Dear Old Sulians,
The last term was as busy as ever at the School. Preparations for GCSE, 'A' Level and SATs examinations were at the forefront of academic preparation and I am pleased to say that we will expect a good 'crop' of high grades when results come in during the summer. On the sporting front the school has been very successful. The U15 Rugby team succeeded in winning the Bristol Rugby Festival as well as regaining the Catholic College Rugby shield in a close fought contest in February. The U14 Rugby tour continued their very strong showing and reached the semi-final of the County Cup before losing a very tight encounter with Kingswood. The success of our other rugby teams has been a little more variable but it is pleasing to note that our teams are always commended for their sportsmanship and team work in all areas of competition.
Our soccer teams have fared well. The U13 XI succeeded in the winning the County Cup (Somerset) in February and then fell (on penalties!) in the second round of the National Cup. This was a bitter blow as the boys had looked as if they could go all the way under their inspirational coach (and Head of Maths) Mr Henly. The 1st XI has developed well and increasingly has been pitched against the very best opponents - from teams such as Millfield and also semi-professional opponents. This experience has proved invaluable and ensured that any local opposition have been "despatched" effectively.
Hockey has continued to thrive under the guidance of Mr Ross and the recent tour of Holland was very successful, again giving boys the opportunity to develop sporting skills and live and work together effectively.
In addition to the 'core' sports, we have seen the development of fencing, table tennis, rowing and even a Clay Pigeon shooting team in the last few months, many of these being at the instigation of the boys themselves.
In February I requested a visit by the army officer responsible for cadet development in the West Country and, as a result of this meeting and subsequent validation by the Governing Body responsible, I am pleased to say that the school is likely to have a CCF unit from the new academic year. This is particularly pleasing as I feel it further connects the distinguished past of CBBS and Beechen Cliff in a form which will be easily recognised and understood by all. I will obviously furnish you with further details in due course.
I could not help be amused by a recent Channel 4 television programme called "That'll teach 'em" which attempted to reproduce a 1950's Grammar School and prepare boys and girls for 'O' level examinations. Apart from the fact that neither group succeeded in passing more than one 'O' level each, it became very clear that the overriding message was that boys and girls are better educated separately from 11-16 years of age. I feel sure it is something you knew all the time ….
Towards the end of summer I hope to give you an update on staffing and the success of our cricket teams. I look forward to seeing you as a full 'body' in October, although I believe I might see one or two of you at a forthcoming Rotary lunch at the Cricket Club.
Very best wishes to all the Old Sulians from all at Beechen Cliff School.
A Davies
Headmaster