This term, we have been delighted to host author, Mark Ballabon, who is an environmentalist, philosopher, and author of ‘Home.’ Mark delivered talks to our Key Stage 2 students about climate change, which is an underlying theme in his most recent book. He linked his assemblies to our Invention fair, in which children were tasked to create an invention within the theme of ‘adapt and change.’ We found his visit to be incredibly inspiring, especially our Eco-Warrior and Science Ambassador groups who had a specialist workshop with him.

Mark also enjoyed his visit across our schools and said “ …the way that all the children brightly engaged, responded, volunteered, sang and asked intelligent questions, does you all proud. In which all the students who volunteered to read - from Year 6 to Year 3 - demonstrated a natural confidence and got the huge round of applause that they deserved.”

Student voice:

Zoe-Grace, Year 5: “I like that his book was about global warming and climate change and it made me think about my invention and what I can do to make the world healthier.”

Ainsley, Year 6: “If we don’t do things and find ways to change how we use resources, we won’t be more efficient and non-renewable resources will be gone.”

Jeremy, Year 6: “We need to find more creative ways of using our resources because we are running out of plastic and oil and stuff. We are hurting the environment because we are wasting so much resources. “

Ms Battey

"Cut Your Carbon Month 2024" is an exciting initiative by Eco Schools, running throughout November, designed to inspire students, to take meaningful action against climate change. This month-long campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing carbon footprints.

Throughout the month, St Mary Magdalene will be involved in various activities such as energy-saving challenges, waste reduction projects, and sustainable travel initiatives. These hands-on experiences allow students to learn about the impact of everyday actions on the environment and to explore innovative solutions for minimizing carbon emissions.

Together, through small, manageable changes, we can make a significant impact on the environment, creating a greener, more sustainable world for future generations. #CutYourCarbonMonth2024

• Thursday 28th November 2024 - 9.15AM.

Peninsula Reception children have been joined by Ann, a Greenwich School Crossing Patrol Officer. Ann taught us the importance of taking care when crossing the road. We know the hazards to be aware of when near vehicles and we know how to stay safe on our bikes and scooters. Thank you, Ann!

Continuing their learning about the local area and minibeasts, our Reception children enjoyed a trip to the Greenwich Ecology Park! They had the experience of listening to, and identifying, different bird calls and even inspected pond life under the microscope. Towards the end of the trip, they had the opportunity to handle different minibeasts. Many students came over their nerves and built up the courage to handle animals such as worms, millipedes and newts!

Some of our Year 4 students had a brilliant time at Platform Cricket’s Inter School Festival at Greenwich Park. Our players showcased their cricketing skills and had a great day playing against students from other Greenwich borough schools. An extra well done to Noah and Timmy who were awarded the title of ‘Most Valuable Players’.