There are some dates that bear so much meaning, that they need no introduction. 11th November is one such date and its significance is known across the World. On Monday, we marked Remembrance Day, and the 100th Anniversary of first Remembrance of 1919, with our traditional service in the playground. The School fell into an immaculately observed silence as children, staff and parents marked the sacrifice of those who have served in the Armed Forces, and those who support them.
Although a rightly sombre occasion, it was wonderful to see one of our alumnae, Francesca Hicks, return from Dame Alice Owen’s to play the Last Post and Reveille at our service. As our “old pupils” network continues to grow, we hope to find further ways to involve them in school life – I am looking forward to seeing many more of them across the year at various events, including at next week’s Premises Event.
Celebration was very much on the cards on Thursday as we welcomed prospective parents and their daughters to our Open Day. The whole School was on top form, of course, but the pupils were the stars of the show once more with their impressive knowledge and character shining through. I never tire of hearing how well any pupil of Lyonsdown has done, but the maturity of Year 6 is a particular highlight.
The seeds of such character are not sown by accident, and it was in After School Club that I observed this most keenly this week. The new arts and crafts activities have gone down a storm here, with an improved catering offering also added. As one girl put it: “I love the club;” a sentiment I know the parents who use our wraparound care would agree with. Homework Club may be a more serious affair, but it is hard for a girl to argue against the benefits of going home with her Friday prep completed before the weekend.
The children of Lyonsdown will have another chance to impress next week, as we celebrate our new Dining Room and kitchen, Small Hall, Library and Science Laboratory. I hope many of you will be able to join us at our Premises event on Monday 18th November; please do feel free to come along at any time from 3:45pm to 7pm.
All the best for a relaxing weekend.
Mr Hammond