Here they listened to Mr Richards retelling the story of his Great Great Uncle, Victor George Watts. Mr Richards explained how this young man from Cowes on the Isle of Wight, signed up for the Isle of Wight Rifles regiment at the start of the war, travelled the world and fell in combat. He told them how the regiment was involved alongside ANZACs during the Battle of Gallipoli. Victor survived this and was posted to Egypt. The students were able to look at a Christmas card Victor sent in 1916 and some pictures of him in Africa. Victor was then posted to Israel and he fought in the Second Battle of Jerusalem. It was here where he fell on the 19 of April 1917, aged 21. The students learnt how Victor had his name, address and mother’s name, Emily Louise Watts, on his person when he fell. Many soldiers did this so they could be identified on the battlefield. Mr Richards brought in Victor’s ‘Dead Man’s Penny’ and the students were able to have a good look at this significant artefact. This was a poignant moment and we hope the students took a lot from it. Mr Richards’ nan was delighted that the story continues to be told and that young people still take an interest in this very small part of the Great War.

This week we were delighted to hold our annual Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony, where over nine hundred pupils and invitees attended this prestigious event. Prizes were given for achievement, endeavour and progress, as well as for excellence in specific subjects. The prize winners are a true representation of everything that we stand for here at Claires Court – these academic heroes are just a small percentage of our pupil population who achieve amazing things every day of the 173 days in school a year. So, whether you were a prize winner or not, we are very proud of all of you.

Year 8s arrived back from their residential trip to Osmington Bay hastily exiting the coaches, exhausted and excitedly informing their parents of memorable experiences. This happy sight makes the huge effort of all involved worthwhile and I thank them for their hard and exhausting work.

On Monday the Language Leaders will be leading the whole school assembly, promoting languages and cultural diversity and by organising activities leading up to the European Day of Languages on the Wednesday.

Starting on Monday our Year 11’s will be joined by their parents for their ‘Academic Mentoring and Planning the Future’ Meetings with their form tutors.

We look forward to our first Open Morning of the academic year on Friday, welcoming our new visitors to the school.