While we mull over the pros and cons of the Confirmatory Referendum, Red Lines and Customs Unions, News from the world beyond Blue Coat is – as ever, bitter-sweet.
No sooner have we seen awfully dramatic footage of an Indian cyclone than we get ‘blown away’ by the heroics of two of our top football clubs. Within hours of yet another school shooting in the United States, we learn of a newcomer to the royal household, and say ‘Welcome’ to Archie.
Archie and many young readers will be unaware of the spooky story of the Mary Celeste, an American merchant brigantine, a ship which was discovered adrift and deserted in the Atlantic Ocean, off the Azores Islands, on December 5, 1872. Well, almost 150 years on, the school has been a great deal quieter also, with two Prep year groups out on residential trips and Year 1 also absent on their enrichment visit. The remaining year groups however have still been hard at work and settling well into the Trinity Term.
Year 6 have been in France, visiting the battlefield and cemetery at Ypres.This was a poignant experience that will live long with the children. Other day trips included a visit to Park Astérix and a day at the Aqualud Park and the market at Le Touquet.
Personally, I enjoyed calling in on Year 5 at Bushcraft. The children were unlucky with the weather, but they still had a great time building outdoor shelters and taking part in activities that will have improved their resilience and built up their inner confidence. These are traits that will last them a lifetime.
As part of their topic on Victorian toys, Year 1 visited Weston Park. This trip followed on from their Enrichment Day last week. The children waxed lyrical about the excursion. These trips undoubtedly open eyes wider; they also improve creative writing skills.
Thank you to all the staff for supporting the children with these trips and residentials. We are all very appreciative.
On Wednesday I had the privilege of visiting Year 4SB and watching a super English lesson on emotive language. I must say a massive thank you and well done to Mrs Barnes and her class.
This week we welcomed Year 2 to Year 4 class assemblies and Chaplain’s Chapel service. This is another way in which we prepare them for Prep in September. The assembly on Jesus, The Light of the World was humorous and thought provoking. It really hit the mark with its message and this was reinforced by Chaplain on Friday morning.
Have a super weekend and I look forward to seeing you at see at the various events next week.
MR NOEL NEESON | HEADMASTER
