Durham High School End of Week Newsletter Issue 10 – November 16 2024
Dear Parents Every week when I sit down to write this newsletter, I often find myself thinking, “Wow! What a brilliant week we have had at the High School.” It may sound a bit clichéd, but it truly feels that way by the time Friday arrives. Our school is filled with so many enriching opportunities and events, and I’m continually grateful for the energy, enthusiasm, and gratitude that our girls bring to every day. This week has been no exception. On Monday, we marked Remembrance Day with moving assemblies for the Senior, Pre-Prep, and Prep Departments. In the Senior Department, the focus was on service, reflecting on the significance of Remembrance Day and its relevance to us all. We took time to reflect on the far-reaching implications of conflict, both past and present, and the enduring legacy of those who have served in our armed forces. It was an honour to hear from members of the British Army, as well as civilians, about the personal meaning Remembrance Day holds for them. After the assemblies, the whole school gathered on the Pre-Prep and Prep Playground for a two-minute silence, which was impeccably observed by all. Rosalind, in Year 11, played The Last Post and Reveille with great dignity. Following the silence, wreaths were laid by various members of our school community: our Head Girl, Grace represented Senior Department, and Lucy from Year 6 represented the Pre-Prep and Prep Department, Mrs. Barker (one of our Governors) and Mrs. Gellately (representing staff, past and present), and Katie and Ana, who represented our Uniformed Services. Crosses were planted by Form Representatives from Nursery to Upper Sixth in our remembrance pots.
It was incredibly emotional to see such a wide range of youth organisations represented on the day, including Rainbows, Brownies, Scouts, Guides, Girls' Brigade, Sea, Air, and Police Cadets, as well as St. John Ambulance. I am always so proud to see our girls participating in and contributing to these organisations, which are aligned with our own values of personal growth, teamwork, and community service. These groups help foster leadership, responsibility, and resilience—qualities we seek to nurture here at Durham High School.