It's been a week of mixed emotions in Bungites with two of our year groups beginning their study leave, lots of pupils out representing the school, the Boat Club building up to the summer, Monitor interviews and play rehearsals. For obvious reasons, the significance of study leave is certainly the one that stirs the most emotion and I am sure some of you cannot quite believe we are at this point in your sons' lives already. Indeed, I think reality kicked in for a few of Year 13 this morning as they attended their last ever roll call. Something that has been engrained in the structure of their school day for as long as some can remember. While I wish it was hearing my voice every morning that they will miss, I am old enough to know that it will be the structure and camaraderie that they will miss most. I wish the boys the very best of luck and look forward to our end of year celebrations. 

Bungites Academics

As above, study leave is now available to all exam students and the rules for coming into school are simple- the boys sign in and out from the house, must attend all sessions as per their normal timetable (staff will be available to supervise in their teaching rooms), and sign out at the end of the day. I would ask that uniform is worn at all times (except games, obviously). Boarders will be required to follow our normal routines and sign in with Matron at 7:45am. 

Monitor Interviews 

Our year 12 boys begin their monitor interviews next week and I wish them well. For those who do not know, the boys had to write a letter of application to the Headmaster expressing their wish to be considered for a School monitorship. We will soon be beginning our own, in-house, process of appointing senior positions so I again look forward to speaking to the boys and have challenged them to come with an idea that would improve life in Bungites. The suggestion of a hot tub has already been canned though I am willing to entertain reinstating the house bath... Maybe not! 

Bungites Music

Yunhao X sang for a very lucky audience late last week and those of us in attendance were blown away by his quite beautiful voice. Lots more recitals are planned as the Music department prepare for Speech Day celebrations and beyond. 

Bungites Sport 

Well done to Matthew B and Louie M who will be representing Durham County this season. Freddie R was selected to play in the North East Origin Match as part of the Magic Weekend last Friday and performed extremely well. My congratulations go to the three boys. 

It is Durham City regatta this weekend and my best wishes go to all crews. 

Bungites Awards 

Academic awards this week go to:

Sam F, Marcus H, Indy R, Robbie S, James S 

Congratulations to all of the boys listed above. 

Boarding 

The boys are off paintballing this weekend knowing that anyone who shoots Mr McMillan can look forward to a trip to the golden arches. Scarily, we are half way through this half term so please can parents/guardians let us know about travel arrangements as soon as they are finalised. 

House Keeping 

Speech Day is taking place on Friday 25th May over in the Cathedral. Please could parents keep a close eye on their inboxes for information relating to timings etc. The hope is that by moving it forward more of our pupils can attend. It will be a fantastic celebration and I look forward to seeing many of you there. 

I wish you all a restful and enjoyable bank holiday weekend.