From the Headmaster

Einstein said: `Everybody is a genius but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.’ to identify their strengths and acknowledge and celebrate those of others. I often say that we are a greenhouse, not a hothouse. We are hugely ambitious for the children in the context of their own ability, in all areas. In my prize game of Jenga but in reverse block making the tower stronger, more resilient, more robust. I then pointed out that this is exactly what children at DH are doing every day challenging themselves in the classroom; achieving a PB in athletics...

You will read about many of the pupils’ achievements in this newsletter and I am sure it will confirm that the children have been brilliant via the many performances throughout the year. From the Year 8’s remarkable production of like to home in on one line: `To thine own self be true’. Whilst we continue to strive for academic excellence, I have been delighted with the many ways DH pupils have continued to develop skills outside the classroom. Skills which they will take with them to senior school and beyond. Our children have many different strengths and whilst we celebrate excellence in the classroom and in sport, music and art, I make no apology for the fact that we also have prizes which reflect kindness, perseverance and a positive attitude. Through our broad-based curriculum, we encourage hope, optimism and creativity the qualities which make for successful lives. Children are encouraged to do the small things really well and to embrace responsibility. We are fortunate to enjoy huge support from parents at DH and staff are very grateful for the many ways in which you contribute to the school community. The Parents’ Association, led by Dolly Waddell and Jo Winter, ensure that all new parents are made welcome and highlights of their activities this year have include a Winter Sparkle Party, Quiz Night and the Dad’s Camp Out which saw the top playing field transformed into a mini-Glastonbury! Parents can also join the DH Dads’ Cricket Team or Ladies who Lift group run by Ali Fentiman. Similarly, if you are able to speak to our older children about your career, we would love to hear from you. This year, we have enjoyed fascinating talks on entrepreneurship; English sparkling wine production, sustainability and medicine.

One of the major events of the year was the recent ISI Inspection. We were awarded `Excellent’ in all areas in our last full inspection in 2018 and this visit was just a compliance inspection. I say `just’ but it involved a huge amount of work for everyone - in particular SMT and I must single out Andrew Owens who is our policy and risk assessment Guru.