21st November

Dear Parents,

A busy week in a busy term! Grades have been published this week with some extremely pleasing results; around half the House have been commended by School or House or Headmaster – details below. The Lupton Ball last Saturday, House Drama this week and plenty to look forward to in the final three weeks of term.

Michaelmas 2 Grades
The vast majority of the House improved their average effort score from the first grades of the term, though some still have some work to do. Attainment grades are very easily overlooked and these should not be ignored and can be very significant especially if effort is not up to scratch. Please take a few minutes at home to discuss these with your son. Commendations were awarded as follows:

House Commendations
Jacob Hunt; Simon Roberts; Michael Cox; Daniel Holles; Jack Eastgate; Matthew Gwillam; Robin Hadley ; Richard Waring

School Commendations
Gavin Dudley (1.7); Charles Hill (1.7); Joshua Jayaratnasingam (1.8); Max McLoughlin (1.8); Tekena Ojimba (1.8); Tom Barwell (1.6); Harry Eastgate (1.5); Harry Heath (1.4); Jean-Claude Massey (1.7); Declan Meddows (1.9); William Sarjant (1.8); Benedict Shinner (1.5); Ashley Jones (1.9); William Bolton (1.7); Niran Chana (1.9); Matthew Cox (1.8); Jamie Evans (1.9); Jamie Rymer (1.6); Hugh Westlake (1.7); David Brookes (1.8); Matthew Grice (1.6); Bobbie Lawrenson (1.3); Andrew McIntosh (1.6)

Headmasters Commendations
Maxime Cox (1.5); Richard Heath (1.3)

House Drama 2008
This was one of those special nights – it was just a shame there were not more people to witness a memorable effort from the Lupton cast. It simply came together wonderfully well under the direction of Smudge McIntosh who skilfully managed the cast, ensuring a very creative adaptation of The Lion King. The movement was imaginative, the script semi-improvised yet relevant and flowing – every year group in the House was represented on stage or behind the scenes. I felt like giving a standing ovation, though would have been accused of being wholly biased! From the opening scene of the birth of Simba to “The Circle of Life”, to a grand finale including the banishing of Scar and the coming of Simba’s child – “the boys did good”! The whole cast and supporting technical crew have been deservedly commended and we look forward to the results in the near future – I reckon we’ll be up there! Well done to the whole cast, as listed below. Pictures will follow.

Harry Heath (Simba)
Harry Eastgate (Rafiki)
Tom Barwell (Zazu)
Rupert Harris (Hyena)
Alex Watts (Mafussa)
Will Bolton (Pumba)
Hugh Westlake (Timone)
Michael Cox (Scar)
Sophie Da’Silva (Nala)
Gavin Dudley (Simba’s child)
Andrew McIntosh (Director / Technical)
Simon Roberts (Technical support)

The Fourth Form production is bigger than ever before this year, entering a National competition. I am thrilled that many of the boys are showing an interest, perhaps on the back of their involvement in House Drama. Meetings have taken place and auditions commence very soon.

Lupton Ball 2008
What a superb evening! Over one hundred pupils, parents, friends and staff enjoyed a great night last Saturday at The Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove. Entertainment was provided by a disco, the band “Double Measures” and some interesting sixth form dancing! My very sincere thanks to the Parents Association Committee who contributed towards the evening in many different ways, but especially Jane Jones who co-ordinated and liaised with The Hilton. Special thanks too, to Ashley Jones who brought cheques and tickets back forth from School. Jane was presented with a bouquet of flowers on the evening. Some photographs will follow.

English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition
This week the Public Speaking team competed in the first round of the English-Speaking Union public speaking competition at Kings School, Worcester and were successful in winning through to the branch final in January.  Lupton’s Rupert Harris (5th), as questioner, put forward a series of perceptive questions to the speaker from Kings and was a credit to the House and School. We look forward to further news in January of the next round.

GCSE / AS Certificates
In Thursday’s House Assembly I presented examination certificates to this year’s Upper Sixth and Lower Sixth. I congratulated them all on their efforts in preparing for the exams and hope for good things to come. Special mention to Greg Brazier (GCSE French A*) and Rupert Harris (AS Level French A) who took examinations ahead of their year groups to secure excellent results.

