From the Headmaster's Desk

What do Mother Theresa, Mallory Blackman, Emmeline Pankhurst, Theresa May and Ariana Grande all have in common? They were all selected by our current Year 6 to attend a dinner party of contemporary or historically important figures – the girls’ choice show that they can think broadly and outside the box but also that they are not afraid to offer their honest opinion.

According to a recent opinion poll, Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci is one of the top choices when it comes to organising a dream dinner party. More commonly known as da Vinci (presumably to differentiate him from the Brazilian World Cup winner) on the 500th anniversary of his death, it is strange that so few portraits exist of such a famous individual, with the second only being identified this week.

Last week I wrote about variety and flexibility; da Vinci possessed both of these in abundance. As well as being coined the “father of architecture,” he is widely considered one of the greatest painters of all time and a true polymath. It is highly unlikely that any Lyonsdown pupil will get the chance to actually invite da Vinci to dine at their house, but this week Nadine Cleland, the School’s architect, joined us for the official unveiling of our summer holiday premises development plans. It was lovely to see so many parents there; if you were not able to attend, please see elsewhere in this week’s newsletter for more information.

As I write, Year 5 are enjoying their PGL residential trip; the highlight of their year by all accounts. There are many special events in the Summer Term, which culminates with our  End of Year Celebration on the penultimate day of school. Although our guest speaker is not mentioned above, I am sure they will be a wonderful addition to the event – their identity will be revealed soon.

All the best for a pleasant long weekend.

Mr Hammond

Mr Hammond’s Challenge

I have thoroughly enjoyed discussing books and listening to children read in my office this week; thank you to those who have been independent enough to visit. Following plenty of discussion about the best way to get a favourite novel into the new library, the answer is simple. Write Mr Hammond a letter explaining why ONE book should be in the new library and hand it to him. Unless the book is unsuitable, it will magically appear by September.