After the thwarted expectation of last weekend’s Calcutta Cup clash at Twickenham, I needed something to lift my Scottish spirits. What better news than to hear that we have been granted permission to construct a new astroturf and pavilion at The Blue Coat School – a facility which will significantly enhance the profile of sport here.
Meanwhile, whether it be running, playing sport for a BCS team, performing with an instrument or thinking ahead to Summer exams, we all need to show concentration and focus. Who would have said 18 months ago that Leicester City would be the country’s lone representatives in the quarter finals of the Champions League? Spirit and determination are underrated values.
Saturday was certainly a great day to be a Blue Coat pupil and parent, as we performed with spirit and determination aplenty in the Hallfield Cross Country tournament. There was a strong field from the Midlands and beyond, but our U9 and U11 girls dominated their team races. A special mention must go to individual efforts by Oliver Smith (Y4) and Sophia Knight (Y6), who won outright.
In the IAPS National Netball finals our girls enjoyed some very competitive games and fought hard to finish in the top 40 nationally out of 326 teams. Well done girls!
This has been a big week for music, right across the age range. Although I was unable to attend the Pre-Prep recital on Tuesday due to Deputy Head interviews, I am reliably informed by Mrs Neeson that the performances of our youngest pupils were incredible.
Thursday night saw the inaugural BCS Young Musician of the Year award presented to Katie Baker after an outstanding display of musicianship. Credit must go to all our competitors; this event really showcased the great depth of talent at Blue Coat and our adjudicators had an extremely difficult task in choosing just one winner.
A special thank you to Mr Nicklin for his hard work over the last few weeks. The next event in the music calendar will be the Chapel Choir & Choral Society Concert at Edgbaston Old Church on Saturday night at 7.30pm, this will be followed by a drinks reception and all are welcome to attend. Back in School, there will be a ‘House Shout’ on the last day of term, where the boys and girls will go head-to-head to celebrate music for all. (Further details to follow)
As we approach the Easter break, I will be encouraging the children to focus hard on their studies as Years 3 to 5 approach their Summer assessments. It is important that we keep our focus on all tasks so that high expectations are met. Parents of Year 5 pupils will be receiving a letter which names the member of staff who will be leading you and your child through Senior school entrance. This initiative is designed to help School and parents to work together for the best outcomes. I will be holding an information meeting to help our current Year 4 parents manage the expectation of Year 5 and beyond, and will confirm the date for this meeting after the Easter Break.
Finally, I must say a huge well done to St Monica’s House for a very thoughtful assembly on Mother’s Day. Tears were shed and tissues were required: the same could be said as I watched the rugby highlights last Saturday evening!
NOEL NEESON | HEADMASTER
