Sunningdale School Web Log

Sunningdale walks for Archie

2012-01-20T15:50:00.001Z

Today, the whole school took part in a sponsored walk to raise money for Archie. Archie is at a local school and he suffers from cerebral palsy. His family needs to raise £50,000 to pay for an operation that could change his whole future.

Every boy, and a number of parents walked six times around the grounds, a total of about 4 miles. Some boys finished very quickly and walked an additional four laps! Hot chocolate with chocolate chip cookies was on offer for the boys after they had completed half the distance.

The whole atmosphere was fantastic and we will have raised a sizeable amount towards the cost of Archie's operation.

Remembrance Sunday

2011-11-14T11:56:00.001Z

We had a very special service yesterday for Remembrance Sunday. The chapel was fuller than it has ever been; it was fantastic to welcome so many parents, grand-parents and friends to our chapel. The choir sang quite beautifully, one of the senior boys read the lesson very well, a boy in his first term at Sunningdale played the Last Post with great aplomb and the Head Monitor ended the silence with a very moving piece on the bagpipes.

I was very proud of the school yesterday. I really felt that it was Sunningdale at its best.

Bonfire night

2011-11-06T08:25:00.001Z

Luckily the rain held off for bonfire night. Masses of parents arrived
to support this event which was hugely enjoyed by everyone.

Darren laid on hot dogs and flapjacks for everyone which went down
very well. Th bonfire burned beautifully, despite the wet week we have
had, and the fireworks were truly spectacular. We all them piled into
the library for drinks.

A great evening.

Football v. Horris Hill

2011-11-06T08:22:00.001Z

What a great day!! The first XI travelled to Horris Hill having had a
couple of disappointing results recently. They have been playing some
great football but somehow results haven't gone our way. They went
down fairly early having given away a penalty but then equalised after
our opponents returned the favour. Half way through the second half we
score a great goal and held on to win 2-1. They boys were thrilled, as
was their coach!!

The second XI and third XI both secured big wins so all senior teams
were successful. Well done to all!!!!

Fives

2011-11-06T08:17:00.001Z

The fives this term has been wonderfully successful.

Our first match of the term was against Eton and they brought a strong
side. All the pairs played very well for the first match of the season
and although we lost it was a great warm up.

Next came a two pair match against Ludgrove. The second pair played
brilliantly and won with the loss of only two points! The first pair
started slowly and were 8-1 down in the first came. They then came to
life and won it 12-9. The second game followed a similar pattern but
they came through 12-9 again.

Harrow were next and we took five pairs up there. Traditionally we
have struggled against public school opposition where size and
strength make a difference. Not this time, though. The first, second
and fourth pairs all won and the third pair finished at 1-1. A great
result. It was also nice to see three old boys playing in the Harrow
side.

The most recent game was against Cranleigh. They brought three pairs
to Sunningdale. We played brilliantly in all three courts and notched
up a comfortable victory.

It is fantastic to see them playing so well and enjoying it so much.

Catch up!

2011-11-06T08:08:00.001Z

There is so much to say so I am going to split it up into a few blogs.
I haven't been very active of the blog recently - apologies!

Video night in the new Top Dormitories!

2011-10-15T20:02:00.000+01:00

Guess the film!

New Friday afternoon activity!

2011-10-14T16:24:00.000+01:00

The boys are loving archery!

2011-10-14T15:05:00.000+01:00

Chromebooks

2011-10-14T15:03:00.000+01:00

This term we have introduced Google Chromebooks which can be used in lessons. They have already proved to be a very useful teaching aid. The aim is certainly not to replace traditional teaching methods but it gives us another tool to help the boys learn.

Pre-prep football

2011-09-26T10:36:00.000+01:00

Last Thursday saw 80 children descend on Sunningdale from London to
take part in our annual pre-prep football tournament. On a perfect
autumnal day, lots of parents joined us to watch the youngsters battle
it out in their six-a-side games.

This was the most successful tournament to date with some stunning
football played and all the boys taking part enjoyed themselves
hugely. Well done to everyone involved.

School in Gloucestershire bans footballs!

2011-09-26T10:32:00.000+01:00

In an astonishing move, reflecting the health and safety absurdities
of current times, a school in Gloucestershire has banned the use of
leather footballs in their playground. They have said that children
must use sponge balls instead to play football. What are these people
doing to the children in their care? How are they going to cope with
life in the real world?

