Friday 15th March 2024

From the Head and Deputy Head

Dear Parents,

We have been spellbound by St Michael's production of A Monster Calls this week as pupils across Years 5 to 8 have performed an outstanding rendition of Patrick Ness' poignant novel. The standard of acting, theatrical artistry and professionalism of our annual school play is always impressive, but the maturity and emotional resonance of this year's production has left audience members in awe. I hope those of you who have seen the play so far this week have enjoyed it, whilst those seeing it this evening are in for a real treat. Congratulations to all of our actors and of course Mr Powell and his dedicated team behind the scenes for this triumph. 

On Monday we welcomed back our Years 7 and 8 children who were exploring Holland last week on their Sports Tour. I have enjoyed hearing from the pupils and staff who attended about all the fun activities and sporting opportunities that were enjoyed. You can view some highlights from the tour in today's newsletter; thank you to Mr Brightman, Mrs Denton, Mr Godoy and Mrs Bingham for leading this memorable trip. 

Easter celebrations began on Tuesday as our Years 1 and 2 musicians performed beautifully for their parents and teachers as part of our Pre-Prep Easter Concert. Congratulations to all of the children who took part as well as Mrs Crane and our Peripatetic Music Team for their hard work in teaching your children their instruments.

As we approach the end of the Lent Term next week, we look forward to a Year 2 Swimming Gala, Prep Breakfast Concert and visit from the Easter Bunny.

Wishing you a brilliant weekend,

Nik Pears

From the Head of Pre-Prep

Mrs Leech is at a conference today so will provide her next update on Friday 22nd March.

Experience Camp Beaumont at St Michael's this Easter

We are delighted to be welcoming Camp Beaumont back to St Michael's this Easter holiday to host exciting workshops from Tuesday 2nd April to Thursday 11th April 2024. 

For a limited time only quote STMICHAELS24 at the checkout to save 20% on your booking (offer valid until 18/03/2014).

As the UK’s most established day camps provider, dating back over 40 years, Camp Beaumont host the most magical, inspiring and confidence-building activity days created with different age groups in mind. Working with industry-leaders in programme design, children can expect a huge range of over 50 exhilarating indoor and outdoor activities including Superhero Academy, Soft Play Ninjas, Clay Workshop, Aqua Olympics, Mini Archery and Rockstar Challenge; all tailored by age group and season. There are also chill-out areas available for campers who want some relaxation time.

Camp Beaumont gives local children the opportunity to meet new, like-minded friends and have lots of fun together away from screens in a friendly and welcoming environment. With flexible booking options available, childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare accepted, Camp Beaumont is a flexible and affordable school holiday childcare option for busy parents in the local area.

Click here to secure your child's place at Camp Beaumont this Easter

St Michael’s French Day/St George’s Day Competition 2024

It’s time to get creative! Laissez parler votre créativité!

Following our pupils’ enthusiastic response to this year’s French-themed Otford Village Fete Competition, we are excited to invite the children to take part in our very own competition celebrating the close ties between England and France. 

Please see details about the competition on the above poster.

The competition deadline is Wednesday 17th April 2024. More information about French Day to follow. 

A Sports Tour to remember: Years 7 and 8 experience Holland

We are excited to share the highlights of St Michael’s 2024 Years 7 and 8 Sports Tour which took place from Tuesday to Friday last week. Venturing to Valkenburg, a quaint town nestled in the south of Holland, the pupils enjoyed four immersive days of coaching, spirited competition and, above all, joy and camaraderie.

Amidst the cheers and victories of the trip, the Sports Tour was a valuable life experience, featuring important opportunities to build and strengthen friendships whilst developing skills such as resilience, empathy and support. 

On the Dutch sports fields the pupils showcased unwavering determination and sportsmanship, each player contributing their utmost effort. Through triumphs and setbacks alike, they demonstrated teamwork and perseverance when playing against some tough opponents. 

In their debut matches, our girls tackled VV Keer in football with tenacity, despite falling short on the scoreboard. Every player demonstrated unwavering determination: Tilly L made remarkable saves, Amelia A had a tireless midfield presence, Evie S gave crunching tackles in defence and Ella M showcased skilful dribbling. 

