Francis Holland School Newsletter September 2013 History trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
From the Headmistress Dear Parents, The new academic year has got off to a flying start and the new Thirds have impressed everyone by finding their feet so quickly. In accordance with tradition, in the first assembly of term, Sophie Watson (Head Girl 2012/3) presented the antique Head Girl’s badge to Rebeccca Harding, who is this year’s Head Girl. As you will read in this newsletter, Summer Camp 2013, in late July, was a huge success. What words and pictures cannot convey is the energy, good humour and personal commitment of the FHS students and staff involved. Without doubt, the children from Westminster, all of whom are in foster care, had a holiday they will never forget. My thanks to Mr Chiverton for masterminding Summer Camp – and above all, to Mr Smith who led the whole week. Dr Cardoso, Miss Farthing, Miss Lowes and Ms MacDonnell all devoted days from their summer holiday to this most worthwhile of charitable endeavours.
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On the first day of summer holidays, twelve girls from the Lower and Upper Fifth, accompanied by Mme Senegas, Miss Barton and myself delved into the mesmerising chaos and beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia. The full report can be found on page five. Mr H Clayton Head of History Department As you will read on page three, public examinations results this summer were some of the best ever achieved at FHS – a fitting legacy for Miss Jo Green, who retired this summer as Academic Deputy Head, having worked at FHS since 1977. Many congratulations to the Upper Sixth who achieved outstanding results and achieved places at their chosen universities. During the summer holidays, Mr Clayton led
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a memorable History trip for senior students to Vietnam and Cambodia, accompanied by Miss Barton and Mme Senegas. In mid July, Mr Gridelli and Ms Conway took a group of Hispanists to Salamanca, combining language lessons in the morning with sightseeing for the remainder of the day. Miss Laytham’s immaculate organisation ensured the success of the Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions (practice and
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assessed) which took place this summer. There are many school events this term, details of which are in the school calendar and can be found on the school website w w w. f h s - n w 1 . o r g . u k . I look forward to seeing many of you at our annual Prize-giving evening at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on Tuesday 1st October.
Mrs V M Durham
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