Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 21st November 2025
Head’s Blog
“Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words.” Robert Frost
There are few school traditions as enduring, spirited and cherished as Club Poetry at Beachborough. As we gathered on Friday for this much-loved event, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history behind it. Club Poetry has been woven into the fabric of the Christmas Term for at least a quarter of a century, and its magic continues to cast the same spell today as it did in its earliest years.
The importance of children performing poetry by heart cannot be overstated. At first glance, it may seem simply an exercise in memory, but in truth it develops a wealth of valuable skills. To learn a poem is to practise discipline, perseverance and close reading. To perform it is to nurture confidence, articulation, emotional expression and the ability to hold the attention of an audience. Children learn to interpret language, understand rhythm and nuance, and communicate meaning with clarity and poise. They also learn something quietly profound: that their voice has power.
Friday’s event was a joyful showcase of these skills in action. Every child who stepped onto the stage did so with courage and character, bringing their chosen poem to life in their own way. The atmosphere was warm and celebratory, filled with the unique blend of anticipation and pride that only a live performance can bring.
We were delighted to welcome from Kate Walker, Head of the Senior School at Bruern Abbey, to judge the competition; she brought insight, encouragement and great enthusiasm to the occasion. Her thoughtful feedback helped the children appreciate not only what they had achieved, but how they might continue to grow as confident communicators.
Club Poetry remains one of those cherished Beachborough traditions that speaks to who we are as a school. It celebrates language, imagination and courage. It brings us together as a community. And, year after year, it reminds us that poetry does not simply live on the page, it lives in the voices of our children.
Huge congratulations to all the children who participated.
On a different note, I look forward to welcoming you to the Online Safety Talk on Monday at 5.30pm, and the Information Talk about life in Form VII and VIII at 5.30pm on Tuesday.
Enjoy a wonderful weekend,
Simone
Last week, we supported Children in Need through a fun-filled Mufti Day, a cake sale, and the ever-popular discos!
A few weeks ago, we launched Operation Christmas Child – a fantastic initiative whereby shoe boxes are filled with toys, personal care items, school supplies, and fun gifts, and sent to children in need across the word.
On Monday, children in Forms IV to VIII took to the stage for our Brass, String, and Wind Concert, led by the talented Mr Lewis, Mr Law, and Mr Spirrett.
A huge well done to Tilly and Ellie (FV), who 
