Principal’s Welcome
Dear Westholme Family,
The idea of commemoration has been the central theme of the last few days at Westholme School.
The 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe fell during Covid and public celebrations were consequently muted. In retrospect, I wonder if emotions in 2020 were intensified by the extraordinary circumstances of lockdown: the pain being felt in many of our homes as loved ones battled the illness – emotion on far too many occasions turned to grief – and the gratitude for the work of our NHS mirroring that of the armed forces all those years ago.
This time, we have been able to mark the courage and sacrifice of that generation together. In this edition of Westholme Weekly, you will see coverage of a very special visitor to Prep, pictures from our VE Day picnic and a more serious reflection in Seniors.
Last week, we celebrated the achievements of our Upper Sixth musicians during the Spring Concert and the efforts of our sportsmen and women in Seniors at a memorable Sports Awards Dinner at Ewood Park. The latter, as you can imagine, was a difficult experience for a Claret!
This week, we have said goodbye to our Upper Sixth as they, like our Year 11s last week, begin their exam study leave. The student-led assembly on Wednesday was, as always, an emotional occasion. So, in my address, I referred to them as coffee beans! Maybe you could apply this to your own children, whatever their age?
“Some are like Arabica beans: smooth, reliable and naturally sweet. They quietly impress you every single day. You know the type: steady, thoughtful and always producing quality work with calm confidence.
Then there are the Robusta beans: bold, energetic, maybe a little intense at times! But what strength they have. They’re the ones who bring the fire to group discussions, the energy to House cross-country, and maybe even a little mischief now and then. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
We also have our single-origin beans: those with a unique flavour, a distinctive voice and a point of view all of their own. You meet them once, and you never forget them. They might challenge you, but they make you think. They stretch their teachers (and parents!) and, in doing so, help us all grow.
And of course, let’s not forget our blends: those wonderful students who bring together different interests, talents and quirks into something truly special. They’re the team players, the harmonisers, the glue of the Westholme community.
Every bean is different. Some take longer to roast. Some surprise you with unexpected richness. But with the right care, the right environment, and yes, the right amount of stirring, they all produce something remarkable.”
With best wishes for the weekend,
Paul Taylor
