Durham School
As I write, a glorious day has already begun with record temperatures [at least somewhere in the UK, if not Durham] anticipated for the next days; on the one hand, this is exactly what one would hope as we enter the Bank Holiday and the Half Term, but experience dictates that good weather can make revision hard-going – especially for those acting as the touch judge on the sideline.
My advice to the pupils in Chapel on Monday was to use their time well:
– A well-structured schedule with a 7 am start allows for five 50-minute sessions with breaks to be completed by 12.30pm;
– Focus on the high-value topics;
– Importantly, this schedule gives the afternoon free to enjoy the hopefully good weather and reflect on what has been studied;
– A further review session on the evening provides a valuable to check what has been understood and remembered from the morning, and set up the next day’s work;
– A location such as the dining room away from devices and gadgets allows breaks to be meaningful and prevents distraction when working;
– An approach based on the active production of mind maps, revision notes, aides-mémoires, &c., will help;
– This regime allows at least 10 subjects to be covered every 2 days.
Whilst it might be a challenge to pretend that revision is exciting, I do hope the pupils enjoy studying, evaluating how much they do know and what now needs to be revised; mastering this skill is part of learning. I wish all well for the week!
Good luck to all those competing in the National Schools Regatta and I hope all have a lovely Half-Term holiday.
Best wishes,
Dr Michael Alderson, Principal
Chorister School
The final week of the half-term closes with what promises to be fabulous weather for the Bank Holiday weekend and half-term. My fingers are well and truly crossed for the sunshine to stay so we can all enjoy some time outdoors.
On Tuesday, we welcomed Dr Chow into school as a guest speaker for our ‘Careers in the Spotlight’ programme. As a Consultant Radiologist, he spoke to the children about his training and career and shared some fascinating insights into his work and looking at x-rays. He also demonstrated how our MARK values continue to apply and shape life well beyond the classroom.
Year 3 and Year 5 have been out on their Residentials this week and have had an absolutely fabulous time team building and encountering new challenges. It is always lovely to see the children return with huge smiles on their faces and many stories to tell. Once again, thanks to the team for accompanying the children. Without their support, such experiences wouldn’t be possible.
Yesterday, Pre-prep entertained their parents with their fabulous Summer Concert. It was a showcase of some great music making and singing – from those in the early stages of developing musicianship to those who are taking their first steps into grades. Well done to all involved.
Finally, today promises to be a great day. Our popular Coffee on the Cobbles early this morning was a lovely sun-filled hour for parents, followed by our end of term service in the Cathedral. This afternoon, we mark the close of the half-term with a sense of community with the eagerly awaited School Council Fun Day and Talent show which will close the afternoon with fun, laughter and spirit of togetherness.
Best wishes for a restful and relaxing break.
Sally Harrod, Head of Chorister School
