Mr Pavis' Video Newsletter: Friday 18th September

This week's newsletter comes to you from our brand new fitness suite - the culmination of a huge amount of hard work from the whole Kingsley family over the summer holidays, from staff to volunteers and, most of all, parents. It's already proving a real hit with students, who use the space for S&C, PE and their ACE and scholarship pathways from early mornings right through to lunchtimes and afternoons.

The benefits are already showing. Our Under 15A rugby team put in a tremendous performance to beat a strong Millfield side last Saturday - thank you to Millfield for their continued support in developing our rugby programme, and it's brilliant now to be playing competitively against their A teams. Debutant Henry was named Man of the Match. Our Western Judo League were also in action, with another standout performance from Willow, and it was a pleasure to head over to Uffculme on Tuesday to watch our Under 13s and Under 15s netball teams open their season. Both sides played with real spirit and competed hard - though they came away with second place, they did the badge proud, and Izzy, Elsa and Lucy were standout performers. Netball really is growing here, and thanks go to all the staff and players for their efforts.

Away from sport, our Year 12 Geography trip set off for Iceland early Thursday morning, chasing the Northern Lights, volcanoes, spas and geysers - we're looking forward to hearing all their stories when they're back next week.

This evening we're proud hosts for the VIP launch of the Appledore Book Festival, welcoming Ben Miller and Robert Thorogood of Paradise fame, alongside a host of other TV, radio and literary names. If you get the chance to attend any of the Appledore Book Festival events over the next two weeks, do go along - it's a brilliant festival, with plenty happening at Skern Lodge and venues across Appledore. We're also looking forward to welcoming visiting authors into school for literacy workshops as part of our wider literacy push.

Looking ahead, tomorrow we're off to Exeter to watch the Red Roses take on Canada - two of the best teams in the world going head to head.

Our boarders are out this weekend on a coastal trail bike ride and a trip to North Devon Wake Park, and we're gearing up for Year 7 Open Day next Tuesday.

Places are now full, but if you know anyone interested in a Year 7 place for next September, please ask them to call Heather or Peggy in admissions, who'll be happy to arrange a bespoke visit.

Look forward to speaking to you all again soon.