Considering that their heroic stamina-sapping efforts had finished just 72 hours before, just imagine how England’s cricketers must have felt today, starting another five-day Test Match under a glaring sun in Pakistan. Warmer, but otherwise a bit like our Friends of Blue Coat heroes, I guess. Fit, enthusiastic and geed up by the success of previous exertions.
After the resounding success of the recent Christmas Fayre, The Friends team found energy enough this week to put on a triumphant Carols and Fizz evening in the Boardroom. The evening was a sparkling success. Not only was the fizz fantastic, I must say that the parents’ singing was… well, pretty good, too. What it lacked in elegance and harmony it more than made up for in effort and effervescence!
As there are clearly no voice tests involved for would-be ‘Friends’, I would encourage new parents to come and join this super-active bunch of organisers. It’s a great way to meet other parents and to support some great fundraising initiatives.
The penultimate week of the Michaelmas term was as expected, magical, and, as ever, extremely busy. In Pre-Prep, we were treated to Nativities and shows galore, and in every one, the children were magnificent. I always find the development from Nursery to Year 2 quite breathtaking; the graft that the staff put into these important milestones in the children’s educational experience should not be overlooked. I am extremely thankful for all that they do. And I am thankful to the children, you have certainly got my Christmas off to a stellar start!
The stars of Years 3 and 4 got theirs off to a flyer, too, with a beautifully constructed Christingle service. The singing, the drama and overall contribution of Year 3 and 4 children was first rate. A big thank you to Mr Brown and his team for orchestrating this. It was very well received by all.
Prep enjoyed a trip to the theatre on Wednesday to watch Nativity, The Musical, at the Rep Theatre. Mrs Ayub organised the event down to the finest detail, and a heart-warming production evidently had staff and children in raptures. This show is definitely worth a visit during the holidays.
At this point, I must commend the Chapel Choir for reaching out into the community. They visited Beaumont Care Home this week and brought Christmas cheer to the older members of our community. This outreach work is invaluable in helping others feel valued, so a massive thank you to all involved.
This week saw the end of hockey and rugby term, hotly-contested House and inter-school matches. It was great to see the children having fun and representing their respective teams or houses. Well done to them all on their achievements this term.
Next week is a particularly busy one, so do please join us for one of the many events. The calendar will keep you informed.
Have a wonderful Christmas holiday. I look forward to seeing you all refreshed, and – dare I say it – in good voice for the Lent Term come January.
