Friday 22nd May 2009
Dear Parents,
I write to ask for your support in the school’s pursuit of excellence.
Much is spoken about the importance of examination performance and this has not diminished to any degree despite the abolition of the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum Tests. School life, however, has, I believe, a more important dimension and that is preparing pupils for the future, and the challenges that life will inevitably hold for them. This involves enhancing scholarship, leadership and teamwork, and developing personal qualities of honesty, tolerance and respect for others. Plus, developing in pupils a sense of moral purpose and awareness and an appreciation of the virtues of loyalty, duty and social responsibility. This process often goes unseen and takes place inside and outside of the classroom. Becoming involved in the wider life of the school adds significantly to a pupil’s education and I wish you to encourage your son or daughter to make every effort to join school clubs, participate in school activities such as debating, drama, music and involvement in House and School games.
There have been a few untoward incidents recently that have disappointed me. Two resulted in temporary exclusions and there have been other punishments for unacceptable behaviour but it is crucial that all pupils learn from these disappointments. It is essential that we achieve high standards of integrity and honesty and it is beholden to us all to prevent others from transgressing from the values expected from pupils at this fine school.
On a similar theme I wish to see improved standards of appearance next half term. There are a number of young men whose hair is too long and require a hair cut and some others who need to be clean-shaven. I remind them of the school rules which state that “hair must be clean, neat and tidy, no shorter than a ‘No 3’ (not so short as to reveal the scalp), no longer than the collar. Extremes of fashion are to be avoided. Pupils should be clean-shaven.”
I should welcome the assistance of parents in helping the school achieve high standards of dress. Respect, courtesy and politeness and a pride in one’s appearance make it easier to maintain pride in standards of presentation and quality of work. We would rather be concentrating our efforts on stretching and engaging our pupils in their studies and interests rather than on the basics of school uniform, appearance and chasing pupils for their homework. A well disciplined school is also a successful and happy school.
With very best wishes,
Peter Smart
Acting Headmaster
