Dear Parents and Carers
One of those weeks when it is events out of the classroom that take centre stage…
Wendy & Peter Pan
It was a genuine pleasure to see so many of you in attendance at last week’s performances of Wendy & Peter Pan. We are immensely grateful to Mr. Moss for his dedication, generously giving of his time over countless evenings of rehearsals to ensure that all the students enjoyed a truly wonderful experience, culminating in such an impressive production.
Following the successes of Matilda and The Addams Family, I was eager to witness how the team would navigate the challenges of recreating Edwardian England, Never Never Land, and the magical flight through the skies of London, not to mention the ever-present threat of the crocodile. Through a delightful blend of humour and imagination, we were treated to a truly beautiful performance, by turns amusing and whimsical, and then incredibly moving and poignant.
Joseph Daymond, as Peter Pan, and Megan Benney and Isla Hayes, as Wendy, were perfectly cast, delivering commanding central performances. Junior O’Callaghan, in the role of Mr. Darling, was simply hilarious; his comic timing and stage presence were quite exceptional. Lizzie Motley and Lucille Blake, as his wife, ensured that their on-stage relationship was as amusing and touching as in the original book and films. The Darling children, the Lost Boys, and pirates filled the stage, each contributing to the captivating illusion of peering into a genuine fantasy world.
My final commendations, however, must go to Morgan Houlton, who played Smee, and Harri Houzet, whose portrayal of Captain James Hook was as villainous as any I have ever witnessed. Their on-stage interaction, combining both loathing and devotion, was wonderfully humorous. Hook’s reaction when Smee envisioned their retirement together by a log fire in a remote country cottage was particularly amusing. Furthermore, the existential theme of never wanting to age or grow old was powerfully delivered in a ‘Hamlet-esque’ moment, as Harri Hook pondered the passage of time and life itself. It was, I assure you, truly remarkable.
I know that Mr. Moss would be disappointed if I did not also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the other staff members involved in the production. These include Mrs. Du Crôs, Mr. Brown, Mrs. Faulkner, Miss Richmond, Miss Johnston, Mr. Hood, and Mr. Gent. We are also indebted to two former students, Emily Cutter, for her support during rehearsals, and Toby Jones, for his technical expertise.
Gold Medallists
A few weeks’ back, I shared news of two of our sixth formers representing our nation… Tahlia Davidson-Wright and Elin Pereira-Morey competed for Team GB in the U18 Women’s World Ice Hockey Championships in Riga, Latvia from Wednesday 20 January to Sunday 26 January. Team GB won gold, winning all their games! Both girls played an important role in this incredible achievement. Tahlia scored six points and received Players’ Player and Team Spirit awards. We are incredibly proud of them and their team who are now promoted to the elite league of ice hockey nations going forward.
Sixth Form Applications…
We have been overwhelmed by the huge rise in applications from students in other schools to join our Outstanding sixth form next year. With a record number of our Year 11s submitting applications, we look forward to the welcome headache of so many interviews and inductions in March and July.
Preloved Uniform…
My thanks to Mrs Lawson for organising this week’s pre-loved uniform sale. Mrs Lawson has overseen a major leap forward in this area so that our stock and range is now bigger than ever and means that families can easily access all sorts of items instead of buying brand new. Our pre-loved items are smart, spotless and perfect for young people!
And finally…
Whilst I was personally unable to attend last night’s Winter Music Concert, showcasing the talents of our most gifted musicians and performers, Mr Trainer was there and writes, “With Mr. Brown at the helm, the evening did not disappoint with some memorable performances that included Lucile Blake’s fabulous performance of John Legend’s All Of Me; a dazzling duet on the piano from Ethan Gascoigne and Mr. Brown himself; and a finale of all finales from Dolly Ogier as she performed The Wizard and I – from the world famous show Wicked.” Thank you to the following for their contributions to the evening; Joe Walker, Abigail Cubley, Hanne Lutman, Poppy Donaldson, Holly Carter, Florence Pearce, Isla Hayes and of course our fabulous tech duo of Harvey McCallum and Tobi Wood-Keen.
Very best wishes,
Barry Doherty, Headteacher
