Junior Reflections 3 July 2026
Dear parents,
I can’t believe that this is my final newsletter of the year, mixed emotions as always as we say goodbye to the Upper Two pupils and some staff, but I also know that the pupils are ready for the summer break and for the new adventures that face them in September. Reports are nearly ready and I very much enjoy reading all that your pupils have achieved this year, and it certainly has been a lot. They will be available to access on MSP on Monday 6 July at 4pm.
In assemblies this week we spoke about water safety and the importance of making sensible choices when spending time near water. With the summer holidays approaching children were reminded that rivers, lakes, canals, beaches, and swimming pools can all present risks if proper care is not taken. We discussed key safety messages, including the importance of swimming only in designated areas, staying within sight of a trusted adult, and knowing what to do in an emergency. By increasing awareness and understanding, we hope to help our pupils enjoy water-based activities safely and confidently throughout the holiday period.
It was a pleasure to welcome so many new pupils and their families to the school on Wednesday for our Move Up afternoon. This is always a special occasion as we welcome those joining Exeter School in September, some from far afield and others from our own junior school families. It was also a pleasure to have Dr Rainbow with us once again, giving him another opportunity to meet many of the children and families who will soon become part of our community.
Our current pupils did a wonderful job of welcoming new children into their classes, helping them to feel settled and excited about joining the school. At the same time, pupils had the opportunity to meet their form tutors for next year and spend time in their new classroom environments. Meanwhile, our Upper Two children visited their senior schools as part of their transition programme. Judging by the many smiles on their return, they thoroughly enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to the next stage of their educational journey.
Also on Wednesday, four of our pupils represented the school at the National Schools’ Athletics Finals held at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. Having qualified through the Mount Kelly athletics meet, they earned the opportunity to compete against some of the country’s most talented young athletes. Ruby, Hermione, Flo, Toby C, Toby H and Emme performed with determination, resilience and great sportsmanship, and Mr Dutch was incredibly proud of their efforts. Congratulations to each of them on this outstanding achievement.
We have arranged a number of opportunities for existing parents to meet Dr Rainbow during the autumn term at our “Meet the Head” events – the junior school event will take place on Wednesday 9 September. Further information can be found elsewhere in this newsletter. I know that Dr Rainbow is genuinely excited to lead this community, and he has already spoken warmly about Exeter School as a place of academic ambition, intellectual curiosity and co-curricular richness, underpinned by pastoral care, kindness, character and service.
The Upper Two pupils are currently in North Devon on their residential and I am about to head off to join them for a day by the sea. From the updates that I have been receiving from Mr Cunningham, everyone is having a wonderful time.
And so, it just leaves me to say thank you to you all for your continued support this year. It really is hard to believe that we only have three days left. Have a truly wonderful summer break when it arrives and I wish you and your families all the best and very much look forward to seeing you all at the school gate in September.
