Dear Parents
Once again, I am delighted to announce that one of our pupils has received yet another offer to study at Oxbridge. Dani Edmunds was thrilled to hear from Oxford University and to receive an offer to study Biological Sciences. Three offers from a class of 31 is a record for the school but I would add that there are plenty of other pupils who have received offers this year to study at this country’s leading universities. Equally, I would like to emphasise that we take great pride in all of our pupils’ achievements, whether academic or otherwise. We have a broad ability range at the school but assume that all children are talented and we share with you the task of helping to develop that talent, in whatever field it may lie.
James Young in Yr 10 has, for instance, just been selected for the Sussex Rugby squad and this reflects, as with all high achievements, hundreds of hours of dedicated work and determination.
Likewise, from Yr 9, Isobel Richardson has passed Grade 8 on the cello with Distinction. This means that Isobel is playing at top A Level standard already. She also achieved a Distinction in Recorder at Grade 6.
All three of these pupils mentioned above surely prove the old adage that high achievements are nearly always 5% inspiration and 95% perspiration! We know that the “Beatles” practised at great length and had endless performances before they became famous.
I take great pride in the fact that so many of your children are determined, hardworking and successful young people and it is a privilege to share in their triumphs when they come.
Next week form Tuesday to Thursday, we have inspectors looking at boarding in the school and all boarding parents are encouraged to reply to the questionnaire that has been sent to you.
I hope you all have some fun in the snow this weekend.
Best wishes,
Roger Clark
Friday, 18 January 2013
Friday, 11 January 2013
11th January 2013 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
What better way to start the new school year than to hear that we had two pupils with offers at Cambridge University for October 2013? Max Maher has an unconditional offer to read English at Robinson College and Lily Lindon has a conditional offer also to read English at Magdalene College. We are all delighted, none more so than the English department.
On top of this we are also very pleased to be in top 50 co-educational, day and boarding schools in the country based on the Times and Daily Telegraph’s league table of schools with the highest percentage of A and A* grades at A Level.
Mr Payton is e-mailing you all separately to tell you about a much improved method of booking appointments for parents’ evenings and he also will be asking you to confirm your most current e-mail contact details.
We are building a new maintenance workshop on part of the imprint of the Abbey church and this has given rise to some sensitive planning considerations and , after some delays, this will soon be accomplished and completion of the new girls’ changing rooms will follow in short order. In addition, the pupils are helping in the planning of a major refurbishment of the Sixth Form area in preparation for the new school year in September.
The holidays also produced some interesting archeology on our site. English Heritage were very busy over Christmas following the discovery of some footings of the old Abbey infirmary, which have lain unnoticed for nearly 500 years by the walled garden.
So, the new term is under way and I hope that you will, as always, feel free to contact me with any concerns, that you may have, whilst also saying to you that positive feedback is also most welcome. We need to know what we are doing right and wrong in order to keep on improving!
Best wishes
Roger Clark
What better way to start the new school year than to hear that we had two pupils with offers at Cambridge University for October 2013? Max Maher has an unconditional offer to read English at Robinson College and Lily Lindon has a conditional offer also to read English at Magdalene College. We are all delighted, none more so than the English department.
On top of this we are also very pleased to be in top 50 co-educational, day and boarding schools in the country based on the Times and Daily Telegraph’s league table of schools with the highest percentage of A and A* grades at A Level.
Mr Payton is e-mailing you all separately to tell you about a much improved method of booking appointments for parents’ evenings and he also will be asking you to confirm your most current e-mail contact details.
We are building a new maintenance workshop on part of the imprint of the Abbey church and this has given rise to some sensitive planning considerations and , after some delays, this will soon be accomplished and completion of the new girls’ changing rooms will follow in short order. In addition, the pupils are helping in the planning of a major refurbishment of the Sixth Form area in preparation for the new school year in September.
The holidays also produced some interesting archeology on our site. English Heritage were very busy over Christmas following the discovery of some footings of the old Abbey infirmary, which have lain unnoticed for nearly 500 years by the walled garden.
So, the new term is under way and I hope that you will, as always, feel free to contact me with any concerns, that you may have, whilst also saying to you that positive feedback is also most welcome. We need to know what we are doing right and wrong in order to keep on improving!
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Friday, 23 November 2012
23rd November 2012 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
This has been a week with two very significant events, which will affect the future of the school.
Firstly there will be a very exciting announcement made at the end of next week about my successor. But we must all wait patiently!
