In a week where we went from enjoying temperatures fit for spring, to arctic, swirling, settling snow, I know that for many, the journey home yesterday took on epic and scary proportions; sliding cars, abandoned vehicles, snowy walks.
Perhaps amidst the evening came thoughts for those who have this and homelessness or hunger to contend with, perhaps gratitude that for much of the time journeys are so easy, perhaps excitement at the possibilities for play that lie ahead!
Whatever your story, we would love to have your snow-inspired thoughts this week. I’ve already had two evening emails expressing gratitude for Ian and the team who were amazing yesterday and are every day; out gritting, ploughing snow, even feeding the staff who became trapped for a period at school this evening; always giving and putting others first. We all want to thank you and your team and family.
It was fantastic to be up and running as usual today. There was a great spirit amongst the staff and most children got here eventually. We had an awesome time out on the field building snowmen, making snow angels and having a huge snowball fight. “This is the best day ever at St Michael’s” said Isabelle in Year 3. Even some of the teachers joined in. As the pictures show there’s no day like a snow day!
This week we have also been thinking about the giving of gifts at Epiphany, how the symbolism of riches, prayer and death were rather astonishingly encapsulated in the three kings’ gifts and how we might consider the value of unusual and personal gifts and whether we too can give more.
Not through spending money or flashing amazing items about, but through little touches, thoughtfulness, going beyond what is expected. We certainly had a lot of that tonight.
One group who give a great deal are the Parents and Friends committee and we enjoyed a lively and positive meeting on Wednesday evening, with lots of great ideas being discussed and a review of a very successful year of events. I congratulate everyone involved in P&F, whether as Rep or committee member, and all of you who support them.
It was pleasure to meet both parents and children from Year 3 this week. Although perhaps the children were more wide-eyed and excited to be chatting in my office over lunch, the parents were also on good form when we met! We had so much to talk through that we will reconvene in two weeks’ time.
I thoroughly enjoyed lunching with Year 8 last Friday, when we discussed a variety of topics, which inevitably included Senior School applications and much more besides. Perhaps the highlight of this week was watching young Sophie who came to dance for me. I had a private dance performance with passion, talent and intensity which touched me greatly. Next week we look forward to receiving Bishop James on Thursday to confirm our 9 candidates. All children in Years 6, 7 and 8 will be supporting them as they make their promises and parents, godparents and friends and family are all most welcome.
Weather permitting, we will be assessing our young scholarship candidates this weekend and we always look forward to sharing what they are able to achieve through this process.
Congratulations to Henry Martin who has been selected to represent England in Fencing. We are so very proud, and many congratulations too to Oliver Pryal who is selected for the Kent Winter Cricket squad.
This term we will soon be starting our Senior School planning meetings with Year 5. Expect a letter and do get in touch to book your appointment.
For those of you who are children at heart, enjoy the snow this weekend. For the rest of you… stay safe and warm.
Jill Aisher