The first half of term seems to have come and gone in a flash! The new girls who joined us in September feel like they have been here forever and I hope they now feel completely settled. I have no doubt that the girls will need a rest over the half term break and hopefully, the two-week holiday can serve as a moment to recharge for the second half of term. The run up to Christmas is fast and furious and with the evenings closing in, it often feels as though you may not see your daughter's in the light! There are many exciting things to look forward to and the key dates are listed below.

As part of our House fundraising this year we are seeking donations for our Christmas Raffle. There will be 2 types of hamper up for grabs, adult hampers and ones aimed at teenagers (both boys and girls) – details of how to buy tickets will be circulated after half term. Please read the attached poster for ideas, we would really like all members of MacLeod to contribute in some way, by either making donations for the hampers or by buying tickets. Last year we made 8 hampers and raised £1885 which was unbelievable! We would very much like to equal that, if not beat it, this year! All proceeds raised will be split between our House Charity, the Winnie Mabaso Foundation, and MacLeod.Please bring any donations into MacLeod after half term. Many thanks in anticipation!! 

Open Morning 

Thank you to all those who were involved in Open Morning last weekend. The feedback about the girls was just fantastic and made me so proud, the fact that our visitors saw the House spirit and kindness all the girls had to offer was just lovely! 

Key Dates after Half Term 

Monday 4th November – Friends of DCSF Fireworks 

Tuesday 12th November – Y8 Social and Y8 Parents Evening 

Monday 18th November – House Music in Durham Cathedral (evening) – all pupils are expected to attend and parents will be welcome to watch Tickets will go on sale soon.

Tuesday 26th November – Year 10 Social and Y10 Parents Evening 

Monday 2nd December – MacLeod Christmas Bake Sale 

Thursday 5th December – MacLeod Mulled Wine and Mince Pies Parents Drinks Event and Christmas Hamper Draw 

Wednesday 11th December – Junior Christmas Suppers (during the day) 

Thursday 12th December – Senior Christmas Suppers (evening – black tie) 

Friday 13th December – Carol Service in Durham Cathedral (5.30-6.30pm) and End of Term 

Good luck to all those competing in their chosen sports and activities over half term. The rowing girls have events at Wansbeck Head and in Durham over the next couple of weeks, so good luck to all those competing! House Hockey This week saw many of our girls competing in the annual House Hockey competition. With Lodge House competing for the first time, stakes were high and the old rivalry between MacLeod and Pimlico seemed fiercer than ever! Our amazing Y9/Y10 girls pulled together as a team and were worthy winners of the Intermediate Section.