Additionally, in the hockey arena against Sjinborn club, our girls showcased attacking prowess, taking an early lead and displaying relentless intent. Betsie B's crucial saves kept us in the game, whilst Louisa W and Amelia A shone brightly in defence. A standout performance from Ella M, culminating in a stunning hat-trick, including dribbling the length of the field, was a true highlight. Guided by Mrs Bingham's expertise and Mrs Denton’s unwavering support, the girls played brilliantly, with Ella M being named Most Valued Player.

St Michael’s boys' teams demonstrated remarkable progress throughout the Tour, implementing skills honed in training. Their defence stood firm and leading by example were Harry B and Joe G, tirelessly thwarting opposition attacks. Emile M's goal keeping earned him praise from both sides, with even opposing coaches expressing their admiration. While Emile was recognised as the Most Valued Power, the entire team should be congratulated for their resilience and unwavering effort. The second boys' team also impressed, guided by the leadership of Harry B whose partnership with Josh J in midfield proved pivotal, supported by a cohesive effort from Sumraj J, William C, Yarik P, Tom H and Joe G. Harry's contributions were undeniable, leading to his unanimous selection as Most Valued Player.

In both of the 1st team football matches against VV Keer and Voetbalvereniging Walram, our boys engaged in fierce competition. Charlie W's exemplary leadership combined with Louis H's astute reading of the game and Theo S and Oliver S's tireless defensive efforts provided a solid foundation. Meanwhile, Bailey H's dynamic presence in midfield and up front ensured a constant attacking threat. While the scoreboard may not have always reflected our efforts, the resilience displayed was commendable.

The second game showcased the boys at their best, executing swift passes and their roles with precision. With Charlie W leading the charge, they surged ahead with memorable goals from Charlie W who beat five opposition players with quick feet and mesmerising skills before rounding the keeper. Toluwa O also carried the ball into the heart of the opposition and then smashed the ball into the top corner of the goal from 30 yards out. Additionally, Demi W scored two goals which were a pleasure to witness.

Not to be overlooked, Jack C's heroic saves in goal drove the team's determination to overcome obstacles. Throughout the matches, the boys remained composed under pressure, earning admiration from both spectators and opponents alike. Whilst Charlie W was named Most Valued Player, the whole team's resilience was commended.

Off the pitch, adventures abounded from exhilarating toboggan races to laser tag competitions in Valkenburg's mystical caves. And let's not forget the culinary experiments, where creativity met... interesting combinations such as mini doughnuts with baked beans! A testament to the adventurous spirits of our young chefs!

As teachers, we count ourselves very lucky to have experienced this amazing trip with your children, sharing much laughter, heartfelt conversations and the unifying power of sport with them. 

Words by Mrs Denton, Mrs Bingham, Mr Godoy, Mr Brightman from the Sports Department 

Year 6 visit the French Institute

Year 6 enjoyed a brilliant day of language learning in London on Thursday 7th March when visiting the French Institute. We travelled from Otford via train and tube and spent the morning completing a range of language-based activities relating to the adventure film, Rémi sans famille, based on a famous French novel.

In the morning, the children worked in small groups and practised a great deal of French. After the activities, we had a picnic lunch and the pupils were treated to a well-earned pain au chocolat. We then enjoyed a private viewing of the film, watching the adventures of young Rémi, an orphan who learns the harsh life of an acrobat and sings to win his bread. Rémi’s long trip through France features meetings, friendships and learning the secret of his origins.

We would like to thank all of Year 6 for their exemplary behaviour during the day as well as the staff who accompanied us, ensuring fun was had and the children were safe. 

We look forward to our future visits to the French Institute and a new film next year.

The Languages Department

A delightful Pre-Prep Easter Concert 

Our Years 1 and 2 children performed beautifully in their Easter Concert to parents and teachers on Tuesday morning.

Performing on a range of instruments as both soloists and ensembles, the children showcased weeks' of hard work and dedication to their music learning.

Thank you to Mrs Crane and the Music Department for hosting such an uplifting event for us all!

Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival success

Congratulations to the St Michael's children who took part in the Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd March 2024.

