Senior Reflections 24 April 2026
Dear parents,
At the term draws to a close, this week has been another one rich in community, reflection and achievement. Perhaps the main event took place on Wednesday as we marked our annual Founders’ Day at Exeter Cathedral. It was wonderful to have junior and senior pupils together for such a significant occasion in the life of the school. Founders’ Day always invites us to look both backwards and forwards: to reflect on the vision, values and history that have shaped us, while also recognising the energy, ambition and sense of progress that continue to define the school today. In that sense, it was a fitting celebration of both heritage and optimism for the future.
The week began with the second staging of the Third Form (Year 7) murder mystery sleepover in the library. By all accounts, it was a hugely enjoyable event and a great success, full of energy, teamwork and good humour. My thanks go to the staff and pupils who took part, and especially to Mr Halpin, the mastermind behind the occasion.
On Monday, pupils gave an impressive LAMDA showcase in the Drama Studio. Sadly, I was not able to attend myself, but the feedback from staff and parents was universally positive. It is always a pleasure to hear of pupils performing with such confidence, poise and creativity.
On Tuesday, we were pleased to host a special parent session led by Lisa McCullagh from Southwest Autism. Opportunities such as these are an important part of the partnership between school and home, and I very much hope that those who attended found the session informative, practical and encouraging. We are grateful to Lisa for sharing her expertise so generously.
Our rugby sevens teams have also been doing themselves proud at Rosslyn Park this week. The U18A side enjoyed an impressive run of results, making it through to the second day and only losing to the eventual winners. The U16 team has likewise represented the school with great spirit as they continue to hone their skills. My congratulations go to all the players involved, as well as to Mr Ross and his colleagues for making possible such a valuable and memorable opportunity.
We have yet more sporting success with the 1st XI football squad who this week won their final game of the season to be crowned 2026 ISCA league champions. A great achievement for the team and of course their coach, Mr Ashman.
Fittingly, given that the concert ended with Katy Perry’s Firework, the Junior School Spring Concert on Tuesday was a joyful explosion of colour, energy and volume. It was a delightful afternoon and a fine celebration of the enthusiasm and talent of our younger pupils. The senior school has much to live up to next week with their Spring Concert in support of WaterAid – tickets are available here. My thanks to Mr Titchin for putting on such a wonderful show.
Science has very much been under the microscope this week. On Tuesday, several Lower Sixth pupils presented the findings of science projects they had planned and carried out independently. Topics included the effect of oxidative stress on yeast cell survival, comparisons between the human brain and a sheep’s brain, double pendulum calculations and recovery times in sport. It was a most impressive occasion and a fine example of pupils engaging seriously and thoughtfully with academic enquiry. Staying with science, Lower Fifth (Year 9) pupils enjoyed a special journey into space this week with the return of the inflatable planetarium. The sights and sounds of the universe made for an inspiring experience, and my thanks go to Dr Robb for arranging it.
In economics, two Lower Sixth pupils have been selected as national finalists in this year’s Institute of Economic Affairs Budget Challenge. This a fantastic achievement, particularly given that most competitors are in the year above. Their success is testament to their hard work, sharp analysis and intellectual confidence, and places them among the top seven teams in the country. We wish them every success for the final taking place next tax year at the IEA offices in London in April. Thanks to Mr Mackintosh for taking them and for his expert tutelage.
This evening, we look forward to the Senior Sports Dinner at Sandy Park. A fitting celebration of senior sport and an opportunity to recognise the tremendous contribution made by Upper Sixth pupils before they depart for study leave early next term. It is always a special occasion, celebrating not only outstanding individual achievement but also the remarkable depth and breadth of sporting talent across the school.
This weekend, I am also looking forward to congratulating those pupils completing the 1633 Challenge on Dartmoor. This important event allows us to recognise the commitment, effort and progress shown by all pupils involved in Ten Tors training, including those who may not be able to take part in the final event itself because of the limited number of places. It is a reminder that character is built as much in preparation and perseverance as in participation.
Our Young Entrepreneur team, Reverra are at Greendale Farm Shop this Saturday, selling their bespoke, handmade drinking glasses with an Easter theme. I am told, if I mention them in my newsletter and include ‘perfect as a seasonal gift’ they may even offer me a small discount. Savvy business skills on show from the team; if you are in the area do pop across and take a look, they really are high quality, bespoke, ideal gifts.
Mr Tamblyn and I are also very much looking forward to attending Exeter Cathedral Choir’s performance of Bach’s St John Passion on Sunday and hearing the choristers sing again.
My thanks, as ever, to the staff who make so much possible, and to parents for your continued support. I wish all families a restful and enjoyable weekend.
