This week is anti-bullying week and all tutor groups in the senior school have been discussing the issue of bullying during their PSHE sessions.  Mr Sheehan gave an assembly about bullying, not only to raise awareness, but also to ensure that all the children at this school know that bullying will not be tolerated.

It was marvellous to see so many children wearing spots today in support of Children in Need.  From spotted socks to dressing gowns to spotty faces, we managed to raise over £200 - so thank you to all who contributed.

Another charity event takes place next Friday, 25th November.  Our Head Boy Ethan Gilbert is arranging a 24 HOUR SPORTATHON which starts at 2.15pm, with all proceeds going to the Leukaemia Foundation and The Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust.  Staff and students will be participating in a variety of activities, from netball to karaoke and interactive games.  It should be a really good - if somewhat tiring - 24 hours.

This week the English Department took Year 7 to see 'Friend or Foe' at the Mercury Theatre in Colchesteter. A good evening was had by all.

Years 6 and 7 had an exciting time on Tuesday when they were released from their usual timetables to take part in a cross-curricular day.  They learned street dancing and made street food - the stir fry, noodles and pancakes were delicious!

The Prep School Christmas production 'Oink' is taking shape.  Both the children and staff are working exceptionally hard to produce what we hope will be a lovely end to the first term.  The dates to remember for the production are:

Wednesday 7 December 2.30pm and 6.30pm
Thursday 8 December 6.30pm

FIXTURES
Gosfield and Colchester High School met this week for the first time in recent history, in what we hope will be the first of many encounters.  A fine performance from all involved resulted in an impressive 6-4 win.  Well done, boys.

Well done to all pupils who played netball against Great Baddow High School Sports College on Friday 11^th November.  The Year 7 team drew 2-2; the combined Year 8 and 9 team lost 13-2; the combined Year 7 and 8 team lost 7-5.  Congratulations to the Year 9 team who won their game 13-7.  All pupils involved should be proud of their achievements.

Congratulations to the year 7 netball team who played against Stoke College on Thursday 17^th November.  The girls won 6–4.  This is an outstanding achievement.   

The U9 boys played in a football tournament this week against Stoke and Finborough.  The A team won all their matches and were overall winners, whilst the B team came fifth.  It was an enjoyable tournament for all those taking part.

The U11 rugby team played St Margarets in a hard fought match.  After a slow start our boys fought back in the second half, but eventually lost by one try.

Full match reports can be read on the school website.

STARS OF THE WEEK

CONGRATULATIONS
Also go to:  Sam Hume for getting man of the match at Halstead Town Youth Football Club;  Aidan Philpott for taking part in the summer reading challenge at the local library and for getting his 'Chief Scout Bronze Award' at Beavers.  Well done to both of you.

MERITS OF THE WEEK

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Year 11 into 12 evening is this coming Tuesday 22 November at 7pm in the dining room.  All parents and current Years 10 and 11 are invited to attend.

Christmas Fayre on Wednesday 14th December in the Sports Hall to raise funds for the Laos overseas trip.  From 2.30pm to 4.30pm. 

LADIES A GO GO  

Go-Karting Club (Gosfield School) fundraising event: Pamper and Christmas shopping evening on Wednesday 23rd November.   Full details are available on the school website.

Have an enjoyable weekend.