The mug in the staff room which reads: "Cake is the answer, no matter the question" could almost certainly belong to me. Given that I'm usually unable to resist a slice of the sugary stuff as a solution to anything and everything, the sentiment on the cup is definitely one I share and, if Monday's cake sale was anything to go by, is one also shared by many others. When Pimlico girls brought in vast quantities of the stuff, in all shapes, sizes and colours, the school buzzed around our trestle tables like bees to a honey pot, (or teenagers to cakes). The question then of a tired Monday in October was answered with cake. More importantly, the question of how to raise money for the stray cats and dogs of the North-East was also answered with cake. In a single bake sale that spanned two days, we raised the grand total of £436. A record figure, might I add, resulting from the sheer numbers of delicious cakes that came through our doors that day. 

Thank you so much to parents and guardians for your part in this and, indeed, for your generous donations. Girls feel very encouraged and are rightly proud of the event. Cheekily, I will once again place our JustGiving page here, not least since there was a problem with the link last week. If anyone would still like to support, then here's another chance. Thank you!

https://www.justgiving.com/page/pimlico-house-25

Otherwise, the busy week saw the year 11 Drama assessment, an A-level theatre trip to York, National Schools hockey and a year 7 Parents' evening. The GCSE performances took me by surprise since I didn't know girls (and boys) had been required to devise, script, direct and perform their pieces all by themselves. Defending the Arts, the rising cost of living and loneliness in society were demanding topics, but pupils displayed real maturity and impressive creativity in their work. Well done to Alice D, Ava F and Cati A for their parts in this.

Further highlights saw Hannah R win her 'Mini Challenge Club Sport Racing' competition in the Daniel Truman team, Clara MA cast in Operanova's 'The Marriage of Figaro' and Sophie T and Ava F win the Friday Fun awards. Whilst all cakes were delicious, the mini hedgehogs and marshmallow mushrooms were particularly eye-catching. As ever, girls continue to display a remarkable range of talents. 

With only one week left until the half term break, I urge girls to keep focused and to keep going well. There is still important curriculum to cover next week, a lot of singing practice to be done and, indeed, an end of term concert. I look forward to seeing all of this happen with an upbeat spirit and cheerful smiles.

May I kindly remind parents that Pimlico closes on 17th October at 4.30pm. All day studies must be emptied by then. Thank you for helping your daughter to take all her belongings home throughout next week and for organising transport in time for the earlier finish. Have a lovely weekend.