Willington News

Where do we begin this week? With the arts festival fast approaching, including the end-of-term house music event, our week started off vibrantly. Each house diligently practised their song, this year with an intriguing twist: every song had to embody one of the school’s values—kindness, honesty, respect, or humility. On top of that, Year 6 ventured off for an informative morning at the local Magistrates’ Court—an experience we hope remains a unique one for them.

Tuesday spotlighted our young musicians in the second recital of the year, featuring outstanding performances from pupils as young as Year 1. Our talented Year 6 music prefects hosted this memorable event with aplomb. A special thanks to Ms Callaway for organising this delightful showcase.

On the same day, I visited the Marymount International School in Kingston—an all-girls Catholic school set in a sprawling estate just off Warren Road. Though it has a similar pupil count to Willington, Marymount boasts a much larger campus and offers an impressive IB curriculum, nurturing girls who attend top universities globally. Don’t let the religious aspect deter you; it's very subtly incorporated.

Thursday was bustling with the World Book Day assembly, excellently orchestrated by Mrs Battey. The school burst with the usual variety of Harry Potter characters, including an unusually depicted Ron Weasley! The day's energy captivated some prospective parents touring during the event, echoing our sentiments about the school’s vibrant atmosphere. Year 6 then spent the remainder of their day at the Thames Explorer, enjoying another splendid day of outdoor education.

Meanwhile, a group of Year 4 pupils volunteered outside Waitrose in Wimbledon, a commendable addition to our Friday Food Bank efforts. Thank you, Miss Nijhuis, for guiding our children in this charitable endeavour.

I am also pleased to unveil the latest edition of the Willingtonian, available via the link below. This issue captures the essence of the magic within and beyond the walls of Willington, and we are eager to share this vision far and wide.

To tonight’s POW quiz winners, congratulations! Our team might have been under strength this year, but like every great squad facing its peaks and troughs, we remain undeterred. Even Pep Guardiola faces challenges, but rest assured, we will return next year fitter and stronger. Should we fluke another win, however, you  might want to have a strategy rethink!

Have a fantastic weekend! KB

Willingtonian - Issue 3