The week opened with a BANG! And what a good bang it was, celebrating all the hard work that the girls have put in on the lead up to the House Music event in the majestic setting of Durham Cathedral. Our part song members of Amy, Grace, Penelope, Alexa, Lola, Daisy, Alex, Freya, Hilda and Niamh opened the whole event – what an honour but also a brave undertaking. 

The girls walked up to that stage with purpose, pride and determination, starting the evening with an excellent composition of Dreams by Fleetwood Mac. After the other houses displayed their Part Song skills, it was our turn to showcase our full-house song. Having only half the number of pupils entering the stage did not phase the girls and the beautiful, solid and confident sound that they produced was quite outstanding.

Unfortunately, the girls did not get the result that we wanted or perhaps deserved, but they have shown great character this week in holding their heads high in knowing that they certainly did their best and did the house proud.

On Wednesday we had our house cinema trip to see Paddington in Peru! 20 girls came on the trip with myself and Mrs Fordyce, and it was a lovely evening together. Having seen the other two films, I was happy that it didn't disappoint in hitting all the emotions, making us laugh and leaving us entertained and very much still in love with the famous bear in the red hat. There were even some tears towards the end of the film, or maybe I'm only speaking for myself.

Thursday evening was the Year 10 and 11's tutor social organised by Miss Black, to the Escape Rooms! Before heading off to be locked in, the girls enjoyed a pizza in town. The evening was a good opportunity to spend time with the two year groups and for Miss Black to continue getting to know the girls. Well done on your escape!

This morning, we took time as a house to put up the Christmas tree! With some festive cheer, Christmas music, hot chocolate, and bauble decorating, the morning was relaxed and festive; just what the girls needed after a busy week.

I hope the girls enjoy a relaxing weekend – keep warm!

Lady of Lodge

This week's Lady of Lodge goes to Niamh G, our Head of House, for leading the girls in house music and being so passionate and present in the house. Along with her A Levels, Niamh has taken on this role and has been a brilliant first Head of Lodge in these last few months – well done.

Upcoming dates for your diary    

This half term is an extremely busy one – please do keep an eye on the Friday Flyer and the calendar.

• Monday 27th November: Year 8 and 9 Social (Christmas crafts) This date has changed! £3 for each pupil, please give in ASAP.
• Tuesday 26th November: Year 10 Parents Evening  
• Friday 6th December: Parents Drinks Reception (Mulled Wine and Mince Pies!) Please let me know by the 25th if you would like to attend.
• Wednesday 11th December: Junior House Suppers (details TBC)
• Thursday 12th December: Senior House Suppers (details TBC)
• Friday 13th December: Carol and end of term service in the Cathedral

Other things to note:    

• Please can we ask that parents do not drive round the back of Caffinites when dropping off/picking up their daughter(s) - this causes massive amounts of congestion. Thank you.    
• Please could we ask if anyone has any spare Christmas decorations to kindly donate to the house – we are very much looking forward to getting the house set up for festivities but are starting with an empty box! Thank you.

Photos below are of the Lodge House Cinema Trip, Last Week's Opening of Lodge and Monday Night's House Music.