Football results

2011-09-21T18:05:00.001+01:00

A good day for Sunningdale football. Six out of the eight teams won against Brockhurst. The 1st XI played their best football of the term so far to win 5-0.

Co-education

2011-09-21T11:01:00.001+01:00

I learnt this morning that Shrewsbury School is to go fully co-educational from 2014. They have had girls in the sixth form since 2008. I love Shrewsbury; I have been lucky enough to visit the school a number of times with Fives teams and I have always been incredibly impressed. I very much hope that the move to co-education works.

What this means, though, is that there are even fewer choices for parents looking for all boys public schools. I still believe in single sex education, particularly for boys. Boys and girls develop at such different rates and they learn in very different ways. As prep schools, we will have to work even harder to make sure that we continue to get boys into the best schools.

Charity Bike Ride

2011-09-18T19:45:00.000+01:00

I was so impressed when a former colleague from Harrow made it to Sunningdale with his group from Orley Farm School on their bikes. They stopped at Sunningdale en route for Eagle House and then Ludgrove all to raise money for the Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Fund. A terrific effort!

Golf

2011-09-16T16:36:00.000+01:00

A beautiful day for golf lessons at the Berkshire!

Start of term

2011-09-16T16:33:00.001+01:00

We have been back just over a week now and it struck me that I had been neglecting the blog. Apologies!

The start of term has been great. Certainly having 39 new boys has brought it's own challenges but they are a fantastic bunch and have settled in really well.

The atmosphere in the school is superb at the moment with everyone busy and enjoying life.

There is more to come from the blog but welcome back.

Teenager in rail suicide was sent abusive message on social networking site - Telegraph

2011-07-23T09:37:00.001+01:00

Please read this to see how careful we must be with our children's use of computers. I have said this before but certainly our boys are not old enough to be allowed to use social networking sites either at school or at home.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/social-media/8653867/Teenager-in-rail-suicide-was-sent-abusive-message-on-social-networking-site.html

Somalia

2011-07-23T09:20:00.000+01:00

I am sitting on a train on the way to Lords and reading about the tragedy on Somalia. It is so upsetting and makes me feel terrible that I am about to go and spend money having a jolly. I need to think of a way we can help. The stories and pictures are so desperate. No child or adult for that matter should have to live through that.

Wonderful weekend

2011-06-27T07:31:00.001+01:00

What a great weekend. I do not remember a busier one but it went so well and was such a success.

On Saturday evening, after fixtures against Horris Hill, we had our annual art exhibition and summer concert. The standard of both was fantastic and it was so good to see so many parents at these events.

Sunday morning was charity day and we were blessed with the most wonderful weather. Pictures from the fair will go up on the website later today.

In the afternoon the Fathers took on the boys at cricket. In a very close game the boys won with one over to spare.

We then had our last Sunday evening chapel of the term, attended by masses of parents, and we were fortunate to have Mr Gareth Doodes, headmaster of Milton Abbey to come and preach. Both boys and parents thoroughly enjoyed his sermon on talents.

Leavers' trip (4)

2011-06-23T16:45:00.000+01:00

Go-karting was fantastic. Some thrills and spills and yes, in case you were wondering, the staff did show the boys how it is done - well done AJPL!

Leavers' trip (3)

2011-06-23T10:38:00.000+01:00

Part of the high wire course. This is an easy bit!

Leaver's trip (2)

2011-06-23T10:36:00.001+01:00

Morning on the third day.

Yesterday was amazing. We all went off to a high wire course; and I mean high! The HM can admit to feeling a certain level of trepidation at certain moments of the day. Bravado led me to attempt the most challenging course which was incredible fun but exhausting! After completing the most difficult section of the course I was utterly spent and had the humiliation of being winched back down to the ground - much to the delight of the onlooking crowd of boys!

Yesterday evening we all enjoyed the most delicious raclette. Not a bad life!

This morning they have all gone off to the market and this afternoon it is for go-karting. Time for me to get my own back!

Leaver's trip

2011-06-22T07:17:00.000+01:00

Arrived yesterday afternoon in France for the leavers trip. Fantastic BBQ served up by AJPL and DCS!

100% pass rate at Common Entrance - again!

2011-06-15T20:13:00.001+01:00

I am so proud of this year's CE candidates. When the chips were down they really went to work and their results have been amazing. They have all passed into their chosen schools and a lot of them have done a great deal more than that. An astonishing 54% of the grades were A grades! I am so pleased for them and they really deserve their success.

