BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

Well, this week has been one of those rare combinations of the poignant and the punchy, the sort that makes you sit back and think, “Blimey, no wonder I’m exhausted.”

Let’s begin with last Friday evening, when our intrepid Year 6 explorers returned from France. They were sun-kissed, slightly dishevelled, and looking as if they’d aged ten years in wisdom, though thankfully not in appearance. On Monday morning, I passed a few yawns on the path, clutching croissants as if by instinct, but looking rather more worldly and independent. Thank you to our ever-patient staff who not only survived the trip, but somehow managed to facilitate a memorable one too.

Later on Monday, a date that looms large in the Blue Coat calendar: Founders’ Day. This annual commemoration gives us pause to reflect on our beginnings and what beginnings they were! In 1722, a humble yet bold idea took shape: to clothe and educate needy children in Birmingham. The Blue Coat School was born, and, like all great British institutions, it’s grown up a bit but retained its distinctive character.

This year’s service at St Philip’s Cathedral was particularly special. We were joined by the new Bishop of Birmingham, Michael Volland, who delivered a stirring address and blessing. Professor Iain McNeish, former Blue Coat scholar and now eminent surgeon, was officially inducted as our School President by the esteemed Mrs Karan Gilmore, our Chair of Governors. He laid a wreath at the Cathedral, a solemn reminder of our heritage and enduring links with this beautiful building.

Year 6, Chapel Choir and the Senior Choir must all be congratulated. The singing? Sublime. The reading? Spot on. The behaviour? Exemplary. “It was a display,” as my grandmother would say, “fit for royalty or at least a fairly important bishop.”

Meanwhile, over in Year 2, things were getting positively buzzy. The British Beekeepers Association paid a visit and held the pupils rapt with tales of pollination, nectar, and the unassuming majesty of the humble bee. As one bright spark put it: “Without bees, there’d be no honeycomb.” Quite! An excellent reminder that it’s often the smallest creatures doing the heaviest lifting.

And from buzz to balls, what a week for cricket. A hearty well done to our U11 first 8 boys, who bagged the Malvern Eight:8 Trophy for a remarkable third consecutive year. Not to be outdone, our second team were runners-up in the Plate Tournament. Bravo, boys! My thanks to Mr Gregory and Mr Protherough, and of course to all the parents who stood patiently on boundary ropes.

The halls, meanwhile, are alive with the sound of Shakespeare. Our summer production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is being thoroughly ‘Blue Coatified’ under the direction of the indomitable Mrs James. Think less RSC, more BCS with glitter. Do book your tickets before they vanish faster than a puck in a puff of dry ice.

And today, the week ended on a truly heartfelt note as we rallied behind The Matt Gallagher Foundation in support of those with Motor Neurone Disease. A cruel and relentless illness, MND reminds us of the fragility of life but also of the extraordinary strength of community. I was deeply moved by the generosity of our pupils, parents, and staff. Whether you donated, ran an event, or just gave a few words of kindness, you helped shine a light in the dark. “What do we live for,” said George Eliot, “if not to make life less difficult for each other?”

So now, I suggest we all head into the holiday with a heart full of gratitude, a diary full of memories.You’ve all earned a proper rest. I, for one, shall be heading to Aberdovey with my deckchair in tow.

Happy half term to one and all.