BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

As we dusted off the holiday cobwebs and marched our scholars back to BCS, we couldn’t help but notice that the break had done wonders. The children, with energy levels that would put the Duracell Bunny to shame, bounced back into the school routine with a vigour that was both awe-inspiring and slightly terrifying.

This week, the spotlight was unapologetically stolen by the Arts – a realm that, despite its undeniable charm, often finds itself relegated to the sidelines in the grand scheme of educational priorities. Yet, as we’ve observed, neglecting the arts would be akin to skipping the seasoning in a gourmet meal – the end result is palatable but lacks that certain je ne sais quoi.

In a spectacular homage to linguistic diversity, we celebrated International Mother Tongue Day, turning BCS into a veritable Tower of Babel, minus the confusion and chaos. The array of languages spoken within our community transformed the School into a melting pot of cultural richness. I, embracing the spirit of the day, donned my tartan trews, an outfit choice that was met with varying degrees of admiration and amusement.

From Nursery to Year 6, the children threw themselves into the celebrations with the enthusiasm of a squirrel at a nut festival. The evening concert was nothing short of Broadway-worthy, showcasing an eclectic mix of cultural songs, dances, and poems that left us all spellbound. A standing ovation is due for Mrs. Newman, the mastermind behind this cultural extravaganza, and all the families and performers who made the day unforgettable.

Not to be outdone, our Language Ambassadors delivered an assembly to the Pre-Prep that was both enlightening and entertaining, culminating in an interactive quiz that had the children grinning from ear to ear. These ambassadors are not just bridge-builders in our linguistic community; they are living proof that superheroes don’t always wear capes (sometimes, they carry dictionaries).

Drama took centre stage for Years 3 and 5, who delved into the timeless realms of Aesop’s Fables and a modern twist on Robin Hood, respectively. The lessons learned went beyond mere theatrical expression, touching on confidence, teamwork, and the subtle art of stepping into someone else’s shoes.

Today, Year 6 faced the music (quite literally) with auditions for the summer production of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe. The talent on display was so formidable that Mrs. Redfern might wish for a wardrobe to hide in when decision time comes. Break a leg to all our auditionees!

Meanwhile, a choir of our Year 5 and 6 vocalists are gearing up for the Young Voices ’24 event, ready to belt out tunes with peers from across the country in what promises to be a vocal spectacle of epic proportions.

A tip of the hat to Mr. Fillingham, Headmaster from Solihull School, whose insights into the mystical realm of senior school applications were both enlightening and, let’s be honest, a relief to many a puzzled parent.

As we wrap up this whirlwind of a week, let’s not forget the Neeson House bash, celebrating a milestone 16th birthday. If the party is anything like our week at BCS, brace for an event filled with laughter, creativity, and perhaps a touch of controlled chaos.

Here’s to a weekend of rest (and maybe a little partying) before we do it all over again.Â