Absentees
Could I respectfully request that parents ensure that they call on EACH DAY of a pupil absence to the House extension (229) between 7.30am and 8.20am. For example, if a pupil is absent for three days, it is important as a different tutor is on duty each day, that the absence is reported on each separate occasion. Many thanks.

Advent Service – Sunday 2nd December
Please email pbowen@bromsgrove-school.co.uk if you wish to reserve places at next weekend’s Advent Service – 6pm start. Tickets nearly all gone.

Games / Fixture Notification
The mobile number to contact the Boys PE department on Saturday mornings has changed. The number is to be used on Saturday mornings throughout the year if a boy is unwell, late or has questions about the fixture regarding weather conditions or directions. THE NEW NUMBER IS 07818 203808.

Dates for Diary!
Wednesday 3rd December – Lupton Charity Cake Sale (Get baking!)
Friday 12th December – Mince Pies & Drinks in the Day Room (whilst picking up)
Friday 30th January – Lupton Pop & Jazz, 7.30pm, Routh Hall
(Thursday 12th February – I am singing and others, for Cure Leukaemia in Routh Hall, 7.30pm start – not a House function but PLEASE support!)

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

14th November

Dear Parents,

We look forward to our very own Ball tomorrow night, hosted by our excellent Parent’s Association. Over one hundred parents and Sixth Form pupils anticipate a night of good food, company and dancing to the disco and live band. If last year is anything to go by, it should be a great night.

I enjoyed seeing many of you either at the Remembrance Service last Sunday morning or at one of the two Parents Evenings over the last two weeks. It reminded me how fortunate I am to have such supportive parents in Lupton – you are fully behind what the House and School stands for – thank you very much. Upper Fourth parents were very conscious of how the GCSE courses have commenced, and are perhaps starting to contemplate the post-16 choices for their son. Upper Sixth parents were attending their last Parents Evening – how sad! Discussions revolved around University / Career choices and a final push towards the best possible grades next summer. Many of the Upper Sixth form are just putting the final touches on their UCAS application, and finalising University options – we wish them well.

For your information, the second grades of the academic year are published this coming week in House and will appear on ePortal in due course.

House Drama
A slight error in last week’s Newsletter – the Lupton House Play takes place this Tuesday evening from 7pm in the Drama Studio. The plays are spread across two nights on Tuesday and Wednesday, so if you would like to come and support, then I will see you on Tuesday evening. An abridged version of The Lion King will be on show – with some of the showstopping musical numbers I’m told! Break a leg boys!

Junior House Debating
Harry Heath and James Widdop (both U4) took on Thomas Cookes on Thursday afternoon for the right to be in the Final on Wednesday 3rd December. The debate argued the merits of “Big Brother”, for which we had to take a positive stance – which makes the fact that we won even more impressive - that must have been a difficult task! Well done to both boys and good luck on the 3rd, where they take on Hazeldene, Lyttelton and Oakley.

House Duty Week
It was Lupton’s duty week, which means that we have to provide readers for all services and assemblies in any given week. Due to an outside speaker in Wednesday’s Chapel and Routh Hall assembly replacing Holy Communion on Thursday, Lupton only had to provide one reader for Thursday’s assembly. Tom King (L6) did the House proud, by reading a piece on the BBC’s Children In Need Appeal for which money was raised today through Own Clothes Day and other activities. Tom spoke superbly, with clarity and expression – well done Tom!

Thursday’s House Run
In Thursday’s House run during games, Scott McQuaid was commended for being Lupton’s lead runner, and the team finished a very creditable 2nd overall behind Elmshurst.

Lupton Cake Sale
The next House charity event following the success of the recent pool competition is a Cake Sale on Wednesday 3rd December in House during break and lunchtime. I would like to think that all the boys might get their apron on (though they may ask you for some support) in aid of the term’s charity. Greetham’s chocolate brownies may make an appearance! A date for the calendar / diary at home - Tuesday 2nd December is baking day!

 

Can I strongly recommend the School Advent Service to you that I mentioned last week – tickets are going very quickly.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

November 7th

Dear Parents,

It was great to chat to many of you on Tuesday evening at Parents Evening, and a quick reminder to parents of U4 and U6 pupils that there is a second opportunity this Wednesday evening in the Sports Hall between 6.45pm and 9pm.

