As we come to the end of term and prepare for the Christmas holidays, it has been a joyful and memorable week in Pili-Pala. Following the wonderful success of our Christmas Nativity last Friday, we have continued our ‘Christmas Around the World’ mini inquiry, learning how Christmas is celebrated in different countries.

This week, we explored how Christmas in Australia looks very different to the UK, discussing the weather, clothing, food and traditions, before creating contrasting illustrations to show the differences between a warm Australian Christmas and a colder UK Christmas.

Our enhanced provision continued to reflect our learning about Christmas around the world. In literacy, we created Christmas postcards inspired by countries such as Australia, Germany and Ukraine. In maths, we explored festive shapes through Filipino Parol star lanterns, sorting shapes, creating patterns and discussing their properties. In construction, we built gingerbread houses and towns inspired by German Christmas markets, while our roleplay area became a busy post office around the world. In the investigation area, we planned Santa’s journey across the globe using maps and routes. In our creative and fine motor areas, we explored international decorations, including Mexican poinsettias and Scandinavian natural Christmas décor, while the play dough area was filled with gingerbread creations inspired by German traditions.

We were also very excited to receive a special visit from Father Christmas on Thursday. We spent time talking with him, singing Christmas songs, learning about his important duties at this time of year and sharing our Christmas wishes.

We also shared a special moment as we said goodbye to Mrs Woodward, who will be leaving us after Christmas. The children created a heartfelt Pili-Pala thank-you card to show how much her kindness and care have meant to us all. She has been a much-loved part of our class and will be truly missed.

As we finish the term, we are incredibly proud of everything the children have achieved. Thank you to all our families for your continued support.  We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone for your extremely generous gifts and kind words in your cards. We are so grateful and feel very lucky to teach your amazing children. 

We wish you a happy, restful and magical Christmas and look forward to welcoming everyone back in the New Year.

Miss Hughes and Miss Llewellyn 🎄✨