Headmaster’s Blog 17 October 2019

It’s difficult to believe that we are already coming to the end of this first half term of the academic year. Thinking about those students who only joined the Senior School this year, I am acutely aware of how demanding it can be to experience new surroundings and routines, become accustomed to different teachers and, in some cases, study different subjects for the first time.  From my observations, though, everyone seems to have settled into BMS life with ease.

It has been another busy week in all areas of school life. Highlights include the thrilling U14B team rugby game on Saturday against Loughborough Grammar School. Our boys went to the break 14-5 down but raised their game significantly in the second half eventually nudging ahead and with minutes to go, and some exciting last minute scoring from both sides, we claimed a 26-24 win. The Rugby World Cup wasn’t nearly as nail biting!

I made a flying visit to Yardley Chase training area during the weekend to visit the first CCF camp of the year and it was excellent to see more than 60 new Year 9 cadets tucking into breakfast before they started their first full day of training. It will lay the foundation for their time with the Corps and they will have learned how to gain maximum benefit from the opportunity.

Meanwhile on the water, our rowers had four event wins at the Bedford Small Boats Head on Sunday amidst driving rain. The Open Coxed Fours in both bands two and three, the J16 coxed fours and the WJ18 single sculls were all BMS successes and this bodes well for year ahead.

Tonight we look forward to the House Dance competition where students from across the Senior School battle it out to claim the much coveted House Dance trophy. What I like best about evenings such as these is the inclusivity of it all, with Sixth Form students supporting and inspiring the younger ones and having such fun along the way. If you are lucky enough to have a ticket then you have a real treat in store.

There are a number of trips taking place during the half term break including destinations such as China and Berlin. I wish them safe travels and look forward to hearing all about their adventures when we all return to School on 04 November.

Alex Tate
Headmaster