Focusing on the heart
From the Headmaster’s Desk: 24 March 2023
Mr Hammond
Headmaster
Many things make the heart swell. This week, Abercorn has been treated to the Senior Spring Concert and the Year 2 Play. Both were equally brilliant in different ways – the pupils’ musicality, volume and clarity all shone through. It is oh so important to provide our children with opportunities to perform in front of others. There are a variety of tests in schools, but challenging oneself to stand up in from of 10, 20, 100 people takes a great deal of bravery, perseverance and character – bravo, all round.
One of the best, maybe the best, parts of working in a school is the chance to speak to children about all and sundry. This week, I have played speed chess (and possible been persuaded to buy a tournament clock) and been told that the lightbulb was such a good idea, that it became the symbol of a bright idea. Meta. Children who ask (or answer) what would appear to be random questions during the day will now find the answers stuck to my office door: watch that space and take the post-its!
As many of you will know, Ramadan began this Wednesday evening, with our Year 7 and 8 pupils being led in an assembly by Mme Larabi on Friday. As a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship, Ramadan takes place throughout our two week holiday and crosses over both Passover and Easter. If you take into account that Hindi New Year is also taking place at the same time, could there be a more London, more Abercorn, time of year? It is fascinating to hear about children’s experiences of these religious celebrations and the commitment they require at times – to electively fast when young (which should only be done once discussed with parents), for example.
Finally, do remember that school will be closed on Monday 8th May 2023; the extra bank holiday to mark the coronation of Charles III. The ceremony itself takes place on Saturday 6th May – in honour of this, on Friday 5th May we would like all children to come to school dressed in the colours of the Union Flag: red, white and blue. There will also be a special tea party arranged to celebrate the crowning of the UK’s new(ish) monarch, as well as a special musical treat to commemorate what I am sure will be a joyous occasion.
I always finish the week by listening to any new draft recordings of our latest podcast episode. Two episodes are currently out, with forthcoming guests including Mrs Greystoke, Miss Stewart and Miss Molloy! If you would like to find out more, please listen here: https://www.abercornschool.com/podcast.
As Abercorn enters the final week of the Spring Term, we look forward to reward events for the winning houses, a theatre workshop for Years 5 and 6 and our final assembly. Term ends at lunch time on Thursday 30th March.
All the best for the weekend.
Mr Hammond
To see how busy a place our wonderful School is and for a more detailed look into all things Abercorn, follow us on social media; Twitter, Instagram and Facebook offer a wide range of updates. My personal thoughts on educational life can be found @hammondteacher.
