Dear Parents
This week I had the privilege of attending the IAPS Heads’ Conference in Brighton. It was an energising and uplifting experience to come together with hundreds of school leaders to reflect on the most important elements of education. Central to our discussions was the wellbeing of pupils, the rapidly evolving role of AI in education, and of course, the political headwinds the independent sector has faced over the past year.
There were some sobering statistics about the number of independent schools that have sadly closed as a result of Government policy, as well as the 13000 pupils who have left the sector. However, a number of schools - and I'm delighted Dumpton falls in the category – remain in healthy positions despite these challenging conditions. What struck me most was the determination and optimism shared across the room. Despite the challenges that we are navigating together, there was a palpable sense of purpose and ambition for the future - and a steely determination too.
If that wasn't energising enough, I was then lucky to watch our very own Mrs Cox lead a session on Dumpton's approach to embedding sustainability and global citizenship into our curriculum. There was much admiration for what she - and of course our pupils - have achieved.
There is no doubt Dumpton is leading the way here. And if it is our job in schools to help inspire the next generation to shape our world for the better, there are few things that could be more important to focus on than this.
Sport – From Mr Randle
Dumpton teams enjoyed a fantastic series of fixtures and tournaments this week with some super success for our girls and boys. The U9 boys battled Walhampton in exciting, close matches, and our U8 boys dazzled in their first away match with brilliant teamwork and individual flair. The U10 boys were runners-up at the KES tournament after golden-goal drama whilst the U11 boys impressed at the Moyles Court tournament, remaining unbeaten to finish 3rd. Older squads also shone: all four U13 teams came out as victors in their matches against Walhampton. The girls’ teams were equally outstanding: U9 and U8 squads displayed determination, skill, and sportsmanship throughout, while the U11A and B sides secured strong wins over Walhampton with excellent teamwork. The U13A team produced superb hockey at Canford, topping their group before narrowly losing the final, whilst the U13B and C girls continued their strong start with convincing wins and improved performances. However, performance of the week goes to our U10 Girls who triumphed at the Canford tournament after a tense penalty shootout! Across all fixtures, Dumpton players represented the school brilliantly, combining energy, skill, and exemplary attitudes
Sport News Just In!
The U13A boys defeated Pilgrims School in Winchester 5-2 in the first round of the ISFA Cup Competition. Well done boys – exciting times!
Grammar School Tests
Best of luck to our Y6 pupils who are sitting the grammar school tests this weekend. We wish you all the very best.
A Plea from Miss Burghart!
A group of creative pupils in the Prep School are working on a special craft project and need a selection of the items below. They would like to keep with our recycle and reuse eco policy, so are asking for donations rather than buying new. They are looking for:
Wool - red, black, orange, purple or green wool
Buttons - black (any size), or brass/gold colour
Crochet hooks (any size)
Fabric - red, black, orange, purple or green fabric or items of clothing that could be cut up
Sewing needles
Sewing thread - red or black
If you have any donations, they can be given to Miss Burghart or left with the school office.
Christmas Card Designs – Dumpton Friends
A big reminder that the deadline to hand in your child’s designs is this coming Monday – 22 September. These can be handed to your child’s form tutor, or to the front office Monday morning. We need to post them to the company on the same day, so the absolute last cut off is midday on Monday- any submission after this time sadly can't be accepted.
Dumpton Stroll - Sunday 21 September
We are very much looking forward to the Stroll which takes place on Sunday. The weather forecast looks promising, and it is always such a lovely occasion. Please do keep an eye on Classlist for any updates that may be necessary.
Golf & Cricket Opportunities
We have been made aware of some local golf and a girls cricket opportunities which take place at the weekend. Please see attached posters for more information.
Individual School Photographs
Fraser Portraits were in school on Tuesday to take photographs of each of the pupils. Proofs and ordering information will be coming home with the children at the beginning of next week. Orders may be placed (with no charge for delivery to the school) by Tuesday 30 September.
Y6 Canford Explore Day
If you have signed your child up for the Canford Explore Day on Tuesday 20 September, please can you just let us know that your child will not be in school on that day - many thanks.
With best wishes for the weekend.
Christian Saenger
Headmaster
Key Events for W/B 22 September
WEEK B
Week 4: Theme of the Week- Celebration of Other Cultures
Monday 22 September
All Day Fairtrade Fortnight begins today
8.30-8.50 Prep School Assembly – Form 7T – European Day of Languages
Tuesday 23 September
All Day Canford Explore Day for registered Y6 prospective pupils (requires parental sign-up with Canford)
14.15-16.15 Sports Fixtures (Y3-Y4) - please see Dumpton Sports Site for full details
Wednesday 24 September
14.15-16.15 Sports Fixtures (Y5-Y8) - please see Dumpton Sports Site for full details
Thursday 25 September
11.15-16.10 Y7 Science Trip to Kimmeridge
Friday 26 September
8.30-8.50 Prep School Junior Assembly – Form 3B