Professional Artist, Jo Hassan, has recently moved to Crich. 

Some of you may have spotted some rainbows, or maybe even a bear or two, displayed in windows throughout our area while out on your daily walk, run or cycle. Now, as Easter approaches, the challenge is on to take things a step further!

All households in our community are being encouraged to create an Easter window display to brighten the day of those passing by. It can be as simple or elaborate as you like, the idea is just to spread some happiness. 

Spread the word, let's celebrate Easter together even though we will be stuck in our homes and away from our wider families and friends.

On Thursday 6th February, the Bishop of Repton, The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, led an historic ceremony to consecrate an extension to the burial ground at St. Mary's Church. The petition for the consecration was presented by Councillor Richard Walsh from Crich Parish Council.

Accompanied by the Diocesan Registrar and supported by members of the Church, Crich Parish Council, the public and (most importantly) the children from Crich CofE Infant School, the Bishop led a procession around the boundary of the cemetery extension.

At the end of the ceremony everybody was invited to retire to the church for tea and cake. Very civilised!

In Crich, we are incredibly lucky to have a large number of volunteers, who come into school to share their wealth of knowledge and expertise and to spend time with our children, whether it is to listen to them read, help with the gardening, go swimming on Fridays, teach them songs for our shows or come in and knit.

Our children really appreciate these activities, which could not happen without volunteers, and we know that the staff are extremely grateful for the extra help. Here are some thoughts from the children about our volunteers:

‘I like Sue from Valley CIDS because she does assemblies and she makes me happy.’ Flora

‘Pastor Hand’s assemblies help me learn about God.’ Etty

‘When Kate Baker comes into school, she makes me feel more confident about singing.’ Jess

‘Kate helped me with my acting and encouraged me when I thought I wasn’t very good at it.’ Max

‘Steve and Denise have helped us to make our garden better.’ Tess

‘Denise helps me to pull the weeds up and I’ve learnt how to plant plants.’ Becky

‘Roger helped me to plant a pumpkin!’ Jude ‘I really like reading to the dogs (Oliver and Leila…and their owner Jackie) because it really helps.’ Abbie

‘I really liked it when Harris went on the obstacle course with us at camping.’ Lexi

‘It’s good having the governors in school because they help with everything.’ Sayuri-Nala

‘When I read to Mr Woolley, he was really nice to me.’ Ramsay

‘The reading volunteers listen carefully and help with our mistakes.’ Rosa

‘The reading volunteers, Mrs Fluff, Mrs Scott and Mr Woolley, are all kind.’ Edward

‘Mr and Mrs Dimbleby do loads of cool stuff!’ Ivy-Rose

‘I was nervous about swimming but the parent volunteers really helped me.’ Ashton

These comments are just a small sample from the ones we received from the children. So to all our volunteers, who give up their free time so generously – THANK YOU!

Volunteers play an important part in the life of our school, enhancing what we can offer to the children. We are always grateful to those who give their time to listen to the children read. The volunteers enjoy hearing the children and seeing their skills grow and develop over time. The family members who come on school trips with us enable these visits to take place and allow us to undertake these opportunities for learning outside of the school.

Our Parents, Teachers & Friends Association (PTFA) raises vital funds for the school, which are used to improve the learning environment. The outdoor learning facilities have been a particular focus of recent developments. Funds are also used to purchase resources and subsidise trips and visits. The PTFA organises events such as the school disco and the leavers party, which are an important part of school life. We welcome ‘friends’ as members as well as parents and teachers – if you feel you have time to help and talent in fundraising and event planning, please do get in touch.

Our governors are essential in the organisation of our school. They are friendly and collaborative, working well together and welcoming the contributions of all. Sarah Wallis (pictured right), one of our co-chairs, is our longestserving governor. ‘I first became involved as a school governor about 18 years ago, when my son was a pupil at Crich C of E Infant School, and as a family we had just moved into the village,’ she says. ‘I’ve seen and been part of many changes at the school. My work as a governor is varied and wide-ranging, from recruiting staff, monitoring budgets, and setting policies and targets, to evaluating the progress of the school and acting as a source of challenge and support to our headteacher. 

I feel privileged to be part of a team at our school; we bring experiences from many different backgrounds, working together to set the strategic direction of the school. I am proud to be part of one of the largest volunteer groups in the country and have had the opportunity to meet and learn so much from so many people.’

One of our newer governors commented on how this is the best governing body (of three) he has been involved with! We currently have a vacancy for a Community Governor on our Governing Body. In Bowns Hill, Crich, Matlock DE4 5DG 01773 852165 crich-inf.derbyshire.sch.uk Our vital volunteers particular, we are looking for someone with experience in community engagement, an understanding of property/ estate management and/or experience of charity law and governance.

If you think you might like to get involved or would like to find out more, please contact the school