26 May 2022
As many of you will be aware, this week is hugely significant as we commence the first set of A levels examinations in our new Sixth Form. Our Year 13 students have approached the examinations in an exemplary manner, and I know how hard they have all worked to get to this point. Their enthusiasm, commitment and ability to smile despite the pressure they are all facing, has not gone unnoticed by staff and I would like to congratulate them all for the way in which they have conducted themselves. I hope they, and our Year 11 pupils who are sitting their GCSEs currently and also doing a wonderful job, enjoy a respite from their gruelling schedules over the half-term, knowing they will be supported and cheered through to the finish line after the break.
The week kicked off splendidly for Year 3, who enjoyed their wilderness adventure to Court Hill. With smiles in abundance, they quickly made themselves at home exploring the woods and making some spectacular dens. Having worked up an appetite, in the evening they devoured a delicious barbecue before showing off their incredible range of skills in the Talent Show! Day 2 featured more den building (by request!) and they also engaged their artistic talents painting rocks and stones. It was a brilliant few days, making memories and having fun!
Marking the end of the Assessment period for our pupils in Years 7 to 10, they were treated to a celebratory barbecue on the back field at lunch today and a chance to relax and enjoy the prospect of the May half-term. We hope you all have a good rest!
Today, our Reception parents were invited into school for a tea fit for the Queen! They have been very busy devising and designing menus and helping prepare and bake an assortment of treats to serve to parents at the famous Reception Tea Party. The Orangery was transformed into a beautiful tea room, festooned with celebratory bunting, whilst some of our youngest pupils enjoyed playing host to their parents and members of staff.
I’m sure there will be plenty more tea parties and celebrations happening over the Jubilee weekend. We would love to see what all our pupils are up to. Please take a photo and post it in the specially created Jubilee channel on the Senior Pupil Team, Junior Key Stage 2 Pupil Team (Years 3 – 6) or Junior EYFS and Key Stage 1 Team (Reception, Year 1 and 2). We can’t wait to see how you are all marking this momentous event in history!
Finally, we are delighted to announce the safe arrival of a baby girl for Miss Godwin, and a baby boy for Miss Oliver. I’m sure you will join me in passing on congratulations. We also look forward to announcing the arrival of Miss Stanley’s baby sometime next month and wish her a relaxing few weeks ahead of the due date!
Have a wonderful half-term break.
Dr James Raymond
Headmaster