BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

As we sped into Week 7, I found myself momentarily surprised by the pace at which the term is unfolding. The days seem to vanish like vapour, carried off by a rhythm that feels ever quicker. Amid the whirl of activity and accomplishment, I was reminded of the importance of stopping, however briefly, to take stock. In a world often marred by unrest, where the headlines are darkened by conflict in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine, it is perhaps all the more important that we pause to appreciate the peace, purpose, and privilege we enjoy within our own small corner of the world here at BCS.

This week has offered much to be grateful for.

On Monday, our exceptional tennis players, Arya and Chloe, claimed victory at the IAPS National Tennis Championships held at Clifton College. To triumph over schools such as Millfield, so often synonymous with sporting excellence, is no small feat. Our warmest congratulations to them both. Grace and Isabelle, too, played with great heart and placed a commendable second in the plate event. Such accomplishments are never the fruit of a single season, and I must offer a sincere thank you to the coaches at Priory Tennis Club whose quiet graft over the years has culminated in this national success. A feather in our collective cap, and a moment of sporting pride we shall cherish.

Not to be outdone, our U11 boys’ cricket team has progressed to the Midlands final, where they will face RGS and Prestfelde. Last week, the boys demonstrated skill, composure, and an admirable embodiment of BCS values as they confidently overcame Solihull Prep School in the group final. This team has grown together and risen with the occasion. I hope you will join me in wishing them all the very best as they prepare to test themselves at the highest regional level.

Equally uplifting was Pre-Prep Sports Day, a morning filled with energy, good humour, and no small dose of competitive spirit. Our youngest pupils approached each challenge with zest and joy, not for medals or acclaim, but for the sheer love of participation. Congratulations to Class 2W, Class 1H and Class RZ, who emerged victorious in the shuttle run final. My heartfelt thanks to all the parents who joined us, cheered, and shared in the celebration. Your presence always adds to the occasion.

In quieter, though no less significant, corridors of the School, our musicians have also been hard at work. The ABRSM examinations took place this week and, from all accounts, the pupils approached them with both diligence and calm. We look forward to celebrating their results in due course. One performance, however, deserves a particular spotlight: Bowen, aged just six, achieved a remarkable Grade 8 distinction. It is rare to encounter such musical maturity at such a young age, and I know you will share in my admiration for this outstanding accomplishment. “If music be the food of love,” wrote Shakespeare, “play on.” At BCS, our children are doing just that and beautifully.

And finally, I look forward to welcoming many of you to the Summer Fayre this evening. These communal gatherings serve as a gentle but powerful reminder of what binds us together, not just as a school, but as a family. I am deeply grateful to the Friends for their tireless work in bringing this event to life.

As we head into Week 8, may we do so with vigour and with gratitude. It is all too easy to overlook the everyday brilliance that surrounds us. But here at BCS, we are continually reminded, through our outstanding academic results, through sport, through music, through moments of shared celebration, that there is much to cherish, and even more to look forward to.

Happy weekend to all!