Durham High School End of Week Newsletter Issue 14 – December 14, 2024 Dear Parents I can scarcely believe that we have reached the end of term already, and Christmas is almost upon us. I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the marvellous spirit and energy that has enveloped our school community this term—particularly this past week. It has been an absolute delight to see the school brimming with excitement, teamwork, and celebration as we conclude the term with such special events and remarkable achievements. We are still revelling in our success in the Sunday Times Parent Power League. To be named as the Independent School of the Year 2025 North East is a true testament to the incredible hard work of our entire community. We are overjoyed! Thank you to all of you who have sent messages of congratulations. Your kind words mean so much and reflect the pride you all share in our school. This week, the Nursery and Pre-Prep children were thrilled to welcome a very special visitor—Santa himself! Their joy and wonder, paired with their festive outfits and infectious laughter, have set the tone for the season. Across Pre-Prep and Prep, glitter, sequins, Christmas jumpers, party dresses, and reindeer antlers have been on full display as we embraced the festive ‘Party Season’. It has been heart-warming to see the children dressed up and ready to enjoy their party games. Christmas lunch was a resounding success, and it was heartening to see the girls wearing their Christmas hats, singing along to festive music, and thoroughly enjoying their meals. A big thank you to our Thomas Franks Catering Team for their exceptional preparation and hard work in making it such a joyful occasion.
One of my favourite traditions in our final week is working alongside Mrs Middleton, our Deputy Headmistress, and the Heads of Year Team to serve hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows to the staff and girls. We’ve perfected the process now, and it is wonderful to hear the chatter and laughter as the girls enjoy their treats while Christmas songs play in the background. Nothing, however, can rival the emotions stirred by our Carol Service, held in the magnificent surroundings of Durham Cathedral. It was a joy to be joined by so many supporters of the High School, including the Mayor of Durham, Governors, Old Girls, and, of course, our parents and extended family. The Cathedral was filled to capacity. Harriett’s solo of the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City brought tears to my eyes, as did the Senior and Middle School Choir’s moving rendition of O Holy Night. All our choirs sang beautifully, and our readers delivered the Christmas Story with poise and reverence. I particularly enjoyed the Prep Choir’s rendition of Sheep, Sheep, Sheep and couldn’t help but chuckle at their enthusiastic and heartfelt performance. I hope you did too. Many parents have shared that this service truly marks the start of Christmas for them, and I