Welcome back after the half-term break! I hope both students and staff had a restful break after a busy start to the year. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr Haynes and Mrs Kirby who generously gave their time to lead the recent school trips. The Year 9 ski trip and the Year 13 Geography visit to Iceland were both fantastic experiences for our students, and we are grateful for the staff that have made these trips possible. Please visit our school’s x page  for updates on the students' time during both trips. It was wonderful to see them experiencing new and exciting adventures while creating positive memories with their peers.

It was great to see so many Year 9 students and their families at the Options Evening last night. This is an important milestone, and we appreciate everyone who attended to support our students in making informed decisions about their future studies.

A huge congratulations to all involved in the Gym and Dance Show – A total of 150 students demonstrated their talent in the highly anticipated annual Gym and Dance Show, held on the 11th and 12th February. The showcase was the result of months of dedication and hard work, featuring an impressive range of performances, including Trampette routines, Floor Gymnastics, and various dance styles such as Contemporary, Commercial, and Modern. Thank you to our students. They have put in an incredible amount of effort to perfect their performances and thank you to Miss Tucker and all those involved in organising this event.

Similarly, our Public Speaking teams have achieved impressive success, participating in both the English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition and the Rotary Youth Speaks competition. I am grateful to Ms George who has given up her time to support and prepare the students for this competition. 

We are pleased to share several recent sporting successes across the school. The Senior Girls Football team achieved a remarkable 7-3 victory over Comberton College, securing a place in the Schools Football Cup semi-finals for the first time. Congratulations to the students who played, a fantastic achievement for everyone and wish you the best of luck in the semi-finals. At the Hertfordshire County Cross-Country Championships, our students delivered commendable performances. Rhys placed 17th in the Senior category, Seth finished 20th in the Year 7 boys, and James achieved 19th place in the Intermediate boys. In the Year 9 Boys Football, an impressive 5-0 win over Samuel Ryder secured their progression to the u14 County Cup quarter-finals. Goals were scored by Noah, Thavish, Hiren, and Luca. We extend our congratulations to all the students involved in this month's sporting achievements. 

Excitement is building for the Whole School Production of Matilda with final rehearsals now well underway in preparation for next week’s performances. We encourage everyone to come along and support our talented cast and crew. Tickets are available via ParentPay. Performances run from 5th-7th March at 7pm in the Barbirolli Hall. I look forward to attending and watching our students perform. 

It is always wonderful to share news of St Clement Danes Alumni being recognised for their immense contribution to public life and none more so than the recent news of Matt Cansdale (of 1986-1993).

Brigadier Cansdale (MBE) was appointed as Commander (CBE) in the military division of the most excellent order of the British Empire.  A singular accolade and achievement for a lifetime of dedicated service to King and Country.  Our most sincere congratulations to Brigadier Cansdale CBE and his family.

Looking ahead to March, there is much to anticipate, including our Spring Concert and upcoming Parents' Evenings for Year 8 and Year 7. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our upcoming whole school events.