BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

As Week 10 of the Lent term draws to a close, I find myself reflecting once again on a week brimming with triumphs, camaraderie, and the sort of dedication that makes BCS a truly special place. As David Bowie once put it, “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring”. That certainly seems to sum up the whirlwind of activity we’ve had over the past few days.

Our week began on a note of serenity with a beautiful Evensong. A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who supported this occasion—it was a joyous and uplifting service. The Chapel Choir, as always, sang their hearts out, reminding us that music has the power to lift the spirit and stir the soul. If only every week could begin with such harmonious splendour!

Meanwhile, Year 3 and 4 knuckled down for their Lent term assessments, demonstrating resilience and strong academic progress. Over lunch, I reminded a few young scholars that even making mistakes is a valuable part of the learning process. After all, in the immortal words of Winston Churchill, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts”. And courage was in no short supply among our diligent pupils.

Our future politicians took centre stage last Friday at King Edward’s School for the Debating Cup heats. I am delighted to report that under the expert guidance of Miss Firman, our debaters have won a place in the final. A resounding achievement! Perhaps one day, one of these young orators will take up a seat in Westminster.

Sporting prowess was on full display this week as our U11 girls travelled to Bryanston School for the National Prep School Netball Finals. What an exhibition of sportsmanship and determination they put on! Every time our teams compete at such high levels, it reinforces the fact that BCS is establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with on the national stage. I am delighted to share that our U11 team are now 4th in the entire country, what an incredible accomplishment!

Meanwhile, our Year 6 pupils had an enriching experience at Shrewsbury School, immersing themselves in the art of Fives, refining their cricketing skills, and taking to the rowing tank under elite coaching. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little envious. Fives is a fascinating game with a wonderful history, and as for rowing – well, as The Beatles sang, “We all live in a yellow submarine,” but in this case, it was more about learning to power through the water with technique and strength!

Thursday evening brought a crescendo of talent in the Atrium with the final of the BCS Young Musician and Ensemble of the Year Gala Concert. The standard was nothing short of remarkable. Truly inspiring. I must admit, I was rather relieved that Mrs Nadia Hinson had the unenviable task of selecting winners, as for me, each and every performer deserved a standing ovation. Congratulations to Joshua for being crowned the BCS Young Musician of the Year and our Chapel Choir for being awarded the BCS Ensemble of the Year! My gratitude goes to Mrs O’Malley, Mrs Creaton, and Miss Duff for orchestrating such a wonderful musical spectacle. 

Finally, today saw a welcome burst of colour and creativity as the pupils enjoyed a well-earned break from their uniforms for Comic Relief. A sincere thank you to all who supported this initiative. There’s something quite uplifting about seeing a sea of bright, cheerful outfits and knowing that, in doing so, we are making a difference.

As we head into the weekend, I leave you with a thought from the ever-eloquent Freddie Mercury: “The show must go on”. And indeed, it will, with another week of excellence, enthusiasm, and engagement awaiting us at BCS. Until then, enjoy the well-earned rest!