11 February 2026
Dear Oakley Parents and Guardians
I would like to commend your daughters on (almost) making it through a rather bleak half term, weather-wise. The grey skies and relentless rain has been an extra challenge but I am pleased to report that the nights are now finally getting lighter and the girls have done really well this half-term, getting stuck into lots of different opportunities.
I was particularly struck last Sunday with the sign out board first thing in the morning which reflected the breadth of activities the girls partake in, instead of the usual lie-in!
A highlight for me was going to see Florence Y play the violin in a lunchtime concert a couple of weeks ago. What a talent we have in Oakley! Playing Gershwin’s Summertime and a Woman is a Something Thing, she really impressed us all.
Sticking with the musical theme, our U6 have been working hard on their final involvement with the House Music competition. With Joyce on drums, Trissie on piano and beautiful vocals from Alvina, Ibukun and Yelly, their version of Best part by Daniel Caesar was stunning. The adjudicator congratulated them on their song choice and impressive harmonies. They also looked like they were enjoying themselves!
I was very proud of Sai-Nam who got through tough auditions to make the final of the solo competition.
Sai-Nam has also been awarded the Gold Shot Marksman Badge at a recent CCF RAF Section when she took part in the Royal Air Squadron Trophy. Well done, Sai-Nam.
Florence also spoke well in a recent Routh Assembly because she is the music forum lead for peer voices. Along with other students, she will be an active participant in helping shape the school experience for budding musicians.
Congratulations to Ava C who participated in the Bebras Computation Competition, earning a Gold Award for scoring in the top 10% nationally!
We are proud of Shristi R whose work was on display this week in the Dining Hall. Also to Brisha G and Charlotte W whose pieces are decorating the Wellbeing Centre.
It was wonderful to welcome back last year’s Head of House, Ashna, who is currently studying Pharmacy at Bath University. She was given a warm welcome by old friends:
It is hard to believe we are over half-way through the academic year. Oakley has been a home away from home for your daughters and Mrs Pugh has been working hard to make sure they get some deserved treats from time to time. On Monday we celebrated Shrove (pancake) Tuesday, one week early:
And this morning we marked next week’s Chinese New Year celebrations in the traditional Oakley way – every girl is given a red envelope with edible money to wish them luck for the year ahead:
Miss Mitchell introduced Puddles to the House at the weekend and there was a queue of volunteers waiting to take him for a walk. Maybe this is the photo of the week:
Wishing you all a lovely half term break and safe travels to the girls.
Victoria Adams