Remembrance Services
A slight error in my last newsletter on times, so here goes for this Sunday:
The Lower and Upper Fourth Form service commences at 9.45am. Pupils need to be at the House at 9.30am to register. The Fifth Form, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth service commences at 10.45am. Pupils need to be in the House at 10.30am to register. This is a compulsory commitment and all pupils MUST attend – parents, friends and family are very welcome also. School suits required.

Housman Reading
Congratulations to Benedict Shinner who was selected to read at The Artrix Theatre, Bromsgrove on Thursday afternoon for a Housman Verse Reading afternoon.

Lupton Ball
Last call for ticket applications for the Ball. Please now email Jane Jones (cs.jones@btinternet.com) with any last minute requests – we are going firm with the Hilton on numbers over the weekend.
IMPORTANT: Can all those who have paid for a table but who have not submitted the names of guests, do so to Jane at the above email address please. We are also a little concerned that there have not been many DIETARY requests – please also feed these through to Jane if you have not already done so.

National CCF Orienteering Champiosnhips
It was great to hear of Lupton boys taking part in the above championships over the half term break. William Bolton, Rupert Harris and Harry Heath all took part in the competition at Catterick, Yorkshire. Well done boys.

Parent’s Liaison
Jane Jones and Sarah Clare are our representatives on the Liaison Committee which meets this Tuesday 11th November. If you have any comments or suggestions that you would like to feed through to Jane or Sarah regarding House and School life then please contact them on the following addresses.
cs.jones@btinternet.com
sarah.clare@mercer.com

House Drama
Wednesday 19th November sees the House Drama Festival take place. Lupton are performing the abridged and somewhat improvised version of The Lion King, including some of the original songs – could be interesting! Rehearsals are ongoing.

Dates for Diary
The School Advent Service takes place on Sunday 30th November – this was very popular last year and is a ticket only event this year. Look out for Mr Bowen’s newsletter by email or on the webpage to book you places if interested. It is a candlelit service with contributions from all sections of Bromsgrove School – very special.
Secondly, on the final day of term (Friday 12th December), the PA are providing mince pies and other refreshments for all as pupils depart for the Christmas break. I would love to see as many of you pop in as possible, as you collect the boys from school. More details to follow.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

November 3rd
Dear Parents,

I hope you and your families have had a relaxing half term break (if indeed you had one at all!), and that the boys are raring to go from tomorrow for the six week run in to Christmas. Here’s news from shortly before the break.

IMPORTANT REMINDER
Parent’s Evening for Upper Fourth and Upper Sixth pupils is this Tuesday 4th November in the Sports Hall from 6.45pm until 9pm. There is another chance on Wednesday 12th November at the same venue and time, if you cannot make this week.

AND ANOTHER REMINDER!
School Remembrance Services are next Sunday 9th November.
The Lower and Upper Fourth Form service commences at 9.45am. Pupils need to be at the House at 9.30am to register.
The Fifth Form, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth service commences at 10.55am. Pupils need to be in the House at 10.40am to register.
This is a compulsory commitment and all pupils MUST attend – parents, friends and family are very welcome also. School suits required.

House Unison Song Compeition
You can watch the Lupton House Song Entry by clicking on the link below:
Lupton House Song - You Tube
This is always a fantastic event in the School calendar, and I was very proud of the hard work and efforts of the whole House, but especially Hugh Westlake (conductor) and Tom Sarjant who co-ordinated rehearsals and orchestrated our whole effort. The results were as follows with the standard very high – well done boys.

Success in the Pool!
Lupton were joint winners with Elmshurst of the Junior House Swimming Competition on the Thursday before half term. Harry Heath and Jordan Cooper led the team ably and collected the trophy at the final Routh Hall Assembly in front of the whole school. Our first trophy of the year – great news – well done lads!

Junior & Senior House Rugby
Both competitions took place in the week before half term, and the Lupton boys did the House proud. Firstly the Junior B team came joint third in their competition, with the Junior A team taking third place also. Twenty five fourth form pupils represented the House in either team – a superb House effort. The A team defeated Wendron Gordon and School House in the pool matches, before beating School House soundly once more to secure third place in the play off.
It was the Senior teams however that excelled themselves. As was the case with the junior teams, plenty of boys wore the red and black with pride and the A team took the hot favourites Housman Hall all the way, giving them a huge shock in the Main Final. Matthew Gwillam scored the first try of the match in the Final before Housman hit back to bring the match level. That’s the way it stayed and at the final whistle the score was 5-5. The tie was to be decided by a sudden death drop goal shoot out, which unfortunately we lost – but throughout the afternoon our attitude and commitment was first class, and all of the boys are to be commended for a top effort. We were not fancied to make the final and we did terrifically well to get into a position to win it.

