The Senior Play performed on Tuesday 13^th December by a small but dedicated cast of boys from Years 7 and 8 was a triumph and an absolute joy to watch. The set, a nineteenth century drawing room and garden backdrop, was stunning and complimented what unfolded within. The Art and DT Departments really captured the spirit and image and enabled the boys’ talents to shine. Particularly impressive were the actors whose energy and connection on stage was mature beyond their years. Kealon Cantwell’s study and delivery of the eccentric Archaeologist, Poitrinas was outstanding. He played the role to perfection building on the character’s idiosyncratic flaws. Equally enjoyable was the comic timing of Max Buchanan’s rude but loveable manservant, Jean, and the blundering vet, Machut, played brilliantly by Alex Waller. The dame came not in the guise of a seasonal pantomime mis-fit but the beautiful Blanche, performed gently and calmly by Connor Goulds. Finally the central figure in this semi French-farce was the put-upon but doting father Mn Cabousatt. For this role Robert Perry and Nicholas Bryan shared the part and changed seamlessly mid-way. Well done to you both and indeed to your wigs! These characters were the strength and security in the centre of choreographed madness.

The evening began with seasonal drinks and pies in the Lodge where carols were led by a Senior Ensemble. It really was a lovely way to spend an evening and the blend of the relaxed atmosphere, the entertainment and a witty drama sent everyone away smiling in the knowledge that Christmas was on its way.

I thank all those who helped and were involved in this production especially Mrs Marriott. Cameron Low and George Lee experienced the technical highs of light and sound for the show – and I know how much they enjoyed their roles. Finally, I’d like to congratulate the singers and the actors for staging such a special evening.

P Gush

You may remember before half term a letter about the ‘Shoebox scheme’ for the Rotary club. I would like to thank all of the kind donations that were made. We had a total of 43 boxes, which was a big job to then transport!!

I have just received the foollowing letter from the Rotary organisation thanking us at Pre-Prep for our support:

"I very much appreciate all your efforts and with your help, Rotary was able to send around 27,000 Shoeboxes….to disadvantaged children abroad. They went to Tanzania, Albania, Montenegro and Romania and, as they are distributed by members of the Rotary, we know that they all went to genuine children in need. Rotary being a worldwide movement is able to call upon local Rotarians to help with the distribution and thus ensure there is “no middleman” or misappropriation as can unfortunately happen with non-volunteer organisations. I am enclosing Thank You Certificates as a small token of our appreciation for all that you have done."

I would like to again say thank you for your support.

Mrs Read

We offer our congratulations to Jackson Wen, who has been awarded a ‘Foundation Scholarship’ to Tonbridge School through the recent examinations.

Thank you to everyone for all their support this term in all areas of school life from EYFS to KS3.

We hope you all have a restful and enjoyable Christmas and we look forward to seeing you all again on the morning of Thursday 5^th January 2012.