Half Term Highlights

Momentum

As we surge through this first slice of the school year, it is very easy to lose track of time. As I write, the half-term break is imminent, but the sense of momentum is carrying on right to this moment. The energy and good cheer remains, even though people are understandably rather tired after an extraordinary month and a half, and I am profoundly grateful for the brilliant and uplifting distillation of this that we saw on Open Day last week.

Tuesday's Autumn Concert, showcasing the extraordinary ability and dedication of so many individuals across the whole school, was a particular highlight, not least for Miranda and Louis' urbane and informative hosting (as well as their characteristically-stunning performances), but for the ability and passion of all of our performers that spanned the genres, instruments and year groups. It has been two years since the last such event: a long span that evaporated in a moment as the concert began. We are delighted to have been nominated in the Arts category of the Educate Awards this year, both for the Prep and Senior School: congratulations to everyone involved, from the Performing Arts faculty through to our youngest students.

The Jean Torrance Trophy was a superb early triumph in the sporting calendar, particularly for a team that has barely played together for a year, and I have enjoyed being able to be on the touchline once again this term, including a particularly impressive day of rugby against Giggleswick and cup progression for our girls' football team amongst many fixtures. It has been particularly heartening to see our new Year 7s slot into the school squads, with the boys at the start of an exciting first tour down in Wales. Our students have continued to benefit from our ESPP ('Enhanced Sports Performance Programme'), and we will have some exciting news about this for next term - watch this space.

It seems forever since Year 9 were away for their residential at YMCA Lakeside, but here we are, and the spirit of adventure and exploration has been underlined by the remarkable 100 D of E awards achieved since expeditions once again become possible in May. The spirit of adventure and endeavour has reached into the intellectual field too, as evidenced by our eclectic and inspirational range of 'Reflection Section' talks, delivered by students and staff over the course of the term.

There is much to anticipate in the weeks to come, including our inaugural 'Headmaster's Lecture', the PTA Ball and Christmas Fair, the Carol Service, LSA Classical Association events, the Fylde Music Circle piano recitals, and countless further events. But, for now, it is time to pause, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back into school come November.

David Harrow, Headmaster