As we look forward excitedly, our BCS family continues to bustle with activities that not only highlight our pupils’ talents but also strengthen our sense of community. Let me share with you the wonderful highlights of this past week that have brought us closer together in the spirit of learning and celebration.

The week started with a remarkable enrichment day for Year 4, where our young historians delved into the Tudor era. Dressed in traditional costumes, they embraced a day filled with learning and fun. It was a joy to see their enthusiasm and how such activities foster a deeper love for history. Kudos to Year 4 for their fantastic engagement.

Year 5 then took us on a fascinating journey through time with their class assembly. Led by Miss Green, they explored the evolution of homes from the Stone Age to the present, emphasising the timeless value of family. As Christmas draws near, their message about the importance of togetherness resonated strongly with us all.

This morning’s Chapel service included a wonderful recital from The Salvation Army, which we were honoured to host. Major Adrian Allman reminded us of the great need for charity at this time of year, with 750 food parcels already having been requested by families for Christmas. As such, I would like to invite you to bring donations of food (pasta, grains, tinned fruit and vegetables, and such) to the main reception by Wednesday 6th December, when we will be making a visit to The Salvation Army donation office to support them in this urgent effort.

Our Chapel Choir made us extremely proud by bringing seasonal cheer to The Queen Elizabeth Hospital today. Their beautiful voices and heartfelt performances were appreciated by many, and the messages of thanks from parents, patients, and hospital staff were heartwarming. Our choristers are talented. They are also wonderful ambassadors of joy and community spirit.

Our Year 6 pupils had an enriching experience at KES, participating in a Chemistry Afternoon. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with our students thoroughly enjoying and learning from the experience. A special thank you to Mrs Simmons for her support and to KES for facilitating this valuable educational opportunity.

Pre-Prep’s rehearsals for their upcoming Nativity plays have been a source of joy and are getting us all into the festive spirit. I look forward to next week’s performances and hope to see many of you there to share in these delightful moments.

Our recent ‘Stay and Play’ sessions for prospective parents were a success, and it was heartening to hear positive feedback about the warm, family-like environment we cherish at BCS. It is our collective passion to ensure that each child feels valued and integral to the BCS family.

This weekend promises to be bustling with activities. Our Christmas Fayre on Saturday is shaping up to be a fantastic event, thanks to the immense efforts of our parent community. Your dedication and spirit are what make these events so special.

On Sunday, I will be joining the Chapel Choir at St Philip’s Cathedral for the annual Advent processional. This is an event that marks – beautifully – the beginning of this festive season. If you are in the city, please do join us for this special service at 4pm.

As we move through these busy and joyous times, I am reminded of the strength and warmth of our BCS community. Your ongoing support and involvement make all these wonderful experiences possible for our children.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!