We have had an excellent week here in Bungites and though one or two decisions have not gone our way, I could see a real spirit and determination in the boys. As a House, our aim is to prepare as best as we can with a view to winning the various competitions we enter; a mindset the boys have certainly bought into. Over the years, various houses have been good in certain areas and, perhaps, some approaches were not always at the level a competition warranted. This is certainly not the case in Bungites and, win, lose or draw, our boys can hold their heads high knowing they have done all they can to deliver for the house. I can honestly say that the boys in Bungites are superb ambassadors for our school and dealt with Monday's disappointment with class. As I said to the boys, winning House Music is incredibly difficult for us as a boys' house but that does not mean we change our approach or drive.

Sports

What a brilliant performance from the 1st XV last Friday under the lights at Kingston Park. The boys had too much firepower for RGS Newcastle and probably feel they could have scored triple figures! I must also mention how impressed I was with the behaviour and conduct of our pupils (and most of our parents...) and I think it was very clear to see the difference in how the pupils from both schools approach such events. Congratulations to all the boys in the attached picture and a special shout out to Spencer S who made his debut. Our U14s drew with Barnard Castle (hattrick for Archie Mould) and there was a win for our U15s (Tom R standing out) against the same opposition. The 1st XV and U16 XV are back under the lights this Friday against our old enemy, Barnard Castle. Lets hope the weather does not scupper what will be an excellent evening. I must also offer an apology to the residents of Kingston Park having told everyone that it is always cold and windy in that part of God's Country- something that is simply untrue as Friday was lovely and mild.

Music

As always, House Music did not disappoint and I could not have been prouder of the boys. It was a fantastic evening in what is a quite stunning building. The amount of positive comments I received after the event was unmatched during my time as Housemaster and the boys could not have done more. Our part song was excellent and received wholly positive feedback from the adjudicator. Theo M, Jackson M, Troy C, Jack C, Luca RT, Yunhao X, Charlie R, Jesse E, Lucas H, Thomas H, Simon C and Andrew C were outstanding. Our Unison was as entertaining as it was musical and my thanks go to Theo M for all of his efforts in motivating, training and conducting the house. A special couple of thank Yous have to go to our gorgeous Weather Girls, Thoams H and Lucas H who were fantastic in both songs. Their energy and enthusiasm (not to mention immense talent) has surely written them into Bungites folklore.

Academic

Another strong week on the academic front with awards going to the following:

Ethan B, Seb C, Jesse E, Sam F, Will G, Marcus H, Ben R, Kanishk S & Robbie S

Leaderboard:

1. Jesse E
2. Kanishk S
3. Sam F
4. Robbie S
5. Evan M

Massive well done to all of the boys listed above.

Charity

Now that Music is out of the way the boys and I are planning our fundraising activities for the remainder of the term. We will keep supporting the Movember Charity all the way through to Christmas and will complete our physical challenge (60 for 60 Team Challenge) on Friday 13th December. We are also planning an Open Mic night, cake sale as well as lots of Mo growing! My apologies more info has not followed, it will soon! Please do get the boys motivated in seeking out sponsorship (link below).

https://movember.com/m/14741690?mc=1

Housekeeping

I am trying to tighten up what the boys do after school and I would be grateful for your support. Day pupils should be with us from 4:45pm in the Common Room (ideally doing prep!) if they are still onsite. Boys should not be heading to town and returning to the house. This is simply for registration purposes and so that I know where they are. Any pupil who signs out, should not return to school until the following day (unless to attend an event, obviously).

A new segment… Meet the Bungite
Zac H- Movie star, Drama legend and all round great guy.

• Favourite subject?
  Drama
• Why drama?                           
  It's exciting and interesting to create your own interpretation of events, books and stories.
• Favourite drama moment?               Singing in a Midsummers night dream as Bottom with the audience clapping along.  
• What has drama given you?              If I am honest, drama has given me huge confidence and self-belief.
• Aspirations?                           I have recently starred in a film and would love to do this again!
• What's the best bit about School House?   The respect that pupils and staff have for each other's differences and what we do.
• What's your biggest achievement?         The way in which I have built up my resilience and self-confidence since joining in year 9.
• Any advice to new pupils?                Do the things you enjoy and that you want to do! Be yourself!

I wish you all a very restful weekend.
Mr Mark Younger
Housemaster, School House