English-Speaking Union Mace Debating Competition 

Many congratulations to Zinny B, Pablo B-G, and Cerys D for winning the first round of the ESU Mace Debating Competition’s Eastern Region. On Monday evening, they delivered a compelling argument to propose the motion This House would ban the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces against Norwich High School for Girls.

In an impressive display of quick thinking, they also volunteered to oppose the motion This House supports the implementation of a four-day school week as a swing team against Langley School—without any preparation time.

Out of the three teams advancing from this heat, Gresham’s was named the overall winner and now heads to round two. Well done, team, and best of luck in the next round!

Binham Priory Concert

The historic grounds of Binham Priory served as an atmospheric and pensive backdrop to November’s School concert, which was a showcase of our most talented and dedicated choral singers.

Fauré’s Cantique de Jean Racine, written when he was nineteen years old and often paired with his Requiem in D minor, began proceedings in a meditative fashion. Next was the moving choral piece For the fallen by Douglas Guest, originally written for the Remembrance Sunday service in Westminster Abbey.

We then heard Charles Villiers Stanford’s motet Justorum animae, another song honouring the dead. Mendelssohn’s For the wings of a dove! from his anthem Hear my prayer, followed which featured a spellbinding soprano solo from Reva S. Continuing our theme of English composers, Purcell’s Thou Knowest, Lord was next, and to conclude the first half of the concert, our Crickets group performed Vivaldi’s Domine ad adjuvandum, which included a spirited duo performance from Naomi H-S and Zinny B.

The second half of the concert comprised entirely of Fauré’s aforementioned Requiem in D minor. The origins of this work are somewhat mysterious; although it was written relatively soon after the death of Fauré’s parents, he would later declare that “My Requiem wasn’t written for anything”. Whatever the case, this is probably the most popular of Fauré’s large scale works, and a full orchestral version was performed at his own funeral.

In the Offertoire movement, Milan H delivered an incredible tenor solo. In the calming Pie Jesu, we were again treated to a solo from Reva S. The next solo we heard was from baritone Rory R in the haunting and pleading Libera me. The final movement, the heavenly In Paradisum, rounded off the concert.

Special thanks to Mr Holford and Mr Brown on the keyboards, as well as the visiting professionals who made up the orchestra, joined by Kai S and Ilana B on violin. Finally, thank you to Mr Jones, Head of Chapel Music, for leading this wonderful concert.

Fright Night unleashes terror at Soul’s End Prison

This year’s Fright Night plunged us into the sinister depths of Soul’s End Prison, where eerie performances by guards and inmates alike left audiences in fear. Guests were first introduced to the Doctor and his most dangerous inmates, before encountering a cannibalistic chef lurking in the Auden Theatre. The journey then led into the woods, where more prisoners awaited with harrowing tales and bone-chilling scares.

The makeup team outdid themselves, crafting nightmarishly realistic designs that brought each character to life. Complementing the horror was a haunting soundscape, masterfully designed by Bruno B as part of his IB Music coursework, which enveloped the audience in an unsettling ambiance from start to finish.

Heartfelt thanks go to the Fright Night performers, makeup artists, lighting crew, and the Music Tech team, whose dedication made this year’s production an unforgettable success. The question is—will you be brave enough to join us next year?

Diwali Day 2024

This week, Gresham’s pupils created their own Diwali Day. The School organised a series of exciting and festive activities to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

The day began with a special assembly where Chetanya Y, dressed in traditional Indian dress, explained the significance of Diwali and its history. She shared how the meaning, ‘row of lights’, highlights the importance of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

At lunchtime, pupils and staff enjoyed an Indian meal with an array of options including dal makhani, tandoori chicken, samosas, naan, dry potato curry, pakoras, papadums, and coconut rice pudding. The catering team went to a tremendous effort to create authentic dishes and plates were piled high! The food looked delectable and tasted amazing, too.

In the evening, the chapel was decorated with two hundred bright candles that created a warm and joyous atmosphere. Pupils made colourful rangolis, tucked into some sweet treats, and played Indian songs. Everyone had a deep red tilak to mark their forehead, symbolising spiritual connection and awakening consciousness.

Overall, pupils and staff thoroughly enjoyed the day and were left with a deeper appreciation for Diwali’s meaning and traditions.

Hispanic Society Celebration: ‘The Day of the Dead’

On Tuesday, the Hispanic Society held a vibrant Día de los Muertos event to celebrate alongside the school’s Mexican pupils, those studying Spanish in the Senior School, and staff.

The evening began with a beautiful presentation by pupils who shared the cultural significance of Día de los Muertos, detailing the unique elements that make up an altar and explaining why this festival is important to them.

The pupils learned about “Calaveras Literarias” which are satirical poems used traditionally for this festival, and an altar was set up to showcase its cultural significance. Pupils also listened to contemporary Mexican music associated with the festival, along with some classics chosen by our Mexican pupils. 

Conducted entirely in Spanish, the event offered an authentic experience that enriched our pupils’ language skills and gave them a deeper connection to the cultural traditions they study.

Pupils participated in a fun Spanish-language quiz and enjoyed a mask-decorating activity. The evening concluded with an array of traditional Mexican snacks, adding a flavourful touch to a night filled with learning, laughter, and cultural appreciation.

NATO insights: Academic Enrichment talk by Robert Murray

The Year 13 pupils were privileged to attend an inspiring and insightful talk with Robert Murray, who shared the trajectory of his education and career, resulting in a prominent role within NATO International. This year, NATO celebrates 75 years of collective defence.

Robert provided a comprehensive overview of NATO’s history, covering its founding, original member states, growth, and mission of collective defence.

Robert’s talk was highly engaging and encouraging, as he recounted his personal journey, answered questions, and shared his key takeaway: “Never stop reading and learning.” This invaluable advice resonated with the pupils, emphasising the importance of lifelong curiosity.