Christmas has officially arrived in MacLeod House, with the girls arriving on Monday morning to the sound of Christmas classics and fairy lights. It definitely lifted spirits on a cold and dark morning. Our lovely matron Wendy very kindly brought in an advent calendar for the first girl arriving for toast each breaktime, to open a door and receive a chocolate treat! The race is on at the end of P2! 

This week, our Year 7 and 8 pupils took part in a fantastic book-review presentation session. Each girl delivered a short review to me, Mrs Wilkinson and Mr Burke, giving them a wonderful opportunity to practise their public-speaking skills while also showcasing the brilliant range of books they've been reading. We were treated to a huge variety of titles—from the political allegory of Animal Farm by George Orwell to the moving autobiographical tale When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr. It was wonderful to see the girls speaking confidently, thinking critically, and engaging so thoughtfully with their chosen stories. We're incredibly proud of the effort, courage, and enthusiasm they showed. Moments like these really highlight how much they are growing—in confidence and in their love of reading. 

Sports Update 

The Durham Central Schools Cross Country took place last Tuesday at Durham Johnston. All pupils ran incredibly well in the cold and windy conditions. Notable Team results include the Year 7 Girls Team, who place 3rd, and the Year 10 (Lotte S, Annabel T) and Y11 (Samantha J, Sophie H) Girls Team, who came in 1st place and won their category. 

In rowing, the Senior Girls felt the full force of the weather last Saturday afternoon as the skies opened up, but rowed well despite the tough conditions. The senior girls including our very own Ellie H, finished 5th in the band 2 Women's J18 4x, a solid end to the first block of winter training. 

On Tuesday the U15 Hockey team played Durham High U16s and drew 2 - 2. A special mention goes to Annabel G who was awarded player of the match for her fantastic performance showing some real progression over the season in her ball carrying and elimination skills. On Wednesday the first team played Yarm, losing 3-1 in a tough fixture against a very strong side. Thursday saw the U13As played Barnard Castle, drawing 2-2 and the U13Bs winning 3-2. 

Bake Sale 

We will be holding our Christmas bake sale on Monday 8th December with proceeds going to our House Charity, the Winnie Mabasso Foundation. We would be very, very grateful of any cakes, tray bakes, biscuits or sweet treats to sell. Many thanks in anticipation! 

Feeding Families Christmas Collection 

I am pleased to announce that as a school we are collecting food items for the local charity "Feeding Families" again this year. This is to provide essential food to local families who will be struggling this Christmas. With that in mind, please bring in food items off the list below to your House over the coming days. Monday 8th December. Thank you for your help. All donations make a difference. 

Lauds

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

Lillie Mae, Charli,Flick, Lottie C, Freya, Lyla, Chinmayi, Lottie H, Samantha, Gabi, Lotte, Maleeha, Izzy, Isla G, Ellie H, Annabelle H, Milla, Nadia, Gabrielle, Tilly, Grace R, Narjis, Tilly, Isla Y. Special congratulations to Chinmayi and Lyla who are our leading Laud Ladies this week! 

Dates 

Monday 8th December – Christmas Charity Bake Sale 

Wednesday 17th December – Christmas Jumper Day. Junior House Suppers 2:00pm-4:30pm (Y7-9) 

Thursday 18th December – Senior House Suppers (Black tie) 6:00pm-10:00pm (Y10-Y11 9:45pm pick up) 

Friday 19th December – End of term -Cathedral Service 5:30pm-6:30pm MacLeod House closed at 7pm 

Visit from Livvy

There was much excitement on Thursday lunchtime as Mrs Myers-Bruin paid us a visit to introduce baby Livvy. Lots of cooing, cuddling and promises of babysitting were made. 

We look forward to Livvy's next visit!

As always, thank you for your continued support. 

Wishing you all a restful weekend! 

Mrs Gowland 

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