Message from the Head
Dear Parents,
We are watching the weather forecast eagerly – to see if we can go ahead with our planned Coronation event…..by the time you receive this – all will have been decided. My thanks to Mrs Howlett and Miss Lau for the conception and execution of this afternoon. And, to all the students who are participating and to catering for the Coronation Tea.
I was up very early this morning to pack a daughter off to her Gold D of E trial run. I hear such positive stories about last week’s D of E trial. The students were exemplary so my thanks here to the team – Mr Deacon, Mr Dean and Mrs Skov for going above and beyond!
Today’s assembly brought the Head Student speeches and the whole school vote (at least we are synchronised with the rest of the country). Announcements next week – welcome to the Prefect Team for 2023-2024. The speeches were well planned and executed. Our congratulations to all who stood up and delivered one – it takes courage and that is a good first step to becoming a Head Student.
Yesterday was exceptionally busy as we interviewed for the new Assistant Head (Pastoral) role. The advert said we were looking for someone who has the ‘ear’ of the children and who can support the staff in maintaining standards at the same time; a tricky balance, on occasion. We had a strong field of candidates and I will let you know the outcome next week. My thanks to the team for making the candidates feel welcome, for the organisation. Especial thanks to the Student Council (plus a few extras) who asked penetrating questions and amazed Mrs George and Mr Rollinson with their astute perceptions. Their voice is critical in this appointment.
Next week brings Year 10 Reports (Tuesday), class photographs (Wednesday) and Year 10 Parents’ Evening (Thursday).
Staff well-being month was launched this week and my thanks to Chris Bowker for launching this initiative. We are benefiting from walks, 0-5k inspiration and some Zumba. Lots more activities planned.
Just to let you know that from 15th May, we will serve non-halal chicken as well as halal – I hope that this news is received well. Students will have a choice as well as the usual vegetarian option.
And as we say ‘adieu’ rather than goodbye to our Year 11 (although many are in next week for study sessions) we wish them every success in their GCSEs. I am looking forward to Results Day as they are really crushing it! I am not doing my cognitive science job if I don’t remind them one last time – ‘study, test, test, test’.
Have a good ‘another long’ weekend.
Helen Barsham
Head
Message from the Head of Prep
Good afternoon,
Years 4 and 6 had a fantastic day at Mary Arden’s Farm in Stratford-Upon-Avon on Tuesday. It has been interesting to hear them talk about their day and it was clearly a really valuable learning experience.
Class photos will take place on Wednesday. Please could you make sure all children have their blazers in school. Years 1 and 2 should come to school in their uniform and bring trainers to change into after their photographs.
We will be having a Careers Day for the Prep School on Thursday 8th June and I would like to invite parents / grandparents to come into school to talk about their jobs and career paths. If you would be happy to come to school and talk to the children, please let me know.
This year, Prep Sports Day will be on Tuesday 20th June. If anyone is able to help the Friends of Hollygirt serve refreshments at this event, please email me. Your help is greatly appreciated.
I am so sorry that we have had to postpone the Coronation Tea Party this afternoon but hopefully, we will have better weather next Friday.
I hope you all enjoy the weekend.
Victoria Wright
Head of Prep