BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

The Michaelmas Term has begun in fine style here at Blue Coat. There was a real sense of pride as we raised the School flag to mark the start of our new academic year. Our Heads of School, Anai and Chester, took on their very first official duty with aplomb and did a sterling job. Thank you to those parents and pupils who joined us on that morning and for the many kind messages of support that followed. It is gestures like these that remind me what a strong family community BCS has built. A particularly warm welcome to our new families. I do hope your first week was a happy one and that you are starting to feel at home in our community.

This week, I had the privilege of leading our start of term assemblies in both Pre-Prep and Prep. Our theme was rooted in the BCS Values of respect, perseverance and kindness. The Prep assembly ended in a lively House competition, with Cathedral seizing an impressive 60 points. The pupils showed that fun and high standards can go hand in hand. In Pre-Prep, I was treated to boundless enthusiasm, with hands shooting up at every question. My Thursday morning assemblies with our youngest pupils continue to be a weekly highlight.

I am also delighted to see so many parents coming along to the year group welcome back drinks. It was a pleasure to spend time with our Year 6 parents this week. These evenings are informal, but they are invaluable in helping us strengthen the bonds between parents and staff. As the old saying goes, “a problem shared is a problem halved”, and it is through such partnerships that we make a real difference to the lives of our children.

Today’s Chapel service, led by the marvellous Father Andrew, centred around overcoming our fears and remembering that, by working together, we can overcome any challenge. Such an apt service for the start of the academic year! 

Looking ahead to Week 2, there is plenty to look forward to with music, sport and informative events all taking place. I remain committed to my vision of BCS as the standout Prep School, and I know with your support, we will continue to thrive. As Sir Winston Churchill once put it, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” With respect for one another, perseverance in supporting our pupils, and kindness in all our dealings, I am confident we will continue to shine as a beacon of light for every family here.

On that note, let us enjoy a well-earned weekend.