Lupton Ball
A reminder that the House Ball is in two weeks on Saturday 15th November. Get your applications in for tickets ASAP – please email me if you do not have a booking form.

Dress for Boys
Here are a couple of points regarding dress as the weather is getting colder.
Sweaters - Navy blue & V Neck for Fourth & Fifth Form (available from School Shop). Dark coloured sweaters & V Neck (black, dark grey, navy) for Sixth Form - not necessarily from the School Shop. Please note that the tie should not be obscured by any sweater, i.e., must be a V neck.
Scarves - There is a Sixth Form Scarf available from the School Shop, as well as a scarf for the Fifth Form and below. These are the only scarves permitted.

Next week I will post some photographs from the sports competitions and House Song competition by email and on the House webpage.

I look forward to seeing some of you at Parent’s Evening or next Sunday perhaps.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

11 October

Dear Parents,

House Competitions are like public transport, you wait and wait and nothing happens, and then they all arrive at once! In the space of seven days commencing yesterday, the House take part in Junior and Senior House Swimming, Junior and Senior House Rugby and of course, the hugely anticipated House Unison Song Competition on Wednesday.

Words and Music
Ben Shinner (U4) read superbly on Thursday evening at the Words and Music Evening in the Housman Room. This is always a lovely intimate event, and this year the theme was “Liverpool”. Ben read ‘Cavern Song’ by Phil Domingo and ‘The Newcomer’ by Brian Patten. Congratulations Ben.

Study Habits
Last year I included in a newsletter some of our observations in the House regarding boy’s study habits. They are still as relevant this year and the tutors and I would like to publish them again – if they help at home then great.

House Rugby
I have a plea! The Junior Competition takes place on Monday 13th October from 4pm – spectators are welcome, however the juniors need some House shirts to play in, particularly the new Lower Fourths. COULD YOU PLEASE ASK YOUR SON IF HE HAS A HOUSE RUGBY SHIRT TO BRING IT INTO SCHOOL ON MONDAY so we can all look the part for the matches? The Senior Competition is on Thursday 16th October also taking place from 4pm. We are entering A and B teams into both competitions – both days may run on until 5.30pm – be warned.

House Swimming
The Seniors kicked off the week of House events by putting in a good performance in the pool yesterday (Friday). I don’t think we have threatened the top places but we didn’t disgrace ourselves, and Stuart Clare won his heat of the 50m Butterfly – well done Stuart! News on the results next week and a picture attached of the Lupton team.

House Song
Rehearsals have moved up a gear this week and “The World’s Greatest” is shaping up. Hugh Westlake (Conductor) and Tom Sarjant (i/c House Song) have worked tirelessly and have started polishing it up for Wednesday’s performance – it’s starting to sound reasonably good! You never know what will happen on the day and ultimately what the judge will look for, but the House has come together well and in good spirits ahead of the competition. School will end at 5.30pm on Wednesday.

Rugby Success
Further news on Matthew Cox (L6) who has gone one stage on from Worcestershire U18 representation – he played for the North Midlands U18 team during the week; next stop Midlands we hope. Very well done Matt!

History of the School
Mr Bowen delivers Part Three of The History of the School: 1946-1965, this Tuesday evening in Routh Hall at 7.30pm. As well as the presentation there will be music and readings by staff and pupils. Recommended.

News next week of all of the House competitions. School ends at 3.35pm this Friday 17th October for Half Term – back on Monday 3rd November.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

 

6 October

Dear Parents,

Michaelmas 1 Grades
The first effort and attainment grades of the year were published this week, giving pupils and their tutors some useful and specific feedback on their academic progress. Some pupils excelled themselves so early in the term and were awarded either a House, School or Headmaster Commendation. For new parents commendations are awarded as follows:
House - for an excellent effort that didn’t warrant a School Commendation; School - for a grade average better than 2.0; Headmaster - for the two people deemed by House staff to be “best in House”.

