What an exceptionally warm and eventful week it has been at Duncombe! We’ve had a packed schedule filled with trips, performances, our Move Up Morning, and—just to add a little extra excitement—an ISI Inspection!

 

The dedication and spirit shown by our staff and pupils throughout has been nothing short of remarkable. The Duncombe Spirit has truly shone through, and I could not be prouder of our school community. The final report will be published in the coming term and whilst I cannot share the full outcome, I am permitted to share we are all very happy here! I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone for their part in what has been a hugely positive and affirming experience.

 

As this is our final newsletter before Speech Day, we are already reflecting on a fantastic year gone by and looking forward to celebrating together. We will be wishing our wonderful Year 6 pupils every success as they prepare to move on to their next exciting chapter and, of course, looking ahead to a well-earned summer break and the new academic year to come.

 

Highlights of the week have included the Year 6 Play, which was nothing short of a triumph. Our pupils dazzled us with their performances, bringing magic and joy to the stage. A huge thank you to the Year 6 team and to everyone behind the scenes—props, costumes, sound, and more—who made the evening so special.

 

Yesterday’s Summer Concert was another showstopper, showcasing musical talents across a wide range of instruments, voices, and age groups. Thank you to all our performers and to the staff who supported Mrs Sutton in delivering another musical odyssey of the highest quality.

 

Year 2’s seaside trip to Southend-on-Sea was a resounding success (if a little wet at the start), packed with traditional activities and plenty of seaside charm. Meanwhile, Year 6’s visit to the STEM Centre was a fantastic part of their ongoing Enrichment Programme as they edge closer to the end of their time at Duncombe.

 

Our Move Up Morning yesterday was a delightful occasion, filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the year ahead. It was lovely to see the excitement building across the school as pupils met new teachers and imagined what’s to come.

 

This morning, we enjoyed a visit from our outgoing Patron of Reading, children’s author Beth Garrod. The children and staff have greatly enjoyed their opportunity to work and learn with Beth. We had the chance to say thank you and wish her well for the future. Excitedly our new Patron of Reading will be Abiola Bello, an award-winning children’s author and publisher. We shall be welcoming her into Team Duncombe from September and will share more soon.

 

Looking ahead to next week—our final week of the academic year—we have more exciting moments in store: Year 6 will enjoy hosting ‘The Ritz’ on Monday, The Lower School Play takes place on Wednesday afternoon, Treetops (EKG to Nursery) finish on Thursday and we will end the week and year in celebratory style with Speech Day for Reception to Year 6.

 

Finally, congratulations to Knebworth who came out as this term’s House Points Winners and will be able to dress in blue next week on Tuesday 8th July!

 

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend.

Mr Phelan