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The Stopfordian 2011–2012
performances from Junior, Inter and Senior pupils alike and it
is therefore only fitting, before we go any further, that we
should thank all members of Warren for all that they do.
There is so much more to the House System than winning and
losing. Our venue this year was the ‘Pavilion Gym’; particularly
fitting for many of the challenges, games and quizzes which kept
us entertained, but not such a great venue for the House
pantomime where the panto horse made its appearance from
within the gym cupboard and caused all sorts of Health and
Safety implications as the cast were wheeled in on the ‘mat
trolley’! The Junior School made regular appearances and kept
us entertained with their match reports and successes and took
it upon themselves to invite us over to their territory for their funfilled
assemblies. We look forward to welcoming some lively
and enthusiastic Warrenites into our House in years to come.
The Christmas House Party was a huge success, so much so that
we have now been given the job of hosting the party every year.
Our thanks go to all pupils who helped in the preparation and
presentation of such a fabulous evening and particular thanks to
our resident D.J. Lightfoot who created a phenomenal
atmosphere. I am just not sure who enjoyed it most: the staff,
the pupils, Sixth Formers or Mr Chicken!. The House quizzes
are a regular highlight and it is a delight to witness the diversity
of knowledge, interest and general trivia that our pupils have at
their fingertips. Their ability to retain general knowledge,
popular culture, sporting news and general “gossip” astounds
me! Easter egg hunts and challenges, slide shows and
presentations continued to brighten our Wednesday morning
get-togethers as well as ‘farewell sing-a-thons’ and “goodbye”
speeches which brought a tear to our eyes at times. Hallowe’en
challenges and Valentine’s specials, ‘Battle of the Sexes’ and
Christmas Carol singing continued to make the House system
such a wonderful aspect of the school to be part of.
Our House Captains demonstrated their exceptional
presentation and organisational skills. As we approached the
Summer Term and waved them off, we reflected upon the
work they had done and we can honestly say that we were
delighted with our selection. They were incredibly
independent and showed great initiative in a whole host of
assemblies, activities and organisational duties.
Caitlin Gorman and Harry Allport worked their magic as our ‘inhouse’
Charity Representatives, raising thousands of pounds for
Cancer Research and Francis House. Sponsored events, stalls,
auctions, raffles and much, much more ensured that Warren
was incredibly successful in raising funds. A big “Thank you” to
all pupils who contributed in some way to our charity work.
It is also right and fitting that we take the opportunity to thank
our regular House staff who support us every Wednesday
morning and at mid-week fixtures and meetings, as well as our
ICT staff who did a marvellous job all year round in setting up
equipment for presentations.
I asked the House Captains to provide the highlights of their year.
“After being in Warren House since I joined the school in
Reception, it was an honour to be appointed as House
Captain this year. I have always enjoyed taking part in House
events so to be able to help organise them and cheer on The
Warrenites was great fun. One of the highlights of the year
was the Christmas pantomime which, although very stressful
to put together, came together eventually and was something
that I will never forget!”
“The 300 strong Easter egg hunt in one of our House
assemblies was something that I’ve never seen been done
before and it was a great success. Being a House Captain has
boosted my confidence in front of large audiences and this is
something I will be able to carry with me into my future. I
would like to thank Mr Hanson and Mrs Wilkinson for
everything they do for Warren as a whole and also for the
support that they have given me throughout my time at
school. I will always have fond memories of Warren House
and enjoyment that it has given me.”
“It has been a great honour and pleasure to have been part of
yet another successful year for Warren House. I have also felt
proud to have represented and supported Warren in a variety
of sporting and academic events throughout the year. Although
not the most popular event with all pupils, my personal
highlight of year was the Swimming Gala for two reasons.
Firstly, our Olympic-standard swimming abilities ensured that
we won the Gala and secured our rightful place at the top of
the Fallows’ Shield! However more importantly, across all races
there was not one empty Warren lane, which highlighted the
enormous sense of team spirit that is shared within Warren
House. I would like to thank Mrs Wilkinson and Mr Hanson for
making Warren such a successful and friendly House, and also
32 Activities and Awards