Pirates, Go-Karts, Sustainability and Walks!
The highlight of this week has been the wonderful production of Plastic Pirates by the Prep Department. What a marvellous performance of a production that has a clear message and purpose for all. With the concept of sustainability and protecting our environment at the heart of the story, it was a powerful piece of work reminding us all of our responsibility as custodians of the beautiful world that we inherit. The singing was superb and forceful, the choreography was beautifully executed, and the pupils had a blast! With laughs aplenty, it was a pleasure to be there seeing once again the power of the performing arts. Not only was it a joyous affair but also, all of the materials used have been taken to the recycling centre this morning. The pupils sorted the plastic and then loaded it all into the school car, so that the staff could transport everything to the recycling centre in Lowestoft, thus ensuring that the theme of sustainability that the show so actively promoted, is also a lived truth for us at Saint Felix.
We have been blessed with the most divine weather during the first half of this term where our students have been able to enjoy and utilise our rural landscape; this was best seen last weekend, when over 35 boarders and staff joined members of the local community for the annual 10k Starlight walk organised by Blyth Valley Rotary in aid of local charities. Coming at the end of Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year has ‘Community’ as its theme, it seemed very fitting that we could join with our local community to take part in this event as well as being able to enjoy the beautiful environment in which we are situated. In other activities this term, the boarders have visited Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach as well as an evening trip for Ten-Pin Bowling last weekend. Some of the boarders are also working towards their BSA Bronze Life Skills Award. This award helps them to evidence some of the skills that they develop through being boarders, that enable them to become well-rounded individuals. Towards the end of term, it is time for Boarding Fest! A night that features inflatables, live music, and a BBQ and firepit to celebrate another year as a boarding community. What a way to close out another successful year for our wonderful boarding community that enriches the lives of everyone at Saint Felix.
In other student news, congratulations to Ethan B who is part of the Kirkley and Pakefield Knights Football Team who won the Under 13 Norfolk and Suffolk Youth League. They won their final game 5-3 with Ethan B putting in a strong performance in defence to round off a truly excellent season. Harry P-R continues to fly with his Go-Karting Races; Harry finished 4th at the Red Lodge Competition and lies in the same position in the overall championship and over the summer, he has three festivals to aim for including at a new circuit in London.
Round two of the Mixed Netball fixture against Langley School was played out this week and once again, Saint Felix were the winners. In a hard fought 24-13 victory, the Sixth Form Girls led the way with great teamwork and commitment with the Boys becoming ever more proficient in defence with some key interceptions. We look forward to further developing our Mixed Netball fixture list in the upcoming academic year as it has proved to be such an enjoyable co-ed sport for everyone involved.
As the concept of service continues to grow within our community, it is wonderful to be able to highlight just some of the areas that where the students have excelled. A small team is working on a timeline of the school for the Visitors room as well as a photographic display of the past and present. Holly R-W continues to develop the concept of service through the RAF Cadets and has been sworn in as the new Mayor Cadet for the incoming Beccles Mayor, Councillor Barry Darch; I know she will perform her duties with honour.
Meanwhile, and in the midst of his public examinations, Charles S has volunteered to run the Southwold Library Chess Club, an excellent way to give back to the local community. I do hope that we as extend the service opportunities across the upcoming academic year, more and more students will utilise these opportunities as they bring such fulfilment and joy.
The examination season is now well and truly under way and the students in both Years 11 and 13 have gone about this in a calm and assured manner thus far helping each other and creating exactly the right atmosphere. We wish them all the very best in the second half of term with their final set of exams; all that we can ask is that you do your very best!
Due to the popularity of the Saint Felix Skiing Trip in 2026, we have managed to open up a few more places. If you would like your son or daughter to take part in this wonderful opportunity, please email prepadmin@stfelix.co.uk to secure your place; first come, first served.
A date for the diary as cake will be available! The PTA will be offering tea, coffee, cake and smiles just before pick-up on Friday 6th June. If any of you would like to know more about what the PTA does and how you can get involved (as much or as little as you like!), or if you would just like the chance to chat to other parents, please visit the Gazebo outside the Dining Hall from 3.30 p.m. onwards. Cathy Pitt and her team will all be there and I will certainly be popping along as well.
Saint Felix will also be present at the Suffolk Show again next week on Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th June. Our Admissions, Marketing and Staff team will be at Stand 808; there are a number of exciting games and prizes available, a fun photo board opportunity and a chance to meet the team. We would love to see any of you who are attending during the course of the two days.
It is only left to wish you all an enjoyable half term. I am already looking forward to the second half of this term when there are so many lovely events for the whole community to enjoy.
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head
