This week we held our Infants Public Speaking Finals. Reaching the final four was no easy task, as the standard across all participants was truly impressive. Each student spoke with confidence and clarity, and it was particularly fitting that one of the chosen topics was Courage, our school value for this term. Public speaking at an early age helps children develop far more than just presentation skills. It nurtures confidence, strengthens their ability to express ideas, and builds resilience when speaking in front of others. These are lifelong skills that support leadership, empathy, and the courage to share one’s voice. Starting young ensures our students grow comfortable with communication, not only in the classroom but in all areas of …

This week I had the pleasure of attending the Independent Primary Schools Association 2025 Performing Arts Festival at Town Hall. Our students participated with distinction, both in the John Colet School choir and orchestra performances, and as part of the combined schools ensembles. While every school presented impressive work, the richness of the repertoire, together with the composure, focus, and artistry of our students, was truly outstanding. Congratulations to all our performers, and sincere thanks to Mr Miller for his dedication and leadership.  Julian Wilcock …

We were delighted by the unexpectedly large turnout for our biennial Grandparents Day this week. Please pass on our sincere thanks to all who attended for their patience with the parking limitations and the tea and coffee service. Despite the logistical challenges, the event was a remarkable success and a wonderful celebration of our community. Looking ahead to Monday, we will be welcoming Trevor and Jerry Daniels from 2nd Class, as our Acting Headmasters for the day — a prize they won at our Gala Ball earlier this year. They will be kept very busy with a full schedule of activities, including plenty of handshakes and meetings, though fortunately for them, no emails! Julian Wilcock …

This term, we continue to explore our school value of Courage. At present, we are undertaking perhaps the greatest work of all – the work on ourselves. This is why we reflect on our school values and seek practical exercises that support this inner development. A wonderful place to begin is by becoming still and asking ourselves: “Why do I feel the way I do?” Whether the feeling is pleasant or difficult, understanding its source helps us step back from the emotion and see it more clearly. This kind of honest reflection is our most powerful tool against old habits that no longer serve us. “The unexamined life is not worth living. Know thyself – for this is the …

With the consistently chilly weather and frequent rain, it has been wonderful to see our students arrive each morning with smiles and a positive attitude. Reports are that our 3rd and 4th Class campers (both staff and students!) have taken this resilience to the next level, enjoying a fantastic, if slightly muddy, adventure. Their willingness to embrace the unknown, try new activities, and face challenges head-on, whether it was climbing, archery, or simply sleeping away from home for the first time – has shown a shared courage that not only brings them closer together, but also strengthens them personally. These moments of bravery, big and small, are what make camp so memorable.  Julian Wilcock …

This week, our students took part in the annual Sanskrit Recitation Finals—an inspiring showcase of clarity, rhythm, and meaning. Sanskrit has been a core part of the curriculum at John Colet School since its founding 40 years ago, offering students a unique linguistic foundation. Its precise grammar and phonetics support cognitive development and enhance understanding of other languages, including English. Through Sanskrit, children explore the roots of words across cultures—like da (to give), which connects to dāna (gift), Latin donum, French donner, and English donate and dedicate. The recitations reflected not only linguistic skill but also deep engagement with themes of wellbeing and self-awareness.  Julian Wilcock …