What a truly excellent first full week back it has been! It was wonderful to see so many of you at our Meet the Teacher events. We have been touched by the kind feedback received, particularly around the attention to detail shown for each child and the clarity of communication. If you were unable to join us, or would like a reminder, the slides are available on Cognita Connect for you to view at your convenience.

 

This week has also brought two very exciting pieces of news for Duncombe. Firstly, I was thrilled to share that from January 2026 we will be moving to Blenheim Schools. This marks the beginning of a wonderful new chapter in our school’s 86 year history. The Blenheim Team are very much looking forward to visiting us in the near future, and here at Duncombe we are excited about the opportunities that this transition will provide for our children and community.

 

Secondly, I was equally delighted to announce that Duncombe has been named a Finalist in the Independent School of the Year 2025 Awards, in the category of Best Use of Educational Technology! This recognition is testament to the whole team’s commitment to providing the very best for every pupil, ensuring that educational technology is used thoughtfully and meaningfully as part of a truly holistic learning experience. We look forward to the celebration evening on 14th October when we will join many other outstanding schools gathered together.

 

A huge well done to #TeamDuncombe for all that has been achieved already this year, and we’re only just getting started! Our U11 Boys’ Football Team greatly enjoyed the opportunity to compete at the Haileybury Prep School Football Festival this week. Congratulations to the entire team for a tremendous start to the sporting calendar. We now look ahead to next week as they head to the ISFA Regional Finals, a very exciting challenge!

 

It was also lovely to see Year 1 and Year 6 enjoying their buddy lunch yesterday. Watching the children connect across the age groups and forge special bonds is always a highlight, and we know these friendships often last well beyond Duncombe.

 

Next week promises more excitement, with Year 1 visiting the British Schools Museum in Hitchin as part of their studies on the past. It is sure to be an excellent learning experience, and we look forward to hearing all about their discoveries.

 

We are also eagerly anticipating Global Be Well Day on Friday 26th September, which will focus on the theme of Connecting. Ms Saito and Mr Sopher are planning a day full of opportunities for the children to explore and reflect on wellbeing, and we will be sharing more information with you next week as the day approaches.

 

Finally, a reminder that we will be hosting our Senior Schools Fair on Thursday 9th October at 6.30pm. This is an excellent opportunity for families and pupils to meet with the many Independent Senior Schools serving our area as you look ahead to life beyond Year 6 at Duncombe.

Have a wonderful weekend. Mr Phelan.