16 children from St Michael’s, ranging from Year 1 to Year 7, entered the Festival which was held at Kent College, Pembury. Everyone had a wonderful time performing in various drama, piano, wind, vocal, versatility and recital classes. The children received great advice from the esteemed adjudicators after each of their performances.

The below results table shows how well the children did with some stiff opposition in several of the classes. There were obviously some nerves, but they were overcome quickly and replaced with smiles all round. All children were good sports, whether they won or not, which was a joy to see. 

On Sunday 17th March, Oliver S, Clara H and Silas C will be performing at Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells in the GEMS Prize Winners’ Concert, where they and others will be collecting cups and awards. We look forward to presenting the various cups and awards at our final assembly next Friday.

It was also wonderful to see some Old Michaelians in action at the festival: Alex S performing in the advanced wind (1^st place Distinction) and recital (2^nd place Distinction) classes which means he has qualified for a place in the final of the 75^th TWAF Anniversary Bursary Competition. Alex will compete in the Final which will be held as part of the GEMS concert on Sunday. The winner will receive £500.

Sophie and Amelia R volunteered at the Festival along with a lot of other people, including Fiona Ross (former St Michael’s mum) and Debbie Mumford (St Michael's Peripatetic Teacher) who are on the TWAF committee.

Can your family join the Big Plastic Count?

Well done to our Years 7 and 8 pupils who recently did a litter pick around St Michael's grounds to help protect the wildlife animals. 

Sofia, Lauren and Nicole impress locals with litter pick 

Thank you to St Michael's pupils Sofia, Lauren and Nicole who enthusiastically led a local litter pick last weekend. Collecting two big bags of rubbish along a route from Dynes Road in Kemsing to Otford Station, the girls showed care and pride for their local environment. They received many encouraging comments from members of our community along the way, including making a four legged friend! “When can we do it again?!”, the girls exclaimed when the job was finished.

If you and your family would like to take part in a litter pick, don't forget you can borrow litter pickers from the school. 

River R for great understanding when solving worded Maths problems

Neve H for being such a kind and helpful member of our class

Max M for gaining confidence and making good progress with his reading

Leo M for wonderfully small and neat handwriting

Arianna O for using some wonderful adjectives, without being asked, when writing

Daniel A for an enthusiastic and informative show and tell

Thea L for always having a positive attitude to learning and being more independent and persevering through challenges

Bertie D for carefully researching facts and creating a detailed fact file about Amelia Earhart

Ilse A for accurately measuring the length of objects in centimetres and metres

Thora W for improving her confidence and speed with arithmetic and times tables

Elise A for fantastic effort drawing a portrait of Amelia Earhart

Evelyn T for precision when measuring and drawing lines with a ruler

House Point Certificates

Leeds: Anika B

Rochester: Maia B and Danny S

Times Tables Certificates 

Bronze Times Tables Certificate: Rafi O; Mia D; Dylan B; Ella F; Mason T; Mia D; Florence J

Silver Times Tables Certificate: Charlie C; Woody W; Rosanna C; Rafferty R; Arthur G

Gold Times Tables Certificate: Arthur G; Zaviyah A

Players of the match - week commencing 11th March 2024

This week in the Breakfast Club our children have enjoyed challenging themselves to see how many times they can bat a ping pong ball back and forth to each other without stopping. We have also made tasty croissant crabs.

Meanwhile in The Hive, we have enjoyed making bird nests (spaghetti and meatballs in a tomato sauce) and have had fun creating cute paper plate chicks for Easter.

School Shop Easter Opening Hours

Friday 12th April, 10am until 12pm 
Monday 15th April, 10am until 12pm 

Until the end of term we will be open at our usual term time opening hours: 

8:00am - 9:15am: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday   

Should you need any further help, please do not hesitate to e-mail us at stmichaels@sturdyclothing.co.uk or call Lou on 07713 632284 and we will do our best to help.

A message from Déjà Vu - St Michael's Second Hand Uniform Shop

Many thanks to all the parents who continue to donate and buy from St Michael's second hand uniform shop. Without you we wouldn't be able to provide this unique service to the school community. 

