House Singing Competition

I am happy to say that the momentum on pupil numbers continues to build. My thanks again to Mrs Lensing-Wolff for arranging this visit for us and making sure it ran seamlessly to a very tight schedule.

I was sorry to miss the OA Sport Weekend but I understand it was an energetic and happy weekend for all involved - especially our students who won overall taking the top spot in girls' hockey, netball, football and cross country! Great efforts from all.

Monday saw the whole school blasting the roof off SAC as we had the annual House Singing Competition.  A relatively new event in school but one that is embraced by all students and staff - my thanks to Edward Seymour for initiating it.  St Margaret's were triumphant on the day winning the Group category, whilst Agnes Richardson (A Year 12) took the top spot for Solo on the Saxophone and Oliver Grace (CT Year 12) for the Open Class.  Well done to everyone who took part.
Marie and I were delighted to join the monastic community and guests on Tuesday (the Solemnity of St Joseph) as we welcomed Cardinal Nichols to bless St Alban Roe House. Newly refurbished, this will be home to a new visitor experience and tea room (opening tomorrow!) and provide accommodation for visiting schools and retreatants. It’s wonderful to see the renewal of the Abbey alongside that of the College. 

As Cardinal Nichols said during the blessing: "May I suggest that this Feast Day is such a suitable moment for the blessing of this new House, in which visitors will learn about the God-given dignity of their lives; in which they will grow in the deep spirit of listening for the prompting of God in their lives and the willingness to follow God’s call; and in which they will be welcomed into a safe and life-enhancing environment".

This week the 1st VII, U16 and U14 teams all enjoyed playing in the world's largest school rugby tournament in the world, the Rosslyn Park 7s. The 1st VII in particular played extremely well and emphatically topped their very competitive group with three wins out of three. Overall it was a fantastic effort by all students involved and a great way to round off the Lent term. Thanks to Will James and his coaching team for consistently encouraging the boys to give their all.

This week also saw the final House competition of the term, the Inter-House Shooting Competition. Congratulations to St John's who took home the top spot and to Isabel Mounde (A Year 11), Ben Ainsworth (DO Year 12) and James Thompson (J Year 11) who were the top three individual shots.

Today we celebrated St Benedict's Day with a whole school Mass followed by a delicious festal lunch - the perfect way to end the term.  Marie and I hope you have a peaceful Easter break.

All best wishes,

Peter