The annual Inter-Schools Debate took place in College in November with Year 7 and 8 pupils from Cheney School, Oxford Spires Academy and New College School battling it out in two debates, one seen and one unseen. Oxford Spires Academy retained the cup and all pupils agreed they were looking forward to the event next year. Not only were pupils able to share their views and socialise with their peers, but colleagues also had the opportunity to share best practice and strengthen links over dinner in the New College dining hall.

Following on from this, Year 7 pupils at NCS were invited to take part in a Cheney Debate workshop, run by 6th formers, as part of the enrichment programme at Cheney School. This was to give them an introduction to debating in preparation for next year, and both Dr Gallagher and Mrs Brown had the pleasure of accompanying the NCS boys on a very successful visit.

Mme Philips continues to mentor the Year 8s in their roles as Language Ambassadors. The initial outing to St Michael’s Primary School, where NCS pupils shared their passion for French and German through lessons and presentations, was a huge success and very well received by pupils and teachers alike. Mme Philips hopes this will be an annual initiative and both she and I have been impressed by the enthusiasm of the boys in their wish to take part.

Miss Rose has been very busy forging new links through the Music Department and, despite its unforeseen postponement, everyone is looking forward to rescheduling the Singing Day, which she masterminded for 130 Oxfordshire primary school children in New College Chapel. Mr Neal has been in talks too in preparation for an orchestral concert and workshop as an extension of our previous musical partnership event with SSMJ Primary School.

The collaboration with the Oxford University Chemistry Faculty, Oxford Spires Academy and New College School on ‘Rice to the Challenge’ was one of the other new and exciting partnership projects that took place this year. It proved to be extremely informative and inspiring for the pupils concerned. The added possibility of funding from the Royal Society means The University and the schools involved very much hope this type of joint research project will continue in the coming years. Many thanks to all colleagues who have committed their time and expertise to help make all these projects happen. Feedback from those taking part is always so very positive and they do provide an undeniably enriching and broadening perspective for all.