From the 86th floor of the most famous skyscraper in the world, the Empire State Building, members of the Sixth Form gazed in awe at the sights of New York which stretched before them. A busy few days followed during which they visited many of the sights, attended an impressive conference at the UN and had a sparkling night out on Broadway where they watched "Hairspray". A solemn moment was spent at Ground Zero where the construction of a memorial garden and a new World Trade Centre is underway. Returning with bulging suitcases after seeking out the best bargains in the shops, all the girls agreed it was a brilliant trip and are looking forward to going again next year.

On Thursday, the children in Pre-Prep had a special taster session themed on the book “We’re Going On A Bear Hunt”. All the children, along with some new friends, got the opportunity to experience an afternoon in Reception, and thoroughly enjoyed exploring, creating and investigating all sorts of different activities based around the “Bear” theme. The children particularly enjoyed using instruments to accompany the story, making bear biscuits and even creating their own bear masks. Some of the children were especially good at impersonating the bear and I am sure the occasional roar could be heard from further away! All the children joined in beautifully and were keen to use the different equipment and facilities that they will experience in Reception.

St Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Farnham was the setting for a glorious concert last Thursday evening. Almost 180 girls and boys from the school filled the church with a wonderful mixture of modern, traditional and classical music which thrilled a packed audience.

Full choirs from the prep and senior schools were in magnificent voice for a number of items and the smaller Chamber Choir of the senior school and Chanteurs group of the prep school enchanted St Joan's parishioners with some quieter songs. There were splendid duets featuring Olivia with Kate and Eleanor and musical pieces from Hannah on recorder and a violin quartet from teacher Pam Edwards with Erin, Kate and Elisabeth. Georgia, Imogen and Allison stepped from the choir to perform beautiful solo pieces.