27th June 2025
I must begin this week’s newsletter by congratulating the Prep children on their fantastic performances of Annie Jr. at the Kenton Theatre.
It was a real joy to watch both evening shows - everyone did a wonderful job of bringing their character to life and playing their part so convincingly. The singing, dancing, and confidence on stage were truly impressive! A special thank you goes to Mrs Light for her tireless work directing the production, to Mrs Forbes for organising the brilliant props, and to Miss Gibbon for managing everything so smoothly backstage. Thanks also to all the staff and parents who supported the show in various ways - your contributions helped make it such a great success.
Next week, it is the turn of our Pre-Prep children, as they take to the stage with their lively and colourful production of The Not-So Creepy Crawlies. We are very much looking forward to welcoming parents to the performances on Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning.
We started last week with a fabulous performance by our Breakdancers, led by John Johnny out on the lawn. We were amazed by their agility and the number of moves they had learnt - seriously impressive stuff! It was lovely to welcome Miss White back as well, who returns from Maternity Leave.
Maths in the workplace
Year 6 pupils enjoyed a panel discussion on Maths in the Workplace, featuring three Rupert House parents: Helen Cuthbert (Tax Partner), Venisha Patel (Clinical Specialist), and Claire Wouters (Head of Legal and Human Services). They shared how they use maths in their careers and reflected on their journeys through education. The children asked thoughtful questions on topics ranging from tax and cancer research to subject choices and recruitment. Many thanks to our speakers for their time and insight.
Freddie Van Merlo
Year 6 also had a visit from local Liberal Democrat MP, Freddie van Mierlo on Thursday. He talked to the children about what it is like working in politics, his journey to becoming an MP and they had the opportunity to ask him any questions they had about the work that he and others politicians do.
EYFS induction
It was super to welcome so many new starters to Nursery and Reception for their induction day yesterday. We will have a busy Nursery in September and two classes in Reception and we are fortunate to have such strong numbers in the early Years.
New sports tops
As mentioned previously, we will be introducing new sports tops for Prep children (Years 3-6) from September. The existing navy and yellow polo shirts will still be worn for athletics, cricket and PE, while the new tops will be used for winter sports, including hockey, rugby, football and netball. The new designs were chosen by the children and they are really looking forward to wearing them! Next week, we will receive sample sizes from Stevensons, which the children will try on during school. Based on this, we will inform parents of the recommended size for their child. If you would like to check the sizing yourself, you will be welcome to come into school at 8am on Tuesday or Wednesday next week. Stevensons will then open an order window, allowing parents to place their orders online in time for the tops to be ready for the start of the new term in September.
Prep Prize Giving
I do hope the Prep parents enjoyed the prize giving at Shiplake yesterday. Tyrone Howe, the Headmaster of Shiplake College presented the prizes to the children and spoke very movingly about how we should appreciate just how fortunate we are and make the best of every situation. He showed a very special picture painted of him playing rugby by a severely disabled young man who had held the paint brush in his teeth. He gave some very wise advice to the Year 6 children as they start at senior school, using the acronym SKY - smile, be kind and say yes to all opportunities that come your way.
A reminder that the Pre-Prep children will have their prize giving at school on Thursday 3rd July at 3pm on the Lawn and parents are most welcome to attend.
It looks like it is going to be very hot next week, so please can I remind you to ensure your children are coming into school with school hats, water bottles and with suncream having been applied. Other than the Year 6 children attending the Regatta on Tuesday, the children do not need to wear their blazers and ties next week, given the heat.
I hope you all have an enjoyable weekend.
Best wishes,
Nick Armitage