Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 24th May 2024
Head’s Blog:
“With great power comes great responsibility” Spider-Man
A simplistic interpretation of this quotation might be if you have the ability to do something, make sure you are doing it for the good of others. In Spiderman’s case, uncle Ben reminds Peter Parker that despite his superpowers, he needs to maintain his integrity and make sure that he uses his power justly for the good of humankind.
Over half-term, I will have the privilege of reading the current Form VII’s application letters for the positions of responsibility in Form VIII. This is never an easy time of year; the decisions surrounding each role are incredibly difficult given the strength of all who put their names forward, and we take this process very seriously. Whilst it is exciting, as we form a new pupil leadership team, it is always tempered by a heavy heart as we watch the previous team move on.
In my many years of school leadership, the dynamic that comes from a new leadership team is always a privilege to observe. Each team forges their path with a different approach that includes a variety of strengths and ideas, but they always have the same goal; to enhance the opportunities for all members of our school community.
Interestingly, whenever I talk to the children about the leaders that inspire them, (this is often a question asked at a senior school interview) they will often mention examples close to home, parents, siblings, family members or friends are by far the more common responses than those people in the political spotlight or positions of authority. This is heartening in so many ways, because it highlights the many wonderful role models that the children have in their own households and immediate lives.
The children often tell me that the characteristics of care, attentiveness, empathy and compassion are those which they value most in an inspirational leader, I think this is significant because perhaps these characteristics are not always exemplified in the leadership role models available to young people in wider society.
At Beachborough, giving our children the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership skills by fulfilling a position of responsibility, enables them to experience what type of a leader they would like to be and importantly, as the name suggests, to recognise and understand the responsibility that goes hand in hand with these positions. We believe that being responsible is a critical component of being a strong and successful leader, as responsibility in leadership requires courage, humility, and a commitment to doing what’s right, even when the situation is complicated.
Our school environment is not just about providing a safe, engaging learning space but in addition, we need to provide a “brave space,” where the children can face challenge and grow as future leaders, knowing that their voice will be heard and that their development is at the heart of all that we do. As a result, when their moment comes, they will be able to undertake their individual leadership role with confidence and truly be the leader they would want to look up to themselves.
Thank you to Form VII for the time and care you have taken to write your letters; I will very much enjoy reading them.
Have a fun filled half-term; let’s hope the sun shines.
Simone
On Tuesday morning, children in PP1 visited Turweston Aerodrome. They toured the hangars and observed aircraft dating from 1904 to the present day. The visit offered valuable learning opportunities outside the classroom, enriching the children’s comprehension of aviation history and technology. The pupils demonstrated enthusiasm and curiosity, actively engaging in the educational experience. Such excursions play a crucial role in bringing academic knowledge to life, instilling a profound love for learning in our pupils.
U11 Cricket Tournament…
Last night we had another brilliant TED talk from Dr. Nick Alp (Dad of William and Henry!). This engaging session, titled “How to Make New Medicine and Other Life Tips,” was an enlightening journey into the world of medical research, gene editing, and personal development.
Form VIII Spanish enjoyed a Spanish gustative experience on Monday afternoon, making their own tapas, with serrano ham, chorizo, manchego cheese, olives and crisps, just like you would have them in a Spanish bar, in the sunshine, in the heart of Madrid!
Further to winning the Northampton Netball Under 12 league with her local team, Future Print, on 12th May, Sienna played in the Southern Netball Tournament with her new Regional Team, Eagles of Maidenhead, last weekend. After a gruelling full day tournament in the hot conditions, they were thrilled to achieve third place and come home with a trophy and medals. Her coaches were delighted with her strong defensive skills and ability to read the game play.
