Activities we want to celebrate

 

Term 6 2026

All children have watched Science Live Lessons. This increases the children's science capital and enhances their understanding of how science is used in the real world. 

Some examples of Live Lessons this year:

Term 6

Sports Day at The Duke of York's Royal Military School

Our annual Sports Day was a fantastic celebration of determination, teamwork and sporting achievement, held at the outstanding athletics facilities of The Duke of York's Royal Military School. Pupils had the exciting opportunity to compete on professional-standard track and field facilities, experiencing events such as sprinting, distance running, jumping and throwing using high-quality athletics equipment. Organised in partnership between St Richard's staff and the school's experienced sports coaches, the day provided expert coaching and encouragement, enabling every child to develop their athletic skills, confidence and resilience in a supportive environment. The event supported the Physical Education National Curriculum by promoting fundamental movement skills, physical fitness, healthy competition and sportsmanship, while encouraging pupils to demonstrate our school values of respect, perseverance and teamwork. It was a wonderful day that inspired children to challenge themselves, celebrate each other's successes and enjoy the benefits of being active.

Term 6 2026

School Fair - A big thank you to our wonderful PTFA who worked with staff to create this fantastic Summer Fair. Over £1000 was raised so thank you to all the new families and current St Richard's families for coming to support us. 

Term 5 2026

Since starting our Talk for Writing Project across the whole school everyone has seen a huge difference in the children's writing, composition and effect. Our latest display highlights how much progress is being made from Year R to Year 6. 

Some of the displays inspired by the writing projects have really sparked the children's imagination. 

Term 5

Year 3 combined their creativity with their Talk for Writing learning by creating these fantastic dragon eye sculptures inspired by the stories they had been studying. Using clay, the children carefully shaped and joined different features before adding texture to represent scales, horns and spikes, bringing their own unique dragon to life. They then painted their sculptures using blended colours and metallic highlights before adding a striking glass bead eye, creating a realistic focal point. This exciting project developed pupils' sculpting and painting skills while encouraging imagination, storytelling and creativity through a meaningful link between English, Art and Design, and Design and Technology.

Term 4 2026

National Year of Reading – Sticks Become Stories: A Musical Journey

As part of the National Year of Reading, our pupils enjoyed the inspiring performance of Sticks Become Stories: A Musical Journey, an engaging event that brought storytelling, music and imagination together. Through a captivating blend of live music, rhythm and narrative, the children discovered how everyday objects can become powerful storytelling tools, encouraging them to think creatively and develop a deeper appreciation of language and performance. The experience enriched their reading journey by promoting a love of books, developing listening and comprehension skills, and inspiring pupils to create and share their own stories.

Term 4 2026

KCSP Science Day 2026 – Investigating Forces and Air Resistance

As part of KCSP Science Day 2026, our pupils embraced the role of scientists by investigating how different variables affect air resistance. Working collaboratively, they designed and created a variety of paper flyers using different materials, bottle sizes and shapes before carrying out fair tests to see which designs performed best. Pupils recorded their results in tables, calculated averages, discussed the reliability of their findings and drew conclusions using scientific evidence. Throughout the investigation, they developed their understanding of forces, gravity and air resistance while applying key Working Scientifically skills, including planning enquiries, controlling variables, collecting and analysing data, evaluating evidence and using accurate scientific vocabulary.

Term 4 2026

Our Year 6 pupils have been developing their painting skills through the creation of these beautiful lighthouse landscapes using watercolours. Throughout this project, the children explored a range of watercolour techniques, including blending, layering and creating washes to produce different effects in the sky, sea and rocky coastline.

The pupils carefully considered colour, tone, texture and composition to create a striking focal point, while also developing their understanding of perspective by showing foreground, middle ground and background. They demonstrated increasing confidence in controlling the medium and used contrasting warm and cool colours to create atmosphere within their artwork.

This project supports the Key Stage 2 Art and Design curriculum by enabling pupils to refine their painting techniques, experiment creatively with different materials and produce imaginative artwork inspired by coastal landscapes. We are incredibly proud of the creativity, effort and artistic skill shown by our Year 6 pupils.

Our Year 3 pupils have been exploring the art of portraiture by creating their own self-portraits using pencils and coloured pencils. Throughout the project, the children carefully observed their own facial features, learning about proportion, symmetry and the importance of positioning the eyes, nose and mouth accurately.

As they developed their artwork, pupils refined their drawing techniques through the careful use of line, shape and colour, adding individual details to capture their own unique appearance and personality. This project encouraged the children to look closely at themselves, build confidence in their artistic abilities and appreciate that every portrait is unique.

This learning supports the Key Stage 2 Art and Design curriculum by helping pupils improve their mastery of drawing techniques through observation and experimentation, while developing their understanding of portraiture. We are incredibly proud of the creativity, resilience and attention to detail shown by our Year 3 artists, and the wonderful range of self-portraits they have produced.

