Dear Parents,
Week 3 has arrived and disappeared in a blur! With so much happening across the school, fitting everything into this week’s newsletter is a challenge, but with Mrs Van out at a Heads’ conference, I’ll certainly do my best!
Last Saturday saw our annual School Fair and, with the weather playing ball, it was wonderful to see so many families, pupils and staff enjoying the occasion. Whether it was trying their luck on the stalls, purchasing sweet bags, taking part in games or simply spending time together as a school community, there was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the day. My own two daughters thoroughly enjoyed themselves, particularly the face painting and the U2 boys’ bake sale, which prompted my three-year-old to declare one of the biscuits as “the best cookie ever!” Thank you so much to everyone who attended, volunteered or contributed in any way to make the event such a success.
After a quick opportunity to recharge on Sunday, we started the new week with our Lower School Coffee Morning. These gatherings provide an opportunity for both new and existing parents to meet form tutors, connect with one another and strengthen the sense of community that makes our school so special. We will be holding our Upper School Coffee Morning next Wednesday at 8:30am, so please do come along if you are able.
On Tuesday, our U2 pupils travelled to Lulworth Cove as part of their Geography studies under the leadership of Mrs Pinkerton-Smith. Bathed in glorious sunshine, pupils explored one of the most iconic locations on the Jurassic Coast while developing their understanding of coastal geography. It was a wonderful opportunity to see classroom learning brought to life, as pupils examined coastal processes and landforms in a stunning natural setting.
Wednesday saw the launch of our first Matchday Wednesday of the academic year. All upper school pupils travelled to Taunton for their opening rugby and hockey fixtures of the season. I was delighted to hear that every match was closely contested and played in excellent spirit, with many games decided by just a goal or try either way. Competitive sport at this stage of the year is always about much more than results, and it was pleasing to hear such positive reports about the pupils’ teamwork, determination and sportsmanship, as well as play by play accounts of tries from several of my U10 boys upon their return.
Thursday marked what is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Lower Two calendar: the departure of the annual residential trip. Alongside all of the Lower Two and Upper One Form Tutors, pupils set off for a weekend that promises adventure, challenge, friendship and plenty of good times. Having been fortunate enough to attend many residential trips over the years, I know just how valuable these experiences can be in building confidence, resilience and independence. My thanks go to Mr Pidwell, who is leading the trip, along with all of the staff who have generously given up their time to make this experience possible. I have already heard from Mr Pidwell that they have been enjoying abseiling and aeroball already – who knew you could combine basketball and trampolines and Ms Wormington tells me that Friday morning started with a whole year group macarena in the sun. What a way to start the day.
Today, we welcomed several of our governors into school as part of our annual Governors’ Day. This initiative allows governors to experience school life through the eyes of our pupils by shadowing them throughout the day. We were delighted to welcome them in to join us for Form One tutor time, an Upper One Computer Science lesson and an Upper Two Music and maths lessons. These visits provide governors with valuable insight into the daily experiences of our pupils and the outstanding work taking place across the school.
Tomorrow, we look forward to our Open Morning. Events such as these provide prospective families with a glimpse of what makes our school such a special place, and I would like to extend my personal thanks to the Upper Two pupils who have volunteered their Saturday morning to act as ambassadors. Their willingness to give tours, speak with visitors and showcase their talents across the curriculum is greatly appreciated and is always one of the most impressive aspects of the day.
Finally, tomorrow afternoon will see the return of our Lower Two pupils from their residential adventure. I have no doubt they will arrive back with plenty of stories to tell, new friendships strengthened, memories made and, quite possibly, a fair few tired faces too!
Have a wonderful weekend.
