St Thomas More Catholic Primary School News Feed - Latest News

🏆 Maths Challenge Success!

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:19:33 GMT

🏆 Maths Challenge Success! 🧮

Four of our pupils visited d’Overbroecks Senior School to take part in the Primary Team Maths Challenge, tackling a range of exciting problem-solving activities.

Competing against schools from across Oxford, we are incredibly proud that they achieved an amazing second place!

A huge well done to Nicole, William, Filip and Hanna for their fantastic effort and teamwork.

Thank you to Mrs Long for supporting the team throughout the event.

Newsletter 1

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:12:06 GMT

🧁 DT Week: Easter Cupcakes 🧁

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 22:46:04 GMT

Year 5 began making our Easter cupcakes! The class were very excited and worked brilliantly in their groups to measure, mix, and pour their ingredients. They are now baked and ready for decorating!

🌻 Growing Sunflowers 🌻

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 22:37:42 GMT

🌻 Growing Sunflowers 🌻Year 1 had a fantastic time planting their very own sunflowers as part of their Science learning. We explored how plants grow and what they need to stay healthy, before getting hands-on and becoming enthusiastic young gardeners! 🌱🪏

CAFOD Soup Kitchen

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 22:26:01 GMT

Year 6 pupils spent a rewarding lunchtime volunteering at the church hall soup kitchen in support of CAFOD. They helped lay tables and served homemade soup to parishioners and Father Damian, who praised their kindness and excellent manners.

Through this Lenten act of service, the children experienced how giving their time to others can be both meaningful and fulfilling.

🌿 Waving Palms for Jesus! 🌿

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 15:42:49 GMT

In Year 3, we explored Palm Sunday in our RE lesson, learning about what happened and thinking about how the people in the crowd might have felt. To help us understand the importance and excitement of Jesus’ arrival, we recreated the scene by waving palm leaves and cheering together. It gave us a real sense of the scale of the event and was a very fun and memorable experience!

Year 6 Create Wartime Propaganda Posters 🪖

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 15:41:04 GMT

Year 6 Create Wartime Propaganda Posters
Year 6 have been learning about the role of women in wartime and how their lives changed overnight. We explored the new jobs women took on to support the country and created our own propaganda posters to persuade them to help.The posters turned out fantastic bright, bold and very eye-catching!

Year 5 Team Challenge Success 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 21:20:49 GMT

Congratulations to all the Year 5 pupils who took part in the competition today. They showed great effort throughout and had a fantastic time. It was wonderful to see such strong teamwork, with everyone supporting and encouraging each other.

Vocation Week

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:58:27 GMT

As part of Vocation Week, Year 2 and Reception were pleased to welcome our Parish Priest, Fr Damian, who spoke to the children about vocation and his own journey in answering God’s call. The children listened carefully, asked thoughtful questions, and learned how people are called to different roles in serving others

Sacrament of Reconciliation 🕯️

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:54:05 GMT

Today pupils who are making their First Holy Communion in June, made their First Confession at St Thomas More Church. Each child met with Father Damian and sat side by side with him to confess their sins and received a simple penance before being granted absolution. They then lit a candle in the church. The quiet service was attended by teachers and parents, highlighting the shared commitment of the school and parish to support our children as they prepare to receive the Eucharist for the first time.

St. Patrick's Day 🍀

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:26:43 GMT

Our Year 6 class is absolutely buzzing after raising over £400 today! As Mrs Machin said we are incredibly grateful for every single donation; it is a true testament to the wonderful school community we have here. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who contributed or lent a hand to make the day such a resounding success. The children looked fantastic in their green outfits, and it was the perfect way to celebrate a very happy St Patrick’s Day together

Rugby Stars in Action! 🏉

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 21:45:30 GMT

Year 6 had an exciting afternoon showing off our rugby skills. Both teams demonstrated great perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship. One team made it through to the semi-finals, and we were thrilled to come away with second place! All of the children should be proud of their fantastic performance on the field.

Science Week – Caring for Our World🌍

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:16:14 GMT

Today for Science Week, we learnt about how people are helping to care for birds that have been affected by plastic pollution. The children reflected on this thoughtfully and showed great maturity when discussing the topic. They were able to recognise how the choices people make can have a positive impact on the world around them.

