As part of STEM Fortnight we had a very interesting visit from Dr Diamond.  We learned all about being a doctor and the children particularly enjoyed trying out all of the special equipment.

After discussions with some parents tonight I would just like to highlight two possible websites for Maths games.  ‘Hit the Button’ is a fabulous game to improve speed and accuracy with mental calculations. One good thing about this game is that the children only have one minute to do the calculations so they don’t get bored!  Obviously they can repeat and be given different calculations as often as they/you wish.  You can find it on the Topmarks website.

Another excellent site is Sumdog.  You will have to register to use this site but it is definitely well worth it.  The children are doing calculations and they don’t realise it because they are having so much fun! There is an option to pay for more games and this would certainly increase the fun but there are enough games on the free version to keep the children happy.  This website is good as it takes into account the child’s accuracy level when creating questions so you know that your child is working at their level.  It adapts with them.  You can also get a report on progress – or at least you did the last time I used it with my own children!

These are just a couple of personal recommendations.  Let us know how you get on with them if you decide to try them.  Also, we would love to hear of any other interesting ways to get children learning in a fun way.

Thought you might like to see the children having fun in the snow.  Excellent teamwork and lots of fun!  Thanks to Mrs Monie for the camera work.

Now that the ice has gone (hopefully till next Winter) we have been able to get out for our Daily Mile.  The children have great fun running (or walking) around the pitch and a favourite game is ‘Beat the Teacher!’  It is a fantastic opportunity to get some exercise, fresh air and have a chance to chat with friends.