A small minority, it was decided, needed some more specific lesson by lesson feedback as to their progress, by means of a “green” monitoring card. This is checked by the pupil’s tutor or me each day – one pupil asked to be on a card, which is a sign of maturity. For those who are new to the School, if major improvements are not seen in effort by the next grades, then the Head of Pupil Progress for the relevant year group may advise a Yellow Card (reporting to them each day) or in more serious cases a Red Card (reporting to the Assistant Head Academic each day).
On the whole the grades were good, but with plenty of room for improvement.
Commendations were awarded as follows:

Headmaster Commendations: Harry Heath, Bobbie Lawrenson

School Commendations: Maxime Cox, Charles Hill, Scott McQuaid, Ashley Jones, William Bolton, Jamie Evans, Richard Heath, Hugh Westlake

House Commendations: Gavin Dudley, Joshua Jayaratnasingam, Max McLoughlin, Daniyel Owusu-Darko, Harry Eastgate, Benedict Shinner, Sam Hornsey, Matthew Shephard, Thomas Silk, Matthew Cox, Andrew McIntosh, Tom Sarjant

My Fair Lady
I am delighted to tell you of two Lupton boys taking lead roles in the upcoming Lent Term production of My Fair Lady. Smudge McIntosh will play Alfred P. Doolittle, whilst Hugh Westlake takes on the role of Lord Boxington. Well done boys – can’t wait to see you both in action.

Paintball
Another classic day of mud and paint on Sunday! A party of 85 Luptonians and Walters boys invaded woodland on the outskirts of Sutton Coldfield and enjoyed a superb day. Depending on who you speak to, Lupton were overall winners – though Walters would argue they took the individual team trophy! Whoever the victor, the boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves and we look forward to another day out next term – possibly go-karting. Pictures attached.

House Song
Final rehearsals are now booked for Routh and in House practice can be heard daily from the Day Room. It’s starting to get there, but we wait to see whether the judge thinks our effort is “The World’s Greatest”! Lots of work to do before the big day though, a week on Wednesday (15th October).

Lupton Ball
I hope you received the booking form for the Ball on Saturday 15th November at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove. Places are going very quickly, please do get your replies WITH payment as soon as you can, or else you might be disappointed! It promises to be another excellent evening – we’ve booked the band, which sounds great!

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
I know some Lupton parents of Lower Fourth, Upper Fourth and Fifth Form pupils attended the IB Diploma evening on Thursday in Routh Hall. As you are hopefully all aware, the School is aiming to deliver the IB alongside the AS/A2 programme, to give pupils more choice from September 2009. More details can be found at www.ibo.org, otherwise please do not hesitate to contact School for advice.

Junior House Debating
Harry Heath and James Widdop represent the House this year in this competition. They attended the briefing on Friday and we look forward to hearing their news very soon.

Lower Fourth Field Day
The Lower Fourths enjoyed a superbly rewarding day on Wednesday as they walked up and down the Malvern Hills. Well done to all of them as this can be quite a demanding day for some!

Words and Music
This Thursday in the Housman Room at 7.30pm, the theme of “Liverpool” is presented by a number of pupils and staff by means of prose, poetry or music. It is always a fantastic evening - come along!

Sixth Form Driving Lessons
A reminder to parents that any driving lessons booked during School time must not interfere with a student’s timetable. Only the driving tests (theory and practical) can be booked at anytime. If you book a block of driving lessons for your son, then please inform me in advance so I can then give leave permission slips to your son on the days in question.

Saturday Fixtures
Can I please stress that Saturday fixtures are a compulsory School commitment. Only in an exceptional circumstance should a student miss a fixture, and permission should be sought from the House by the Monday of the week leading up to the fixture. If injured or ill, then a note to cover the absence should be received prior to the fixture. On Saturday mornings, if there is a last minute problem with your son missing his fixture then please contact Mr Abrahams (Master i/c Rugby) on 07824 722499 to discuss. If a student misses a fixture with no prior notice then the School will take this very seriously. Lupton parents have so far, been very supportive of this whole process – thank you.

