Take courage

IN THIS ISSUE

Take courage Embracing technology Subject focus Jessica Briggs interview The Arts A new chapter for your teenager? Do you know your TikTok from your Insta? Our leading ladies Sherborne Girls Voices Environment Community Sports round up

Acknowledgments

Cover: artwork by Ella Thomas (U5) Daily Telegraph photo: Minda Buxton (L6)

TAKE COURAGE

When we came back to School in September, we were well placed and prepared to adapt our routines and teaching for our reopening, drawing upon the experience gained during our remote schooling programme in

full lockdown. I told the girls in my first virtual assembly last term that there would still be a few glitches along our digital journey and, I continue to encourage them to embrace such challenges as they help us to develop further the all-important qualities of patience and understanding, not only for ourselves as individuals but also in our interactions with one another.

We have taken that sentiment forward into this new academic year and are thrilled to be back in School but recognise that there are still challenges to face. As such, we chose the theme of courage this year and I genuinely believe that our girls are courageous, as well as curious, compassionate, adaptable and spiritual – our other School values.

The last few months have allowed our staff and girls to further develop their skills and qualities of communication, adaptability, patience, resilience as well as appreciate and enhance their teamwork. As a community we have found creative ways to learn and, in turn, be taught by one another.

We have invented new ways to connect, share ideas and show support; our horizons have been broadened and we have engaged with wider and more geographically dispersed audiences. As such, our community has developed a deeper understanding and greater political, social and environmental empathy. The pupils have been instrumental in helping shape the direction that Sherborne Girls is taking. Their input, energy and aspiration is palapable across all areas of the School and is demonstrated through the #SherborneGirlsVoices initiative.

I sincerely hope that this brief snapshot of the Michaelmas Term illustrates what an incredible, dynamic, exciting and forward thinking environment Sherborne Girls is.