The View From My Study 31 January 2025
I have seen a few things this week that have not only made me smile but also reminded me why I love my job so much.
The first, on Monday morning in assembly, was when Michelle, a 6th Form pupil, performed a Chinese dance to showcase her heritage in front of the whole school. It was a demonstration of incredible timing, balance and poise and everyone watching was in awe. As a nod to the Lunar New Year as well as our weekly theme of ‘celebration’, it was the first time that such a performance had taken place and it was brilliant. Click here to watch.
Also on Monday I received an email from an ex-colleague, now at another school, hailing the manners and courtesy of the BG pupils who competed successfully at the Spratton Hall X-Country Relays. Specifically, the children who collected medals were noted (compared to others) for their firm handshake, look in the eye and their gratitude. These things matter and get noticed!
On Tuesday evening I had the pleasure of attending the soloist concert in the Pugin library. I know I will always see talent at these events and yet I found myself being both surprised and impressed by pupils that I did not know were so accomplished. So many Biltonians are multi-talented and it was wonderful to be reminded about the excellence and breadth of the education we offer.
Children at BG learn, grow, acquire new skills and adapt to new expectations and this aligns neatly with the qualities of the snake as depicted in the Chinese zodiac. The Year of the Snake, which we have just entered, symbolises growth, renewal and adaptability and we hope that all members of our community embrace the opportunities that will come our way this year with positivity and commitment.
Our celebration of the Lunar New Year on Wednesday evening was a wonderful occasion for the boarders. The dining room was resplendent with decorations, the food from Chartwells was plentiful and there were games and gifts galore. The children of all cultures could appreciate the event and this is the great thing about life at BG and in boarding schools generally. The interactions the children have with others from different cultural backgrounds is illuminating, informative and long-lasting, and it is right that we should celebrate them.
