Anybody who thinks that the youths of today are unable to communicate clearly wasn’t at the 69É«ÇéƬ Year 9 entrepreneurs’ pitch session this week. I was so impressed by our students’ ability to not only come up with an innovative entrepreneurial idea, but also to market and launch it. On offer were scented candles, glasses frames, electronic organising software, stationery, a pencil box that keeps everything in place and many more fascinating ideas.

A panel of experienced people from the business world judged the pitches and commented on their quality. Subject specific terminology abounded, and the students were able to talk confidently about niche markets, prototype production and advertising strategies. I shall look forward to hearing of their continued business success next term.

The Rosh Hashanah Year 4 student and parent event was another highlight of the last week of term and we all enjoyed a seder together with delicious symbolic food, fabulous singing and a Kahoot quiz in which I performed disappointingly poorly. As always, I had done my homework and read up on the occasion; I only just managed to hide my excitement at seeing the round (rather than plaited) challah and knowing that it signified the circle of life. Being able to also name some of the food items on the seder plate in Hebrew was another secretly pleasing moment for me.

The Primary School Rosh Hashanah market stall was a hive of activity at the end of the day as students and parents sought bargains. I personally ended up with a new chess set, several other board games and a beautiful, crocheted blanket. The irresistible biscuits baked by the Bat Mitzvah girls all sold out very quickly and I have to confess that the box I purchased and took home didn’t last very long at all. It’s good to know that Menora charity will benefit from all our purchases and be able to continue their sterling work helping those in the community who need assistance.

The new Tzevet arrived this week from Israel – a team with tales of late planes and lost luggage, but also with the large smiles and the enthusiasm which we know we will enjoy over the coming terms. We welcome them to our school as they get over their jetlag and start to get to know us.

Thank you to all in the Carmel family who have contributed to our work this term. Whether that has been in terms of communicating with teachers, volunteering in the canteen, carrying out your security duty or helping your child with their learning outside the classroom, please know that your efforts are valued.

I hope you enjoy a wonderful break from school with your family.

Shabbat shalom and chag sameach.

Julie Harris