Thursday 18 October 2012

Cross Country

A stunning performance by Coalway children at Lakers in this afternoon's Cross Country race.  5 out of 6 boys came in the top 10 with the girls swiftly following their example by having 4 out of the 6 in the top 10!  Superb performances by everyone - WELL DONE!

Monday 15 October 2012

Global Hand Washing Day

WOWWWW!  What a great start to the week!  The Y5 children took part in a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest simultaneous science lesson in the UK.  Over 400 schools took part.  The lesson had to start promptly at 10am and last for at least 30 mins.  Following the strict lesson plan meant that it was a 40 minute lesson.

The children had to predict how far an unrestricted sneeze could travel - this caused a few surprises.  They then investigated the effect of using just your hand to 'catch' the sneeze and how this could still cause problems transferring germs.  Lastly they had to use a piece of kitchen towel to replicate a handkerchief and discovered that all the 'germs' were contained within it (green food colouring added to water for some authenticity!)

'Catch it, bin it, kill it' or 'coughs and sneezes spread diseases' being extremely appropriate slogans.

The day ended with some workshops being available for parents to investigate for themselves the effects of not using a handkerchief, not washing hands properly and how simple soap and water is a good combatant in the fight against spreading illness and infections.

Many thanks to the Forest of Dean council for the use of their equipment, providing the witnesses, stewards and timekeepers to enable us to take part in this challenge and involve parents in the after school event.