School Transport 

Since returning to school in September, many of you have experienced issues with the home to school transport provided by Essex County Council through 24/7 Ltd. 

The main concerns have been the lack of communication when relief drivers take over and the lateness of some replacement services. Everybody gets sick and supply drivers need to be found. This is to be expected but any changes need to be communicated more clearly and efficiently. 

Due to the volume of concerns expressed to us over the last few weeks, I had a constructive meeting with Essex County Council to highlight the issues you had raised. It transpired that parents' complaints had not been received to Essex due to the wrong email address being used or 24/7 not passing them on. 

Hopefully, following the meeting, the number of issues will reduce. However, if you do need to complain, please do so by emailing 24/7 Ltd and copy in the office and Essex County Council at passenger.transport@essex.gov.uk.

Essex County Council are very keen to work with us to resolve the problems.

Although there have been some problems, I would really encourage anyone that qualifies for transport to use it. It saves you trying to find a parking space outside school, reduces the amount of traffic passing the school and prepares the children well for secondary school. 

The majority of drivers are brilliant and have built great relationships with the children and families they serve. 

Harvest Festival and Donations

We are very excited to celebrate Harvest next week with a special assembly put on by our youngest children. Once again, we will be supporting Uttlesford Foodbank. They are really struggling to support families due to demand, so any donations of non-perishable food and toiletries will be gratefully received. Please drop any donations at the office or the children can hand them to their class teacher. 

Each child in EYFS and Key Stage 1 can invite one parent to come and watch the assembly. I'm sorry we can't welcome more family members but we don't have the space in our hall to accommodate the extra adults. Babies and toddlers are welcome but they will have to sit on laps. 

The assembly is being held on Friday 4th October at 2:15pm and will last about 15/20 minutes. Donations are welcome from families in all year groups. 

Well, it looks like the summer weather is over and it is time to get the wellies and raincoats out.

Whatever you are doing, have a lovely weekend!

Mr Raraty 

Weekly Attendance 

October half-term is fast-approaching.  Are you looking for something for your child to do during this time?  Why not sign them up to a Bikeability Course.

 Various levels are available as well as our beginner course called Learn to Ride.

 The courses are being held in the following locations and more may be added:

• Colchester – Learn to Ride and Level 1&2
• Harlow – Learn to Ride, Level 1&2 and Level 3
• Chelmsford – available soon
• Braintree – available soon

 Please see below the link for parents/ guardians to book October half-term holiday courses.

https://essex.cycleready.co.uk/publicbooking

Luca and Jesse both completed their karate grading karate this week. Luca achieved blue belt at his grading in Stevenage on Sunday while Jesse achieved orange striped belt on Tuesday. They are both part of Takeley Karate club and we are very proud of your achievement. 

Well done boys, this is a fantastic achievement, we are so proud of you :-)