The Head’s reflections on the week - St Christopher's Prep Hove
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The Head’s reflections on the week

Posted: 17th January 2025

It is sometimes easy to assume that parents know the routines of the school week that are so familiar to the children and staff. So, this week, I want to talk about Assemblies. There are five Assemblies each week, three for Middle and Upper School, and two for Pre-Prep. Monday (for the older children) and Wednesday (for the younger ones) have a programme of themes across the year, and often coincide with calendar events such as Wellbeing Week, coming up just before Half Term. Each Form takes a turn over the course of the year to present an Assembly, with Year 4 presenting theirs next Monday. I have no idea what their topic is yet – we’ll find out in next week’s Newsletter! The four Houses also present to the school, and Howe Dolphins have their turn coming up soon. Given Mr Stead’s passion for the environment, I suspect something about sustainability and conservation may be on the cards.

We are always pleased to welcome guests to speak in Thursday Assemblies and lead workshops. Already this term we have had a Drama workshop for Pre-Prep, and a Study Skills session for Year 7 with Elevate Education. Yesterday, we welcomed Reverend Julio Abraham and Zoe Hoyte of Off The Fence, who support the homeless and vulnerable in our city, and are Anson Lions’ chosen charity. They explained how the funds we raise provide vital services for those facing hardship in the current weather conditions, as well as talking about long term goals to reduce homelessness in our city. Over the coming weeks, we will welcome Lion Dancers for Chinese New Year, the Little Lifesavers charity, and author Adam Bushnell for World Book Day.

Fridays see Celebration Assembly in the Hall for the older children and in the Performing Arts Room for Pre-Prep. This is a time to celebrate achievements both in and out of school. The House Captains read the names of the children in their House who have received a Head’s Commendation, and they stand for a round of applause. Those who have achieved the most House Points in each Form for the week are similarly celebrated. We often start with a musical soloist, or sing a hymn in readiness for an event such as Harvest Festival. Certificates for Music Exams or LAMDA Grades are handed out. Finally, a hush descends on both pupils and staff as I announce the House positions for the week, of course in reverse order to prolong the excitement! Everyone then stands and, as the Prefects file out of Assembly with me, the winning House Captain heads off to raise their flag to fly proudly for the following week.

House Meetings, which can be considered mini-Assemblies, take place twice a term. The first of 2025 were on Monday. House Meetings allow children of all ages to interact, and the emphasis is very much on the older children working with the younger ones, and showing leadership in the running of the Houses.

Ms Elizabeth Lyle, Head

Categories: Head's Reflections