Putting Faith into Action 🕊️

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:22:05 GMT

Our focus for Lent is ‘Option for the Poor and Vulnerable.’
In RE, prayer and liturgy, we have been praying for those who do not have enough food, a safe home, or access to education.Catholic Social Teaching reminds us that helping others is not only about giving money, but also about showing kindness, compassion and respect. Through our curriculum, we encourage our children to treat everyone with dignity and to care for those most in need.

Rugby Fun in the Sunshine! 🏉💪

Mon, 9 Mar 2026 21:50:40 GMT

This afternoon we practised our rugby passing skills and played matches using the T1 rules. Everyone showed great teamwork and we are feeling much more confident and ready to win next Thursday!

🌟 A Day Full of Books and Fun!

Thu, 5 Mar 2026 20:31:41 GMT

We had a fun-filled World Book Day! This morning we joined a live Booky and Footy quiz with schools across England, and this afternoon we visited the nursery to read stories together in the sunshine. 📚☀️

Reception Reflect on Lent and Making Good Choices

Wed, 4 Mar 2026 21:37:34 GMT

Reception spent the afternoon reflecting on how Jesus may have felt during his 40 days in the desert and created sand pictures of him walking there. The children thought about the good choices they make and how they can make even better ones. After reading the Parable of the Talents, we discussed using the gifts God has given us. They then drew their good choices inside purple hearts for Lent.

🚀 Mission to Mars!

Tue, 3 Mar 2026 21:40:25 GMT

We had an exciting Mars Day, discovering amazing facts about the Red Planet including that it has a dormant volcano!

We tuned into the Mars Day live feed to hear from astronauts, astronomers and space engineers. The children created timelines of Mars missions since the 1960s, designed their own rovers, and finished the day by making fact sheets packed with information.

A fantastic day of space exploration and super learning! 🌌

Stepping into the Story: RE Freeze Frames 🎭

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:13:37 GMT

Today, Year 3 explored the story of Jesus healing the paralysed man in their RE lesson. We carefully read the scripture and discussed the meaning behind each part of the story. To deepen our understanding, the children created freeze frames to represent key scenes.As each group shared their freeze frame, individual pupils were tapped on the shoulder and spoke in role as their character, helping to bring the story to life.

Year 3 Respect Detectives! 🌟

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:48:00 GMT

In RHE, we explored mutual respect, linking it to British Values, including respect and tolerance for different faiths and beliefs. The children discussed how to show respect in and out of school, then created acrostic poems to share their ideas. They demonstrated a strong understanding of how these values help us live and work well together.

Mega Maths in Action!

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:46:13 GMT

Year 5 took their maths outdoors, exploring area by measuring in square metres using metre sticks and cones. They estimated and measured different spaces, then experimented with arranging 3 square metres in various ways.

The next day, they learned how to calculate the area of rectangles using multiplication and will continue exploring more shapes made from rectangles.

Celebrating Individuality Through Poetry

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:42:20 GMT

Year one have been inspired by I Am Nefertiti. Their poems highlighted their individuality, celebrated their differences, and showcased the qualities that make them strong and unique. This activity tied beautifully into Mental Health Week, reinforcing the importance of embracing and celebrating who we are.

A Fantastic End to the Half Term!

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:40:41 GMT

We came together in the hall to share our rap songs and poems as part of National Storytelling Week. This also tied in beautifully with Children’s Mental Health Week and our Catholic Social Teaching focus on Family and Community.

The performances celebrated positivity, kindness, friendship, unity, and even superpowers – all inspired by the books, stories, and poems we’ve enjoyed in school.

What a wonderful way to kick off the National Year of Reading 2026, a campaign encouraging everyone to (re)discover the joy of reading.

Year 6 Take on Danger (Safely!) 🚒👮

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:17:21 GMT

Year 6 had a fabulous trip to Oxford Fire Station this morning for Junior Citizens. Each child had the opportunity to make a 999 call in different scenarios, ranging from a house-fire, railway accident, road-traffic accident, river accident and stranger danger.
The sessions were led by the police and fire-service and provided valuable life-skills for pupils on how to recognise harm and keep themselves safe.