Term 3 2026

World book day was celebrated over the week with lots of interesting events to promote reading. There was a book swap every evening, chances to read to each other in class, book themed lessons, with competitions and families welcome to join us. Finally we all chose different adjectives and dressed up to represent that word. Here are some of the photos from those days. A big thank you to Morrisons for their donations.

 

Term 3

FIRE, FIRE! After lots of careful design work and planning. Year 2 decided to re-create the fire of London. The houses were lined up and after advice from the Fire Bridge, careful risk assessments and staff on stand by, the Great Fire was re-enacted! The children were amazed at how quickly the fire spread and the damage it would cause. This will be used to promote the emotional impact in their writing of what people went through at the time. 

 

Term 3 2026

This term we hosted an amazing events where GB Gymnast Courtney Orange encouraged healthy foods, exercise and outlook for the whole school.

From last year, in these videos, we have the clips where GB Gymnast Sam Mostowfi he flips over two teachers. 

Term 3

Safer Internet Day – Staying Safe in a Digital World

As part of Safer Internet Day, our pupils took part in a range of engaging activities designed to help them become safe, responsible and confident digital citizens. Children explored how to stay safe online by discussing privacy, respectful communication, cyberbullying and the importance of protecting personal information. They demonstrated their creativity by designing their own online safety tools and resources to help others make sensible choices when using the internet, while also learning how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used safely, responsibly and ethically. The day supported the Computing and PSHE curricula by developing pupils' understanding of online safety, digital literacy and critical thinking, ensuring they are well prepared to navigate an ever-changing digital world with confidence, responsibility and respect for others.

Term 3 2026

Archaeology Time Machine Workshop – Discovering the Past

Our pupils embarked on an exciting journey through history during an immersive Archaeology Time Machine Workshop, where they discovered how archaeologists uncover the secrets of the past. Through interactive storytelling and a living timeline, children travelled back in time to explore different historical periods before taking part in a hands-on excavation, carefully using trowels and brushes to uncover hidden artefacts. They then became archaeology detectives, examining replica objects such as pottery, tools and coins to interpret how people lived in the past, learning that archaeology is about asking questions, investigating evidence and drawing conclusions. The workshop brought history to life while  developing pupils' understanding of chronology, historical enquiry and the importance of evidence, inspiring curiosity about Britain's rich past and the people who shaped it.

Term 3 2026

Over the last two terms our Mini Police cadets and the mini paramedics have been hard at work, representing the school, its values and working within the local community. PCSO Ball helped the children learn about the law, how to gather evidence, help the Police and save lives or injured people. The mini-medics took that learning one step further and were able to support people with severe trauma, know what to do when you find someone injured and how to use a defibrillator.

 

Term 2 2025 - 2026

Celebrating St Nicholas' Day

Each year, our school community comes together to celebrate St Nicholas' Day, remembering the generosity, kindness and compassion of St Nicholas, whose selfless acts of giving continue to inspire people around the world. As part of this special tradition, every child receives a chocolate coin, symbolising the gifts St Nicholas secretly shared with those in need and reminding us of the joy that comes from helping others. The celebration supports our Catholic Life by encouraging pupils to reflect on Gospel values such as kindness, love and respect, while strengthening our sense of community and belonging. It is a much-loved tradition that helps our children understand the true meaning of giving and inspires them to share kindness with others throughout the year.

Term 2

This year our staff and families were involved in Dover's Festival of light. Lanterns were made and shared to support the Future Foundry's event. 

Term 2

Our Year 6 visited the local care homes and residential flats for the older members of the Dover Community to sing traditional and modern Christmas Carols and songs. https://youtu.be/81iR4aylBR8

Term 2

We were very pleased that this year One of our students won the KCSP Christmas card competition. There were over 30 primary schools involved and this was open to every child. An amazing achievement, well done. 

Term 2 2025 - 2026

Term 2 2025 - 2026

Year 2 have had an amazing opportunity to be part of a Science live lesson this term. The activities were really interactive and everyone loved the lesson. 

Term 2

Year 2 have been learning all about teeth!

We can ask appropriate science questions and have been exploring the different ways our questions can be answered. Last week we emailed our questions to a dentist and today the expert on teeth answered. 

We our now experts on how to keep our teeth healthy!

Term 2

Chester Zoo Live Lesson

Year 5 and Year 6 took part in an exciting live session from Chester Zoo - increasing their science capital!

The children discovered the key reasons why animals become endangered and how conservationists at Chester Zoo are working every day to protect wildlife and wild places across the globe.

Term 2

This term has seen Year 2 working hard in D.T. making Superhero puppets from their own designs. 

Term 2 2025 - 2026

Santa Fun Run – Running Together for Charity

Christmas spirit was in full swing as pupils, staff and families took part in our annual Santa Fun Run, raising money for charity while enjoying a fun-filled festive event. Dressed in Santa hats and festive outfits, the children demonstrated determination, enthusiasm and teamwork as they completed the course, knowing that their efforts would help make a positive difference to others. The event promoted the importance of keeping active and living healthy lifestyles, while also developing empathy, generosity and an understanding of the value of supporting those in need. It was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together in the true spirit of Christmas, living out our Gospel values through kindness, love and hope.

