Dear Parents
As we reach the end of our final week of term, and Christmas is truly upon us and around us, it is amazing to reflect on the term we have had. So many events and opportunities for the children to experience as we nurture them in their learning and their personal development. I am struck each day by individuals and their interactions with each other and with the adults in their world; they demonstrate endless enthusiasm and a real zest for school life. There have been so many times when visitors to the school have commented upon the children’s manners and confidence; things which make us feel very proud of them.
Last Friday’s Christmas Concert by the children in the Prep school was fabulous. The final, mystery item (Bohemian Rhapsody) was extremely well-received and everyone really enjoyed performing it. Another very brave move on Mr Cortes’ part!
The children have enjoyed their Christmas parties this week and Father Christmas did indeed drop in on Monday!
It was great to see you all at Thursday’s Pre-Prep Carol Concert and/or today’s Prep Carol Service. The children’s energy levels must be waning but they managed a final push to bring off these wonderful events.
We were sad to say goodbye to Tory Cook from the front office yesterday. Many of you will know if her battle with cancer and we are delighted that she is in remission and making excellent progress. However, she has taken the decision to look after herself and her family and to allow herself to make a full, proper recovery and has stood down from her role. We wish her and her family all the very best for the future.
Miss Seymour has been with us for a year covering Mrs Deacon’s maternity leave. We thanked her yesterday and said goodbye as we welcomed Mrs Deacon back as Head of PRE.
And finally, we wish our wonderful Shadows a fond farewell as they complete their gap year with us and return to Australia and New Zealand at the weekend. They have been such a great bunch and I know your children will really miss them. So thank you Emma, Pheobe, Meg, Anthony and Josh!
On behalf of Helen and my family, may I wish you all a wonder Christmas and I look forward to welcoming you all back in the New Year!
With best wishes
Alexander Mitchell
Headmaster