From the Head

From the Head of Pre-Prep

Dear Parents,

It’s been another amazing week in Pre-Prep. Our Year 2 Swimming Gala on Monday was fantastic: congratulations to all of our Year 2 children for their performances, we are so proud of you. Thank you to Mrs Fornasier and Mr Davies in particular for organising and hosting the event. 

Our Easter Concert on Tuesday gave our instrumentalists a chance to perform to their parents. There was a great variety of instruments and music played. Well done to all of the performers and the amazing Music Peris who teach your children. Thank you to Mrs Crane for all of her organisation.

On Wednesday our Reception children performed their Mother’s Day assembly. They were, of course, delightful. The portraits of their mums were well considered and they sung with conviction. I am sure they are not the only year group that are going to treat their mothers on Sunday.

Thursday was the culmination of our Arts Week with our spectacular Exhibition. We were so pleased that we managed to display so much of the children’s work. The children’s pieces were of a far higher standard of achievement than would be expected for their age. Thank you to Ms Farmer who masterminded the week! We would love interest from any parents who would like to offer our paper mâché Orca a good home!

The Easter Bunny sent a message to say he would try to join us at Pre-Prep when we return after Easter. The children will return on Wednesday 23rd April ready for the Trinity Term. Don’t forget the Pre-Prep Disco which will be running on Friday 25^th April in the evening.

Overheard in Pre-Prep:

Child 1: "My watch buzzes when I have done 10,000 steps."

Child 2: "Does it buzz when you have said 10,000 words?"

Have a lovely Easter holiday,

Zerrin Leech

School Play 2025

St Michael's presents My Family and Other Animals

Audiences of this year's St Michael's School Play, My Family and Other Animals, were transported to the beautiful island of Corfu as talented pupils in Years 5 to 8 gave a heart warming and humorous portrayal of the famous Durrell family's time in Greece.

Taking viewers on a voyage of friendship, belonging and discovery, St Michael’s poignant rendition of My Family and Other Animals was the perfect reminder that not all adventures go to plan and that sometimes, life’s spontaneous moments are the best memories.

Playing the roles of the Durrell siblings were Year 8 pupils Theo S (Larry), Oliver S (Leslie) and Maggie B (Margo) together with Leo H (Gerry), Year 6. Guided by their older brother Larry’s yearnings for change and sunshine, the children travel to Corfu in search of paradise with their endearing mother, played by Year 8 pupil, Belinda B. It is here that the Durrell’s dreams of a peaceful fresh start fade into the backdrop of their chaotic home bursting with animals.

Commenting on her role in the production, Belinda B said: “There were so many fun moments in My Family and Other Animals which we loved performing. A definite highlight for me was the scorpion scene where the Durrell family, and their many guests, chased a scorpion around the kitchen in their attempt to catch it. It was absolute madness but so effective on stage!”

Year 8 pupil Mikayla M, who played the role of Lugaretzia, the strong-willed owner of the Durrell’s Greek villa, added: “This particular scene, which lasted about 3 minutes, took hours to rehearse as every line delivered, puppet movement and sound effect was essential to the comedy.”

With animals at the heart of the Durrell family’s escapades, it was important to St Michael’s Head of Drama, Mr Powell, that puppets were featured in the play. Transforming his vision into a reality were creative masterminds Ms Gilbrook and Mrs Caswall from St Michael’s Art and Design Technology Department who collaborated with a pupil puppet building team to add every tail, feather, beak and beady eye to their impressive creations. The puppets, paired with Ms Rodwell (Head of Art, Craft and Design) and Ms Gilbrook’s outstanding set immersed audience members completely. Old Michaelian and former St Michael’s Head of Drama, Peter Nixon said: “I had never thought such a book, full of animals and creatures of all types and sizes, could be put on stage, but the puppetry was clever and full of character and eccentricity.”

Echoing this praise and explaining the rational behind his production choice, Mr Powell, Director, added: "My Family and Other Animals was a fantastic opportunity to bring one of my favourite classical stories to life. Thank you to all involved: I am so proud of the cast and crew."

