There are few things that are more uplifting than being a witness to young people who are entirely absorbed in what they are doing. When they have achieved that flow state of pure focus on the job in hand. Our Year 6 performers last week certainly seemed to be in that state as they took to the stage in their splendid musical which brought together two of my favourite things, Ancient Rome and cake. Their singing, dancing and sheer delight in performing was wonderful to see.
Those who were lucky enough to be passing the Senior School yesterday afternoon would have witnessed a different type of absorption. Our Sport Relief meets Pi Day afternoon saw fierce house rivalry being played out. All from Year 7 to Year 13 had the opportunity to run or walk on the riverbank and in doing so earn points for their houses. It was a great event in which all did their bit for their house. First or last, house points will be achieved. Whilst we can congratulate Peter on covering the course in a most impressive time, congratulations also go to those who simply walked with friends. The house system is a time-honoured element of British education. Contrary to widely held belief it was not something dreamt up by JK Rowling, but has been around for years. Originating from rivalries between residential boarding houses, they exist in a more metaphorical sense in a day school like ours. Houses give pupils a chance to belong, an opportunity to mix with pupils from other year groups, to contribute to the success of a collective group. A chance to put skills and talents to good use and an opportunity to do things that might be a little more unfamiliar. House competitions require pupils to “have a go”, it is space where participation is far more significant than winning, where excellence can be seen but community is always present.
We finished off the afternoon yesterday with house-based tug of war. Whilst this ancient art may well still be recognised by the International Olympic Committee, and there was certainly a well contested competition yesterday, it was so very good to see so many pupils participating, lending their hand to the house cause.
Events such as plays, and charity afternoons are what educationalists sometimes call the hidden curriculum. These are the times when formal lessons are not happening but valuable learning is going on. They are often the most memorable moments of school life and as such it is important that they are cherished. I hope that lessons learned through plays and ancient sports will be remembered long into the future.
Nicholas Hammond
Headmaster
