23rd January 2026
Although a very wet week has brought some of our sports fixtures to a halt, it certainly hasn’t dampened our enthusiasm for getting outside.
Pupils have continued to enjoy their sports lessons and outdoor learning sessions, making the most of the fresh air despite the rain. We even embraced the soggy conditions at running club this morning, where 30 children joined a number of us parents for a very squelchy run and games around the rugby fields — a great-spirited (and slightly muddy!) way to start the day.
In our Monday Assembly I spoke to the children about Courage, one of our school values. I challenged them to have the bravery to step out of their comfort zone in some way this week, into what I called the 'fear zone', the unknown before it is attempted, in order to grow. For one of the Year 1 boys I sat next to at lunch on Tuesday, that was trying mashed potato for the first time!
I attended the termly District IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) meeting on Wednesday, which this time was extraordinarily in the grounds of Windsor Castle. With Chatham House rules, we covered topics including staffing, discussions around joining groups versus remaining standalone, the current financial climate and Heads' wellbeing. As ever, there were many fascinating perspectives shared and, as I reflect on the meeting, I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to learn how others are dealing with such issues. Starting the day with Running Club on a Friday certainly helps with my wellbeing!
Wicked singalong
Ahead of our visit to the O2 for the Young Voices concert in February, we joined thousands of other children on Thursday afternoon for the Worldwide Wicked Singalong. Singing the Wicked medley alongside Emma Kingston, who is currently starring as Elphaba in the West End production of Wicked, live on stage at the O2, was a fantastic prelude to our upcoming trip to London. Thank you to Mrs Light for organising this exciting experience for the children.
FoRH Ball
Please save the date for the FoRH Ball, taking place on Saturday 14th March at Badgemore Park. The Friends have been busy organising what promises to be a fantastic evening of food, drink, music and entertainment. The night will also feature a silent auction in support of two charities: The Chiltern Centre and Kiya Survivors. If you are able to donate a prize for the auction, please contact Mrs Hegarty. Further details about the auction can be found here.
Click here to purchase tickets.
I hope that you have a restful weekend.
Best wishes,
Nick Armitage