Black History Month – Legacies of Action
On Monday, Archie L led an excellent assembly to celebrate Black History Month, talking about his lived experiences alongside his peers who also spoke about their role models and people who have inspired them. It was wonderfully well choreographed and inspiring to hear our students speak so eloquently and passionately to the assembled audience. From Idris Elba to Diane Abbot and Marcus Rashford, the students told a powerful story of how these prominent figures in film, politics and sport have influenced them in a myriad of different of ways. They all brought up the importance and significance of fully exploring context in any narrative or history which is so important for us all to recognise when looking into any topic in more detail and depth to develop a true understanding. One of the very best student assemblies that I have seen in my 30+ years in education; well done to Archie L and every student who spoke so well.
As we inch ever closer to the half-term break, House Shout is nearly upon us. This is without doubt one of the absolute highlights of the Saint Felix calendar which students, parents and staff all look forward to in equal measure. Rehearsals have increased in intensity over the last week or so as the various pieces begin to all come together and there is now a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Stories and rumours of supposed costumes, dance routines and hairstyles are circulating and whether they are reality or not will soon become apparent! I hope that you will all be able to take the opportunity to join us for House Shout 2025 on Thursday evening with the event commencing at 7 p.m.
Another event that is now entering its final stage of planning is the Fireworks Evening on Friday 7th November. Last year, this was a wonderful occasion for all who attended with a record gathering to watch an outstanding display over Ruth’s Field accompanied by fine food and accompaniments. Please do join us again next month for what will be a fitting way to mark the end of the first week back after half term. All Saint Felix students can attend for free, as can any children under the age of 12. Please do spread the word.
In sporting news, our Under 18 Badminton team had a titanic match against King’s School Ely, losing 13-11 in a hard-fought battle. Our Under 11 Tag Rugby team played in a local tournament and won every single game. The tournament was decided on the basis of teamwork and respect, and whilst we did not technically win, we did! Our Year 4 to Year 6 students swam at the ISA Championships in Ipswich, coming a highly credible 13th out of 21 schools, whilst our athletes are continuing to train for the Cross- Country season with their picturesque morning runs down to the Pier and beyond; many personal bests are being notched up on a weekly basis, including Mr Borrer, who is benefiting from having a new training partner in Cody H.
Perhaps the highlight of the week though came with our Under 13 Football team beating Woodbridge 3-2, with Jude H from Year 6 playing up two years in terms of his age, taking on a pivotal role in a fantastic victory. You can also see our Senior Football squad looking rather
resplendent in their new training kit preparing for further fixtures over the coming weeks.
Many of you will have seen the front page of the East Anglia Daily Times yesterday (Royal Hospital School in Holbrook sold to Inspired Learning | East Anglian Daily Times) which highlighted that ILG have acquired the Royal Hospital School in Ipswich; this is excellent news not just for the growth of the group but also for our students. Due to the proximity of this school, there will undoubtedly be opportunities for our students to collaborate and engage in joint activities to enhance their educational provision and co-curricular programme in the months to come as the relationship becomes more established. There are many benefits of being part of a group, not least given the current landscape in the independent sector, and it is with real pleasure that we welcome RHS into our wider family.
I hope that you all have a lovely weekend, and I look forward to seeing you at House Shout!
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head