I have been received warmly and had many joyous moments on my new adventure. The boys are, of course, our main focus all of the time, and rightly so in everything that we do and they have responded magnificently on all occasions. Of course, like on your sleigh ride, we must occasionally hit a bit of turbulence but when they have found it difficult their peers have rallied round and provided a cheery smile and welcoming reaction hauling them back up. As a consequence I am desperately keen for them to have a festive season to remember. Please, can we have your permission to reward their endeavours and accomplishments?

We promise that the Christmas Grinch, apart from during our assembly programme and possibly for a second time at our Informal Concert, will not need to appear as we will continue to add to their learning at every possible moment and we will certainly make sure they are not left without a challenge. I know the boys will commit to their studies as well. But just in case, Mr Leuzinger has promised to keep his ‘ba humbug hat’ not that far away! I am confident that from the most excited and youngest in Reception to the oldest and most coolest in Year 6 that the programmed schedule of events will bring happiness, exaltations and important opportunities to reflect and even offer help to those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

Please can the events outlined in my recent email be added to your diaries to bring seasonal good cheer. We also believe, as we do with other festivals, that it is important to recognise the special time of year as well as celebrate all our successes.

Christmas was certainly on the mind of some of our budding artists in assembly on Wednesday. Mr Goddard, with the broadest of brushstrokes, most colourful imagination and eye for the finest of details, demonstrated an ‘Artist of the Week’ masterclass. It creatively returned to the message of respect for our work, our ideas, each other and our areas. The class of 6G under Mr Hogg’s superb stewardship presented their thoughts on our half termly topic today. Their parents left having heard about togetherness, teamwork and trust. It was also wonderful to see the passion and commitment in their preparation during the week and they were tremendous. Much of their work was self-created from collaborative and independent research and this is to be applauded. Well done to you all.

Photos of the week are here in the gallery.

I think my family have plans for me to make the hardest decision of the week regarding choosing a tree and then making me climb high into the rafters seeking out the decoration boxes. Whatever you are doing, do have a lovely weekend.

Dean Richards