Secondly, as you can read elsewhere, Battle Abbey School was selected as a leading centre for educational excellence in the use of digital technology to improve pupils’ learning. As one of only six schools nationwide, we will have access to and be part of digital educational resources and research in 19 other European countries. I cannot tell you quite how honoured I feel on behalf of the school that this immense achievement has been won by a small independent school. Dr Eric Demoncheaux has led this project, very ably abetted by Tony Payton, Phil Usher, John Norbury and Damian Baldry and a host of other staff. Eric has always kept an eye on the scientific and digital revolution which goes on in the big, wide world and in the world-wide web. Once again, I
commend our excellent staff to you. I feel privileged to work alongside so many very high calibre colleagues.
The Abbot’s Hall is, in so many ways, the epicentre of the school and this beautiful building reverted briefly to its spiritual origins as we celebrated Evensong last Sunday with the whole boarding community, the full choir and some fifty parents. This room - and the services we hold in it - will always be one of my abiding memories of life at school. The Hall is warm, welcoming and the echoes of its past reverberate around it, if you stop and are still enough to listen and hear. With the Christmas tree in place, it has a very special atmosphere every year and we look forward to “Carols round the Fire”, which has long been a favourite evening for many generations of pupils, staff, parents and governors and is very often their first Christmas event. I hope parents will want to join us on Tuesday 4th December at 7pm. It was the first event that I attended after I had been appointed to the Headship of the school some 15 years ago and it is an evening which is very special for me and for many others. You are all welcome.
With my best wishes
Roger Clark
This has been a week with two very significant events, which will affect the future of the school.
Firstly there will be a very exciting announcement made at the end of next week about my successor. But we must all wait patiently!
Secondly, as you can read elsewhere, Battle Abbey School was selected as a leading centre for educational excellence in the use of digital technology to improve pupils’ learning. As one of only six schools nationwide, we will have access to and be part of digital educational resources and research in 19 other European countries. I cannot tell you quite how honoured I feel on behalf of the school that this immense achievement has been won by a small independent school. Dr Eric Demoncheaux has led this project, very ably abetted by Tony Payton, Phil Usher, John Norbury and Damian Baldry and a host of other staff. Eric has always kept an eye on the scientific and digital revolution which goes on in the big, wide world and in the world-wide web. Once again, I
commend our excellent staff to you. I feel privileged to work alongside so many very high calibre colleagues.
The Abbot’s Hall is, in so many ways, the epicentre of the school and this beautiful building reverted briefly to its spiritual origins as we celebrated Evensong last Sunday with the whole boarding community, the full choir and some fifty parents. This room - and the services we hold in it - will always be one of my abiding memories of life at school. The Hall is warm, welcoming and the echoes of its past reverberate around it, if you stop and are still enough to listen and hear. With the Christmas tree in place, it has a very special atmosphere every year and we look forward to “Carols round the Fire”, which has long been a favourite evening for many generations of pupils, staff, parents and governors and is very often their first Christmas event. I hope parents will want to join us on Tuesday 4th December at 7pm. It was the first event that I attended after I had been appointed to the Headship of the school some 15 years ago and it is an evening which is very special for me and for many others. You are all welcome.
With my best wishes
Roger Clark
Friday, 16 November 2012
16th November 2012 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
Evensong on Sunday 6pm – it is advertised separately but please do come along, if you would like to.
Scholars’ Concert – the very best of Battle Abbey School music was on display this Tuesday. Twenty of our finest musicians played, sang and entertained us. One guest thought that there could be very few schools in the South East of England who could match the depth of talent. This statement is probably impossible to prove but I, for one, was bursting with pride, as I often am, because of the achievements of our pupils and teachers.
Sixth Form Open Evening – there was a very good turn out and a larger than usual number of visitors from outside of the school. We talked, among much else, of the possibility of starting new A Level subjects. At the moment, out of Politics, Philosophy and Photography, the latter two seem the most popular. I also informed students and parents that a significant upgrade to the Sixth Form area would take place in time for September. However, above all, I talked about the excitement of study at this level and the sea change that our pupils encounter after GCSE. The Sixth Form experience at BAS is very special – the icing on the cake for our pupils and staff!
FOBAS Quiz Night – a sell-out! Former parent and quizmaster of longstanding, Alan Covall, will again remind all those present of the two disastrous years when the Headmaster joined a hapless and unsuspecting team and how the Headmaster had to come and receive the wooden spoon on behalf of the team. For many years I have hidden shamefaced behind the bar on the night of the quiz not daring to attach myself and my unenviable reputation to any group but tonight I’m making a come-back. I think that my team is called the “Likely Losers”.
“The Boyfriend” – this term’s senior musical. You will have seen the advertisements. Do come along and enjoy some high quality, live theatre.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Evensong on Sunday 6pm – it is advertised separately but please do come along, if you would like to.
