How wonderful to be a child again.

How wonderful to be a child again.

As most of us battled with the double challenge of getting our cars ready for the road in Arctic temperatures and the prospect of ‘Blue Monday’, the Cundall Manor pupils set their minds to the task of sliding down ‘the Hill’ as quickly as possible. And when they discovered that using sledges allowed them to go too quickly, they found other, less dangerous methods. Meanwhile, the opportunity was grasped to introduce curling to the co-curricular offering – watch out for Cundall’s involvement in the 2034 Winter Olympics. I am sure that in fifty years’ time some of the most vivid memories of school life will centre on the fun had this week in our winter wonderland.

What has this got to do with learning? It is worth pointing out that this particular challenge required teamwork, cooperation, innovation, and a bit of risk and courage. Incidentally, the quickest sled I saw was ridden by two girls from Aram – #Gofaster. Temperatures are set to rise next week, hopefully in time to allow our sporting fixtures to take place.

Meanwhile, Thornton pupils (Year 11) ended what might have been a less joyous twelve days of Christmas than usual by beginning their mock GCSE exams – mostly three papers per day. It is really important for them to understand the rollercoaster of emotions during the public examination season before the real thing in the summer and to get feedback on their current performance. Our intention is that the Class of 2025 will outperform their 2024 counterparts, who achieved at least one grade higher in every subject than the England and Wales average. We also intend that everyone will fulfil their potential, whether that be a raft of top grades or the qualifying grades for a Level 3 vocational course. These outcomes are equally important to us and very achievable, given the genuine individual attention each pupil receives in our small class sizes.

My first week at Cundall ended with my involvement in the splendid Starworker Award ceremony in Pre-Prep – a lovely way to go into the weekend. As you will imagine, each day at the moment brings me a deeper understanding of the school and the chance to get to know every member of the Cundall community. I look forward to meeting you all in the coming weeks.

Mr Simon Weale
Headmaster