That’s all for this week – see you very soon.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

29 September

Dear Parents,

It was fantastic to see so many of you at our first Parent’s Association event last night in Routh Hall. “Edless” were the eventual winners following a last gasp tie-break win over “The Dream Team”! Over 110 pupils, parents and staff came along to support the House and have a laugh in the process – it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and I’m sure we’ve raised a few quid in the process.

First Grades
Michaelmas Term (1) Grades are published in the coming week. For new parents, please encourage your son to write these down in his prep diary for you to perhaps look at and discuss at home. Alternatively, they are published on your son’s ePortal homepage, which you can access via the web at www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk/ePortal. If you haven’t been sent your username and password for accessing this site, then please let me know and I can arrange for it to be sent to you. A reminder that your son’s School information appears on ePortal, including his timetable, members of staff, and commendation and detention details. Over the course of the year, all grades and reports will appear electronically on your son’s site. For info. only reports and tutor letters get sent to you as hard copies – grades are only accessible via your son telling you, or ePortal.

School Harvest Service
The second School service of the term takes places on Monday morning at 8.50am. Pupils are required to wear their School Suit for the day on Monday. Thanks you so much to all those families who contributed to the House Harvest collection – we filled three whole shelves in Chapel with produce! The recipients I know, are always very grateful indeed. Thanks to David Brookes (U6), the House Charity Representative, who co-ordinated our collection.

Lupton’s Got Talent!
New Fourth Form pupil Charles Hill played Vivaldi’s Concerto in a minor at the “Music Scholars” Evening on Thursday in the Housman Room. The talent on show was staggering, not least Charles, who played his violin effortlessly. We look forward to many more performances in the not too distant future, plus the Lupton Pop and Jazz evening in the Lent Term. Well done Charles – and I know there are plenty more budding performers in Lupton just waiting to be unearthed! As well as music, we had some sporting success in the House too this week – Matthew Cox (L6) represented Worcestershire U18’s at rugby on Wednesday evening and has a North Midlands trial very soon. Great news – well done Matt.

Paintball
Parents are reminded that the meet time for Paintball tomorrow is 8.25am in the Sports Hall Car Park. We will return at approximately 3.15pm – though I will ask the boys to call home when we leave Sutton Coldfield to give an accurate ETA. Old trainers and clothes are advised. Watch out Walters!

Lupton Ball
I attach the booking form and details for the Lupton Ball on Saturday 15th November. This was launched last night and I know that tickets have already been sold, and they will go fast! Get in quick. Booking forms and cheques to me ASAP.

That’s all for this week. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any news or questions. It’s great to hear from parents regarding any news from outside of School.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

22nd September

Dear Parents,

The normal September weather service has been resumed thanks goodness, and we play our sports fixtures this afternoon in glorious sunshine. It has been a good week in the House; the Lower Fourths are really starting to feel at home, and the vast majority of the House appear to be taking their new academic courses very seriously. Three weeks have flown by – a sign of the pace of the still relatively new school week. So onto Lupton’s news.

Quiz Night
I attach once more the booking form for next Friday’s (26th) Quiz Night to be held in Routh Hall at 7.30pm. I have not received many returns on this as yet but am aware that many of you are coming – it will be a really fun night. Please return cheques and forms to me by Tuesday this week, as I have to get numbers to the caterers. The whole family and friends are very welcome. Food included in the ticket price and there will be a bar.

Paintball
I have more returns for our Paintball trip next Sunday (28th). Ideally, I need these to me this Monday (22nd). Walters are making noises about giving us a hiding this year – hmmmm, we’ll see!

Harvest Festival
The House has a new Charity Representative in David Brookes (House Monitor U6). For the upcoming School service for Harvest, we need to collect some produce for this year’s worthy cause – David will co-ordinate this. I would be very grateful if you could help your son find some “long life” foods from your kitchen cupboards. Lupton lead the way on this usually, and we need the Chapel stocked by Friday – please be generous. Many thanks.

Lightning BOLTon
I am delighted to report that William Bolton (L6) ran the Leeds half marathon two weekends ago. This is a fantastic achievement and I know Will has a wish to run more and hopefully work upto a full marathon. This shows great initiative and is an inspiration to the rest of the House. Well done Will.

