Well, this week is a stark contrast to
last week. Currently, as you read my
blog, I am in New York and Boston accompanying 24 Year 12 students who are
representing MGS at the Harvard Model United Nations Conference. The trip is an amazing experience and
provides the students a fantastic opportunity to debate world issues on a
global stage. This contrasts with last
week when we welcomed five Ofsted inspectors into the school to complete an
Ofsted inspection.
Ofsted inspections can be both draining
and exhilarating, but I must say I was bowled over by the response I saw from
both staff and students. Everyone played
their part in showing the inspectors how we all feel about MGS. In particular, thank you to those students,
members of staff and governors who gave up some time and met with them. The outcome of the inspection will be shared
shortly, but I will say that our community nature, the respect the students
have for everyone around them, and the sense that a moral code exists at the
heart of the school were particularly mentioned.
This week we welcome Year 8 and Year 13
back into normal school following last week’s examinations. I hope they went well for everyone. Results will follow in due course.
Congratulations to Daniel Lloyd of Tonbridge
House who took part in a practice event last Saturday before he competes soon
at the British Cycling National Cyclocross Championships. Daniel competed in the U14s race held at the
Cyclopark in Gravesend on a very tough and technical course, with Daniel having
to do the same course as the Elite Pro men who compete in World Cup races. The
course had 40m of sand, a steep 30% hill, a scaffolding bridge, steps, muddy
off-camber sections, and road sections. Only the top competitors qualify for
the British Championships based on points accumulated from races earlier in the
season. First to be set off were the 80 competitors in the U16s and then 2
minutes later the 60 competitors in the U14s. It was a five lap race over 40
minutes with a very fast and furious start. Daniel had a steady start but then
completed the last laps very strongly to finish in 8th place
overall. Well done Daniel and good luck
for the British Championships.
