For us, it has been a week out of La La Land. In a word, ‘fantastic’ but unlike the bizarre events at the Oscar ceremony, we came out on top – and we stayed there.
Yes, like the stock market in recent days, the children have been riding the crest of a wave. Long may this continue, for The Blue Coat School’s success on the sports and music front breeds confidence and happiness across the board.
What a week, especially, for the U11 girls, who won the Bromsgrove Swimming Invitational, and in doing so broke a 20-year-old record held by The Dragon School. Real credit should go to the girls for this outstanding achievement. They are really warming up well for the Nationals later in the year.
And then on Thursday, the U11 Netball squad qualified for the National Netball finals in Essex. Mrs Neeson reported back on how determined the girls were, and how they fully deserved this distinction. A big thank-you to the squad and staff for their hard work and dedication. This is a major breakthrough. It reinforces our belief that we can be a power in Sport, as well as in Music and Academics.
On the academic front, the School has received most pleasing results in the 11+ examinations. Whilst I must thank the staff for their hard work and the parents for their various inputs, I would congratulate the children for their industry and endeavour, it has been second to none. I cannot praise them highly enough.
Rufus Powell should also be commended for his outstanding result in the SATIPs National General Knowledge Challenge. Rufus came 20th out of 4,500 students. What an achievement – congratulations!
Momentum is gathering as we gear up for the introduction of the Blue Coat Music Festival. This promises to be a great opportunity for us. The Gala Concert for all the finalists, will take place on Thursday 16 March, and I would encourage parents and children to come and support this event.
On Sunday morning, I head off with Mr Nicklin, Mrs Redfern, Miss Stefanowski and our Chapel Choir for a short visit to York. On Monday evening the children will sing Evensong at Ripon Cathedral. This promises to be a great trip; one which will develop our young choristers and which will be an inspiring occasion for them all.
To round off the week the Neeson family is heading to the Pre-Prep Disco organised by The Friends. We may not have the glamour of Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, but Mrs Neeson and I may try a few moves!
NOEL NEESON | HEADMASTER