Bringing dogs, donkeys, magpies, insects and reptiles to life were a talented team of pupils who embodied the growls, squawks and scutters of every animal in the story. Year 8 pupil Oliver N, who played the Durrell’s beloved dog Roger, said: “Using a puppet was challenging at first, but I got used to it as rehearsals progressed. As I didn’t have any lines to learn, it was important that I memorised cues and bounced off other performers’ acting to make Roger convincing. I have grown up with dogs at home so most of my research and actions were inspired by my own dog, Monty.” And as well as playing the role of Roger, Oliver stepped in at the last minute to cover a magpie puppet for two performances, juggling Roger’s barks and growls with the magpie’s pecks and squawks. Oliver added: “I nearly lost my voice by the end of the production but it was so worth it!”

At the heart of the play’s storyline was youngest sibling Gerry’s boundless spirit for life and fascination with animals which contributes to the Durrell’s ever-growing household. Leo H, who gave a delightful performance as the young naturalist, said: “Being involved in My Family and Other Animals was amazing – it was my first time performing in a St Michael’s school play, but the older children were so reassuring and made me feel confident when learning and performing my role.”

And it wasn’t just the performers who contributed to the action on stage, as a dedicated production team worked tirelessly behind the scenes to master every set change, prop placement and costume transition. Year 7 pupil Lev V, Assistant Stage Manager, who received a roaring applause during the curtain call, said: “My role behind stage required me to be quick and focused. Having attended every rehearsal in the lead up to the performances, I knew the production very well and felt so proud when it all went to plan. The audience reaction was incredible.”

Championing the success of the production, St Michael’s Head Mr Pears said: “Congratulations to the cast and crew of My Family and Other Animals on an outstanding production. The hard work that went into this show shone through and I am blown away by your achievements.”

Adding to this praise, Councillor Emily Bulford of Sevenoaks District Council added: “Well done to all involved in the production. I can’t believe how many lines the pupils learnt: the production was seamless, very professional and most importantly, the performers looked like they were having a blast!”

We are so proud of the cast and crew and congratulate them on an extraordinary production.

Additionally, the St Michael's community is delighted to have raised £734.55 for the Corfu Donkey Rescue Sanctuary through its Charity Pyjama Day in February 2025 and collections on the show nights of My Family and Other Animals. Thank you to contributors for their kind donations. 

An amateur production by arrangement with Nick Hern Books. By Gerald Durrell Adapted by Janys Chambers.

Review by Miss Usher, Marketing and Media Manager

Pre-Prep Arts Week

This year's Pre-Prep Arts Week saw the children take part in a variety of workshops ranging from Samba drumming to chicken wire sculpting, felt making, pottery, drama and much more. The children enjoyed working with the artists who came to school to share their passion and expertise with them. They enjoyed creating some amazing collaborative projects as well as individual pieces of art. 

Mrs Farmer, Year 1 Teacher

Reception Ceramic Workshops

The Prep Art Department and Year 8 Scholars have warmly welcomed Reception classes to the Prep Art Room to participate in two Ceramic Workshops this term.

During the sessions, the Reception children made bird tiles inspired by their recent owl experience with the Exotic Explorers. 

Their tiles were hand-made, printed and decorated with bird designs. Once fired, the children then glazed them in the second workshop.

The children (and staff) were delighted with the outcomes and our Art Scholars loved working with the younger children.

Ms Rodwell, Head of Art, Craft & Design

Year 2 Swimming Gala

St Michael's annual Year 2 Swimming Gala was an exciting afternoon of exhibition and competition on Monday.

The calibre of swimming is so good in Year 2 that we chose for pupils to swim the length of the pool rather than the width this year. Therefore, everyone happily began in the deep end for their front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke demonstration lengths.

All of the pupils behaved beautifully, listening well and following instructions whilst showing us how much they have learnt in their Swimming lessons. There was a positive and friendly atmosphere as everyone cheered on their friends. 

The Boys' Final was a close competition with James C taking gold ahead of Archie W with silver and Rupert D with bronze. In the Girls' Final, Jessica C swam to gold with Martha S and Isabella S tied for silver and Erin S finishing in bronze position.

