The Durham Dales Federation is a federation of small rural primary schools, which was formed in September 2023. Staff from all schools work together to share expertise and to plan and deliver the curriculum. Our subject leaders co-ordinate their subjects across all the schools within our federation, which ensures that we can offer the same high-quality experiences to all pupils in our schools.
The Upper Dales schools of Wearhead and St John’s Chapel work together on a regular basis each week. At the start of the week, each school works in their own building and on Thursdays and Fridays, the schools come together on the St John’s Chapel Primary School site. On Federation days, we take advantage of the opportunities to work in larger groups with other children of the same age, and we often arrange visits and visitors for these days so that everyone can participate.
KS1 Scientists at Work! As part of our Animal Survival topic, KS1 have been diving into the fascinating world of life cycles. Today, we launched an exciting investigation into the four-stage transformation of the darkling beetle from egg to larva (also known as the mealworm), then pupa, and finally adult beetle. Using hand lenses, we closely observed the larva stage, describing how the mealworms move and what they look like. Their curiosity sparked some fantastic scientific questions and thoughtful discussions. We can't wait to continue observing over the next few weeks to see what changes unfold.
View this PostSt John's Chapel and Wearhead Primary Schools This half term, our budding designers in KS1 have been getting creative with our DT topic: Cut, Stitch and Join! We kicked things off by exploring how different tools suit different jobs an important first step for any designer. The children then put their cutting skills into action to create bag tag templates, learning how sewing patterns help guide the making process. Next up: stitching! Using binca fabric, we practised basic running stitches, growing in confidence with every loop and line. This week, we have been exploring the wonderful world of embellishment. We have practised appliqué, sewing buttons and gluing sequins to add personal flair and decoration to our fabric. We are now working hard on our bag tags for our Innovate Challenge. Stay tuned for our final creations!
View this PostSt John's Chapel and Wearhead Primary Schools This week, Reception and KS1 had the fantastic opportunity to learn vital life-saving skills during a First Aid workshop led by Laura from Bishop Auckland College. The session began with a discussion on the importance of First Aid and what essentials belong in a First Aid kit. The children then got hands-on experience practising CPR, learnt how to respond if someone is choking, and tried their hand at applying bandages. To round off, they discovered how to put someone into the recovery position and recapped the emergency numbers to call when someone needs urgent help. It was an informative session that gave our pupils valuable knowledge they can carry with them for life. A huge thank you to Laura for her timewe all learnt so much!
View this PostSt. John's Chapel Primary School and Wearhead Primary School EYFS and our KS2 guests have had a fantastic time working together this morning.
View this PostKS2 Residential Giant SUP! All of the children loved this activity. There was some fantastic teamwork from everyone,
View this PostKS2 Residential The children have had a great afternoon. They have been problem solving and fencing. Photos of climbing and abseiling to follow later.
View this PostKS2 Residential This morning, we have been on a sensory trail and had a go at Giant Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
View this PostSt. John's Chapel Primary School A big thank you to Laura Newby from Bishop Auckland College for coming to teach some of our Year 3 and 4 children some basic first aid.
View this PostKS2 Residential Balloon Splash! Our evening activity was brilliant! The children worked together really well to solve problems.
View this PostKS2 Residential Group 3 & 4 Trapeze. The children really enjoyed the trapeze.
View this PostKS2 Residential Group 1 & 2 Climbing. The children loved climbing and really enjoyed the challenges they were set.
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