On Tuesday evening the Our New School event was really well attended. It was great to be able to share the good news about the Fee Freeze for learners transitioning to the new school, as well as the complimentary buses that will run from Ulu Pandan to Aljunied. This is such an exciting time for our whole community and we are enjoying being able to share the development of our new campus with you.

Year 12 are currently having a fabulous time in Cambodia and are working hard alongside a local community. They will be back later this evening (Friday). Included in this newsletter are the reports of the Year 7, 8 and 9 trips which went overseas before the holiday.

Last week's Year 7 Learning Exhibition was a wonderful occasion. Visiting parents and learners from other classes were treated to a wide range of demonstrations and presentations, from the learners' own 3D worlds to a musical performance to beautiful poems, science models, artistic cubes and very interactive drama! It was a fabulous event and a great showcase for all the great learning that was achieved in Term One. Many congratulations to all the learners and their teachers and especially Jenny Murray who took the lead in organising.

Similarly Diversity Week was learner-led, thought provoking and involving. There were so many activities which were designed to celebrate our differences and our cultures. From the learners sharing food to participating in the production of a giant hand mural to the brilliant lunchtime music performances, Diversity Week started many discussions and strengthened understandings of our amazing differences. Many congratulations to everyone, and to Vicky Sargent and Michele Newman for the leadership of so many activities.

Last Wednesday's Secondary Music Concert was the most atmospheric I have ever attended. With the Halloween theme, the show started in near total darkness with the auditorium well lit and adorned with cobwebs and other ghoulish items. I am pleased to say that the music matched the visuals and the packed audience enjoyed a fantastic concert, full of surprises. The video links and animations between each musical piece were a great way of sustaining the atmosphere and linking the event.

As ever at the start of a new term we extend the warmest of welcomes to new learners and their families - we hope that you really enjoy our school and community.

Happy Deepavali to all our Hindu friends and families; may the year ahead bring you peace and fulfilment. I hope that everyone enjoys the long weekend and we will see our learners next Wednesday.

Peter Hart, Head of Secondary