Dear parents and guardians,
What a fantastic week it has been!
Mine really began on Sunday when I had the great pleasure of attending Choral Evensong at Exeter Cathedral, where I proudly witnessed the Installation of our Senior Choristers. It was a wonderful experience, and it was especially lovely to be welcomed by The Revd Canon James Mustard at the beginning of the service. He spoke so positively about the new partnership between Exeter School and Exeter Cathedral, and I was delighted to see our choristers in action. Such talent!
That talent was matched on the hockey pitch on Wednesday, when I had the pleasure of watching our U18A girls take on Plymouth College. I was struck not only by their skill but, most of all, by their sense of team cohesion. Their determination and team spirit saw them come back from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 6-3 victory. It was wonderful to watch. Although we were unsuccessful in yesterday’s cup match against King’s, the girls can be immensely proud of the way they fought and represented the school so well.
Other highlights this week included hosting the legendary England netball player Beth Durant. Our girls (and staff!) were awestruck, and everyone benefited from her coaching sessions and inspirational words. On behalf of the whole school community, I would like to thank Beth for her time, expertise and inspiration.
I was personally awestruck yesterday when I visited the Clubs and Societies Fair. The sheer volume of opportunities on offer is incredibly impressive, and I am particularly pleased that so many of these clubs are run by enthusiastic pupils who want to share their passions with their peers. This speaks volumes about the enthusiasm, leadership and generosity that characterises our community.
On the theme of community, I had the honour of representing Exeter School at Hospiscare yesterday evening. Our partnership with Hospiscare is truly special, not only because of the funds we raise together, but also because of the success of our Changemakers programme, through which our pupils engage in such a mutually beneficial experience. Those of you who attended the Meet the Head events last week may recall that the fourth pillar of my educational philosophy is community, both within and beyond the school gates. Yesterday evening was my first opportunity as Head of Exeter School to see firsthand the meaningful impact our school has on the wider community. A special thank you also goes to Zander in L6, who played the piano for guests before dinner and who performs weekly for patients and staff at the hospice. I came away from the evening feeling incredibly proud.
I am looking forward to my first experience of drama this evening when I have the pleasure of attending Night of the Fox, and I hope to see many of you at the School Fete tomorrow.
Looking ahead, next Saturday is our Open Morning. My thanks to your children in advance for all their help on the day, whether that is helping out in a department or showing prospective families around, they really are our best ambassadors, and their warmth and enthusiasm say more about Exeter School than any brochure ever could. If you still need to let us know that your child is available to help, the form is on MSP. A quick reminder that school will finish early, at 2.50pm, on Friday 25 September, to allow us time to set up ahead of the event. Finally, if you have family or friends who are considering Exeter School for their children, please do let them know about the Open Morning and encourage them to come along. It is a wonderful opportunity to see the school in action and to experience for themselves the character of our community.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend with your families,
