Cotham Gardens Primary School

Eid Mubarak to everyone celebrating.

Last week, year 2 we were lucky enough to visit the Aerospace Museum because our History topic is 'How did we learn to fly?'

We had a workshop which was called 'Journey into space' and we got to make our own rockets and launch them up high. We also got to eat our lunch underneath the Concorde and even went inside it to see what it was like! We walked around the museum and learnt so many new facts as well as finding information on people we had been learning about in our lessons! It was fun to see the display of the Wright brothers.

'When we made our rockets, we had a cylinder and then had to add a nose cone to make it streamlined'

' I really liked how we went in the Concorde to see the history of flying. I liked learning about how they fly!'

' I liked seeing different types of planes and exploring.'

' I loved dressing up as a pilot because we could imagine what it might be like to actually fly a plane like Bessie Coleman did.'

This week we have been writing a recount on the trip and have worked so hard on our handwriting! Well done Year 2.

Last week, we were delighted to welcome the St Paul’s Carnival Education Program, who came in to enlighten, inspire, and energise our children through culture, history, and movement.

Richard visited years 2-6, sharing the rich history of Carnival—where it originated and how it grew into the vibrant celebration we know today in Bristol. The children learned about Carnival’s roots in African and Caribbean traditions, its connection to freedom, community, and expression and how these traditions came to be celebrated locally through the iconic St Paul’s Carnival.

Following the history sessions, Louis brought the energy to the room with an engaging African‑inspired dance workshop. He soon had the children up on their feet, teaching them expressive dance moves and encouraging them to connect with rhythm and movement. Dressed in colourful traditional material and fully embracing the spirit of Carnival, Louis filled the space with excitement and joy.

Together, Richard and Louis created a memorable experience that blended education, creativity, and cultural celebration. The children loved every moment—listening, learning, moving, and smiling from start to finish.

We’re incredibly grateful to the St Paul’s Carnival team for bringing such positivity and cultural enrichment to our school. We look forward to welcoming them back again and hope that we will get selected to take part in the procession this year!

Year 5 Aquarium Reached New Depths of Fun!

Year 5 had a fantastic time on their trip to Bristol Aquarium on Thursday! The children were buzzing with excitement as they explored the underwater world, coming face‑to‑face with colourful tropical fish, mesmerising jellyfish and even a curious ray or two. Guided by a resident expert, they loved learning fascinating facts about marine habitats, conservation and the incredible creatures that call our oceans home. It was a day full of discovery, awe and plenty of “wow!” moments - one the children will be talking about for weeks!

Thank you Elmtree Preschool for this lovely review of our school ♥️👍🏻

Apply for a new reception primary place Apply for a new reception primary school place. If your child was born between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2018 you need to apply for a

📣 RECEPTION 2026 - DEADLINE TO APPLY - THURSDAY 15TH JANUARY

Is your child starting school in September 2026?

If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, or if your child has an agreement to delay entry to primary education until September 2026, you need to apply for a reception school place now.

⏰ Application deadline: 15 January 2026

You must apply to your home local authority by this date.

Why choose Cotham Gardens Primary School?

We would love to welcome your child to Cotham Gardens for their exciting first year at school! We're confident that our brilliant teachers and fantastic facilities would make this the perfect choice for your child's educational journey.

📝 How to apply
Apply online through Bristol City Council: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/schools-learning-and-early-years/school-admissions/primary-admissions/primary-apply

Don't miss the deadline - apply by Thursday 15th January 2026!

For more information about Cotham Gardens Primary School, please contact us or visit our website: https://www.cothamgardens.co.uk/Admissions/Reception-2026-Admissions/

Reception 2026 Admissions If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022 you need to apply for a new reception school place to your home local authority in September 2025 for September 2026 admissions.

Autumn term Golden Champions. What role models they are, keeping our golden rules every day.

Signing off for Christmas with a link to this week’s newsletter and a shout out to the Autumn term Golden Champions for ALWAYS keeping our school golden rules:
*try your best
*be responsible
*be kind
*show respect

https://www.cothamgardens.co.uk/News/Newsletters/ Cotham Gardens Primary School - Weekly School Newsletters

Weekly School Newsletters Our newsletter is released weekly during term-time, normally on Fridays. Please check here each week for the latest news and events from Cotham Gardens!

Good to see lots of parents and carers at the second of two Maths information sessions led by our Maths lead. Mr Jarman-Davis talked everyone through our approach to teaching times tables, and the importance of maths fluency for success in maths.