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Knowledge begins with respect for God. (Proverbs 1:7)

St Matthew's C of E
Primary School

Live, Love, Learn

&

Brunel
Nursery School

Learning Together

Latest Newsletter

 

 

Newsletter 3 – 14th September 2026

 

Knowledge begins with respect for God (Proverbs 1:7)

 

This half-term’s value is ‘Generosity’ (2 Corinthians 9:6-11)

 

 

Generosity

 

As a Church of England school, we encourage children to demonstrate a set of school values. We have previously identified twelve values which we feel reflect our status as a church school. These are focused on in a two-year rolling cycle (one value per half term):

 

Year 1: Thankfulness, Trust, Compassion, Forgiveness, Hope, Endurance

Year 2: Generosity, Friendship, Courage, Service, Respect, Honesty

 

This year is ‘Year 2’ and therefore our value for this half term is ‘Generosity’. In our assembly last week we reflected on the saying ‘It brings greater joy to give than to receive’. We also shared a story about Guru Nanak which showed us how important it is to share what we have with others, not just to keep in to ourselves. We then thought of ways in which we can show generosity to others, through our time, help and love, not just money or material things.

 

 

 

Macmillan Coffee Morning

We are looking forward to holding this year’s Macmillan Coffee Morning. More details will follow, but please note that this will be taking place on Friday 25th September.

 

Harvest Festival

 

This year’s Harvest Festival will be taking place on Thursday 15th October at 8.40am, here in school. It will be led by the Kestrels’ class. All parents and carers will be very welcome to join us for this lovely opportunity to thank God for the food we enjoy each day. As usual, we will be supporting the Blackburn Foodbank by donating harvest food. I will send out details nearer the time about the food items that the Foodbank are asking for this year.

 

 

Admission to Reception for September 2027

 

If you have a child due to start school next September (born between 1st September 2022 and 31st August 2023), you can now go online at www.blackburn.gov.uk/admissions for information about primary schools and how to apply for a place online. The deadline to complete your application is Wednesday 15th January 2027.

 

Admission to Secondary School for September 2027

 

If you have a child who has just started Year 6, it is time to decide on your choice of secondary school for September 2027. You will need to go online at www.blackburn.gov.uk./admissions for information about secondary schools and how to apply for a place online. You don’t have long to do this - the deadline for you to make your choices is Saturday 31st October 2026. I would recommend attending some of the high school open events which will be taking place soon. A list of high school open events was sent home with Year 6 children last week. If you need help with the application process, please let me know.

 

IMO – Weekend Activities for Children

 

I’ve attached to this newsletter two flyers which give details about weekend activities being offered by IMO to children who are now in Key Stage 2 (Year 3 and above).

 

Since last year IMO have opened a brand-new youth centre that is located on Pringle St. There is a range of facilities including a new youth suite, a gaming area, a STEM suite, a teaching kitchen, a refurbished café area, a quiet area and one-to-one rooms.

 

Children taking part in IMO’s programmes can develop key skills such as emotional resilience, confidence, teamwork, leadership, and creativity. They are also introduced to practical life skills and STEM-based learning, which nurture problem-solving abilities and innovation. Additionally, inclusive sessions support personal growth for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

The Wave Project Family Fun Day!

We’re inviting families across Blackburn with Darwen to come along to a free afternoon of activities, fun and an opportunity to find out more about The Wave Project – our new bereavement support service for children, young people and families.

 

There’ll be plenty to enjoy, including:

 

  • Arts and crafts
  • Family-friendly games and activities
  • Free refreshments
  • Opportunities to meet other local families
  • A special appearance from Rover the Mascot!

 

You’ll also be able to meet members of the Wave Team and learn more about the support available for children and young people who have experienced the death of someone important, as well as support for parents and carers.

When?            Saturday 26th September, 12pm–4pm

Where?           Ewood Park, Darwen End, Legends Lounge, Blackburn

Cost?              FREE – families are welcome to drop in

 

The Wave Project is delivered by Lancashire Mind, working with local partners, and is funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

 

Come along, say hello and find out how The Wave Project is supporting children, young people and families across Blackburn with Darwen.

 

 

 

 

Best wishes