NORTH HOUSE – Michaelmas 2011
The Michaelmas is always the highlight of the academic year not least of all because there are no public exams (!) so the students can actually ‘learn’ rather than be ‘tested’. This gives them the freedom to discover more about themselves without having the worry that this will compromise their grades. This has certainly been the case this term with the majority of students in the House ‘getting outside’ and making the most of the fantastic opportunities at the school and, in turn, creating significant buzz about the place. The Carol Service was a good case in point with Henry Harrod, Tom Hollister, Jon Hobbs and Harry McCagherty having the chance to showcase their talent and dedication in front of the whole community – I was a very proud Housemaster! Indeed, the U6th across the board have been terrific role models this term and the 4th form have all benefitted from their care and dedication as ‘big brothers’. 23 new students joined the house this term (21 in the 4th form and 2 in the L6). The 4th form have been one of the most closely knit and supportive groups I have come across in North and I am very excited by what they will offer in the terms to come. They are full of energy and have already shown a significant level of commitment in all aspects of school life.
Max Haycock and Mayo Runsewe joined us in the L6th and soon discovered the care and inclusiveness of their year group which helped them to settle quickly into the routines of school life. Max has made a significant start to his time here on the music front and Mayo was soon on the rugby pitch (having never played it before) and on the basketball court. They have made a super year group even better. House competitions are about support, participation and community with the winning being of secondary importance. This said a very special pair of students, George Colgan and Peter Thompson, won the House Challenge for the fourth year in a row – a truly remarkable achievement. This is the most rewarding job a school master can do and North has been a place of happiness and achievement throughout this term. For this I am indebted to all the boys; both of my fantastic Matrons; my ever wise and hard working Deputies and a diverse, fun and committed Tutor Body. This said, perhaps the ‘x-factor’ this term has been the leadership provided by Henry Harrod, Jon Hobbs, Ben Roberts and Peter Thompson – they are remarkable young men……I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to seeing everyone in the new year. The exams loom large so have a (short) rest and keep the momentum going with revision…. Ed Burnett