Scholars’ Concert – the very best of Battle Abbey School music was on display this Tuesday. Twenty of our finest musicians played, sang and entertained us. One guest thought that there could be very few schools in the South East of England who could match the depth of talent. This statement is probably impossible to prove but I, for one, was bursting with pride, as I often am, because of the achievements of our pupils and teachers.
Sixth Form Open Evening – there was a very good turn out and a larger than usual number of visitors from outside of the school. We talked, among much else, of the possibility of starting new A Level subjects. At the moment, out of Politics, Philosophy and Photography, the latter two seem the most popular. I also informed students and parents that a significant upgrade to the Sixth Form area would take place in time for September. However, above all, I talked about the excitement of study at this level and the sea change that our pupils encounter after GCSE. The Sixth Form experience at BAS is very special – the icing on the cake for our pupils and staff!
FOBAS Quiz Night – a sell-out! Former parent and quizmaster of longstanding, Alan Covall, will again remind all those present of the two disastrous years when the Headmaster joined a hapless and unsuspecting team and how the Headmaster had to come and receive the wooden spoon on behalf of the team. For many years I have hidden shamefaced behind the bar on the night of the quiz not daring to attach myself and my unenviable reputation to any group but tonight I’m making a come-back. I think that my team is called the “Likely Losers”.
“The Boyfriend” – this term’s senior musical. You will have seen the advertisements. Do come along and enjoy some high quality, live theatre.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Friday, 19 October 2012
19th October 2012 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
“Most Battle Abbey people care deeply about others and leave their mark as ambassadors for humanity wherever they go.” (extract from a letter from a former pupil)
As a statement this could well be flawed and impossible to prove but, as an aspiration, it fits so well into all that I would hope we instill in our pupils as they go through the school and move on.
Two young ladies came to see me a few weeks ago, because they had family members afflicted by Alzheimer’s disease and they wanted to do something to help. Thus, today, is a Pyjama/Mufti Day to raise money for Alzheimer’s research. I am delighted that the children look beyond our walls and think about the concerns of the wider world.
At the meeting of the School Council after half-term, representatives are asked to bring suggestions about improving their life at school and secondly for how we can make a difference to help in the world outside of their school.
I was extremely proud this week to attend the Centenary History lectures, when Mike Ansar-Carver, our Head of History and Dr Marc Morris, leading expert on the Norman Conquest, entertained us to two excellent talks on the period.
During half-term do give thought to our 22 pupils and 3 staff members who will spend four days trudging through and over the Derbyshire Dales. Let us hope that they get some good weather!
There is also an A Level History trip to the battlefields of Derbyshire for eight Upper Sixth formers and finally a Performing Arts day on the second Tuesday lead by one of our recent former pupils,
Catherine Anderson, who is a graduate of the Guildford School of Acting and now teaches in two different stage schools as well as pursuing a professional career.
As always, I ask you to contact me, if you have any concerns about your child’s education at Battle Abbey School. It is a great privilege to help in your children’s education and I am always striving to do the very best for all these wonderful children you entrust to us.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
“Most Battle Abbey people care deeply about others and leave their mark as ambassadors for humanity wherever they go.” (extract from a letter from a former pupil)
As a statement this could well be flawed and impossible to prove but, as an aspiration, it fits so well into all that I would hope we instill in our pupils as they go through the school and move on.
Two young ladies came to see me a few weeks ago, because they had family members afflicted by Alzheimer’s disease and they wanted to do something to help. Thus, today, is a Pyjama/Mufti Day to raise money for Alzheimer’s research. I am delighted that the children look beyond our walls and think about the concerns of the wider world.
At the meeting of the School Council after half-term, representatives are asked to bring suggestions about improving their life at school and secondly for how we can make a difference to help in the world outside of their school.
I was extremely proud this week to attend the Centenary History lectures, when Mike Ansar-Carver, our Head of History and Dr Marc Morris, leading expert on the Norman Conquest, entertained us to two excellent talks on the period.
During half-term do give thought to our 22 pupils and 3 staff members who will spend four days trudging through and over the Derbyshire Dales. Let us hope that they get some good weather!
There is also an A Level History trip to the battlefields of Derbyshire for eight Upper Sixth formers and finally a Performing Arts day on the second Tuesday lead by one of our recent former pupils,
Catherine Anderson, who is a graduate of the Guildford School of Acting and now teaches in two different stage schools as well as pursuing a professional career.
