It appears we are now deep into House Singing season, with rehearsals and organised singing sessions coming from all directions. As a member of staff, I had not fully appreciated how many activities our pupils are involved in until you find that one Caffinite who volunteers for everything! Often, the boys are spread so thinly that they rarely get a moment to stand still, and that's just how we like it.

I took great pleasure in reading the postcards my Year 7 tutor group wrote to their counterparts at our schools in Nairobi and Dubai as part of Anti-Bullying Week, which begins soon. The boys wrote about what they love most about the school and how much they have enjoyed their first term in Year 7.

Congratulations to the boys who represented the First XV in their victory over Park View Academy in the National Cup. As ever, we had a strong showing, with no fewer than eight Caffinites on the field in green and white. I am also pleased to report that it was a resounding win for them! The Under-15s also triumphed midweek with an excellent win at Sedbergh. Mr Powell was very pleased with the overall performance as the boys overcame some very strong opposition. 

On stage, rehearsals for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang have been running regularly, once again with lots of boys involved from across the year groups. Though the performance is still some time away, it makes sense to be well-prepared, as there is a cast of around 70 to coordinate, including many Caffinites! 

As mentioned in Mr McMillan's newsletter before half term. welcome invitations have now been sent out for our Parents' Drinks Reception on Friday 21st November 2025. The evening is always a fantastic opportunity to meet the House staff in an informal setting and to put names to faces. It is also a great chance to get to know other parents. The event will begin at 7:30pm and should finish by around 9:30pm. If you would like to attend, please RSVP using the electronic form in the invitation or by emailing Mr McMillan at a.mcmillan@dcsf.org.uk. 

Before half term, Harry G (Year 12) spent the weekend in Warrington being graded for his Black Belt in Taekwondo, in front of more than 60 black belts up to 9th Dan (Grand Masters). This is a fantastic achievement after 12 years of dedication to the sport, all while balancing his commitment to competitive swimming. We now have another black belt in the house! 

As always, if you would like to share your child successes, we would be delighted to feature them in our Friday Flyer. It is always wonderful to hear what the boys are achieving outside of school. 

House Music: This event will take place on Wednesday, 19th November. It will be an after-school event for pupils only, starting at 6:00pm. Tea will be available for all pupils beforehand, free of charge. Rehearsals will start after school at 4.20pm.

Finally, good luck to Gustav B, Christopher M, Hugo S, and James W, who are all taking part in the Durham Long Distance Sculls and Small Boats Head on Saturday. The weather looks promising for their race, and I hope they do well on the water in the final round of the series. 

Have a great weekend,