The finale of the afternoon was the House Relay Race where the coveted House Swimming Cup was up for grabs. It was looking resplendent in Windsor red from last year’s Gala, but it was Rochester who took the win this time round with a huge team effort. So, it’s yellow ribbons for the next year in the Pre-Prep trophy cabinet!

Congratulations to all of the swimmers for their amazing effort, Mrs Fornasier and Miss Rodwell for their instruction during the children’s lessons, the staff for their poolside assistance and Year 2's parents and family members for their support and encouragement.

Mr Davies, Pre-Prep PE Teacher

Pre-Prep Easter Concert

The Pre-Prep Easter Concert was a resounding success, showcasing the incredible talents of our young musicians. The children performed brilliantly on a variety of instruments including violins, cellos, recorders, toots, guitars, pianos, percussion and accordions. Each performance highlighted the children's hard work and dedication to their Music lessons. 

The Concert featured several ensembles such as Fiddlesticks, Rhythm Rebels, Recorder Rockets and Show Choir. The energy, polished performances and confidence displayed by the musicians was truly impressive. 

The Concert was a joyous celebration of Easter. A big well done to everyone!

Mrs Crane, Pre-Prep Music Teacher

Mother's Day assembly

This week's Mother's Day assembly was a truly memorable event filled with joy, creativity and love. The children were absolutely incredible, showcasing their talents and dedication in a variety of ways.

The concert began with a stunning display of portraits painted by the children, each one capturing the unique beauty and essence of their mummies. As the children stood up one by one to speak, their clear and confident voices filled the room, sharing touching stories and messages of appreciation.

One of the highlights was the whole year group's recitation of a fun poem, celebrating why they believe their mums are super mums. The poem was filled with humour and warmth, bringing smiles to everyone's faces.

The musical performances were equally impressive. The children sang three fantastic, fun-filled Mother's Day songs with great actions and wonderfully animated faces. Their enthusiasm and energy were contagious, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere.

It was a lovely way to celebrate our mummies and come together as a community before the Easter break. The concert not only showcased the children's talents but also highlighted the special bond between St Michael's mums and their children. 

Mrs Crane, Pre-Prep Music Teacher

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 28^th April - 2^nd May

This year we will be having a Neurodiversity Celebration Week in school. This is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences, whilst providing opportunities to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent.

As part of this, there will be a Comfy Clothes Day on Thursday 1^st May. All children and staff across Pre-Prep and Prep are invited to wear whatever they feel comfy in (no nightwear/pyjamas please) for the day. Those with Games/PE will still need their kit. 

Smartphone Free Childhood movement

Dear Parents,

Following discussions with members of the Senior Leadership Team, Mr Pears has given us permission to reach out to you regarding smartphone use and safer internet access among our children. 

You may have heard about the rising interest in the Smartphone Free Childhood movement that has been growing in the UK over the last year. With this in mind, we are inviting you to complete the below survey by Friday 28th March 2025 if you wish to.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOYGTFWwOm1kyjVXHUvpLU_dcSJUWNaZmAMVY1S8sxJiAE1g/viewform

It should only take 5 minutes and is completely anonymous. We would like to find out parents’ and carers’ views on navigating smartphones in the lives of children. 

We thank you for your time in completing this survey.

Kind regards,

Mrs Flora Scott and Mrs Yuliya Folland

St Michael’s parents

Parent Presentations

Following our recent survey, we would like to invite St Michael’s parents to a presentation about a Smartphone Free Childhood. 

There will be two presentations that will take place on:

Thursday 1^st May 2025 at 8pm (online presentation)

Wednesday 7^th May 2025 at 8.30am (in-person in the Pre-Prep Dining Room)

Kind regards,

Mrs Flora Scott and Mrs Yuliya Folland

St Michael’s parents

House Reading Competition

The Prep House Reading Competition will continue over the Easter holidays, with the final date for giving in stamps on the children's first form time next term: this is Thursday 24th April for Years 6, 7 and 8 and Tuesday 29th April for Years 3, 4 and 5. The trophy will be awarded to the winning house on Friday 2^nd May. 

Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival success

Many St Michael’s children participated in the 2025 Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival over the weekend of 8^th and 9^th March at Kent College, Pembury. 