Cricket

2011-06-08T10:55:00.000+01:00

We had great fun last night taking on the staff from Papplewick at T20
cricket. I am please to say that we emerged victorious after some fine
performances with bat and ball.

Today the boys return to the field, this time against Brockhurst.
Their coaches have led the way; can they follow?!

Common Entrance

2011-06-06T15:02:00.000+01:00

Common Entrance is underway. The first two papers seem to have gone
well enough and they are now doing History.

Fingers crossed!

Finished!

2011-06-04T10:28:00.000+01:00

Small is beautiful

2011-05-31T07:37:00.001+01:00

Sunningdale was featured in an article in the Daily Telegraph on Saturday about the advantages of small schools. You can read the article here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationadvice/8538551/Parents-are-choosing-smaller-prep-schools.html

One Week to Go

2011-05-31T07:35:00.001+01:00

While many schools are on half term this week, we are full steam ahead in the preparations for Common Entrance which begins on Monday. I think that it is so important that the boys are here this week so that we can continue to help them right up to their exams and make sure that they peak at just the right time.

It's all Greek to me!

2011-05-27T12:23:00.001+01:00

What a pleasure it is to see Greek thriving once again at Sunningdale. This morning three boys brought Greek show ups to me. They are really enjoying studying the language and doing very well indeed. This is a great sign of the continuing academic strength at Sunningdale.

Telling the time

2011-05-26T14:51:00.000+01:00

Recently, when teaching the time in French, I have discovered that a number of our youngest boys do not know how to tell the time on an analogue clock. They are aware of time but they are so used to seeing the time in a digital format that they have not learnt to read a normal clock. I would encourage all parents of young children to make sure that they have plenty of analogue clocks around at home and to draw children's attention to those clocks on regular occasions.

DT

2011-05-24T10:50:00.001+01:00

The boys are loving DT and have made some fantastic projects.

Great Weekend

2011-05-23T09:13:00.001+01:00

What a fantastic, action packed weekend!

On Saturday most of the boys were involved in cricket matches against St. Andrew's Pangbourne. The first and second elevens both recorded excellent victories, both sides bowling their opponents out for under a hundred. In the evening, as previously mentioned, a group of boys went over to St. George's, Ascot for a social.

On Sunday, the Mothers and Sons tennis was a great success, helped by the fact that the weather held off, although it was a little breezy! The go-karters raced with daredevil abandon and thoroughly enjoyed themselves (and came back safely!).

In the evening, a large number of parents came to chapel to hear Mr Keith Metcalfe preach in chapel. Mr Metcalfe is the housemaster of Lyon's at Harrow. He delighted the boys by getting them to throw rugby, football and cricket balls around chapel to huge cheers. Certainly a very popular sermon!

Social at St. George's!

2011-05-21T19:46:00.001+01:00

Boys on one side - girls on the other! Early days!

The new building - nearly done!

2011-05-21T19:08:00.001+01:00

Time for a catch up

2011-05-21T07:33:00.000+01:00

I have been very slack at updating the blog this term so it is time for a catch up. It has been so busy that it is difficult to know where to start.

Over the holidays several projects were carried out. We now have three new dormitories for the youngest boys and I am thrilled with them. The boys seem to love them as well although the current lack of curtains has not been ideal. That should be completed by the end of this weekend though. The redevelopment of the courtyard in the middle of the school is very nearly complete. It really has transformed that area. I will post an updated photograph later today.

The term has started very well. On the academic side the two Eton scholars performed very well although they just missed out on an award. We heard yesterday that our Winchester candidate was safely through and the rest of the CE candidates all completed their French Listening, French Oral and Maths Listening this week.

The magnificent weather at the start of term has been perfect for cricket. There have been some good performances throughout the school with plenty of boys making good runs and taking plenty of wickets. The 1st XI were robbed of a victory on Wednesday because of the rain but will hopefully get another chance today against Brockhurst.

The athletics team have got off to a flying start. Already this term they have recorded wins against Hall Grove, Bishopsgate and Ludgrove. The senior Victor Ludorum looks set to be a very exciting competition on Sports Day.

So a busy start. Not long now until Common Entrance so lots of work to do. Updates will be much more regular from now on.

New Astro Turf

2011-03-24T10:55:00.000Z

The new tennis court is now complete and ready to go!!

