In recent assemblies we have been dealing with some of the challenges and temptations that face young people. On Monday morning, Mr Richards amused pupils and staff about ‘You are not perfect, so laugh about it!’ and how to deal with emotions in embarrassing situations. Mrs Keaney and Rachael Williams addressed the school about differences as we are increasingly brought into contact with people from many different ethnicities, religious backgrounds, languages and cultures. To feel comfortable about people whom we encounter means that we must feel comfortable about ourselves and this means accepting ourselves for what we are. We also have to be prepared to stand up and defend our British values of tolerance, compassion and a recognition of the rights and aspirations of others. I believe we are a very welcoming school, and we shall strive to stay that way.    

Year 10 textiles group had a wonderful visit to the V&A on Wednesday and seeing great work is always an inspiration for developing their own work. Six pupils from Claires Court took part in the Year 8 Faraday Challenge at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratories in Didcot (thank you Mrs Dimmick) - Evie, Charlie along with four boys from Claires Court battled it out against teams from all over the region - brilliant!

On Friday our Senior Girls Harmony choir performed at Alwyn School as part of their music week. The girls thoroughly enjoyed their opportunity to sing to and share their talents within the local community.

Year 11 pupils will have received a postcard inviting them to the ‘Spotlight on the Sixth Form’ event, being held on Wednesday 30 January from 6pm to 7pm. The event will offer pupils a real insight into what is offered at our Sixth Form. To confirm attendance, please email kyh@clairescourt.net.

The Library team are also leading the way in our contribution to the National Storytelling Week and our school library will be running their annual Book Swap on Thursday and will be encouraging girls to share stories that they have read and enjoyed.

Next Wednesday we are holding an Open Morning for prospective parents and their daughters. As ever an opportunity to see us at work, in lessons, teachers and pupils working together.

Due to the recent school closure, we have rearranged the Duke of Edinburgh information evening to Wednesday 30 January and therefore have also adjusted the deadlines for decisions to enrol and the Y10 Post 16 Landscape 'Looking Beyond GCSE' evening new date proposed is Thursday 7 March (TBC).

We wish our scholars good luck at the weekend.