Trip to the Commons
Having written to Bromsgrove MP Julie Kirkbride, Hugh Westlake has been invited to the House of Commons this half term to watch Prime Minister’s Questions. Given the current political climate this will be a fascinating experience and yet again an example of Lupton boys taking the initiative and reaping the rewards. Well done Hugh – have a great time.

House Achievements
Hugh Westlake received his Grade Five Saxophone certificate in Routh Hall Assembly this week. Tom King (L6) spoke fantastically well at the Fifth Form Head of Year on Monday, and Will Bolton read superbly in Chapel on Monday. Well done to all.

Absences
Thank you to the many of you who have called the House to report pupil absence before 8.20am. A polite request to not call main reception for pupil absence – keep using extension 229 to speak to the Duty Tutor or myself or leave a message. Many thanks.

Pupil Appearance
Parents are reminded that boys hair should be smart, off the collar and eyes and of a natural colour. As we move towards the colder months, ALL sweaters must be low V neck (showing the tie) – Lower Fourth, Upper Fourth and Fifth Form can only wear navy blue sweaters; Sixth Form are allowed dark pastel coloured sweaters.

Many of the boys take part in either Civilian or CCF Duke of Edinburgh field trips over the next couple of days. We wish all of them well – indeed the whole U4th are out on Monday.

I look forward to seeing many of you on Friday evening. Get those replies to me!

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

September 13th
Dear Parents,

Another wet one – I’m sure the washing machines are taking a hammering with games kit! There’s hope for a brighter weekend and plenty of the boys will be in action this afternoon taking part in rugby fixtures. It’s great to see so many Lupton names on teamsheets.

House Song
The Executive House Song Committee (!!) have chosen The World’s Greatest (from the film Ali) as our entry. Rehearsals got under way this week, and practising and arranging will continue for the next few weeks until the big day just before half term. A few parents have asked if they can come and watch the actual event – impossible I’m afraid! We will do well to get the whole School in let alone parents. Last year all the songs were recorded and put online – I’m sure this will be done again. Anyway – the winners perform at the Christmas Concert, so here’s hoping!

Bags & Hymn Books
A quick reminder that all boys are required to use a BLACK bag or briefcase around School to carry books. A small minority get into the habit however of not using a bag at all, and this can cause havoc regarding their organisation and is when books go missing. Secondly, a hymn book is compulsory for all – can you please check, as we will, that your son owns one. If not, I would be grateful for your encouragement to purchase one from the school shop. HYMN BOOK CHECK this Monday before chapel.

Prep Expectations
Many parents have enquired about the amount of prep their son should be completing. Standard school guidelines are L4 – three preps x 35 minutes; U4 & 5th – three preps x 40 minutes. Pupils are normally set four preps for Friday evening / over the weekend. Please continue to check the prep diary at home.

Paintball
A reminder that the Paintball trip is on Sunday 28th September. Letters have been issued together with consent forms. The form and cheque should be with me ASAP. A big thank you to the House Parents Association who agreed to fund a concession for the boys – the cost is now £20 and not £27.

Music Certificates
I presented three music certificates to Daniyel Owusu-Darko, Tekena Ojimba (both L4) and Harry Heath (U4) in House Assembly this week. We look forward to them performing throughout the year in House or School events. Well done boys!

House Play
Our House Drama Representative Smudge McIntosh has had plenty of interest to take part on or off stage in the House Drama effort. It seems we will perform a Blackadder episode as our entry and rehearsals will get underway very soon. (Boys are still required for the School production of My Fair Lady).

Parents Association Events
Attached is the flyer and booking form for the Quiz on Friday 26th September. This is a fun night and all family, friends and pupils are welcome. Click link to open a pdf file.
The Lupton Ball will be launched that evening; tickets will be available so bring your cheque book! Tickets are £40 for adults and £30 for pupils (sixth form age only). There is a price rise for adults this year, though a small reduction for pupils; there will be no raffle however. Tickets are expected to go quickly.

PSHE / Head of Year
Fourth formers have watched an interactive theatre group this week that explores views and presents on the topic of sexually transmitted infections, contraception and unplanned pregnancy. The group were excellent and I know the pupils feel very informed. The Deputy Headmaster spoke to the Sixth Form this week on the dangers of driving. We have had a number of accidents involving pupils over the last couple of years, not least a particularly nasty accident involving a Lupton boy. Both the School and home need to take this issue very seriously.

