First impressions
From the Headmaster’s Desk: 15th September 2023
Mr Hammond
Headmaster
Peanuts (or “Snoopy” as we always called it) made a pretty major impression on my earliest cultural memories. My family had a large number of the books and the 1980s and 1990s heralded animations and re-runs of the same on weekend television. The only reason I am able to identify a Sopwith Camel and can speak about the Red Baron with a little knowledge when I visit the RAF Museum in Hendon (parents – a great and cheap trip) is because of Snoopy’s imaginary running battle with the legendary airman.
The genius of Peanuts creator, Charles M Schultz, was vast and his work ethic was immense. He personally created 17,897 cartoon strips over the second half of the twentieth century; exactly 1950-2000 – how neat and tidy. He certainly made a strong impression on me and, in that, tells a tale.
Linus from the Peanuts gang was once asked by Charlie Brown why he shined the front of his shoes and not the back. Linus replied as such: "I care what people think when I enter the room. I can't change it when I leave." First and last impressions matter.
The beginning of every school year is a chance to make a great first impression and a time when we discuss with the children the importance of politeness, hard work, friendliness and… uniform! Children must be neatly presented and ready to learn. We do have a comprehensive uniform list (link for your convenience below), but ensuring children in Year 1 and up are in black leather shoes and that all pupils’ earrings are simple, gold or silver studs (please note, only studs, no hoops, not diamante, pearls, shapes or any other variation) with a safety back are the usual areas of rebellion. You can find our full uniform list here.
A gentle word usually corrects such matters so we can all be consistent with the children – thank you for your support. However, we do remind the children that if that first impression could have been better (we all make mistakes), it is not the end of the world. We start each day afresh.
Like all great people, Schultz listened and adapted when appropriate. The first black character in Peanuts, Franklin, was included after a teacher called Harriet wrote to the cartoonist asking him to include more diversity into Charlie Brown’s group of friends. In the spirit of open and honest communication, we have made a change to our Senior School after-school provision this term.
In response to comments from families, after Form time and dismissal all children from Year 3 and above are able to join one of our homework clubs. Here, they will be supervised by a member of staff and can complete any work they have been set by their teachers in a quiet environment. We very much hope that this will allow the younger ones more free time when they get home, whilst also supporting our busy working families. Please see the full details in our separate communication.
All the best for a wonderful weekend – after the recent heatwave, usual service has resumed with regards to the weather so make the most if the dry conditions. I hope Rosh HaShanah is enjoyable for our Jewish families; may you have a good and sweet New Year.
All the best for the weekend! Mr Hammond
A little Easter Egg – the first ever Peanuts strip from 2nd October 1950. Look how much the style of the characters has changed!
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