Headmaster's Welcome
Dear Parents
I was quite excited walking to school at the start of the week, being greeted by wonderful birdsong and a slightly lighter walk in. However, it all changed rather suddenly with the heavy rain. Let’s hope that we start to have some good weather in the next few weeks.
It looks as though all the pupils had an amazing experience during One World Week and they have been sharing some truly captivating stories about their visits to the various places of worship. This annual event is an exceptional opportunity for our children to expand their horizons and gain a deeper understanding of different religions and cultures, as well as to cultivate empathy and respect for others. By exploring the beliefs and practices of other religions, the children acquire valuable insights into other ways of life and belief systems, which can help to promote tolerance and understanding in our wonderfully complex and culturally diverse world.
The pupils also embraced the spirit of One World Week and explored the crucial topics of climate change and sustainability with the expert guidance of RISE Theatre. With an assembly that kickstarted the day, the Reception to Junior 6 classes were introduced to the themes that would be threaded throughout the day. Class teachers led tailored art and science activities, intertwined with rehearsal workshops, that inspired the pupils to think about our impact on the planet. In the afternoon, the entire school gathered in the School Hall for the God's Planet show, which provided a breathtaking journey across the globe, from the lush rainforests to the frigid expanses of Antarctica, and even to the reaches of space. By using song and action, the pupils learned how each one of us can become a planet hero by using our unique skills and abilities to protect and care for our world.
As parents, it's natural to feel concerned about the reports of head lice among different age groups. Yet, it's important to remember that this is a common occurrence during childhood. Fortunately, there are straightforward yet impactful steps we can take to prevent its transmission. By adhering to the guidelines we've presented, we can join forces to curb its spread.
On Wednesday, we bid a sad goodbye Mrs Vaughan’s mother who was in years gone by, a very familiar face and part of the Crackley family. It was heartwarming to see her family and friends wearing her favourite colour, yellow, at her celebration of life at Oakley Wood, which seemed quite fitting as we welcome the arrival of the beautiful yellow daffodil season. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.
I am pleased to announce that the latest edition of the Minnacle has been published, featuring an array of exceptional work from our pupils. The magazine's newly appointed editorial team, comprised of Julia Lindsay, Jo Evans, and Sarah Duran, has undertaken a redesign of both the Minnacle and the Pinnacle. I trust that you will appreciate the revisions they have made. The Minnacle is a tribute to our students at their finest, and this edition boasts numerous examples of their outstanding achievements. In addition, the Pinnacle contains equally impressive work by students at Princethorpe College. It is an honour to showcase the talents of our pupils. Printed copies of the magazine have been sent home with pupils, and a digital copy of The Minnacle is available for viewing on our school's website.
We are challenging everyone to join the Sustainable Portrait challenge and showcase your creativity by crafting an artwork that is entirely your own. Use recycled and sustainable resources to create a portrait of yourself or someone you admire. By doing so, families can earn house points while exhibiting their willingness to contribute to the future of our planet. Remember to bring your work to school and submit it to Ms Holmes by Thursday 21 March. I am excited to see your masterpieces! Check out the Chronicle for more details.
The outpouring of generosity and support from everyone who contributed to our recent appeal for socks, filled with essential items, has been truly inspiring. Thanks to your kindness, we were able to donate a significant amount to the Helping Hands charity in Leamington. Jo Merrick, the charity's Project Operations Manager, came to our school to collect all the donations, which will be distributed to those in need in the local area. We are grateful for your kindness and your willingness to help those less fortunate.
Congratulations to our Stars of the Week who received their certificates at assembly: Nursery - Isabella and Sohan; Rec – Felix and Charlotte; J1 – Tianna and Sam; J2 – Bevan and George; J3 – Harry and Harriet; J4 – Nieve and Teo; J5 – Ryan and Jacob; J6 - Patrick and Fergus. Well done to all of you. Congratulations to Hollie for playing the piano so well at assembly – it was fantastic! Well done to the pupils who received stars and also those who received Da Vincis. We also had a number of pupils performing so well in activities outside of school.
The Six Nations sees another round of fixtures with the Calcutta Cup being contested in Edinburgh. Even if Ireland wins the competition, which seems likely, the match between Scotland and England this weekend will give bragging rights to the victors for the next year. I am not confident about Liverpool winning the League Cup Final against Chelsea this weekend, seeing their lengthy injury list to key players and having to play a midweek game. Anyway, at least the fans will get to Wembley. It will be interesting to see how India and England get on in the next test match that has just started. England have made a reasonably good start in their first innings in Ranchi.
I hope that everyone is managing to adhere to their Lenten commitments. We are called to focus on prayer, almsgiving and some fasting or abstinence. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to reflect on what we could do better as people of God.
I would like to wish everyone a most restful and happy weekend.
God bless,
Rob Duigan
