Welcome Back! 

I hope everyone had a wonderful half-term break — full of rest, good fun, and maybe even a few extra hours of sleep! It's been fantastic seeing all the girls return to school this week, refreshed and ready to take on the challenges of the new half-term with that signature MacLeod spirit. And what a busy first week it's been! The energy around House Music rehearsals has been nothing short of electric. It's wonderful to see so much talent, teamwork, and enthusiasm on display. The friendly competition is heating up, and we can't wait to see it all come together on performance night in Chapel.

On Tuesday morning, Mrs Wilkinson and I spoke to the girls about our new roles in the House as acting Housemistress and deputy. We used the time to remind the girls of our expectations of them and to let them know that we are here to support them and help them to be the very best versions of themselves. Mrs Wilkinson and I are very much looking forward to taking care of the girls over the next few months and ensuring that MacLeod House continues to flourish.

A Very Special Announcement! 

The biggest (and most heart warming!) news of the week is the arrival of our newest Girl in Green! Mrs. Myers-Bruin and her family welcomed Livvy Jayne Myers-Bruin into the world during the half-term break. Both mum and baby are doing well, and we couldn't be happier for them. We send all our love, congratulations, and best wishes to the Myers-Bruin family — and we're already counting down the days until we can meet little Livvy for some long-awaited cuddles! 

House Fundraising News 

We now have the results of our "Guess the Name of the Baby" fundraiser — a huge congratulations to our brilliant matron, Wendy, who correctly guessed Livvy's name! We raised a fantastic £80 for our House charity, The Winnie Mabaso Foundation, supporting women and children in South Africa. A big thank you to everyone who took part and contributed so generously. 

Celebrating Our Girls! 

As always, we love hearing about everything the girls get up to outside of school — from music and sport to volunteering and creative pursuits. If your daughter has achieved something special recently, please do let us know! We'd love to share their successes and celebrate their hard work and talents in future newsletters.

Early School Bus 

The school bus will leave at the earlier time of 4:30pm on Friday 14th November due to the Lumiere Event.

Lauds 

Well done to the following girls who have all achieved Lauds this week: Freya E, Lyla G, Annabelle G, Chinmayi G, Isla G, Lottie H, Grace J, Samantha J, Gabi M, Nadia M, Erin N, Hannah OSB, Gabrielle P, Grace R, Narjis R, Lotte S, Olivia T, Dana S and Rachel W Special congratulations to Lottie H and Chinmayi who are this week's Leading Ladies of the Lauds! 

House Council Nominations

Nominations for House Council representatives from each tutor group were held this week. Through the House Council, students get the chance to share their ideas, plan events, and work together to ensure MacLeod House continues to flourish. It also helps students to learn how to communicate, make decisions, and respect different opinions — all important qualities of good leaders! In our first meeting we will be discussing ideas for fundraising events and plans for House Suppers! I will give an update next week! 

Dates for your Diary 

Information for the following events will come out girls or parents nearer to the scheduled date. 

Tuesday 11th November - Year 8 Parents Evening (6pm)

Monday 17th November – Year 8 Social (rearranged) (4.30-6pm)

Tuesday 18th November – Sixth Form Open Evening for Year 11 pupils (6pm)

Wednesday 19th November – House Music Competition -pupils only, in Chapel (6-8:15pm). Pupils will be provided with tea. 

Tuesday 25th November – Year 11 Social (4.30-6pm), Year 10 Parents Evening (6pm) 

Thursday 4th December – MacLeod Parents Mulled Wine and Mince Pies Event (5-6.15pm) 

Monday 8th December – Christmas Charity Bake Sale 

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. 

Wishing you all a restful weekend,

Mrs Gowland 

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