After the Easter holidays the winter dresses will no longer be available as we switch over to summer uniforms. Summer or winter dresses can be worn until May half term; after that summer dresses must be worn.

We continue to buy good quality, clean blazers size 4 upwards from you for £35.

Cricket starts for Prep school after Easter. The shop can provide the cricket vests (optional but very useful), t shirts and white trousers. If you need these it may be wise to get these before we break up for Easter. In the hope of some summer sun - caps are available for both Pre and Pre-Prep.

The shop will be open from 10am-12am on Monday 15th April 2024. 

If you have any questions, please email Melissa Samworth at melbrand@yahoo.co.uk 

Many thanks for your continued support. 

Swimming success at Kent County Championships

We are extremely proud of the children who have represented St Michael's at the recent Kent County Championships. 

Huge congratulations to Amelia A in Year 8 who won the bronze medal for her 200m breaststroke and Sophie F in Year 6 who achieved personal bests in all of her events: 50m backstroke, 19th place; 50m fly, 23rd place; 50m free, 20th place. Sophie was competing with children nearly a year older than her.

Nathan H (Year 5) also swam brilliantly at the Championships, achieving the following results: 200m breaststroke, 8th place; 50m free; 21st place, 100m free; 16th place, 200m free, 13th place. On Saturday 2nd March, Nathan was also selected by his swim club to take part in the National Arena League B finals at Cardiff International Pool. Sevenoaks Swimming Club came 10th, it was an amazing opportunity and experience for Nathan. 

Tilly L and Bronwyn T in Year 8 also had some great swims at the Kent County Championships. 

Brothers set to compete in Kent Junior League

Nathan and Dylan H have been selected to compete in the Kent Junior League for their swim clubs. They are representing two different swim clubs, Nathan at Sevenoaks and Dylan at Tonbridge, so will be competing against each other.

P & F Carnival Ball 2024

If anyone would like their business/company to sponsor the lounge/bar area for the Ball, please email stmmayball@gmail.com for more details. 

P & F Ball Auction 2024

In May, the St Michael's P&F Carnival Ball auction will raise money for three important causes. The auction will support the P&F's two chosen charities Friends for Families and the Emily Ash Trust. It will also raise funds for an exciting plan to install new play equipment in the school playground. There will be an online and a live event auction.

Please have a think if there is anything you could donate to make this auction a success. We are relying on the generosity of the St Michael's community. Prizes aimed at an experience of a child could do particularly well. Perhaps your network includes a successful sportsperson, author, musician or politician who could offer an experience or a lunch meeting? Perhaps you have a holiday home you could offer for a long weekend? Or tickets to a sporting, theatrical or musical event? We are looking for a range of auction lots, including smaller items for the online auction. 

If you have any ideas or would like to discuss further a possible donation, please drop the P&F a note on stmcharities@yahoo.com

St Michael's Cookbook Competitions

A group of St Michael's parents are creating a St Michael's cookbook and as part of that, are launching a recipe and drawing competition.

We welcome all recipe entries; they do not need to be part of the competition so any family favourites or family and friends entries are welcome.

Recipe competition

We would love for children to submit their favourite food recipe (snack, main, dessert etc.). This should include ingredients list with quantities, a method and a drawing of the finished food (by hand or computer).

Art competition

We would like children to submit pictures of their favourite school meal or food they’ve had at school. This can be by hand or by computer.

This is across the whole school and there will be separate winners for Prep and Pre-Prep. The judges will include Mr Pears and Mrs Leech. The winners will receive copies of the cookbook along with St Michael's aprons.

The closing date for entries is Friday 22nd March 2024.

Please email all entries to stmcookbook24@gmail.com.

St Michael's Umbrellas

Please click the above banner for notices including:

Midsummer at Archbishop's Palace, Otford

Girls' Cricket at Holmesdale 

Dulwich Cranbrook Triathlon 

How to spot an Asian Hornet

Easter Forest School at Bedgebury  

Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club

Muddy Stilettos' Easter Guide  

Thank you for your generous contributions to Medecins Sans Frontieres as part of our recent charity day

Follow us on social media!

Make sure you are following St Michael’s social media channels for important updates and content throughout the year.