New astro turf

2011-03-16T12:19:00.001Z

Work has begun on the new astro turf surface for the tennis court.
Very exciting!

Catch up

2011-03-14T17:44:00.000Z

The last two weeks have epitomised everything that is so good about Sunningdale.

On the sporting front we have seen wins against Ludgrove and Dorset House on the rugby field, superb cross country performances and excellent fives matches. The two performances of 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' were resounding successes involving every boy in the school. On top of this, four boys competed in the UK Maths Challenge and finished in second place, narrowly beaten by boys from St. Paul's school in London who were in the year above.

The boys have all been busy doing different things and doing them very well indeed.

2011-03-13T14:46:00.000Z

The Pied Piper of Hamelin

2011-03-10T10:05:00.001Z

Last night saw the first performance of this term's musical, 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' by John Rutter. This is a challenging production which the boys have spent most of this term preparing for. The quality of the music was superb, (in my humble opinion!) and the large audience thoroughly enjoyed the performance. The next show is tomorrow so the boys will have to gee themselves up to do it all over again!

Celebration!

2011-03-02T18:00:00.000Z

A happy 1st XV after a fantastic 22-12 win over Ludgrove!

Fwd: a picture for you

2011-02-25T07:24:00.002Z

A great picture from Wednesday!

The seconds also won, in this case away at Horris. Two points behind with one play to go, Sunningdale are awarded a penalty which the Head Monitor coolly slots between the posts. He admitted to me at lunch yesterday that he didn't realise that things were quite so close - probably a good thing!

Vivat Sunningdalia!!!

2011-02-23T17:43:00.001Z

What a game!! In conditions not dissimilar to the Somme, the mighty men of the 1st XV took on a Horris Hill side that has had a very successful season. We knew that this was going to be tough and so it proved. Horris were deservedly ahead at half time but Sunningdale struck back early to set up a thrilling second half. Despite the difficult conditions, the handling was good and the ball was spread nicely. Sunningdale took the lead and the supporters thought they were in for a victory until Horris Hill struck twice to make victory seem beyond us with the score at 24 - 35. Sunningdale showed unbelievable spirit, though, and ran in two very late tries to take an incredible win 38 points to 35.

Both sides deserve great credit for a rugby game that will live long in the memory.

Second half of term

2011-02-22T07:23:00.001Z

All back safely from Long Leave for an action packed second half of the Lent term. A lot of focus is now on preparations for the play, The Pied Piper of Hamelin. With every boy playing a role, the whole school is involved in this epic production. The Harrow scholarship is round the corner and we are hoping to add to our tally of two successes already. The rugby team have some important fixtures coming up ,not least against Ludgrove. The cross country team will be hoping to build on their success before Long Leave and the fives team will be building up to the two national tournaments that they are involved in. There are so many more things going on from music exams to trips to France so the next few weeks are likely to go by in a flash.

Rugby

2011-02-10T12:08:00.001Z

A long trip down to Wellesley was very worthwhile but sadly ended in defeat. We had all the play in the first half and should have put the game beyond them but we were unable to turn our pressure into points. They came back strongly in the second half and score from a missed penalty. The game ended 21-17 to the home side.

Today our runners are in action again and we are taking on Harrow on the fives courts.

Catch up!

2011-02-09T10:57:00.001Z

Ok, I have not been very good at updating recently - must do better. It has been over a week since my last ....

We had a ball on Saturday night to raise money for the new Library. It was a huge success. We raised over £12,000 and a thoroughly good time was had by all. Lots of those who attended are very keen for it to become a more regular event. I can't say I disagree.

Last Thursday we regained our cross country shield which had been held by Hall Grove for the past four years. The senior team ran brilliantly and they richly deserved their victory over four other schools. They are running again tomorrow, this time against Lambrook.

Today the 1st XV are making the long journey down to Wellesley House in Kent. Wellesley are a similar size to us so I hope it will be a really good encounter.

It might also be worth casting your eyes over our new weekly newsletter produced by one of the boys. It is a great summary of Sunningdale life. http://www.sunningdaleschool.co.uk/MainFolder/NewsletterFeb8.pdf

More regular news to follow I promise!

Exeat Mondays!

2011-01-31T11:49:00.000Z

I love them!

Resounding rugby results!

2011-01-26T20:58:00.001Z

A fantastic day for Sunningdale rugby. A clean sweep of victories
against Bruern Abbey whose 1st XV had not been beaten at home for two
terms! 1st XV 12-0, 2nd XII 67-5, U11A 21-7.

