Welcome back to school and the start of Term 2. I hope everyone enjoyed a restful and enjoyable half-term break and had the opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends.
While many of us were enjoying a well-earned break, plenty
has been happening around the school. The contractors responsible for our
reception and DT toilet projects returned over half term to complete the
finishing touches. Our new reception has been operational for the past two
weeks, and I am delighted that the much-improved DT toilets are now ready for
students to use as we begin the new term.
Further
improvements have also been made to our sports hall. Following the painting
work completed over the summer, the floor has now been repaired, sanded and
polished. We have also installed our new Memories, Growth and Support banners,
which proudly reflect the values and spirit of MGS and give the space an even
stronger sense of our school identity.
In the week before half term, the Senior Rugby Squads faced
The Judd School in a fixture that highlighted the strength and depth of rugby
at both schools. The standout result saw the 1st XV secure an impressive 40–28
victory, demonstrating tremendous determination and commitment. However, the
real success of the day was that both schools were able to field three senior
teams – a rare achievement that speaks volumes about the depth of playing
talent and enthusiasm within both school communities. For MGS, this was
particularly evident in the 3rd XV, where several players stepped forward to
represent the school despite not having played for a number of years. Their
willingness to return to the pitch and support their school perfectly embodies
the spirit of the Maidstonian community. While the results across the three
matches were mixed, the ability to field three competitive senior sides was a
victory in itself.
Today marks an important milestone for our Year 11 students
as we begin to look ahead to life beyond GCSEs and, we hope, another two years
as Maidstonians in our Sixth Form. This afternoon, students will hear from key
members of staff and current Sixth Formers about what they can expect from this
exciting next stage of their journey. With mock examinations beginning next
week, this is an important time for Year 11 to reflect on their progress,
consider their aspirations and begin preparing for the opportunities ahead.
They are approaching a significant turning point in their time at MGS, and we
will continue to support them as they take these next steps.
Looking
ahead to this Saturday, we are excited for the annual MGS Parents’ Association
Fireworks Display. This much-loved event is always a highlight for our school
and wider community, and this year promises to be even more enjoyable, with
live music and fairground rides alongside the spectacular fireworks. We would
love to see as many of you there as possible. Gates open at 4pm with the fireworks
display starting at 6pm.
Finally,
I would like to offer a huge congratulations to Meg in Year 13, who has been
selected for the Girls’ Rugby U18 Kent Development Squad after trialling just
three weeks ago. This is a fantastic achievement, particularly given that she
has played only three 15-a-side matches and competed in three 7s tournaments.
We are incredibly proud of her determination and willingness to challenge
herself. My thanks also go to everyone who has contributed to Meg’s development
through their outstanding coaching, enthusiasm, encouragement and commitment.
Their support has helped give her the confidence to take this opportunity and
succeed, and it is wonderful to see that investment rewarded.