Welcome back!

 

What a fantastic start to the second half of term! A very warm welcome to all our new families who have joined the Duncombe community this week – we are delighted to have you with us. The pupils have returned full of enthusiasm, hitting the ground running with great energy and focus.

 

It has been a wonderfully busy week with a host of enriching experiences. Year 5 had an inspiring trip to Bhaktivedanta Manor as part of their Religious Education Hindu unit, gaining valuable insight into Hindu traditions and beliefs. Meanwhile, Year 1 explored the fascinating world of art and design during their visit to a glass workshop, sparking creativity and curiosity.

 

Year 4 truly dazzled us with their culinary skills during their ‘Come Dine with Me’ event. Families were treated to a splendid dining experience, where teamwork, dedication, and some seriously impressive cooking were on full display. A heartfelt thank you to the Year 4 team and our amazing catering staff for making this event so special.

 

We were also honoured to welcome visitors from Haileybury this week, who greatly enjoyed meeting some of our Year 6 pupils. They were particularly impressed by the depth of their questions, which included discussions on the role of Artificial Intelligence in learning and the benefits and challenges of the International Baccalaureate – a truly thought-provoking exchange!

 

Adding to the excitement, we had the pleasure of welcoming back a former pupil, now the Member of Parliament for Hertford, Mr Josh Dean. After attending assembly, he toured the school and reconnected with former teachers, including Miss Ashcroft, who fondly recalled his time in Lower School. It was a moment of mutual respect and joy to witness. Mr Dean also met with members of our Pupil Council, who engaged in a lively discussion on democracy and the importance of choice in education. They did Duncombe proud with their insightful questions and enthusiasm.

 

On the sports front, we have seen a flurry of matches and the final Lower School swim of this half term, as Upper School now prepares for their own swimming gala later this term.

 

Looking ahead, next week promises to be just as exciting! Book Week is upon us, with a wonderful array of activities planned, culminating in our much-anticipated dressing-up day on Thursday. We also have 5Sa leading Monday’s assembly and 2A taking the stage on Friday. Plus, there are plenty more matches scheduled! I will be away on an inspection from Tuesday through Thursday, and in my absence, Mrs Micele-Jones and Miss Cartwright will be on hand to ensure all runs smoothly.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend.

Mr Phelan