It's been a slightly calmer week in MacLeod House now that House Music is behind us. With the dust settling, the girls seem to have redirected their energy toward the next big thing on the horizon… Christmas. I've firmly vetoed any Christmas songs until 1st December, but come Monday, the festive season will be officially allowed to arrive in full force. I'm bracing myself for the inevitable Mariah Carey takeover. 

On Tuesday evening, our Year 11 girls enjoyed a lovely Christmas Craft social — a cosy night of s'mores, hot chocolate, sewing, and various crafty creations. A huge thank you to Dr Hardy for organising and overseeing such a warm and wholesome evening for them. 

Mulled Wine & Mince Pie Social – Next Thursday 

Thank you to those parents who have already confirmed they'll be joining us for the Mulled Wine and Mince Pie social next Thursday evening (5:00–6:30pm). If you're able to join and haven't yet RSVP'd, we'd really love to see you. Please reply to f.gowland@dcsf.org.uk by Monday 1st December. 

Christmas Charity Donations 

A big thank you also to the girls who have already brought in donations for our Christmas charity, the Tender Care Animal Rescue Centre. We are hoping to deliver everything we collect at the end of term. There's still plenty of time to contribute — dog and cat food are especially appreciated. 

Sport Update

A number of fixtures were unfortunately cancelled last week due to bad weather, but several teams were still able to take to the court. In the local Netball League against St Leonards, both the U12s (Lyla, Scarlet and Lucy) and the U13s played hard-fought matches but narrowly missed out on wins. The U14s (Freya, Annabelle and Charli), secured an impressive victory with a strong team performance. 

The 1st Team enjoyed a successful outing against Durham High, winning 33–28. The squad showed excellent focus and consistency throughout, making the match valuable preparation and allowing for effective rotation of combinations ahead of nationals. 

The U13 fixtures versus RGS Newcastle were also able to go ahead, with both teams earning positive results. The U13A (Gabi) side recorded a 1–0 win, while the U13B team battled to a well-deserved 1–1 draw.

Lauds

Well done to the following girls who have all been awarded Lauds this week:

Alice, Imogen, Freya, Lyla, Olivia G, Chinmayi, Lottie H, Darcy, Samantha, Gabi, Jasmine, Milla, Nadia, Erin, Hannah, Nadia, Gabrielle, Scarlett, Tilly, Grace R, Narjis, Lotte, Dana, Poppy, Edie, Olivia T and Isla Y. Special congratulations to Milla and Grace R who are our leading Laud Ladies this week! 

Dates for the Diary

Thursday 4th December – MacLeod Parents Mulled Wine and Mince Pies (5-6.30pm)

Thursday 4th December – Christmas Concert in Chapel 7:00pm-9:30pm 

Monday 8th December – Christmas Charity Bake Sale 

Wednesday 17th December – Christmas Jumper Day. Junior House Suppers 2:00pm-4:30pm (Y7-10)

Thursday 18th December – Senior House Suppers (Black tie) 6:00pm-10:00pm (Y11-13) 

Friday 19th December – End of term -Cathedral Service 6pm. MacLeod House closed at 7pm

As always, thank you for your continued support. Wishing you all a restful weekend before December officially begins and the festive fun truly kicks off in the House! 

Mrs Gowland 

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