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We marked the end to a fantastic first term at KPS with a series of festive events.
The celebrations kicked off with a traditional Christmas lunch and Christmas jumper day, getting everyone into the festive spirit.
The next event in the calendar was the school’s Carol Service. Set in the beautiful St Jude’s Church, we welcomed pupils, staff, family and friends to an evening of Christmas carols, performances and readings, accompanied by mince pies and mulled wine. The school choir performed wonderful renditions of 'Silent Night' and 'Mid-Winter'. There was also an excellent performance by the staff choir of 'Lully, Lullay, Lulla', a pitch-perfect solo by Benjamin Emerton who sang 'The Little Road to Bethlehem', and the whole service was accompanied skillfully by the school ensemble.
Ending the term, Final Assembly gave pupils and teachers a chance to reflect on the achievements of the past few months. Mr Vanni reminded us all of the many trips that had taken place, including a visit to the Royal Academy of Arts, a sociology trip to Kingston Crown Court, and a science trip to the Imperial War Museum. Outstanding pupil achievements in sport, music, the arts, as well as academic accomplishments, were recognised with Headmaster Commendations.
Another accomplishment that must not go unnoticed, and was highlighted by the atmosphere during the assembly, is the KPS community and spirit that has been forged over the past months. With the Lower School having started the term off as a brand new school with both staff and pupils new to one another, it was evident to see that, after only several months, the KPS community has truly established itself as a friendly and inclusive one. It was wonderful to see the genuine support and encouragement between pupils and across year groups as their peers were called up to receive awards.
Following the presentation of awards, entertainment was provided by the Jazz Band with a performance of James Brown’s ‘I feel good’ which got everyone’s feet moving. Next up was the School Choir who beautifully sang ‘Silent Night’. The entertainment continued with a poetry reading of ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas’ by KPS pupils, which was followed by a light-hearted politically correct version executed expertly by the Sixth Form teaching staff.
Ending the assembly in true Christmas spirit, the whole school joined in to sing 'Winter Wonderland,' at which point a flurry of snow descended upon the school hall (a wonderful surprise for both staff and students alike organised by Mr Vanni). There could not have been a better more joyful way to end what has been a fantastic first term at Kensington Park School.
We wish pupils, families and staff a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. We look forward to seeing you all again next year for what we are sure will be a just as successful Spring Term.