This week the weather took a turn for the worst and suddenly we needed to wrap up a little warmer; well that was the case for the staff at least, the pupils however, were kept very busy and I am not even sure they felt the cold at all! I secretly think the U13 boys enjoyed the experience of a mud bath in their rugby matches, it certainly didn’t dampen their spirit against Queens on Wednesday 13th November, where Alfie H in year 8 led the way with an outstanding performance.
On Thursday the cold and rain didn’t stop the Year 3&4 pupils against Blundell’s. I was so impressed with their grit and determination to play, they worked really hard and competed in great matches across the board.
Our Year 7 and 8 girls went to Energie Gym on Wednesday 13th November for an afternoon filled with circuit fitness and to use the cardio machines. A great afternoon had by all, the girls even had a go at the ‘Member of the Month Challenge’. The challenge was how many box jumps can you complete in 90 seconds. You’ll be impressed at the leader board where 5 of our girls made the top 10, with Bea W in year 8 stealing the top spot and is now the one to beat.
We are looking forward to our U9 Festival at Blundell’s on Saturday for both hockey and rugby and also to our fixture list next week where we have a host of matches against St John’s, Bramdean, Exeter School and West Buckland.
Please note there will be no Year 7&8 Games on Friday 22nd November and also no Year 3&4 swimming due to rehearsals for the Autumn concert.
Well done everyone on another great sporting week.
Emma Ross
Director of Sport
Pupils’ self-esteem, self-confidence and self-knowledge flourish as a result of warm relationships between staff and pupils and the nurturing culture of the school. They also develop because of the encouraging and effective feedback provided by teachers.
The curriculum for the youngest children is highly tailored to their individual needs and interests, while the oldest pupils are supported effectively by teaching planned to develop pupils’ analytical skills and prepare them for the likely academic demands of their senior or secondary school.
Academic leaders employ a robust tracking system which informs teachers’ understanding of the progress made by their pupils…. Teachers adapt their provision in response to needs identified by assessment data. This contributes to pupils’ good progress.
The school provides a wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities, ranging from the ‘country club’ in the pre-prep school where the children extend their geographical learning, to those exploring coding or ancient history.
Pupils who attain highly in sport are supported in progressing to high level competition by specialist coaching.
Music is embedded across the school. Staff have shaped an inclusive approach where all pupils are involved.
An emotionally-healthy lifestyle is promoted by leaders through the provision of quiet classroom areas and the support available from the ‘wellbeing room’.
Pupils are encouraged to express their views and show appropriate consideration toward those who hold opinions different from their own.
The culture of the school cultivates a sense of self-awareness and an appreciation of the needs of others.
Leaders and staff model high levels of respect and consideration, which are then shown across the community.
Pupils develop a sense of responsibility towards wider society through involvement in local citizenship projects and initiatives.
Leaders maintain an effective safeguarding culture where staff are aware of their responsibilities and respond appropriately should a concern be raised.