Term 2 2025 - 2026

Fire Safety Workshop with Kent Fire and Rescue Service

Our pupils were delighted to welcome officers from Kent Fire and Rescue Service, who delivered an engaging and informative whole-school fire safety workshop. Through interactive discussions and practical advice, the children learned how to reduce the risk of fire, recognise potential hazards in the home, understand the importance of having an escape plan and know what to do in the event of an emergency, including when and how to call 999. The session supported the Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) curriculum by helping pupils develop the knowledge and confidence to make safe choices, while encouraging them to take responsibility for their own safety and the wellbeing of others. The workshop was an invaluable opportunity to reinforce important life skills that pupils can share with their families and use throughout their lives.

Term 2 2025 -2026

Harvest Mass was celebrated with the whole school and Fr Leo. We took time to think about the hardships and tough times Farmers face to provide this food. 

 

Year 2 have been learning all about Baptism. Deacon Barry came in to make the lesson as realistic as possible and the children enjoyed learning about baptism. 

Term 2 2025 - 2026

On the 11th November Year 6 led a wonderful assembly to remember all the members of the armed service past and present who have given so much. Poppy and Dunya spoke with confidence and respect when they shared their poems.

A poem by Dunya, Year 6

I packed my bags and said goodbye,

Waiting for the dreaded train to arrive.

My heart pounded, my mind buzzed,

Boom: the first gunshot.

Gunshot by gunshot my comrades were gone,

Like flowers wilting, they slowly shrivelled into the blood-stained fields,

Every part of me hurt, even my bones.

I mourned and wept for days and days, I was trapped in an endless misery maze.

It was a moment to remember my past, a moment to honour the fallen from the very bottom of my broken heart.

A poem by Poppy, Year 6

I see danger and memories, across the battlefields.

Love and hope lost.

I see craters and trenches,

Families lost in the ground.

Soldiers marched in time.

Step by step they fell, silent soldiers.

Killed in the field, they were ready to fight.

Term 1 2025 - 2026

National Coding Week – Developing the Digital Creators of Tomorrow

To celebrate National Coding Week, pupils across the school took part in a range of exciting coding activities that developed their computational thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills. Using age-appropriate programming software, children learned how to create, debug and improve algorithms, write and test programs, and understand how sequences, repetition and selection control the behaviour of digital systems. Through collaborative challenges, they developed resilience, logical reasoning and perseverance while learning how computer programs work and how technology can be used to solve real-world problems. National Coding Week provided an engaging opportunity for pupils to build confidence as digital learners while developing the key knowledge and skills

Term 1 - 2025 - 2026

On the 7th November Year 6 enjoyed an amazing trip to the Imperial War Museum in London. This was linked to their curriculum work and writing. The children had an amazing day receiving many compliments about their excellent behaviour. 

Term 1 - 2025 - 2026

Science Photograph Competition

We had an overwhelming response to this year's photograph competition. Photos included a wide range of subjects from our beautiful natural world and living organisms, to engineering accomplishments and marvellous materials. It has created a real buzz with lots of curious science talk between both staff and children. 

Winner: Amber (Gecko Lizard) and Ralph (Kangaroo)

Runners-up: Laker Deer in Red Light), Jude (Polie the Polar Bear) and Lily-Rose (Wild Deer)

Term 1 2025 - 2026

Mini Medics Programme

Kent Police invited a group of St Richard's children to take part in a 4 week Mini Medic Programme.

The Mini Medics gained many new skills and knowledge regarding first aid. Each children completed the course and received a certificate. 

'It has truly been a privilege to tutor such enthusiastic young people, they all did such a great job.' PSCO Mark Ball.

Term 1 2025 - 2026

It is week one and already Year 2 are working hard to make numbers to 100 using 10s. A great start to the year. 

Term 1 2025 - 2026

This term we were joined by Dover Lions Club. Our guests donanted a selection of wonderful books for our library for which we are very thankful. 

Term 1 2025 -2026

Families and staff came together for a Mcmillian Coffee morning to raise funds for this excellent charity. A great time was had by everyone who enjoyed this chance to catch up while supporting this charity. 

 

Term 1 - 2025- 2026 whole school

Civil Engineering Live Lesson

Year 6 and the rest of the school including EYFS took part in an aspiring live lesson.Four Civil Engineering Students spoke passionately about their interests and what skills they used in their jobs. Problem solving, computer skills, design and technology, art, maths as well as science skills. 

Term 1 2025 - 2026

Science Photograph Competition

We had an overwhelming response to this year's photograph competition. Photos included a wide range of subjects from our beautiful natural world and living organisms, to engineering accomplishments and marvellous materials. It has created a real buzz with lots of curious science talk between both staff and children. 

Winner: Amber (Gecko Lizard) and Ralph (Kangaroo)

Runners-up: Laker Deer in Red Light), Jude (Polie the Polar Bear) and Lily-Rose (Wild Deer)