The Start of Term

There is something special about the first day of the new academic year. It is difficult to put your finger on what creates the buzz around Arnold on the first Thursday in September but, whatever magic it is, there has been a palpable sense of optimism and excitement amongst pupils new and old since term started. It was great to wander the corridors of both the Junior and Senior schools and to see so many smiling children all looking forward to the next 10 months together. I know that although many of our new pupils are going home tired, they are also excited about the challenges ahead.

I was very pleased to see so many Lower School pupils attending the Extra-Curricular Fayre on Friday. There is a strong correlation between involvement in extra-curricular activities and success in the classroom; so it was encouraging to speak to so many pupils saying that they wanted to get involved and stretch themselves by trying something new.

Arnold was full of life on Saturday morning too. The girls’ hockey teams departed for their block fixtures against Stockport and their early start was worth it because all four teams returned victorious! Members of the senior rugby squad were also being put through their paces in a trial match. In the afternoon, a large group of Old Arnoldians who left the school in the early 1980s returned to their old school for a tour, dinner and, perhaps most importantly, the chance to reminisce about their time at Arnold. It was very entertaining to hear their happy tales and also to learn of their successes since leaving school.

The first full week of school is going to be busy. I am looking forward to meeting the parents of Year 10 and the Lower Sixth at their induction evenings and I do hope that those parents who are new to Arnold will join us at the reception for new families next Sunday.

Best wishes

Jim Keefe

Acting Head

Posted by: J E Keefe
Date: Sunday 05/09/2010