“To possess a second language is to possess a second soul” Charlemagn
Having introduced two of our new Heads of Faculty and some of their initiatives prior to the half term break, it is time to complete the set. We are delighted to welcome Mr Philip Perry as Head of Languages and Literature as well as Head of English.
In his fine words, “the world our learners will enter after they leave school is interconnected in ways that couldn’t be imagined even fifty years ago. Digital communication and the advent of AI are altering our relationship with language in unprecedented ways, both unnerving and exciting. But what will always hold true is that mastery of language will afford an individual remarkable opportunities. The faculty of Languages and Literature aims to give our learners a belief that language is the key to taking a confident place in an interconnected world, and being a curious, aspirational, kind-hearted global citizen. Central to achieving this is instilling the sense that languages and literature are a gateway to a world of imagination and wonder, but also a means to success beyond the creative realm. We have started to make plans to bring in external authors and speakers later in the year, but we will also launch, this term, a series of internal competitions and national competitions for young writers, among them the Tower poetry prize, The Orwell Prize and the OxBright essay competition.” Next week will provide Humanities and Social Sciences, the final faculty, an opportunity to present their ideas for the upcoming year and beyond.
On Monday morning, the whole school took part in a moving Remembrance Service in Cloisters. The students observed the two-minute silence with deep respect as the Saint Felix community joined together to remember not only those Old Felicians who gave their lives in service, but all who have died in conflicts since and including World War One. This reflected the themes addressed in Chapel the week before and in Assembly on the day itself, giving everyone a sense of why we continue to remember and the significance of doing so.
It was a pleasure to see so many parents at the Fireworks Evening last Friday; we were blown away by the support that this event received not only from the Saint Felix community, but also from those that live locally. It was heart-warming to see so many people enter through the gates to enjoy the fine food, liquid refreshments and outstanding display that capped off the evening. We are already planning next year!
There are many charities that the school supports but increasingly, EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices) has become our main local partner. It is an incredible charity that ensures all-encompassing and lifelong care that includes a comprehensive range of services across three hospices in East Anglia, all of which have been rated outstanding. It was lovely to welcome them into Chapel last Friday where they received a cheque from our Prep Department and PTA which will help them enormously. We look forward to continuing to work with EACH for the remainder of this academic year and beyond.
Our badminton team goes from strength to strength with our Girls U18 team having a titanic battle with King’s School, Ely, resulting in a tightly fought draw (6-6) whilst the Boys team won 12-0 to continue their excellent set of results. Well done to all!
It is wonderful to be back in school today after having carried out an inspection for ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate); whilst being away is never ideal, it is vital that we can reflect on the latest statutory requirements and how they are applied by the inspecting body as we begin the slow journey towards their next visit to Saint Felix in 2026.
Wishing everyone a good weekend when it arrives!
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head