As always, I ask you to contact me, if you have any concerns about your child’s education at Battle Abbey School. It is a great privilege to help in your children’s education and I am always striving to do the very best for all these wonderful children you entrust to us.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Friday, 12 October 2012
12th October 2012 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
Founders’ Day was very special for the many former pupils who returned. Letters and e-mails of thanks have flooded in. They mention the very friendly reception given by our present pupils who were there to meet and greet. They praise the organisation and the catering. They delight in the fact that they were able to meet up and they remember with real affection the school and the beauty of the building.
“With the sun shining incessantly, the school I’ve always been so proud to be a pupil of, looked resplendent in its glorious and historical setting. It was a day I shall never ever forget. “(Left 1966)
“The pupils were all very articulate and pleasant and attentive. After 60 years the Abbey still holds a chunk of my heart!”
“I was particularly struck by the present young ambassadors of the Abbey who two by two took charge of each of the guests. I had two charming girls who had only been at the school for a month but who had obviously very quickly absorbed the atmosphere and the tradition of caring and making guests feel welcome….It was a great pleasure to see once again those ancient ruins and to remind oneself that all Battle Abbey pupils are privileged to have spent their education in one of our most famous monuments with such a long history. It is a place of great beauty and peace.” (Left 1962)
The Centenary Science Day on Wednesday was another great success and a great tribute to the vision of the governors with the opening of the third new Science laboratory and to the leadership of Dr Demoncheaux.
I now particularly recommend to you the Centenary History lectures next Wednesday evening. Come and listen to two top speakers on the Norman Conquest. Mike Ansar-Carver is one of these two speakers and another example of the high quality staff who educate your children.
I cannot finish without thanking those parents who have hosted the German pupils on the first leg of this year’s German exchange. Despite the weather, our visitors are enjoying their week in Battle very much.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Founders’ Day was very special for the many former pupils who returned. Letters and e-mails of thanks have flooded in. They mention the very friendly reception given by our present pupils who were there to meet and greet. They praise the organisation and the catering. They delight in the fact that they were able to meet up and they remember with real affection the school and the beauty of the building.
“With the sun shining incessantly, the school I’ve always been so proud to be a pupil of, looked resplendent in its glorious and historical setting. It was a day I shall never ever forget. “(Left 1966)
“The pupils were all very articulate and pleasant and attentive. After 60 years the Abbey still holds a chunk of my heart!”
“I was particularly struck by the present young ambassadors of the Abbey who two by two took charge of each of the guests. I had two charming girls who had only been at the school for a month but who had obviously very quickly absorbed the atmosphere and the tradition of caring and making guests feel welcome….It was a great pleasure to see once again those ancient ruins and to remind oneself that all Battle Abbey pupils are privileged to have spent their education in one of our most famous monuments with such a long history. It is a place of great beauty and peace.” (Left 1962)
The Centenary Science Day on Wednesday was another great success and a great tribute to the vision of the governors with the opening of the third new Science laboratory and to the leadership of Dr Demoncheaux.
I now particularly recommend to you the Centenary History lectures next Wednesday evening. Come and listen to two top speakers on the Norman Conquest. Mike Ansar-Carver is one of these two speakers and another example of the high quality staff who educate your children.
I cannot finish without thanking those parents who have hosted the German pupils on the first leg of this year’s German exchange. Despite the weather, our visitors are enjoying their week in Battle very much.
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Friday, 5 October 2012
5th October 2012 - Message from the Headmaster
Dear Parents
Why am I excited?
Because:
Best wishes
Roger Clark
Why am I excited?
Because:
- at least 350 former pupils, representing nine, yes nine decades of the school are returning on Saturday for a seven hour trip down memory lane.
- two famous TV scientists, Richard Robinson and Jonathan Hare will spend all of Wednesday next week at school and share some of their love of science with Yrs 6 to 9, along with some welcome visitors from Vinehall.
- they will also open our new Biology Laboratory on that day.
- three history professors, leading authorities on the Norman Conquest and TV historians, will deliver lectures on Sunday 14th October, the 946th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, to A Level students from Eton, Westminster, Marlborough, Berkhampstead, Bryanston, King’s Wimbledon, King’s Ely and Battle Abbey. This is an annual BAS event organized by our excellent Head of History, Michael Ansar-Carver.
- the Centenary History Lectures take place on Wednesday October 17th. Mr Ansar-Carver will talk on “Harold – the Lost English King” and Dr Marc Morris will talk on “The Norman Conquest” – why not come along?
- on Monday our German exchange partners arrive from Munich to spend a week with us.
- there will be three trips out of school next week to the theatre in London on both Monday and Thursday and to the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace.
- there will be five sporting fixtures against other schools
- on Friday evening it’s the Harold’s Night Disco (not quite so excited but I’ll be there!)
- there will be 54 opportunities for your children to take part in extra-curricular activities, as there are every week!
Best wishes
Roger Clark
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