CH1 5898

23 June 2023

Dear Parents

Bugsy!
I am not sure my skills as a theatre critic will do justice to the truly incredible performance of Bugsy that our Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils put on at the Cornerstone over two consecutive days. The casting was exceptional, with each pupil giving a very convincing, high-energy performance. The audience were enthralled by the antics of Fat Sam, Bugsy, Dandy Dan, Blousey, Tallulah and a cast of nearly 80 pupils, who brought to life gangster tensions in the New York neighbourhood. The superb comedy and fast wit of many stand-out characters, supported by a wonderful chorus, brilliant dancing and singing, made for a truly enjoyable 90 minutes. It was clear from the pure joy radiating from the stage at the end of the performance just how much fun each pupil had and the sense of teamwork, achievement and new friendships that have been forged over the many hours of rehearsals. A huge well done to all of our pupils and staff who took part. We can’t wait to see what you do next year! Please click here for pictures.

Junior and Senior Sports Days
Over two epic days, our PE department managed to ensure not only good weather, but action-packed Sports Days for all our pupils. For some of our youngest pupils in Pre-School, it was their first experience of a Sports Day and judging by the huge smiles as they ran and bounced and mastered the art of the egg and spoon race, they loved every minute of it. (Please click here for Pre-School Sports Day photos). Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 were up next in a rainbow of house t-shirts, showing great sportsmanship and encouragement of their peers. The ice cream at the end was very welcome too! (Please click here for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 Sports Day photos).

On Wednesday afternoon, Key Stage 2 pupils headed to Wallingford Sports Park to take part in an array of events and challenges. There were some astonishing record-breaking races, ensuring St Nicholas triumphed at the end. We were heartened to see some wonderful displays of support, care and teamwork from our pupils as they cheered on their friends, enjoying some friendly and spirited competition! (Please click here for Year 3 - 6 Sports Day photos).

On Thursday, it was the turn our Seniors, who headed to Tilsley Park in Abingdon. The competition was fierce, with some outstanding performances from many pupils, accompanied by lots of house cheer and support. St Nicholas triumphant again, we were delighted with the fantastic atmosphere prevalent throughout the course of the day, which ended with a nail-biting Year 12 and staff relay! (Please click here for Senior Sports Day photos).

Year 11 Paris Trip
In a well-deserved celebration to mark the end of GCSEs, our Year 11 pupils headed off to Paris on Tuesday. They have certainly made the most of their city break, breezing through the Parisienne streets for some retail therapy, enjoying a boat cruise on La Seine, taking in the exquisite views of Paris from the Montparnasse Observatory, whilst spotting some of the main sites including the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Couer and Notre Dame! They also enjoyed a full day at Disneyland Paris and although not quite blessed with the weather we have had in the UK, they still managed to have brilliant fun!

End of Term Music Concert
Thank you to all the parents who have so kindly donated to our fundraising initiative linked to the Gala Concert. If you have not already done so and would like to contribute, please click here. Please also see this letter about collection arrangements of pupils after the Gala Concert. We are encouraging parents to collect directly from the Hexagon at 3:15pm.

Have a lovely weekend!

Kind regards

Dr James Raymond
Headmaster