Over the years I’ve been at the school one of the things that I have come to learn is that the BSP students are always up for a challenge. These challenges can come from external sources such as maths challenge competitions or can be self-generated of the “this term I’m going to…” variety. Consequently, they have taken many and varied forms. Expeditions, challenging sports fixtures, meeting the demands of performing on stage, all of these things have been the stuff of challenges. Generally following them there is a discovery, or some form of character development. All students from time-to-time face challenges in the classroom. Sometimes the challenges are of a more social nature. At the end of a busy term the most significant challenge might simply be getting out of bed and coming into school with a smile on your face. I’m delighted to say I’ve seen plenty of those this morning at the school gate.
Our school councils have been very busy over the course of the year. They advise on a wide range of school issues including safety around access points to buildings, how we can support students who need additional help, and the ever-thorny issue of school food. It is perhaps a sign of the indefatigable nature of youth, but at the end of a busy term the Junior School Council has launched a School Council Super Challenge. Famously Maria Montessori wrote lists of activities that children should be able to master by age. It seems our school council has gone one step further and is throwing down a 50-challenge gauntlet to earn not only a valuable certificate but five precious house points. Having looked at the list of challenges (see page 6) there are some that I think we’d all struggle to meet. From a parental perspective I have to say I do like the idea of one challenge being to make breakfast for everyone at the weekend. I’m quite tempted to have a go at learning a poem by heart this holiday – I’ll let you know how it goes. Whilst probably aimed at Junior School pupils there is plenty on the list to provide challenge for those in the Senior School too.
Our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils face the challenge of public examinations after the holiday. Their challenge is obvious. To succeed they will have to maintain momentum and ensure that they use the coming fortnight to prepare for exams and recharge their batteries. Those who manage to meet the demands of this challenge will reap the benefits when in the examination hall. Good luck to them.
This holiday provides us with the useful opportunity to take stock of all that has been achieved after two busy and fulfilling terms. When we return, we will hurtle towards the end of the school year. There is still time for new challenges and even more achievement can be earned. We are looking forward to the summer term and the challenges that it will bring.
Nicholas Hammond
Headmaster
