Being adventurous is a treasured value at Felsted. Adventures come in many forms. The adventure of being part of the Year 7 and 8 production of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ is one that will never be forgotten. For those who are yet to see it … you are in for a real treat! From the first note to the last, the audience were taken on an exhilarating journey with much fun and laughter throughout!

The best adventures contain challenges that make your heart race. Every pupil in the Prep School has felt this feeling over the past few weeks. You will remember that I spoke about Chris Lubbe’s inspirational talk that inspired our collective call to action recently? 

The result of this call to action was the final of the Public Speaking Competition this week where we heard from children in Stewart House, in Ffrome Court, in Cloisters and in Courtauld House. We also heard from Niamh L in our sixth form, who spoke so candidly about neurodiversity and her personal experiences.

Each speech was based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Each speech held a valuable message about the good we can do for our planet and each other. And each speech was delivered with passion and belief. Thankfully I was joined by an expert panel who had the almost impossible task of selecting the winning speech; Chris Townsend (Our Felsted Head), Jenny Burrett (Former FPS Head) and Stephen Duckitt (the Head at Thorpe Hall School). Olivia M and Ben Y also helped the judging process by sharing a dramatic extract from Shakespeare's MacBeth and further inspiring our audience while the judges were making their deliberations. I know I speak on behalf of the school when I express how grateful we are to all those who helped make the event such a success.

Grignon League this week led a tremendous Chapel service that enhanced the experience of calling all to action. The focus on the narrative we choose to use and the respect we give to one another was a wonderful reminder of how 'Felsted Respects.'

This is only the start of the adventure for Felsted pupils. The calls to action have been heard and next week will herald our contribution to 'The Great British School Clean 2023' and all our children will be helping to keep Britain tidy. Not only will litter be collected, but it will be analysed. How much paper do we throw away? What can be recycled? Is there evidence that we are increasing our use of single use plastics? What will be our next steps towards a more sustainable future? 

I look forward to seeing our pupils tomorrow in 'non school uniform' and incorporating the colour red where possible, to support Red Nose Day. Our Charity Stall morning will also support our current League Charities: Farleigh Hospice, David Randall Foundation, London Air Ambulance, Braintree Foodbank and the Ruth Strauss Foundation

Wishing you a wonderful weekend ahead with your families,

Warm wishes,

Miranda Norris
Head, Felsted Prep