It seems only a matter of moments ago that I was introducing myself to the Oundle community. The term has whooshed by at an incredible pace and the Christmas holiday is already upon us. What has struck me most over these opening weeks is just how fully the School is living up to, and often exceeding, my expectations. And those expectations were high.
From the opening glow and mists of autumn to the gleam of Christmas lights, there has been a real fizz and crackle in the air at every turn. Amidst the extraordinary breadth of life here, where it is simply impossible to sample everything on offer, I have been struck by the balance pupils bring to their days.
I have loved my encounters with pupils, most particularly at lunchtimes. Conversations have been wide-ranging and, even from those new to the place, enjoyably open and curious. From the glories and agonies of school sport to revision for mocks, and from developments in genetics to the last days of Queen Elizabeth I, it would be hard to imagine a more varied set of topics. It has been good to ask, and to be asked, questions of the young people whom the School seeks to serve.
There is academic seriousness and ambition, of course, but there is also humour and perspective. There is a deep sense of connectedness, of kindness and genuine interest in one another. It is community life made manifest.
From the epic and benignly competitive House Singing competition, conducted with full-throated and mostly tuneful enthusiasm, to the meditative and moving Remembrance commemorations, the school as a collective has impressed too. In the last days of this term, the musical, a range of concert and the wonderfully numinous Advent Carol Service have marked the fruition of many weeks of fine-tuned effort.
This is a very special place and we are a community in excellent heart.
Head
