From rock to classical, solos to ensembles, along with both of our choirs there was huge diversity on show. We were uplifted by high quality performances of well known pieces by the great composers and songwriters, but even more so by those who wrote and presented their own work. It is no mean thing to be on that stage singing or playing solo for the first time, or baring your soul through your own songwriting. My only regret is that not more parents were able to attend as the quality of the performances would have graced any stage and not found wanting.

The quality of the music was superbly enhanced by our new sound system and I am indebted to the Principals for their continuing commitment to improving the quality of our infrastructure. We now have a first class sound system and this will enhance our music, drama and dance productions as well as assemblies and lessons.

On Thursday night the whole site was buzzing with huge numbers of Year 11 pupils not just from our own Senior Girls and Boys School, but many from a wide range of external grammar and comprehensive schools. There is no doubt that we have much to be proud of in terms of our highly successful commitment to developing the whole student - academically, socially and personally. Or added value for A Level once again places us in the top 14% of schools and sixth form colleges in the country, and shows that our students achieve 30% more, across the board, than their previous attainment might predict. As importantly it was a joy to see the assuredness and confidence in which more than 100 of our sixth form met and guided our visitors and gave an articulate explanation of the intricacies of their own subject areas, along with life in Claires Court Sixth Form.

Year 8 have been working hard all term and they received their feedback on Monday at the Parents Evening. Thank you to all of you that gave me feedback on what you had heard and how much you valued the depth of explanation and the individual knowledge of each child. One of the most important elements of successful learning is the relationship between each child and their teacher. From what you told me it is clear that these are both strong and warm and this is laying great foundations for future learning and progression.