The Lister Weekly Update #16

Dear Parents and Carers, we begin with an apology. Last week we published the Lister News Letter without correcting the dates below, which are now accurate. We look forward to warmly welcoming year 11 and year 7 parents to the forthcoming parents' evenings. Please note that following parents' evenings, we start the next school day slightly later, at 8.45. School gates open from 8.30.

• Year 11 Parents' Evening: Wednesday, 15th January, 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
• Year 7 Parents' Evening: Wednesday, 29th January, 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Why Attend?

These events provide valuable opportunities for parents to:

• Discuss your child's progress: Receive updates on your child's academic performance, social and emotional development, and areas for improvement.
• Build relationships: Connect with your child's teachers and form positive partnerships to support their learning.
• Gain insights: Learn about key information regarding upcoming exams, coursework, and future pathways.
• Ask questions: Address any concerns you may have and gain clarity on specific issues.

We strongly encourage all parents to attend these important events. Your active involvement in your child's education plays a crucial role in their success.

At the Lister News Desk, we are proud to celebrate the achievement of our students in publishing the Lister News, a student-produced publication featuring a diverse range of articles written by pupils. Students spent time researching topics that pique their interest, to then go on and write their first draft of an article . After careful redrafting and editing, the articles are selected for publication in the final edition which was printed at the start of term. A range of topics were covered from the US election to the impact of social media on mental health.

Lister News also showcases the vibrant tapestry of school life, with a section highlighting the school's sporting achievements and Lister's thriving music scene.

This student-led initiative provides a valuable platform for young writers to develop their skills, explore their passions, and share their unique perspectives with the wider school community.

Here is an extract from one of the stories published. We'll be taking notes at the Lister News Desk and potentially moving over to make room for a new generation of reporters...

Children under the age of 16 in Australia will be banned from using social media, after the Australian government passed a new law on Thursday. The law, which will take at least 12 months before it comes into effect, will see social media companies fined £25.7m ($50m Australian dollars) if they don't follow the rules.

It makes Australia the first country in the world to bring in a social media ban for under-16s. But what do we think here at Lister?

The debate over whether to ban social media for individuals under 16 is becoming increasingly relevant in today's digital age. And such a ban often shows concerns about mental health. They argue that younger users are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social media, including anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of bad and low self-esteem among adolescents, as they often compare themselves to the lives of their peers.

Lister News is available in all good (Lister based) schools. For the moment, it is published in paper format, although this might change to make it more available to parents in future publications.

A New Year resolution for many is to be healthier, or take more exercise. This is as important for our students as it is for adults at Lister and in our school community. If you click on the link below, you will find a list of clubs offered in the Spring term. All students are welcome, regardless of their previous experience or abilities. We love to see students attending PE clubs on a regular basis and we know they will love it too, with all the rewards that come from taking exercise.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18dVbzaxRfTNJ2k6oJM8zyL_ct6Q8JSSZ/view?usp=drive_link

Ms Ellis is also running a trip to Wembley to watch England Lionesses Vs Spain, students need to collect a permission letter from Ms Ellis. Deadline to pay is Monday 20th January.

Do you have concerns about your child’s emotional well-being, challenging behaviours, learning progress, or even your own worries as a parent or carer?

Newham's Parent Advice Service offers a unique opportunity to speak one-on-one with an Educational Psychologist (EP). These supportive and confidential sessions are designed to help you navigate challenges and gain practical advice in a relaxed, informal setting. Each session lasts 45 minutes and is completely free, open to all parents and carers of children and young people in Newham.

Whether you are facing challenges with your child’s development or simply looking for guidance, there is no criteria or threshold to access the service—everyone is welcome!

The next term's sessions are launching soon! Mark your calendars - registration goes live in January 2025. Secure your spot via Eventbrite at: EPSparentadvice.eventbrite.com Don’t miss out on valuable advice and support.

For any queries, feel free to email Terrie Turner at: EPS@Newham.gov.uk. Don't miss this opportunity for personalised advice!

As you know, at the Lister School News Desk, we like to keep you in touch with useful parent support groups. Please see this brochure for the latest Newham Family Hub Brochure. Family Hub Networks offer support for many things, from parenting to housing.

We hope to host the Newham Family Hub Roadshow soon - keep your eyes peeled for details!

Dear Parents and Carers,

We are very keen, at the Lister News Team, to share the menu options that your child will have through the week. Here are the menu options for this week!

The Thought for the Week next week is focused on kindness. Please discuss the thought with your child who will be looking at the thought in assembly and discussing the idea with peers and the year team.