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?

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.

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.

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.

The end of the Half Term break marked the much-anticipated annual House Music 2024 competition, showcasing the incredible musical talent across the School. Pupils from all houses competed in three categories: instrumental, part song, and unison, with each house delivering captivating performances.

The event was judged by expert vocal coach and choral director Mark De-Lisser. Most famously, Mark appeared as a vocal coach on ITV talent show The Voice for eight years, and currently performs the same role on The Masked Singer.

The competition was fierce, with every house striving for top honours in each category. Woodlands House took the trophy for the Instrumental category. Queens’ House emerged as the winner of the Part Song category, while Edinburgh House captured the Unison award. A huge well done to Queens’ House who was crowned the overall winner of the 2024 competition.

The event was a true celebration of the house system, with every pupil contributing to their house’s success. Supported by the entire school community, the atmosphere was electric, making House Music 2024 a resounding success.

A group of eighteen Year 11 cadets spent the first day of the October Half Term break on the CCF Junior Leadership Course.

In a day filled with activity, they were all introduced to leadership in practical tasks, taking command of teams in scenarios that varied from saving casualties, crossing simulated minefields, building watercourses, and re-constructing sabotaged information.

They all performed well, despite unpleasant weather conditions, and finished the course with a smart parade in front of their parents.