School Liaison Committee
Mrs Sarah Clare (sarah.clare@mercer.com) and Mrs Jane Jones (cs.jones@btinternet.com) are Lupton’s representatives on the Liaison Committee. If you have any views on House or School matters that you wish them to raise with the Senior Management of the School then please do not hesitate to contact them.

Lower Fourth Meetings
I am meeting with every Lower Fourth pupil individually over the next two weeks to see how their first few weeks have gone at Senior School. I have asked them to come armed with a topic that they feel passionate about! Should be interesting – these start on Tuesday.

Until next time – have a great weekend.

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

8th September
Dear Parents,

Hello all! Welcome back to a new year in Lupton – I am very much looking forward to a vintage year. The boys have come back excited and optimistic of a bumper year in and out of the classroom. The tutor team and I look forward to seeing you all very soon, but in the meantime feel free to get in touch with any of us with any questions or problems.

The Lower Fourth year group and new pupils have settled quickly, and have soon got into the habit of checking their bags and prep diaries at the end of the day, to ensure that they are organised – with a little help from the tutors. Again, I would request that all parents of L4, U4 and 5th Form sign their son’s prep diary every weekend at least – or otherwise anytime you check it on any given day.

Saturday Mornings
The House have been briefed on registration details, times and venues for Saturday mornings. They also have been told what to wear. In summary, the major points are:

 

Absence from a fixture
If your son only comes in for fixtures on Saturdays and he cannot play for any reason (illness or injury most probably) at the last minute, then please contact Mr Abrahams (Master i/c Rugby) on 07824 722499 to discuss. Similarly, if the match may be in doubt due to weather conditions, then use the same number.

Weekday absence
A reminder that Mon-Fri absence from School should be reported to the House (ext. 229) between 7.45am and 8.20am. If you know in advance of an absence from School then please email me or send me a note via your son. At least 24 hours notice would be appreciated.

Parents Association Events
The first PA meeting of the year takes place this Monday (8th September). New committee members and  / or helpers are very welcome indeed – our Chairman Adam Barwell would be delighted to hear from you on 07721 384692 if you would like to get involved. On Friday 26th September, we are holding a Quiz Night from 7.30pm. Details will follow very quickly after Monday’s meeting. Secondly, the Lupton Ball will be held on Saturday 15th November at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove. Booking forms will be circulated very soon. Tickets are very limited so be quick when the forms are circulated! We are on the search for quality auction items – particularly those that “money can’t buy”. Please get in touch if you have any ideas.

Paintball
I have booked the Lupton / Walters day trip to the National Paintball Fields once again for Sunday 28th September. It’s a great day and I would like to encourage as many of the House to attend as possible. The cost is £27 and the letters and consent forms will be issued this week.

House Song
The hot topic this week has been the House Song entry. Several alternatives have been discussed on the theme of “Songs from the Movies”. Hopefully, a decision will be made over the weekend and rehearsals can go full steam ahead from Monday.

House Photograph
The 2008/09 House photograph will be taken this Tuesday. I will inform you when they arrive and orders can be taken. Hair and dress should be spot on this Tuesday (it rarely isn’t!) but please support at home.

ePortal
The School database, as many of you are aware is accessible via the web at home or at work. The web address is:www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk/ePortal
Old parents will have received their log in details last year, although I am told that these will be resent very soon, and will obviously include new parents. Obvious benefits of viewing your son’s page, include looking at reports and grades information / timetables / commendation and detention information and attendance records.

My Fair Lady
The School production this year is West End and Broadway classic “My Fair Lady”. I have announced this in House Assemblies and the first cast and crew get together was last Thursday. It is not too late to join the company – auditions are ongoing with the actual production in the Lent Term. I would love plenty of Lupton involvement in what should be a cracking show.

House Drama
This year the House Drama Festival reverts to the old House Play format and performances are after Half Term in November. Andrew “Smudge” McIntosh is our House Rep and he will be kicking rehearsals off very soon. I look forward to plenty of enthusiasm and involvement.

That’s it for now! First week back so plenty to inform you of. All the best – and stay out of the rain!

Best wishes,

Paul Greetham
Housemaster

 

News from Summer Term 2008

News from the Lent Term 2008

News from the Michaelmas Term 2007