Dear Parents
“Thank you for hosting such an inspiring morning on Tuesday. The way you have woven Character Education into your school is very impressive and it was incredibly generous of you to share your journey. As someone who is at the beginning of it, you have certainly helped me begin to formulate a plan going forward."
Tuesday was a proud moment for Dumpton. We hosted an ‘Excellence Visit’ organised by IAPS. We were joined by a number of Heads and Senior Leaders from around the country, who were keen to learn more about Character Education, and how character can be intentionally nurtured in children and embedded into school life. It was a really inspiring and engaging morning – and I hope you share my pride in our school and our staff team that Dumpton is seen to be at the forefront of best practice in this vital area of education.
I believe schools should put as much thought and effort into character education as they do into academics. Focusing on character doesn’t take away from academic success - in fact, it can enhance it. It’s interesting that since starting our Character Education journey, Dumpton has gone on to achieve record-breaking academic scholarship results for the last two years.
Yet however much our children’s academic grades matter – and they really do matter - in a fast changing world where AI, robots and other such excitement will only become more and more influential, I feel increasingly sure that it is the bit that makes our children human that will matter most.
As we explore the ‘2030 Conversation’ and discuss our vision for the future, I feel sure that Character Education will continue to play a big role – but we look forward to shaping a vision that fully reflects the strengths of this school, the views of this community, and, most importantly, a desire to be ever more effective at providing an outstanding education for the children who come here.
Successful Hockey and Netball Seasons
Bravo to all our pupils for a fantastic season, which was rounded off by our U13A and U13B both winning their respective tournaments at Walhampton on Wednesday. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Mr Randle, and our brilliant team of teachers and coaches, who make the sporting side of life so fulfilling for all the pupils.
Year 5 trip to Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium - from Mrs Catton
Year 5 enjoyed a thrilling hands-on learning day, as part of our extended British Science Week celebrations, at the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium. We explored light and communication in space with a workshop involving laser mazes, and tested the temperature of heat shield materials. This was followed by an in-depth exploration of our solar system in the planetarium. Many exciting science discoveries were made exploring the interactive exhibits throughout the centre.
LAMDA Showcase
Congratulations to all our wonderful performers on Monday. Seeing so many children stand up and perform with such confidence on stage is always a joy. Well done to all of them!
Pre-Prep Assemblies
We have had the most heart-warming Pre-Prep Assemblies this term. Well done to all the children and staff involved – and thank you so much to parents who have supported them so well. It is amazing to see the confidence of the children already, and the joy with which they want to talk about their learning.
DECA – Visiting Speaker
We were delighted to welcome Tim Bezbatchenko to speak with our pupils in DECA this week. He shared an inspiring and heartfelt account of his career journey, giving the children a wonderful insight into life as president of the Black Knight Group, especially working with Bournemouth FC. The pupils were captivated by his stories and asked thoughtful questions—always a sign that a message has truly resonated. We are extremely grateful to him for giving up his time and for contributing so meaningfully to the enrichment of our school community. The line of autograph hunters at the end was a good measure of the impact he had with the children. Thank you, Tim.
Two New Dumpton Talks Podcasts Released
Two of our superb Dumpton Talks Week sessions are now available on podcast. Nurturing Sporting Potential is a fascinating conversation with AFC Bournemouth’s Helen Bleazard and Bruce Suraci, and Canford’s Tony Diprose, whilst Entrepreneurial Spirit is an insightful interview with Dodge Woodall and Jon Cumberlege. Do have a listen here: https://www.dumpton.com/dumpton-podcast
Retirement
One of our wonderful Pre-Prep Teaching Assistants, Lisa Smith, is retiring at the end of this term. Lisa has been such a positive and friendly presence to so many pupils and parents over the years, and a cherished colleague too. We wish her the best for her retirement, she is going to be particularly busy looking after her new grandchild! We will update you on the new staffing arrangements for the Pre-Prep and Nursery next week.
British Science Week Poster Competition Entries
Final call for any remaining Science Competition Posters - the deadline is Friday 27 March. Please hand your posters in to Mrs Catton, or your teacher by this date to be in with a chance of being one of the top 5 Dumpton School posters entered into the national competition.
Bugsy Malone
We are all looking forward to Bugsy Malone on Monday and Tuesday with Years 6 and 7. Dress rehearsals were today and the school really enjoyed watching them and sharing in their success.
Prep House Cross Country
Let's hope the weather stays good for House Cross Country next Wednesday (25 March) - an email has just been sent to parents in the Prep School.
With best wishes for the weekend.
Christian Saenger
Headmaster
Key Events for W/B Monday 23 March 2026
WEEK A
Week 11: Theme of the Week – Easter
Monday 23 March
14.30-16.00 Senior Production of Bugsy Malone – Cast 1 (6C & 7T)
15.30-17.15 No Pre-Prep or Prep Ballet due to Bugsy Malone performances
17.00-18.30 Senior Production of Bugsy Malone – Cast 2 (6J & 7M)
Tuesday 24 March
All Day U11 In2 Regional Hockey finals Boys – Millfield
14.30-16.00 Senior Production of Bugsy Malone – Cast 2 (6J & 7M)
17.00-18.30 Senior Production of Bugsy Malone – Cast 1 (6C & 7T)
Wednesday 25 March
14.30-15.35 House Cross Country Years 3-8
Thursday 26 March
16.15-17.15 Final DECA of the term
Friday 27 March
All Day Dumpton Friends – Easter Egg Hunts (details to be confirmed)
14.30-15.15 Y8 Performance ‘The Poe Plays’ to Y3 – Y7
15.30 Pre-Prep Term Ends. Buses and After School Club as usual
15.30-16.15 Y8 Performance ‘The Poe Plays’: Parents welcome
17.45 Prep School Term Ends (lessons end at 16.15 - supervision available until 17.45). Buses as usual