21 November 2025

Headmaster's Newsletter, Friday 21st November 2025

Dear Parents

Of all the things we ask of our pupils, resilience is probably the hardest — and arguably the most important.

It’s never as simple as saying to a child “just keep trying.” When children hit challenges or obstacles, when things don’t go to plan, or when they feel failure creeping in, emotions can take over and self-esteem can wobble. In those moments, “just keep going” is a big ask.

But resilience is something we can learn. It is a habit we can grow, if the conditions are right. Dumpton’s education is full of opportunities to practice resilience and recognise its importance in life – it is built into the ‘aim high’ ethos of the school. It’s so important that young people hear, loud and clear, that it isn’t their talent that will define their success in life — it’s their grit. As Winston Churchill famously said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” It’s a line I love, because it captures resilience so simply and so honestly.

In assembly, I shared one of my favourite stories. During the Special Boat Service selection, as they search for the very best of the best, I had heard an account that the final stage is a brutal marathon across tough terrain, all while carrying absurdly heavy packs. As the soldiers stagger across the finish line, exhausted but jubilant, a senior officer tells them this isn’t actually the end at all - they’re only halfway.

At that point, many of the toughest crumble. And who can blame them? Emotions take over: frustration, anger, hopelessness. The thought of continuing and succeeding feels utterly futile.

But a small group each time hoist their bags back onto their shoulders and set off down the road.

Just around the corner sits a bus. That is the real finish line. The whole thing is a test - not of fitness or bravery or skill, but of resilience. Of the ability to keep going when your mind is screaming at you to stop.

I explained to the children that this applies just as much to their own lives. Whatever feels tricky or dispiriting — the 3 times table, spelling ‘necessary’, missing a tackle in rugby, a stubborn musical note, or a friendship wobble — resilience matters. However tough it feels, keep going… success might be just around the corner.

Drop Ins
Thank you so much to everyone who joined for Drop Ins this week, across the school. It has been so lovely to see so many of you in classrooms – as well as insight into your children’s work so far this year and a chance to congratulate them on their effort and progress, we hope it provides a lovely brief touch point with teachers too.

Africa Day - from Mr Perryman
Year 1 enjoyed a vibrant enrichment day with a visit from, 'African Activities'. The children experimented with beautiful textile printing and were captivated by traditional African storytelling. They also embraced the lively rhythms of African drumming, creating music together with great enthusiasm. It was a truly enriching day, filled with creativity, cultural appreciation, and joyful learning. Everyone left inspired and with a deeper understanding of African heritage.

Primary Maths Challenge from Mr Smith
All of the pupils in Year 6 and some in Year 5 sat the Primary Maths Challenge last week. Five pupils gained a gold certificate; Jayden L, Elizabeth X (both best in school), Mia D, Lucas B & Thomas F. There were an additional 15 silver and 8 bronze certificate winners. Very well done to all the pupils who took part. We look forward to finding out which pupils have qualified for the PMC Bonus Round next term.

Rugby, Hockey and Football Fixtures
Well done to our U11 Boys and our U11 Girls who performed brilliantly at the Durlston Rugby tournament and the Walhampton Football tournament respectively, with the boys just missing out on bringing home another trophy. Our U13A girls hockey team played in the Southwest Regionals at Millfield, performing admirably against the best teams from the region. And then we had some great fixtures against Castle Court too – all in all, a brilliantly busy week of sport.

Lost Property - from the Matrons
We currently have approximately 100 items of unnamed lost property (uniform, mufti, shoes and water bottles). If you are missing anything, please feel free to pop into Matrons to have a look through. Any items not claimed by Friday 28 November will be given to either the school uniform shop or Give Back Friday donations. Please be reassured that any named items we receive do get returned to the children.

Prep School Teaching Assistant
As part of our efforts to strengthen the quality of our provision, we are recruiting a new Teaching Assistant to work in the Prep School from next term. We’re so excited to be able to add to our team, and we’re looking for an outstanding candidate in this crucial role.

A Few Reminders - from Dumpton Friends
Christmas Fayre - please can we ask for items for the tombola – bottles, teddies and chocolates! Also, Christmas novelty items (bric-a-brac). We also need homemade crafts (pre-made) and please start planning some Christmas Bakes! Please take all items along to the Front Office.

Christmas Designs – please come and collect these from the front office if you placed an order. The shop window has also reopened from today until 1 December if you would like any last-minute items. These will be available for collection on Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 December.

Carol Service – Tuesday 16 December
Next week we will be sharing a detailed Christmas Event communication, but please note the following about our Carol Service which ends the Christmas term. This very special service is for all pupils from Y1 to Y8 inclusive. Parents are invited, and all pupils must be collected from the Minster at 3.30pm. Please note that there are no afternoon minibuses on this day. Arrangements for Reception and Nursery on this day will be communicated separately to parents.

With best wishes