Headmaster’s Roundup 16 December 2016
Here we are at the end of another term, and what a great term it has been. We have enjoyed some first time events such as the opening of the new Eco Garden, EDEN, funded by FOSMA. We had our first national Choir tour which was a roaring success and we were delighted when, for the first time, our U11 Girls’ Hockey Team brought home the District trophy—especially good considering that hockey was only introduced as a team sport at RSM a few years ago.
There has been a plethora of exciting outings, many of these special events for stunning starts, marvellous middles and fantastic finishes, bringing the children’s learning to life and providing them with really fun learning experiences within their school days. Sport has been super successful this term, music has been terrific, dance has been dazzling and art, awesome. The use of iPads, integrated into lessons and the use of great computing software continues to be a unique feature of the school. The concerts and end of term services highlight the strength of singing, so all in all, yes, a great term. All of this is the result of what my amazing colleagues do for the children in their care and I am sure you will join me in thanking them for their hard work, dedication and professionalism.
Even in this last week of term there has been so much going on. On Friday Year 2 went to Downsend for their experience of ‘playing away’. Although we do not have competitive fixtures until Year 3, going to another school and playing against other teams has given them a flavour of what to look forward to next year and I am grateful to the Games Department for organising this event.
On Monday evening our Upper School Concert was as enjoyable as ever. The high standards of music, singing and dance impressed everyone who attended and there was a great sense of fun and occasion. Thanks go to all the staff who prepared the children so well, particularly to Mrs Seymour who, despite being very unwell in the run up to the concert, planned it marvellously and ran it seamlessly on the night.
On Tuesday Mr Hollands took his annual team of choir singers to Eversfield Residential Home. This is a lovely event and brings a lot of pleasure to senior members of our community who rarely have the chance to see children’s smiling faces.
On Wednesday evening Year 6 enjoyed their Fantastic Finish with a Tudor banquet where they dressed up in Tudor costume, were waited upon by their teachers and other strangely dressed adults (that was me!) and then impressed their parents with Tudor dance and Tudor style entertainment. Thanks to the Year 6 teachers and Mrs Eveleigh for all the preparation that went into that successful evening.
At the same time the Choristers were singing in the RGS Carols by Candlelight Service which was also a great success. A mention to the Choristers who, at this time of year, barely have time to sleep with all the different public engagements. Their dedication and singing really is impressive.
Finally I would like to thank the Lower School staff for preparing the children for their Carol Service which we enjoyed this morning. As ever, Mrs Whitehead had come up with some lovely new songs and the children spoke and read their prayers with great confidence and maturity. So as we roll into the last week before Christmas I wish you all a very happy and, as far as is possible, peaceful Christmas with your overexcited children! Have a lovely time.
Marcus Culverwell