Year 3 Celebrating Respect 🌟

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:06:08 GMT

In RHE, Year 3 explored mutual respect, connecting it to British Values, especially respect and tolerance for people of different faiths and beliefs. The children discussed how they can show respect both in school and in the wider community.

They then got creative by writing thoughtful acrostic poems to share their ideas. Their work showed a fantastic understanding of how these values help us live and work together harmoniously.

Year 5: Curious and Active–Exploring Baptism

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:55:28 GMT

Today, Year 5 concluded their work on Baptism by linking their learning to the virtues of Curious and Active. The children explored images of the Baptism of Jesus, discussing what they noticed, similarities between the images, and questions they were curious about. They also reflected on how they can be active in declaring their faith.

The children then created their own images of Jesus being baptised, using appropriate signs and symbols linked to the Sacrament. They worked thoughtfully and produced some beautiful pieces of work. A selection is attached for you to see.

Making Music in The Ark 🎶

Mon, 9 Feb 2026 21:36:10 GMT

The children were busy in The Ark, fully engaged and enjoying their play. They showed particular enthusiasm when playing on the toy piano, taking turns to press the keys, explore different sounds, and create their own little tunes. This activity encouraged creativity, sharing, and confidence as the children expressed themselves through music and enjoyed playing together in a happy, lively atmosphere. 🎹😊

Bringing Scratch to Life with Sound

Sat, 7 Feb 2026 08:00:12 GMT

In Year 3 Computing, the children enjoyed using the Chromebooks to continue our work with Scratch. This week, they explored how to add sound to their sprites, bringing their projects to life while developing both their coding skills and creativity.

Exploring Leonardo da Vinci with an Art Expert

Sat, 7 Feb 2026 07:58:42 GMT

Year 5 we were very fortunate to meet Martin Kemp, an expert on Leonardo Da Vinci. He talked about his sketches, diagrams and artwork, explaining how he used mathematics and physics to produce realistic and anatomically correct diagrams. We also learnt about Da Vinci's interest in flight and some of the diagrams he had created. Martin Kemp was part of a project to produce a real model of the wings Da Vinci had sketched. These wings were used by a professional paraglider and actually worked, showing how advanced Da Vinci was in creating a working flying machine. It was a fascinating talk which has made me want to find out more!

Amazing Amazon River Work!

Mon, 2 Feb 2026 22:50:07 GMT

Year 5 continued their South America work. We studied the Amazon River and thought about wildlife, location and use. We discussed our Catholic Social Teaching question, focusing on Stewardship of God's creation.
I was really impressed with the Fact Files produced by the class, which showed care, understanding and outstanding presentation. Well done Year 5!

Pupil Prepared Prayer Service

Sun, 1 Feb 2026 13:49:14 GMT

Year 4 welcomed parents to our Pupil Prepared Prayer Service, and it was beautifully led by the children. They showed great thoughtfulness and reverence, both in their preparation and throughout the service.

Red Bird, Red Bird, What Do You See? 🐦

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:08:55 GMT

The children enjoyed a lovely activity based on the story “Red Bird, Red Bird, What Do You See?”. They had great fun exploring the text, talking about the characters

Teamwork and Ball Skills in Year 2 PE🤾⛹️‍♂️

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:44:00 GMT

In PE, Year 2 focus on sending and receiving skills. Activities include rolling, throwing, and catching the ball in pairs and small groups. Children copy and follow each other’s movements, demonstrating teamwork and listening.

🌋Earthquakes and Volcanoes! 🌋

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 21:46:29 GMT

Year 3 learned how earthquakes and volcanoes happen, including tectonic plates, with diagrams to support their learning.

🐝Busy Bee Botters! 🐝

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 21:41:45 GMT

The Year 1s experimented with the different commands of the Bee Bot robots. They used a mat to move their robot from one image to another.

Year 5 explore Leonardo Da Vinci 🖌️

Thu, 8 Jan 2026 23:04:02 GMT

Year 5 have been exploring the artist, Leonardo Da Vinci. We have examined some of his artwork, considering the techniques and inspiration he may have employed. We then explored how to create texture and tone through various skills. The work produced has been incredible, and the development of skills is evident in all their sketches.

