Senior School News

As I sit writing these lines in a rather warm classroom, it appears that summer, or at least spring, might well have finally made an appearance after a classic English Bank Holiday downpour!

In the past week we have enjoyed sporting successes at the Sevenoaks School Athletics fixture, as well as a record-breaking number of cricket matches, with nearly all the boys in the Senior School involved at some level. Well done to all involved for your efforts.

In a less positive vein, here at The New Beacon, thankfully, incidents of discrimination are very, very rare. However, even in an open-minded and welcoming community such as ours, such deplorable behaviour does inexplicably rear its head from time to time. As a staff, when this does occur, we always question why – and how? Is it ignorance? A lack of maturity or understanding? Or is it something more sinister? Unfortunately (and despite Mr Bromwich’s excellent CPHSE lessons) we have to realise: it can happen here.

We have spoken at length with the boys about their understanding of discrimination – be it racially motivated, a person’s sexual orientation, elitism or simply someone’s hair colour or body image and we feel it is important that the boys remain vigilant to such behaviour – prevention is better than cure. The boys are always very open to discussions and very accepting of everyone – just as it should be.

If, in the unlikely event you son experiences discrimination in any form during his time here, he has a number of ways of letting his teachers, or any adult he trusts, know. Boys can speak to any of us by simply ‘popping in’, through the Private Eye or via a parent/adult emailing a member of staff. It goes without saying we don’t tolerate any form of discrimination at The New Beacon, so do keep us informed should anything arise – a conversation we hope won’t be necessary.

Finally, today saw our final chapel service before the Leavers’ Service on Friday, 5 July, which always promises to be a special and moving occasion, and we look forward to seeing all the boys there.

On that note, the Chapel Choir, in yesterday’s assembly, gave us a wonderful rendition of some of the pieces they will be performing alongside other Prep Schools at the inaugural IAPS Choral Concert at Benenden School on next Tuesday, 14 May – we wish them the very best for this special performance and hope to see many of you there in support.

With very best wishes for a restful weekend!

Mr Ribbans-Opara
Assistant Head of Senior School