Several of our groups won well-deserved first places: Pre-Prep’s “Little Singers” choir, led brilliantly by Mrs Crane, a Pre-Prep recorder duet (Martha S and Gabriella A), a Prep recorder quartet (Abigial L, Ella D, Amelia Rose B and Ellie S) and a dramatic duo (Isabel E and Sophie N). There were also some great individual results with the following children winning some of their drama, piano, wind, versatility and/or vocal classes: Florrie B, Isabel E, Clara H, Theia H, William H, Martha S and Oliver S.

We are especially proud of Isabel E who performed her drama monologue and Theia H who sang at the GEMS Prize Winners’ Concert held at Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells last Sunday. We are delighted to announce that they were both presented with special festival awards: Isabel was presented with the Joyce Ashton Plate and an award of £50 for Outstanding Promise in Speech and Drama and Theia with the Festival Award for the Most Promising Musician 11 & Under. The full list of cup winners is as follows:

The full list of results:

Year 6's online safety websites

This term, Year 6 have been learning about staying safe, happy and healthy online.

The pupils have been using Canva to make their own websites about online safety aimed at children around 8-10 years old.

They had to add a series of features to their webpage including hyperlinks to other websites like Childline, but most importantly, they had to give good advice!

Please click here to view some examples of the Year 6's website pages

Déjà Vu will be open over the Easter holidays on three dates:

10am - 12pm on:

Tuesday 8th April 

Thursday 17th April 

Tuesday 22nd April

Easter opening times might be a good opportunity to get ready for the cricket season.

After the Easter holidays we will have our full range of summer dresses out on the rails. No winter dresses will be available until September. 

St George's Day Menu

Please find details of our next special menu day below:

St George's Day - Wednesday 23rd April

International Club Coffee Morning

A couple of weeks ago on a rainy Thursday morning the Darenth Golf Club Cafe provided a very warm welcome to the International Club for a much needed catch-up. Our group is always a friendly space for informal chats.

During the catch-up, a few ideas were discussed about future International Club socials at new local venues, as well as the possibility of organising a family picnic in the Trinity Term. So watch this space!

The weather that Thursday did not lend itself well for a pleasant walk so that has also been postponed for another sunnier day in the Trinity Term.

St Michael's Eco Club invite members of the St Michael's community to take part in our Big Litter Pick this year. 

This week, we've had fun melting, mixing and drizzling chocolate to create delicious Cornflake chocolate bird nests and mouth-watering chocolate wands.

For more information about the Hive or Breakfast Club or to book in your child, please contact Nicky Smith at WrapAroundCare@stmichaels.kent.sch.uk.

Players of the Match - week commencing 24th March

Albie, Isaac and Oli win Kent Hockey Cup!

Congratulations to Albie, Isaac and Oli who were part of the U10 Knole Park hockey team to win the Kent Cup last Sunday! They have qualified for Regionals next month. Great work, boys! 

Rayaan's team win Cricket Tournament!

Congrats to Rayaan and the Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club team who have just won the U12 Invicta Division 1 Indoor Cricket Tournament. Rayaan has been part of the 1st team throughout the winter season and following a very convincing win in the Semi-Final against Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club who were top of the league, they went through to and won the Final against Kemsing Cricket Club.     

Rayaan and the team performed exceptionally well with a 132-3 in the Semi-Final before bowling them out for 59. In the Final vs Kemsing they executed a brilliant bowling and fielding performance and managed to see their competitors all out for 39, achieving a recovery from 15-4 before posting 67 runs themselves. 

Well done to Rayaan and his team - a fantastic team effort!

Staff Sports Camps

Mr Thomas' Easter hockey camp

Mr Thomas will be holding his Easter Hockey Camp at Hollybush Hockey Pitch on:

Monday 14th April

Tuesday 15th April

Please click here to book.

The Camp will run from 10th-15th April, however Mr Thomas will only be teaching on the 14th and 15th. 

Save the date for St Michael's 2025 Senior Schools Fair. This is a fantastic opportunity for all St Michael's families to speak to over 30 senior schools from across the country ranging from independent day and boarding schools to grammar and state schools. 

Muddy Stilettos' Easter Holidays Guide

May Day Celebrations in Otford

Hot Off the Press

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