As we come to the end of another academic year, I’ve been reflecting on our theme for Speech Day and Prize Giving: The Journey So Far. It feels the perfect way to look back on everything the Edenhurst community has shared, especially over these last few weeks which have been positively overflowing with such energy, achievement, and so many wonderful memories.
We have, in true Edenhurst style, been exceedingly busy! Our Trinity term has seen pupils heading off on a wide array of trips and experiences…..Prep 3 took to the skies in cable cars and ventured underground at the Heights of Abraham. Prep 5 explored the wonders of science and technology at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum. Form 1 had an exciting time at Castaway Play. Prep 6 carried on the much-loved leavers’ tradition of visiting Alton Towers, followed by their residential adventure at Condover Hall. Each of these experiences has helped our pupils grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity about the world around them.
Sport has played a significant part in our journey this term, with our pupils representing Edenhurst with pride at the ISA Athletics and Kwik Cricket tournaments. Closer to home, the whole school gathered at Northwood Stadium for our Sports Day and the Dougie Mac Fun Run – a fantastic day of competition, teamwork and sportsmanship. Not to be outdone, Little Edenhurst hosted their own sports days on site, where, I must admit, the parents and staff were just as competitive as the children!
We were also thrilled to welcome England Lioness Jess Clarke for an inspiring visit and training session, and enjoyed a memorable trip to Wimbledon. Looking ahead, we’re excited to have launched plans for an adventure holiday to North Wales next year.
In the arts, our Take One Picture exhibition was a true celebration of creativity, featuring stunning projects in glasswork, textiles, clay, and even stop-motion animation. Two of our talented pupils also attended the awards ceremony for their entries in Newcastle in Bloom, reminding us how far-reaching our pupils’ talents and community spirit truly are.
Meanwhile, our Prep Form Play at the Mitchell Theatre treated audiences to a wonderfully dark—and very entertaining—twist on childhood fairy tales, including The Frog Prince, Hansel and Gretel, and Little Red Riding Hood.
Beyond the classroom, we have enjoyed some lovely community moments, from our ever-popular Parent Lunch Club to the exciting launch of our summer festival. ‘Edenfest’ was a fun-filled afternoon brimming with stalls, activities, delicious pizza and ice cream, dancing, and the much-loved “teacher in the stalls,” where Mr Hulme and Mr Cacia took a good soaking to everyone’s delight! Huge thanks go to our fantastic EPTA for organising it all so brilliantly.
This term saw Prep 5 step up for their Pupil Hustings as they prepare for leadership roles in Prep 6, showing that the Edenhurst cycle continues each year with fresh energy and enthusiasm. And, as ever, our term concluded on a high note with an emotional yet celebratory Leavers’ Assembly, followed by a lively rounders match which perfectly captured the spirit of fun and togetherness at Edenhurst.
For those who can’t quite bear for the adventures to end yet, our Edventures holiday club will be running all summer long, promising even more fun, friendship and discovery.
To our wonderful Prep 6 pupils: as you prepare for the next stage of your journey, I want you to know how incredibly proud Team Edenhurst is of each and every one of you. Our pride goes far beyond your academic achievements; it lies in the kindness, determination and strength of character you have shown throughout your time here. You have faced challenges with courage, seized opportunities with enthusiasm, and supported one another every step of the way. You have truly led by example, embodying all that it means to be part of the Edenhurst community.
Of course, this journey has not been yours alone. To your families: thank you for your constant support and for entrusting us with your children’s education. And to my brilliant colleagues: your dedication and care have helped shape these young people into the confident individuals they are today.
As is often the way at this time of year, we also say farewell to some valued members of staff. Please know how grateful we are that our paths have run in parallel for a time, and for the many contributions made to our school community.
I’d like to leave you with a thought from one of my favourite books, Big Panda and Tiny Dragon by James Norbury:
“Which is more important?” asked Big Panda.
“The journey or the destination?”
“The company,” said Tiny Dragon.
It’s a beautiful reminder that while our goals and achievements matter, it is the people we share our journey with who make it truly special.
Before we reach the final stop on our 2024-25 journey – and what an adventure it’s been – I’m excited to share something special: our brand-new promotional video Welcome to Edenhurst Preparatory School I’m sure you’ll agree that it truly captures the spirit of the Edenhurst Edge.
The next leg of our journey starts soon… I can’t wait to welcome everyone back on Wednesday 3rd September for the next stage. But for now, this is Mrs Mousley, signing off for the summer. I’m off to find a good book, a comfy deckchair, and maybe a scoop (or two) of ice cream!
Mrs Emma Mousley
Headteacher
PS – a little bit more!
Save the Dates!
Betley Show
Saturday 2nd August
Visit the Edenhurst stand and join in our games and activities!
Nursery 20th Birthday & Little Edenhurst Garden Party
Friday 5th September
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Come and celebrate 20 wonderful years of our nursery and the exciting relaunch as Little Edenhurst! Join us for a special garden party on the field.
Further information to follow – we’d love to see you there!
Categories: School Blogs