Autumn has most definitely arrived and Q is looking stunning draped in seasonal crimson and gold.  It is such a pleasure to look out at the stunning views across a frosty Trew Lawn first thing in the morning, before a crisp, bracing stroll to Chapel. And it has been wonderful to watch girls playing in the falling leaves at lunchtimes – I’m sure I’ve spotted several Upper Sixth Formers cavorting with their Year 7 ‘sisters’!

As I welcomed the girls and staff back from their half term break, I also reflected on the successful school trips that many of the girls experienced over the holiday. As I am sure you have seen from social media, the girls and staff have enjoyed some wonderful opportunities in Spain and Italy.

The Year 11 Hispanists had invaluable chances to put their speaking and listening skills to the test in Jerez, Andalucia, while our young Hockey players trained in sunny Barcelona with international coaches. 33 musicians from Year 7 to theUpper Sixth travelled to the Italian Riviera for a series of fabulous concerts in stunning churches.

This week we have considered who our role models might be within the context of All Saints Day. In Chapel, we were privileged to welcome the Revd Nick Young from the St Albans and Welwyn Methodist Circuit to talk to us about the significance of this celebration and how we too can reflect on what all Saints Day means to us today and how we should be prepared to stand up for what is right, speak up when we know something is wrong, make people aware of injustice in the world and give our time for others.

Q has, as usual, been exceptionally busy in this first week back. Our sports teams have been successful once again, with the U13A Hockey team beating Haileybury 4-1 on Wednesday afternoon, while the U12A Netball team were victorious against the same opposition. You can view all Queenswood’s results and forthcoming fixtures at www.queenswoodsport.org.

 A particular highlight for me was the Scholars’ Music Concert. I continue to be astounded by the talent, dedication and commitment of our girls and Wednesday night’s recital was no exception. I am looking forward to many more performances in the coming months.

Next week we look to a busy week for potential academic scholars and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our girls who have applied for scholarships the best of luck as they prepare for their exams and interviews.