Choir

2011-01-25T18:42:00.001Z

Guitar!

2011-01-25T18:41:00.001Z

IT club

2011-01-25T18:40:00.001Z

Activities

2011-01-25T18:39:00.002Z

I am having a wander around Tuesday evening activities. Among others
the boys can choose from music technology, IT club, choir, 5-a-side
football etc. More photos to follow.

U11s rugby

2011-01-24T17:38:00.001Z

Fantastic practice with the U11s this afternoon. They were on great
form and learned loads!

Great start to the rugby season!

2011-01-19T17:28:00.001Z

The 1st XV got the season off to a great start with a 40-0 victory over Bishopsgate. In a match which contained some brilliant forward play and some great running from the backs, Sunningdale were dominant throughout. Let's hope this sets us up for a good season overall.

The U11A side were also victorious. They were 0-12 down at half time but came back strongly in the second half to win 14-12.

Rugby v. Bishopsgate

2011-01-18T21:29:00.001Z

Really excited about matches tomorrow. Pitches are pretty heavy
underfoot but that should suit the forwards. It would be good to get
the season off to a winning start.

Matches in one sport or another every day until the end of the week!

Rugby session

2011-01-16T13:40:00.001Z

The potential 1st XV had a fantastic training session on Sunday
morning with two masters from Pangbourne College. The boys learnt a
huge amount and the home team picked up lots of useful hints.

A brilliant way for the boys to spend Sunday morning.

5 star kitchen!

2011-01-14T12:35:00.001Z

The kitchens had a surprise inspection from the local food hygiene authority and you will be pleased to hear that they were given a 5 star rating which is the highest award possible! Well done to the whole team in the kitchen.

Mr Brooks' birthday

2011-01-12T15:04:00.001Z

Today is Mr Brooks birthday so a cake was a must!

New term - new resolutions

2011-01-11T21:22:00.001Z

Term starts tomorrow night and the last few days have actually been great fun getting everything ready. There is so much to look forward to and the amazingly positive feeling of last term will, I am sure, continue this term. All members of staff seem to be on excellent form and it should be a great term.

One of my New Year's resolutions is to get better about doing my blog more often. We shall see......

Harrow Songs

2010-11-26T07:34:00.001Z

What an amazing evening! Being in a full Speech Room and hearing those songs makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up every time. Last night, though, was extra special. We were so proud of our Old Boy who sang the solo in Five Hundred Faces. It must have been the most daunting experience to do the whole thing from memory but he was brilliant! If we were proud, imagine how his parents and grandparents must have felt! A truly unforgettable event.

Churchill Songs at Harrow

2010-11-25T09:09:00.001Z

Rather a late night last night watching the start of the Ashes. I was boyishly excited but rather deflated after Andrew Strauss's third ball exit.

Anyway, I am rather more excited about the prospect of going to Harrow tonight for Churchill Songs. One of our Old Boys is singing the solo for Five Hundred Faces which is a huge honour for him and makes us feel very proud!

Prep schools conference

2010-11-23T10:30:00.001Z

At a very interesting conference at Wellington today. I don't usually
like this sort of thing but it does give me the chance to take a step
back and think about what we are doing. There are also some inspiring
speakers such as Rob Andrew and Ranulph Feinnes.

Theatre Trip

2010-11-04T06:38:00.001Z

I am really looking forward to the trip to the Theatre Royal in Windsor today. It is such a lovely theatre. We are taking the whole school to see 'The Haunting', an adaptation of Charles Dickens' Tales of the Unexpected. It should be great fun.

Football

2010-11-03T16:01:00.000Z

It's just not fair. Game ended 1-2. Their equaliser was miles offside.
The refereeing was quite appalling. I feel so sorry for the boys. They
didn't deserve that.

Football

2010-11-03T15:07:00.000Z

1-0 half time. Don't take it away now!

Football

2010-11-03T13:43:00.001Z

I have a great feeling about today's game. Trying a new shape. Come on
the 'Dale!

Independent Schools Show

2010-10-31T08:51:00.001Z

The schools show was a great success. Friday was quiet but picked up a little in the afternoon. We were then very generously invited to a champagne reception hosted by the organisers.

Saturday morning felt much busier. I then gave a talk on the benefits of boarding just before lunch which I hope went down well. At least there were far more people in the audience than last year!

