UPPER SCHOOL OPEN EVENING
Wondering whether I too might have something to learn about the Upper School, I joined parents and pupils in accepting the teachers’ invitation to attend the Upper School Evening on Monday 23rd. And I did. A lot.
Displayed before me in the classrooms and during a presentation in Keir Hall was the vast number of subjects the students study, and what a carefully designed and balanced diet is spread before them over the four years – Classes 9 to 12. Every year they meet a curriculum suited to the subtle developmental changes of their ages 14 -18. Displaying an astonishing width of knowledge and the heart-warming enthusiasm of fresh young teachers, the US teaching team spoke on their subjects – from Trigonometry to Renaissance Art, Physics to Wilderness Trips, Silversmithing to Biochemistry, Conic Sections to Copper Work, Poetry, World literature, Music, Blacksmithing, Maths, Dress-making, Calculus, German, Theatre, Eurythmy, Astronomy, Art and much, much more.
Over and above all the nourishing and mind-broadening content, the team wanted us to know that their ultimate aim is the Enjoyment of Learning – that their students should love learning for learning’s sake, and that they should be happy and fulfilled throughout the four years.
In case that sounds like just too much fun and not enough hard grind – pay attention! They have to work extremely hard and each reach their best standard. Everyone participates in every course and lesson, and Grading and Credits attend them all: achievement, attitude, effort…even including punctuality and attendance,- and all these credits lead directly to the Leaving Diplomas which are given out at the end of Class 12. These will play a major part in the next step the students will take – whether to university, work or other study.
Many thanks to the teachers for the presentation and for all the love and care they put into their work every day here in our fortunate school.
Christine Polyblank
