This week we mark World Poetry Day, a reminder that poetry is not merely a matter of rhyme and rhythm but, at its best, of a certain human truth. One of the risks of viewing poetry solely through the familiar lens of the Romantics is that it can appear to idealise life, polishing experience into something unnaturally smooth and harmonious.
Although The Pilgrims’ Pitches sports updates give them their ‘moment in the sun’, it’s great to be able to start with a quick congratulations to the Firsts football team, who’ve had a great start to their season out on the playing fields, with victories over Walhampton and Westbourne House, alongside a hard-earned draw against Twyford.
Well – fully and properly – a very warm welcome back (or welcome!) to everyone in our community, with just over a week gone since the start of term.
As the final days of term approach - sun hats slightly askew, lost property overflowing with odd socks, and many of us (staff and parents included) running on reserves of willpower and coffee – the concept of ‘pride’ is on my mind.
Farewell to our long standing Director of Sport
Epochs can end in different ways.
A couple of short hours ago, the Year 8 boys returned still streaked with Devon mud, tired but buzzing, unloading their bags with the weary pride of the school’s veterans returning from a campaign. Mount Kelly - our well-established Year 8 residential destination - has once again worked its special, boggy magic!
This time of year always stirs a curious blend of emotions.
Though a short span, this week has brimmed with moments that remind us of what holds significance within a school’s daily life. Just within the walls of our Pilgrims’ Hall, two very different gatherings have unfolded - each speaking, in its own way, to the evolving story of learning and growing.
Readers will certainly have noticed the growing trend in the prep school landscape.
Those who create films, stories and media with children as the target audience could crudely be split into two groups:
As I write, I find myself two-thirds of the way through the excellent annual Choir Schools’ Association conference, this year being wonderfully hosted by Wells Cathedral School.
