Many of our Form 6 pupils have taken tests for senior schools this term. I am delighted to say that so far, every single pupil who has taken a test has either been given a place or has got through to the interview stage which is a very positive outcome. We look forward to hearing how the boys do in their interviews next term. I wanted to thank Mrs Fairhurst for running so successfully our entrance test preparation which starts now in Form 4. Equally it is perhaps worth your knowing that I will give everyone who has been chosen for an interview a one to one interview practice before they have their formal interview.

We were treated to another fantastic nativity play this week, this time provided by our Pre-Prep. The play had been specially written, in beautiful metrical rhyming couplets, by Miss Hopkinson-Woolley herself. Never had I heard a nativity play trip off the tongue in quite the same way. It was also an immensely succinct summary of the Christmas story. When the wise men saw the star leading them towards the birthplace of the saviour, they responded “Wooppee!” while the message of the angels to the shepherds while they watched their flocks on the hills around Jerusalem was “Hey, Wakey Wakey!” As ever, most of the lines were sung and we could hear every word. What a joy it was.

And for the Pre-Prep it didn’t end there. The following day Father Christmas came to call, clutching reindeer bells and bringing presents. Before the presents were distributed, the children were allowed to ask him questions. Of course there were many that one might have anticipated, for instance where Father Christmas had left his reindeer and would I be getting all the things I had put down on my list. But as ever, when it comes to our Pre-Prep, there was an unexpected comment. “Santa! Last year your elves ate all my Grandma’s plants when you came; will you make sure they don’t do so again this year!” Even Father Christmas has to ensure that his co-workers follow correct procedures!

Talking of the unexpected, our new chaplain, The Revd Catherine Cleghorn, also came across an answer to a question she was not expecting. In the Cathedral last week when speaking to the School she preached upon Advent which is, of course, a time for self examination. She asked the question “What have you done recently which you have regretted doing?” she was of course expecting a particularly self-reflective person to admit that they had said something which might have upset someone else or that another might have felt jealous or envious. As ever, a forest of hands appeared. “Yes, ” she said, pointing at a slightly anguished looking face. “Bungee jumping!” “Interesting, “ she replied. “Any other suggestions?” Clearly this line of questioning wasn’t going in exactly the direction she had anticipated. “Yes?” she said pointing at another “Tomahawk throwing!” At this point she decided to explain further what she meant, but I never did find out what it was that the tomahawk thrower regretted about his chosen activity.

It's been a hugely successful term. I would very much like to thank all of our wonderful staff for everything they have done to help the pupils and I would like to thank all of you for your unswerving support for the School. It makes so much difference and does mean that we can look after your sons and daughters so much more effectively.

I am looking forward to seeing you all hugely at the carol service tomorrow and may I wish you all a very happy Christmas.