The afternoon was very busy at our stand. The show ended at 4.30pm and we still had several families coming up to talk to us about Sunningdale.

Every year we debate whether or not we will be going back the following year. We certainly shall but I do think that there are one or two things they could do to improve the show. I think it needs to be a real advertisement for the sector as a whole and not simply a recruitment exercise. If that is to be the case they need somehow to attract all the major players. Several very well known schools were notable by their absences. I am thinking of Eton, Radley, Rugby, Sherborne, Winchester and all the major central London schools. I think it would be much more popular if they were all there as it would add weight to it. Some of the top schools (such as Harrow, Stowe, Wellington, Shrewsbury, Bradfield and others) were there but it needs more of them. I also think that we should not expect the visiting parents to pay for entry. The exhibitors should cover the cost.

Anyway, just a thought..........

Our stand at the Independent Schools Show

2010-10-29T10:28:00.000+01:00

Football results & Trafalgar Day

2010-10-21T06:57:00.001+01:00

Sadly, the matches yesterday did not go as planned. It was disappointing as the 1st XI were as good as they were and just really under-performed. I think there is a lack of confidence in the side at the moment and we need to sort this out before we run out of matches.

Today is Trafalgar Day and we are all off to Trafalgar Park. We are going to learn about the battle itself, the history of the house and I believe there will be a falconry demonstration as well. I t should be great fun.

Long Leave

2010-10-20T07:51:00.001+01:00

Long Leave (our half term) is coming up at the end of this week. I think we are all looking forward to it but it is terrifying how quickly it has come. The start of term seems like yesterday. I suppose it is because we have been so busy that it has flown by.

Many schools now have a ten day or even two week half term. I don't see us doing that. The boys are working very well this term and the momentum is building nicely. I would not want to have a two week break and have to start all over again. In my opinion it is far better to have a longer break at Christmas. Christmas is always so busy and the extra time after New Year makes all the difference.

Football v. Cothill

2010-10-20T07:45:00.000+01:00

I am very excited about football against Cothill today. I have a good feeling about the 1st XI. They have improved a great deal this term and a win is on the cards! Let's see.

Sunningdale / Summer Fields Meeting

2010-10-07T07:01:00.000+01:00

Big day today. 70 headmasters from the top boys' prep and public
schools are coming to Sunningdale for a meeting. As well as hearing
four excellent speakers, there will be plenty of opportunity for all
present to discuss key issues affecting the sector.

It is also a chance for Sunningdale to show how we are doing and to
make sure that we put on a good event.

Great Football Win

2010-10-07T06:40:00.002+01:00

Yesterday afternoon an U12 team took on Bishopsgate whose top year was away so no 1st XI game was possible. This was a chance for us to look at next year's top team so the match was eagerly awaited.

A poor first half saw us concede two goals despite having most of the possession. There was a lack of commitment and urgency and we gave the ball away far too easily. A late penalty reduced the deficit just before half time.

After a stern half time talk, the attitude was completely different in the second half and two early goals put us ahead. A third followed and the game looked safe. Bishopsgate did not give up, though, and in the last ten minutes we were under great pressure from some excellent attacks.

It was a good lesson in what it takes to win and I hope that this will show in this weekend's key games against Woodcote House.

Ryder Cup

2010-09-28T20:09:00.000+01:00

I was offered a pair of tickets to the Saturday of the Ryder Cup next weekend and had to turn them down because I am away for the weekend - gutted!!

Parents' Forum

2010-09-28T16:25:00.000+01:00

Today's Parents' Forum at St. Columba's Church in Knightsbridge was very interesting. It was a very good opportunity to talk to parents as they set out on the whole school journey. Most parents there had very young children or were even expecting children and they had the opportunity to listen to speakers representing different types of schools.

Two of the speakers were representing London pre-preps and I had the chance to make the case for the prep schools, in particular boarding prep schools. I talked about the advantages of being in the country as opposed to the town, the advantages of single sex education and also I had the chance to talk about boarding schools.

There was a chance for discussion afterwards and I hope that the parents present found it useful.

Independent Schools Forum

2010-09-27T19:24:00.001+01:00

Tomorrow should be an interesting day. I am going to London to speak at the inaugural Independent Schools Forum in St Columba's in Pont Street. I am not quite sure what to expect. I hope there is a good turn-out. I am going to speak about boarding, town v. country and single sex education. I hope there are plenty of questions!

