11th December 2007
Dear Parents,
I write a little earlier than usual to wish you the compliments of the Season.
Mr. Zaman, who had been appointed in September to teach ICT, left on Friday. Given his high workload, he found his commute from Luton too difficult, and intends to seek a post nearer his home. Mr. Zaman’s degree in Computer Science at Brighton University and experience in web development and neural networks were valuable. Mr. Zaman had tendered his resignation earlier in the term and a replacement teacher appointed.
We are pleased to welcome Mr. Hardy, our new ICT teacher who started yesterday. Following a degree in Design and Technology at Middlesex University, Mr. Hardy taught both Technology and ICT. In January 2000 he was appointed Teacher in Charge of Resistant Materials and, three years later, promoted in the same school to Head of ICT, working there until 2007. Mr. Hardy is fluent in German and has excellent ICT skills; his competence and good experience of teaching should ensure a smooth handover.
Other staff take their leave of the School at the end of the term. Mrs. Haymes is to leave her post as an Administrative Officer to take up a post at The Royal Alexandra & Albert School in Reigate. Mrs. Molyneux is to take up a post at Greenacre School after over six years’ service as a Chemistry Technician.
Mrs. Tams has also decided to leave her post as Director of Music at the end of term. Mrs. Tams joined the school initially in May 2006 to cover maternity leave. She came to us from Wilson’s School; prior to that she had operated a private Music School for 10 years and served as Head of Music at both Beverley School and Lanfranc School. Mrs. Tams has been involved extensively in the musical life of the school and worked hard to produce concerts of a high standard. As is my normal custom, I shall introduce her replacement, an experienced teacher, when he takes up his post in January.
I should like to take the opportunity to remind you that Friday, 14th is the Christmas Festival Concert. This will be attended by the Deputy Mayor of Sutton, whose son is an Old Boy. I was most encouraged by the attendance at the summer concert and it would be good to welcome you once more, not least as it is Mrs. Tams’ last concert.
Parents of Years 8, 9 and 10, together with the Sixth Form, will be aware that progress reports have recently been issued; Year 7 will be completed and distributed tomorrow. Parents evenings are to be held next term, with the exception of Year 7, which is this Thursday, the 13th December at 6 p.m.
Pupils will be dismissed after the Final Assembly on Friday, 21st December. For Year 7, Year 8, 9Ba, 9Bh, 9Ep and the Upper Sixth, this should be after 12.40; and the remainder of the school at about 1.10 p.m.
The new term begins for all pupils on Monday, 7th January at the normal time.
Headmaster.