Picasso-Inspired Art in Class

Wed, 7 Jan 2026 21:26:32 GMT

The children have been exploring Cubism through the work of Pablo Picasso. They learned about his style and practised creating Cubist portraits, showing different features from multiple angles. Some fantastic artwork has been produced so far.

Banksy 🖌️

Wed, 7 Jan 2026 21:25:05 GMT

Year 6 have sketched beautiful, detailed drawings, inspired by our focus artist, Banksy. We analysed some of his most famous street art and discussed the messages that he may be trying to convey before applying our sketching skills. The results are amazing and Mrs Exley came to see our work too.
Well done year 6!

Christmas Hat Champions 🎄🎩

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:48:00 GMT

Well done to everyone who made their own Christmas hats. There were so many spectacular creations that choosing just one winner was very difficult!

Key Stage 2 Carol Service 2025

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:42:14 GMT

We concluded our busy autumn term with another heart-warming carol service in the church. It was wonderful to see so many parents, friends, and family members joining us to share in this special celebration. The children led the singing with a selection of traditional and contemporary carols.
The children's clear voices and respectful behaviour were a credit to the school and we wish all our families a very merry Christmas and a peaceful new year.

The choir visit Marlborough Lodge Residential Home

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:32:19 GMT

The Year 5 and 6 choir had a lovely time at Marlborough Lodge Residential home. They performed Christmas Carols and spent time chatting with the guests over a cup of tea and biscuits.
This is a continuation of our LiveSimply journey this year. It was an enriching experience for both the children and the residents of Marlborough Lodge. Establishing these kinds of community links not only spreads holiday cheer but also teaches valuable lessons about empathy, community engagement, and social responsibility as part of your LiveSimply journey.
We are very proud of the children for representing themselves and the school so well.

🕯️Advent preparations 🕯️

Fri, 5 Dec 2025 15:36:31 GMT

In Year 6, we celebrated the beginning of Advent. We listened to Sunday’s Gospel reading and discussed how Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus. We then created our own class Advent wreath by writing Advent promises on holly leaves, which are now displayed on our prayer table.

T1 Rugby Fun in Year 4! 🏉

Fri, 5 Dec 2025 15:18:28 GMT

We had lots of fun learning more about T1 Rugby. The children are making great progress and are really starting to grasp the challenging concept of passing the ball backwards while running forwards. We also introduced a line-out today, and there are already some fantastic skills beginning to shine through!

Pantomine Trip 🎭

Fri, 5 Dec 2025 15:10:57 GMT

It was a pure delight to see how excited the children were at the Panto. Everyone had a wonderful time and even Mr Young became a star on the show!

Sensory Play in our nursery

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 15:37:32 GMT

In our Age 2 Nursery at St Thomas More, children explore and learn through fun sensory play, building curiosity and essential skills every day.

Year 2 Explores the Timeline of Jesus’ Birth

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 15:33:52 GMT

Year 2 started a new RE unit,using our amazing timeline they learnt about the timeline of Jesus’ birth and its connection to AD and BC.

Exploring Oxford With our Travel Guide

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 15:39:27 GMT

Year 4 have been busy completing their Guides of Oxford today, considering layout and the features that will make their writing more effective-Some Amazing Guides created!

Posting Our Way Through the Alphabet!

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:16:45 GMT

In the Year 2 nursery the children were busy in the literacy area , the children will take part in an alphabet posting activity to help develop their fine motor skills, early phonics awareness, and hand–eye coordination.

🐟🐠Year 6 busy at The Beacon🌊🦀

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:11:43 GMT

We have enjoyed another busy day here at the Beacon. The weather has been dry and mild and we had a lovely time at the beach this afternoon, making sandcastles, digging, finding fish and crabs, watching people swim in the sea and making memories.

Investigating mass and weight 👩‍🔬👨‍🔬

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 16:37:09 GMT

Year 5 have been busy in Science, the children explored how mass and weight are related using Newton meters. They discovered that mass (grams/kilograms) stays the same, while weight (newtons) is the force of gravity acting on an object. It was exciting to see them measure and compare different objects!