Britain's Youngest Boarders

2010-09-26T08:49:00.000+01:00

The reaction to the programme has been unbelievable. As soon as it began on Wednesday evening, the texts and emails came flooding in and the website saw the most incredible activity - so much so that it very nearly crashed!
We have had a huge number of enquiries and masses of people saying that they want their children to start straight away.
The most amazing thing is all the messages we have received. Parents, old boys and former teachers have all been in touch and also a huge number of people unconnected with the school who have written in saying the most lovely things.
It has all been so exciting and I have to pinch myself to make sure that it has all really happened!

Broadcast Day

2010-09-22T07:59:00.000+01:00

So today's the day for our programme to be aired on BBC2! I must confess I am pretty excited. I hope that the reaction is good. I am looking forward to finding out how many people watch the film. They will let us know tomorrow morning I believe.

What I hope more than anything is that people realise how much fun boarding can be and how much the boys enjoy it. I know that there will be those who are against it and will always be against it but if this opens a few more eyes to the possbility it will have been worth it.

Hands tied by EU

2010-09-21T09:34:00.001+01:00

Very frustratingly we have had to cancel our geography field trip to the school's house in France this weekend because of a ridiculous EU law that states that it is now illegal for teachers to drive minibuses in France unless they have a specific licence which appears to be something similar to a coach drivers licence! This is so frustrating. It is becoming more and more difficult to organise interesting educational outings and trips which enhance the pupils' learning and also provide them with a broader view of life than we are able to provide within our walls. Even for the teachers to drive in England we have had to buy a new bus with two fewer seats so that teachers who passed their driving tests after 1997 are able to drive it. Are they somehow worse drivers that those who passed before that date? I doubt it.

Tiny Treasures!

2010-09-15T12:18:00.001+01:00

I have just been handed a new book called Tiny Treasure in which 8 Sunningdale boys have stories published. They are fantastic!! I am so proud of them and everybody should buy this book!

Evening Standard Article

2010-09-15T09:42:00.001+01:00

Apparently I was mentioned in gossip column of the Evening Standard yesterday and quoted as 'moaning about the Archers having a go at boarding'. Very funny as although I was certainly at the awards ceremony mentioned, I never said anything about the Archers as, sadly for my mother, I never even tune in to the Archers!

Oh, no award by the way!!

First football matches of the term

2010-09-15T09:38:00.001+01:00

So looking forward to matches this afternoon. It is a beautiful day and the boys are really excited about them. It could be a bit of a baptism of fire as they have only had a few practices but I suppose it will be the same for our opponents.

Fingers crossed for the results! Watch this space .........

Daily Mail article

2010-09-11T09:41:00.001+01:00

This morning is the weekend section of the Daily Mail, there is an article about the upcoming BBC 2 documentary. It makes quite interesting reading.

My response to the article would be to say that Nick Duffell's comments, while valid in their own way, present one side of boarding. What the article fails to mention is that for every one child that does not respond well to boarding there are hundreds for whom it is a fantastic experience.

I would also say that you would find pupils that have not enjoyed their school experience in every sector of education, be it boarding or day, independent or state.

BBC Documentary

2010-09-11T09:36:00.002+01:00

On Wednesday 22nd September, BBC 2 will be showing a programme called "Britain's Youngest Boarders". It was filmed at Sunningdale during the Michaelmas term last year and it tells the story of what it is like to start at boarding school.

The whole school saw the programme on Thursday evening and I think they were pleased with it. I think it gives a fair representation of life at Sunningdale and I will be very interested to see the reaction of the wider public. I am sure that there will be those who say that they would never send their son to boarding school and that is their prerogative. I do hope, though, that people who watch the programme will realise that boarding is so different from how many people, unfamiliar with it, perceive it.

Start of Term

2010-09-11T09:32:00.001+01:00

I am so excited to have started back at school. The boys are on terrific form and they all seem to be looking forward to what lies ahead this term. I love hearing what they have been up to in the holidays and what they are most looking forward to this term. For some it is the football season, others are looking forward to the carol services or Bonfire Night and for some, the highlight of their term will be 'Bust Up' our Christmas party!

There is no doubt that it is going to be very busy and that is so important in a happy and productive school.

The end of the holidays

2010-08-26T08:48:00.000+01:00

I write this on the train from Dorset to London on my way to see the first day of the Lords test. It strikes me that this is the last week of the holidays as I will be at my desk from Monday.

