It has been another busy and purposeful week here at Duncombe, full of energy and learning both in and out of the classroom. It’s also been another week of celebration as I am delighted to share that we have been awarded Microsoft Showcase School status! We are now accredited to join a global community of pioneering institutions leading digital transformation in education.

 

This accreditation reflects our ongoing work to enhance teaching and learning through purposeful technology; from our Upper School Smart-rooms and whole-school Class Notebook adoption to AI literacy, staff CPD, and strong partnerships with families. We look forward to engaging with Microsoft’s global network and continuing to strengthen the children’s experiences, teacher development, and future-ready learning across the curriculum. This is the second Monday in a row where we have received wonderful news about awards- here’s hoping there is something next Monday- although I don’t know what that would be!

 

Our assembly theme on safety continued, with Mrs Micele-Jones leading a fantastic talk on online safety. She introduced the children to the acronym SMART, giving them some memorable and practical tips to help keep safe online. Parents may also find this UK Online Safety Guidance for Parents helpful as a resource at home. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/

 

This morning Mrs Johnson gathered the House teams together to share details about their chosen charities for the year. There are some excellent initiatives planned, and it promises to be a truly inspiring way for our pupils to give back and make a difference across the term. Alongside our planned Global Be Well day focus (more on this in the newsletter), this term Knebworth House will be supporting Emmaus- a Homeless Charity. You can find out more here What we do – Emmaus UK charity working to end homelessness The Knebworth team have plenty planned and will be sharing this in more detail in the coming days and weeks.

 

Year 1 enjoyed a wonderful visit to the British Schools Museum this week, where their enthusiasm and curiosity shone through. Staff at the museum were quick to commend the children on their excellent attention and their role as true ambassadors for Duncombe – do keep an eye out for the full report coming soon.

 

Meanwhile, our Under 11 Football Team are representing us with pride in the finals of the Independent Schools Football Association Regional Finals, hosted today at Chigwell School. We wish them the very best and look forward to celebrating their efforts when they return.Looking ahead, next week promises more exciting opportunities:

  • On Thursday 25th September, the PA will be hosting their much-loved Macmillan Coffee Morning which is a wonderful chance to enjoy a treat, connect with others, and support a truly important cause.
  • Also on Thursday, Reception pupils will be off to Beckonscot Model Village, which promises to be a rich and memorable learning experience.
  • On Friday 26th September, we come together for our Global Be Well Day, where the focus will be on Connecting. This is always a special moment in our school calendar, and we are looking forward to celebrating with the whole Duncombe community (including some great dancing!)

 

Wishing you all a restful and happy weekend. Mr Phelan.