This week I set the boys a challenge. In line with our current learning strength, Communication, I talked about how we communicate to others through our actions and behaviour. This includes our manners and how we greet other people, keep good eye contact, and actively listen and respond to each other. I especially asked the boys to think about how they walk into school in the morning and the importance of saying ‘Good Morning’ and interacting with others. It was therefore pleasing to see so many boys heed this message, with cheery good mornings, positive eye contact, a smile and even the occasional, ‘How are you?’ and ‘I hope you have a good day’; well done boys. 

Continuing this theme, it was wonderful to hear such positive feedback on the Year 6 boys who went on the Rugby Tour last weekend. They represented themselves and the school fantastically well. It was a hugely enjoyable tour for both the boys and staff, not just in playing some competitive fixtures but also watching Wales v New Zealand in Cardiff. Well done to the boys and thank you to Mr Homan for organising the tour and Mr Burchett, Mrs Shepstone, Mr Stapleton, Mr Withington, the Goodrem family and Mr Herringshaw for accompanying the boys. 

Across the school, boys from all years have embraced new opportunities and challenges this week, including senior school interviews, music exams, and swimming and rugby fixtures. Year 5 and 6 boys thoroughly enjoyed their visit from the Young Shakespeare Company and Ventis House ran a very successful Charity Day today for the charities, Crisis and Marie Curie. Tonight, our PAWS association also ran the first, and very popular, Year 3 and 4 Film Night; thank you to all the PAWS volunteers for organising and running the event. 

Can I also take this opportunity to remind parents that all children should be supervised in the morning before the gates open at 7.45am. We are also noticing a number of boys coming into school without coats. As the weather turns colder and wetter, please ensure the boys have coats in school.  

Today, we also said goodbye to Mrs Hardstaff who has worked at the school for a number of years. She has supported the boys both as a Teaching Assistant and as a Lunchtime Supervisor. We thank her for her commitment and dedication, and wish her every success in the future  

This week, we had the wonderful news that Mr Homan and his wife have had their first child, a baby boy, Declan. Everyone is doing well, and we obviously wish them every happiness together. 

Wishing you an enjoyable weekend with your families, 
John Bond