With the House song selected this week, it feels as though there is a sense of excitement building. Granted, not all of the boys know what the song is, what the words are, or were even born when it was released. The theme of the competition is the 1980s, and both the part song and whole-house unison song will require a great deal of organisation. However, the boys have already begun preparing a strict rehearsal schedule. I have spoken with the boys in charge, and they are clearly determined to rectify last year's result and improve on 2024. 

The weather forecast for Saturday looks terrible and will significantly affect the sporting fixtures this weekend. The Tyne Long Distance Sculling Head was due to take place on Saturday, and the entry list shows healthy Caffinite representation. However, not wanting to sound like Michael Fish, there is definitely a storm on the way. 

I was impressed to see how many of our boys have put themselves forward as elite applicants for medicine and Russell Group universities. It was also pleasing to see so many of our boys attend the Newcastle University Open Event on Tuesday as they begin to explore potential courses beyond sixth form.

For Year 7 parents, Parents' Evening will be on Thursday 9th October. The evening will run from 6 pm in Big School, finishing at 9 pm. We operate a queue system as there are no appointments. If you cannot attend, please can you make Mr Burke aware. 

As mentioned last week, our Open Day will be held on Saturday 11th October, and it is shaping up to be a fantastic morning, with many families already registering their interest in the foundation. Pupil lists will be circulated on Microsoft Teams, and a copy will also be placed on the wall above the signing-out folder at the front of the House. I would like to remind parents that pupils are selected, they should be in school (wearing full school uniform) from 9am unless prior arrangements have been made with Mr McMillan or myself. 

The Caffinites now have an Instagram page. It is very much a work in progress, but in time it will feature news, photos, and highlights from across the House. Please do give it a follow and keep an eye out for upcoming updates. 

Instagram: the_caffinites_house 

Polite reminder: may I ask that all parents exercise caution and consideration when dropping off and collecting pupils. This includes avoiding parking on double yellow lines on Quarry Heads Lane or Grove Street, and not blocking the drive around the House. Inappropriate or unsafe parking can cause congestion and pose significant risks to the safety of pupils and other pedestrians. As ever, day pupils are welcome to stay on site until 6.30pm each weekday, allowing parents and carers to stagger collection times.