13.03.2026 Senior Bulletin

Dear Parents, Guardians & Carers,

Science Week has brought a wonderful sense of curiosity and energy to the school, with pupils across all year groups exploring the excitement of experimentation, discovery and scientific thinking. One of the highlights of the week has been today, welcoming groups of Prep School children into the Senior School Chemistry Department. Their enthusiasm was wonderful to see as they made their own red cabbage indicator from scratch before using it to investigate the acidity and alkalinity of a range of everyday household substances. Although the solutions produced some striking colour changes, the heart of the activity was the process of testing, comparing and thinking like young scientists. Pupils also enjoyed a series of demonstrations, including a couple that produced loud bangs; they were asked to cover their ears, which added much anticipation and excitement. Our Senior pupils supported them superbly throughout, guiding them through each stage and helping to spark genuine curiosity about scientific enquiry.

In lessons, Science Week has prompted pupils to think more deeply about investigation, accuracy, and reflection. Whether analysing results, refining methods or challenging assumptions, pupils have been encouraged to take risks and see mistakes as stepping‑stones. These small but meaningful habits contribute to the broader learning culture we strive to foster, one in which ambition and curiosity go hand in hand.

In the Whole School Assembly, the Head spoke compellingly about excellence, endeavour and the many opportunities that shape pupils’ journeys. He congratulated the newly appointed Year 12 Prefect Team, who will take on key leadership roles and help guide the school community in the year ahead. He also reflected on the recent Sixth Form Diploma Scholars trip to the Royal Cornwall Museum, celebrating the thoughtful discussion, creativity and intellectual curiosity shown by those involved. The Diploma continues to be a powerful example of how academic, creative, sporting and community strengths are recognised and nurtured.

The Head’s message centred strongly on enrichment, both the organised opportunities pupils enjoy and the personal choices they make each day to stretch themselves. He highlighted the excellent GCSE Drama performances this week, the recent scholars’ visit to Oxford, and the impressive work displayed at the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Showcase in the Burrell Theatre, where pupils presented complex research with confidence and clarity. Always one of the highlights in my year, do try to catch one of these showcase evenings in future years; they are truly impressive. The Head also acknowledged the huge range of activities that take place beyond the classroom, including sport, music, outward bound adventures, DofE preparation and international experiences. All of these, he reminded pupils, help shape the rich tapestry of their development.

We also celebrated the awarding of new academic and co‑curricular scholarships in Years 7 and 9, which recognise not a single moment, but consistent dedication and a mindset of growth. These achievements aligned beautifully with the themes of Science Week, reminding pupils that learning is a journey made up of many small, colourful “points” that together create a vibrant whole.

As we end this lively and purposeful week, I’d like to thank staff across all departments for the energy and care they put into making these opportunities possible, and to our pupils for embracing them so openly.

Warmest wishes,
Shaun Pope
Deputy Head (Academic)

Dr Shaun Pope

Deputy Head (Academic)