This week, Year 6 explored how animals adapt to their environment to help them survive. We headed outside for a fun experiment, using pieces of wool to represent worms. We compared colourful worms with green worms hidden in the grass to see which were easier to spot and find. We discovered how animals that blend into their surroundings through camouflage are less likely to be seen by predators, helping them to survive! 🐛🌿
Year 1 went on an exciting school trip to Barleylands Farm, where we had a wonderful day full of fun and new experiences. One of the highlights was making our very own pizzas. We enjoyed rolling out the dough and choosing our favourite toppings to create our delicious, personalised pizzas.
Afterwards, we explored the farm, where we had the opportunity to meet and feed a variety of animals. We loved getting up close to the animals and learning a little more about them. We also enjoyed an exciting ride on a tractor, which was a fantastic way to see more of the farm. It was a lovely day filled with hands-on activities, laughter and memorable experiences that everyone thoroughly enjoyed!
Year 4 had their first exciting steel pan drumming lesson this term! The children were introduced to the instruments and learnt how to hold their beaters correctly before having a go at playing different notes on the pans. They listened carefully, followed instructions and showed great enthusiasm as they began to explore the sounds and rhythms of the steel pans. It was a fantastic first lesson, and we look forward to seeing their confidence and musical skills develop as they continue their learning!
What a fantastic day we had across the whole school for our Wacky Hair Day!
It was brilliant to see everyone getting involved, showing their creativity and enjoying the opportunity to do something a little different. A huge thank you to all our families for helping create such fantastic hairstyles and supporting the day.
What a wonderfully wacky day!
During wet play, the children have been learning new games to enjoy with their peers. These activities provide valuable opportunities to develop communication and social skills, build resilience, practise turn-taking and cooperation, and encourage positive relationships with others. The children have really enjoyed learning new games, working together and having fun with their friends, while developing their confidence and ability to play cooperatively.
Huge congratulations to our pupil, Safiyan, who won the Little Achievers Award at the Thurrock SEND/AP Awards 2026!
Safiyan truly embodies our school’s core values, consistently demonstrating incredible aspiration and compassion in everything he does. He has already achieved so much, and the entire school community is incredibly proud of him.
Join us in celebrating Safiyan’s fantastic achievement!
It has been a fantastic term for sport at GPFS, with our pupils achieving outstanding success across a range of competitions. Our KS2 team finished 1st in the track events and 3rd overall at the Thurrock Borough Olympics, while our KS1 team secured 3rd in the track events and 4th overall, with more than half of the children winning medals. To round off an incredible sporting term, both our Year 5 Gators boys' and girls' basketball teams were crowned champions, each finishing 1st overall. We are immensely proud of every child for representing GPFS with such determination, teamwork and resilience.
Year 1 at GPFS enjoyed a fantastic trip to Chalkwell Beach as part of their Geography topic on the seaside. The children explored the coast through activities including crabbing, rock pooling and building sandcastles, while identifying human features such as the promenade and cafés, and physical features including the beach, sea and rocks.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity to bring their classroom learning to life, and the children represented GPFS brilliantly with their excellent behaviour and enthusiasm. To round off a wonderful day, everyone enjoyed a well-earned ice cream!
Our Head Pupils and House Captains recently spoke to our Year 5 students about the exciting leadership opportunities available in Year 6, as applications for next year's roles are now open. They shared their experiences, explained the responsibilities of each position, and encouraged pupils to consider how they can make a positive contribution to the school community through leadership.
Year 2 enjoyed an exciting educational visit to Colchester Zoo, where they had the opportunity to see a wide variety of animals from around the world. The trip helped bring their learning to life as they explored different habitats, discovered interesting animal facts, and developed a greater understanding of wildlife and conservation. The children were enthusiastic and engaged throughout the day, making it a memorable and enjoyable learning experience for all.
Year 3 enjoyed an exciting educational visit to Hyde Hall, where they had the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens and learn more about plants, habitats, and the natural environment. Throughout the day, the children took part in engaging activities that brought their classroom learning to life and encouraged them to develop a greater appreciation for nature. They represented the school brilliantly, showing enthusiasm, curiosity, and excellent behaviour throughout the visit.
Despite the forecast of poor weather, the Gateway Primary Free School Eco Community Fest was a fantastic success and spirits were not dampened. The event was moved indoors, where each year group transformed their classrooms into vibrant stalls showcasing and selling their eco-themed creations. Families enjoyed a variety of games and activities organised by the pupils, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere throughout the school. The event was further enriched by community partners who joined us to inform, entertain, and offer a range of products and services to our families. It was a wonderful celebration of creativity, sustainability, and community spirit.
