.
View this PostHamsterley Primary School Happy World Bee Day! Today, Class 2 had a buzzing time in Forest School, learning all about why bees are so important to nature and to us. We built cozy bee houses to give our pollinator friends a safe spot in the trees and got creative painting bee-themed pebble stones. Of course, no Forest School day would be complete without a delicious treats'mores!
View this PostHamsterley Primary School Class One have had a lovely afternoon using the MUGA, in the village, for PE. They had a super tennis lesson and have learnt some new skills. As it was so warm we had lots of shade and water breaks. Great fun was had by all.
View this PostHamsterley Primary School Bike Ability Session 2 This week, we built on last session's skills to boost our balance and bike control! From mastering smooth stops in 'Stop in the Box' to navigating obstacles in 'Grandmother's Footsteps' and reacting quickly in 'Traffic Lights', our riders took on every challenge with enthusiasm and focus. We're learning to brake with confidence, steer with precision, and ride with control all while having loads of fun!
View this PostSt. John's Chapel Primary School and Wearhead Primary School Today, Class 2 have been exploring light during their science lesson. We took part in 5 different activities to find out about reflection, shadows, colour and lines of light.
View this PostSt John's Chapel Primary School Two children who attend music lessons in school with Durham Music Service came into Class 2 to give us a performance of a tune that they wrote themselves. They played it along side different backing tracks and the children discussed how they made them feel.
View this PostSt. John's Chapel Primary School In art this week, Key Stage 2 made paper collages focusing on line, colour, texture or shape. The finished results were fantastic!
View this PostYouth Drama Workshops with Mad Alice Theatre Company Exciting drama workshops are coming this May half-term with Shelly & Pete from Mad Alice Theatre! Dates: Tue 27th, Wed 28th & Thu 29th May 10am – 3pm Location: Stanhope Community Centre For children aged 7-11 years A great opportunity for kids to build confidence, have fun & unleash their creativity! See the link for more details.
View this PostSt John's Chapel & Wearhead Primaries This afternoon, the year 6 children enjoyed a sunny Forest School session to celebrate the end of SATs. The children made pizza toasties and toasted marshmallows on the fire. They also enjoyed playing some games.
View this PostWearhead Primary School The children in Y6 have worked so hard this SATs week so we decided to celebrate by walking to Wearhead Park. We took our picnic lunch and made the most of the fresh air and sunshine, playing in the park and then back at school. A great way to relax our minds and bodies!
View this PostHamsterley Primary School Gardening Club was full of activity this afternoon! The children tackled the weeds, freshened up the poly tunnel, and crafted tea cup bird feeders. To top it off, they enjoyed a tasty bite of chives!
View this PostHamsterley Primary School Cookery Club Creations! This week in Cookery Club, we had a fantastic time making mini ham and cheese quiches! The children loved getting hands-on in the kitchen, and their delicious creations are ready to take home. But parents, be warned... they might not be in the mood to share!
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