The Bulletin 231

THE

Bulletin

ISSUE 231

FROM THE HEADMASTER Although it might be a push to say all RGS students are trend-setting fashionistas – hoodies and jeans or sports gear tend to be the staple non-school-uniform uniform – they do, for the most part, care what they are wearing. Try and force them to wear something they don’t want to and, as parents, we all know the outcome! This is what makes the annual charity Christmas jumper day all the more extraordinary and astonishing. For one day, and one day only, all fashion sense, conservativeness and conformism go out the festive, icy window to be replaced by an absolute smörgåsbord of kitsch glitz and sparkle. At every corner, there is an array of festive headware, vibrant outfits, and even the odd carrot hanging off a jumper. If ever, we need confirmation that RGS students have an environment in which they can express their true selves (or, should that be, true elves…), then perhaps this day epitomises this.

This opportunity to embrace their individuality also manifests itself throughout the school term. The Michaelmas Term has provided a succession of opportunities for students to participate in their chosen fields. The term got off to a memorable start as our GCSE and A Level students celebrated outstanding results in public examinations. As our students continue to impress and flourish academically, the ILA/ORIS evening, the Junior Scholarship Conference and the RGS Model United Nations Conference were just three examples of the levels of academia and innate passion for learning which exist in the corridors of the RGS. Those who were fortunate enough to see the various music concerts – from the Orchestral and Ensembles Concerts, to the Advent and Carol Services, to the RGS rock bands at the Boileroom – could not help but be swept along by the sheer infectious passion and energy of the performers, to say nothing of their extraordinary musicianship. That same joie de vivre has characterised so many events this term: from the charitable initiatives such as the Stand-Up Comedy evening and the Christmas Fair, to the drama productions including the student-led No Peace on St Jude, to our dynamic partnerships and links with local school children such as the Masterclasses or weekly Primary School Project, to the House competitions where students have competed against their peers with no little commitment and entertaining rivalry!

“

… an absolute smörgåsbord of kitsch glitz and sparkle.

”

Our students have flourished in the co-curricular life of the School: on the sports fields, the 1st XV rugby team celebrated another excellent season against some of the strongest schools in the area, and the Under 16As have an exciting future ahead of them after an exceptional term of rugby. We have also seen incredible work in Art as well as Design and Technology. In every area of school life, I continually see RGS students who strive for ever higher standards through their diligence and commitment and yet achieve success and fulfilment with cohesion and togetherness, a lightness of touch, humility, and – most importantly – a sense of humour and fun.

So, as term finishes today, I would like to personally offer my sincere thanks to all the staff and governors who give of their time so generously and willingly to support and inspire the students; to you, the parents, who are supportive of the School in so many ways; and most of all to the students whose talent, commitment, and, indeed, good humour make this such a wonderful community of which to be a part.

I wish you all a very relaxing, enjoyable and happy Christmas period – including even the odd spangly Christmas jumper or two – and offer you the very best wishes for the new year. I look forward to seeing you in 2024!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Tuesday 12 December: Michaelmas Term ends; the Christmas holidays officially begin!

Wednesday 13 December: The Junior and Senior Ski Trips depart for Les Deux Alpes (return 20 December).

Tuesday 2 January: Staff Development Day 4; GCSE mock examinations start for the Fifth Form.

Wednesday 3 January: Lent Term begins.

THE FESTIVE GALLERY

THE FESTIVE GALLERY

Merry Christmas

from all at the RGS !