The summer holidays are always fantastic and we have had a wonderful time but I always think that when we get to this stage I am ready to get back to work.

I love the Michaelmas term. September is always lovely, the grounds look spectacular in Autumn and December is full of so many great events.

This term we have a particularly exciting start as the programme about the school will be broadcast on BBC 2 at 9 o'clock on Tuesday 14th September. The title is "Britain's Youngest Boarders". Make sure you all watch it!!

A* Sunningdalians

2010-08-26T08:40:00.000+01:00

Last term two boys sat German GCSE at the age of 13. This is an achievement in itself. The results came out this week and I am delighted to report that both boys achieved the top grade of A*!

We are so proud of them and I hope that this will lead to more boys doing GCSE early.

Holidays

2010-07-23T05:50:00.000+01:00

The blog has been a little sparse since the start of the holidays. I feel a little like someone turning up to confession, "It has been 14 days since my last blog!"

The end of term went very well but was, as always, tinged with sadness as we had to say goodbye to the leavers. They are now ready for new challenges and it is up to next year's top year to take up the baton and to lead the school.

We have a good deal to look forward to next year and I am already excited about the new term.

Another action shot!

2010-07-09T14:28:00.001+01:00

Swimming Sports

2010-07-09T14:22:00.000+01:00

Today is the house swimming and competition is fierce! The sun is out and it is a perfect day to be in the pool with all the doors open.

Raft building with leavers!

2010-07-07T11:15:00.000+01:00

The Headmaster and Deputy Head are each determined for their teams to win the challenge!!

Fort

2010-07-07T07:46:00.000+01:00

The new fort is now finished and is due to be officially opened today!

House Debating

2010-06-29T19:58:00.000+01:00

The semi-finals of the house debating took place this evening. The head of English had chosen two excellent motions and the boys had prepared well.

In the first debate the motion was, "This house believes that sportsmen should be paid the same as sportswomen." Fox were speaking for the motion but they were outgunned by some good points from Girdlestone.

The motion for the second debate was, "This house believes that nothing is more important in education than reading." This was an interesting topic and probably more difficult to debate than it first appeared. We were slightly lost when it came to defining what the terms of the motion really were but both teams argued well and the initial result was a tie. The adjudicators then had the opportunity to ask questions and Sheepshanks were declared the winners.

This is such a good activity for the boys to take part in both as speakers and as members of the floor and everyone is much looking forward to the final for which the motion is, "This house believes that British troops should withdraw from Afghanistan immediately."

Fort!

2010-06-29T18:00:00.001+01:00

The construction of our new fort is underway. I am not sure who is more excited - me or the boys!!

Charity Day

2010-06-27T22:45:00.002+01:00

Charity Day was amazing! We were raising money for an amazing project in Mumbai, the Door Step School.

The stalls were fantastic; from 'splat the rat' to 'soak the teacher' (which really hurt!!!!!). We had Krispy Kremes, Dominos Pizza and some enormous inflatable obstacle courses and games.

The tombola stall was very popular as was the raffle which included nights in Paris, amazing wine and vouchers for butchers and restaurants.

The day ended with house tug-of-war and then all retired to watch the rather disappointing football in the cinema room.

The weather was amazing and I hope we have raised lots of money to help this fantastic cause.

La Vacquerie

2010-06-25T07:29:00.002+01:00

Early start this morning to get packed and ready to go and catch the ferry. The trip has been a great success.

We are so lucky to have this wonderful house. It is such a great spot and I feel we need to use it more and more. We now send French, Geography and Science trips as well as the choir tour and a leavers' trip. I think a history trip is in the planning.

Camping at La Vacquerie

2010-06-23T19:11:00.001+01:00

The tents at La Vacquerie.

The boys are on great form and have been having a really good time. Today was 'parcours acrobatique' and shrimping on the beach.

I arrived with the two exam boys to see the BBQ alight and supper on its way!

Choir Recording

2010-06-23T16:00:00.000+01:00

The chapel choir are busy recording this afternoon at Farnborough Abbey. The beautiful abbey church was founded in 1881 by the Empress Eugenie as a mausoleum for her late husband Napoleon III. The Abbey boasts a fine organ and an excellent acoustic for recording.

This is a new experience for most of the boys - it is incredibly hard work having to stand stock still and perform their very best for an entire afternoon of singing.

After all of their hard work, the choir will certainly be looking forward to hearing the finished CD.