Broadening horizons
If you have been following our Twitter feed, you will know that pupils from all age-groups have been enjoying a variety of exciting educational experiences during Activities Week:
Prep, having already benefited from lots of trips this year, have followed a varied programme in school, culminating in their Play in a Day performance today; Year 7 are currently at PGL Boreatton Park for outdoor adventures; Year 8 have had the opportunity to visit Hadrian’s Wall with Classics, the Leeds Armouries with History, and the Isle of Wight on a cricket tour; Year 9 MFL tours are in France, Germany and Spain; many in Year 10 successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze expedition, spent time in local primary schools or care homes and did some work-related learning; and Year 12 have focussed on university and careers preparation, including the opportunity to attend open days and a Psychology visit.
We have been blessed with good weather and we hope that pupils will cherish many happy memories of their adventures, whilst forging stronger friendships with their peers and enjoying working with others. We are also very proud to hear the many positive comments about our pupils’ behaviour and curiosity.
At a time when some schools are struggling to find a sufficient number of staff to organise, lead and accompany overnight stays, we are very fortunate that so many are willing to participate in our programme at LGS. I know how much time it takes to prepare for such visits, including very careful risk assessment of every aspect, and I know how much responsibility staff bear for the well-being and safety of large groups of pupils while in their care. I am immensely grateful to them for their patience and enthusiasm and for the very positive way in which they collaborate to ensure such a rewarding experience for all involved. I am also very appreciative of the support and guidance given so generously by Miss Mould, our Educational Visits Co-ordinator – herself a very strong advocate of the value of trips for our pupils.
All should be home by tonight – happy, exhausted and pleased, I hope, to be reunited with parents, and with many-a-story to tell!
Best wishes,
John Watson
Headmaster