Dear parents,
I hope that everyone enjoyed a glorious half term in the wonderful weather. Thankfully, especially for those sitting external examinations, things have been a little cooler this week.
Following a positive and purposeful INSET day on Monday, focused on preparing for the new shape of the school day from September, it has been lovely to welcome most pupils back into lessons. The Lower Sixth, meanwhile, have continued with their end-of-year examinations, and I wish them well as they complete these important assessments.
This week has also seen our usual suite of termly governor meetings, with Dr Rainbow in attendance. I am always grateful for the time, expertise and care our governors give to the school. Their support and positive challenge are invaluable, and it is a privilege to work with such a strong team, all united by a shared commitment to doing the very best for our pupils and the wider school community.
On Thursday, a group of Lower Fifth (Year 9) pupils set off on their canoe trip along the beautiful River Wye. These experiences offer so much more than time away from the classroom: they encourage teamwork, resilience, independence and often good humour in the face of challenge. My thanks go again to Dr Commin and the staff team for supporting what I am sure will be a memorable adventure.
We also have our Lower Fifth (Year 9) and Middle Fifth (Year 10) cricket tour to the Black Country. Fingers crossed for some good weather, but whatever the conditions, I am sure the pupils will make the most of the opportunity, both on and off the pitch. Thank you to the staff accompanying them and making the tour possible, especially to Mr Gibson for leading the trip.
Today is our annual new teacher induction day, led by Mr Hyde. It has been a pleasure to welcome our new teaching colleagues who will be joining us from September. We are delighted to have secured such a strong team of dedicated professionals, and I look forward to working more closely with them, learning from them, and seeing the positive impact they will have on our school community in the coming months.
I want to wish those of you attending tonight’s Exeter School Family Society dinner at Sandy Park an enjoyable evening. My thanks go to the family society for putting on what I sure will be a wonderful evening for parents.
This weekend sees our inaugural CCF Tri-Service Competition at Okehampton Battle Camp. This is an exciting development for our cadets, and I very much look forward to hearing about their experiences and achievements on their return.
Thank you to all parents who have completed our homework survey. Advance warning that Mr Fennemore will be leading a parental forum on Tuesday 16 June 5–6pm to discuss the findings with parents. This will include an update from our homework working party of teachers who have been carefully considering our current approach in light of the shape of the week changes coming for September. More information, including the sign up form, will soon be up on MSP.
Even further ahead! Miss Rose and colleagues are busy planning for our Speech Day events. This year they take place on Thursday 25 June. As last year, we will hold two events for senior school pupils: the Lower Fifth to Lower Sixth event will begin at 11.00am, and the Lower School event (for Third Form and Fourth Form) will begin at 2.30pm. Both occasions are wonderful celebrations of school life, and we would be delighted to see as many parents as possible. Further information will be shared shortly. A quick mention of Junior School Speech Day too – this is taking place on Friday 26 June.
Wishing you all an enjoyable weekend.
