Mr Bevis' Words Autumn Term Week 10
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.
Friday afternoon and Saturday morning will see a whole host of Year 6 to Year 8's tackling a wide range of Scholarship assessments. Nothing epitomises our commitment to breadth and in giving the opportunity for children to develop the huge diversity of potential talent more than our Scholarship programme.
Scholarships on Friday focus on sport and we have some great results this week. Our Under 15 tennis team narrowly failed to progress to the National Finals, coming third in the Regional Final - bad luck girls, but there is always next year. Against Charters the Under 13 hockey As won 7-0, and the B team 2-0. Our 1st XI against Reddam House won 1-0, in Netball the Under 13A team came 2nd and the 13B came 3rd in their latest RBWM tournament.
Finally thank you for all those that have contributed to our Foodshare drive, it heartwarming to see the boxes filling up with your donations. Our focus now switches to supporting local families at Christmas via the Salvation Army collections. The decorated boxes are appearing in the Reception area and the Christmas trees are on their way so please keep the gifts rolling in.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Mahatma Gandhi
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