Friday Flyer - 26th September 2025
Dear Michael Hall Families,
I am writing in two tenses as I experience parts of the day, look forward to the next part and reflect on the purpose of Michaelmas, then return to my thoughts in writing here. Apologies for my jumping from tense to tense. Our Michaelmas assembly was beautiful. I was moved by the unity across the school and stunned to hear our voices in chorus from class one to class 12, accompanied by our colleagues.
As the warmth of summer gives way to the crispness of autumn (I am certainly feeling that on the gate each morning!), we are gathering to celebrate Michaelmas, one of the many festivals and activities which set the rhythm of the of our academic year – perhaps those who experienced this as pupils are feeling fond memories at this time. This moment in the calendar is not simply a date of observance, but (as I am learning) a living picture that speaks to the heart of our community, our children, and the values we hold together; the awareness of our inner dragons, how we overcome challenges and darker times and how we provide service to help others - which in itself builds fortitude and strength.
Michaelmas falls at the turning point of the seasons and is marked in many school calendars and cultures. The long, sun-filled days have drawn to a close, and the nights grow steadily longer. Nature itself reminds us that the external light is waning, and with that comes the invitation to kindle an inner light – one that can guide us through the darker months ahead. I loved our assembly today which marked this so poignantly with play, song and word.
The story of St. Michael courageously standing against the dragon is not a tale confined to the past. It speaks to timeless qualities of strength, courage, and truthfulness – qualities that we all need, and perhaps especially so in our modern world. For our children, Michaelmas is not presented as dogma or doctrine, but as a living archetype, an image of what it means to meet obstacles with bravery and resilience. As the seasons change, so too do the challenges of growing up, and through the Michaelmas festival, children are given a picture of how to face life with determination and with heart.
I have not seen a school mark this day in the same way as Michael Hall. The activities that pupils engaged in call upon their strength and cooperation, while contributing to the whole community. These celebrations and through pageant, music, work and shared meals (lovely soup!), remind us that courage is not an isolated act but something nurtured in community. We have shown what we value and created a strong reference point for each member of the community.
I hope that all our families enjoy this year’s Michaelmas celebrations. It is a great time to come together, to reflect, and to strengthen the bonds that sustain us. May we each carry forward the courage of Michael into the months ahead, finding light even in the darker days, and supporting one another with warmth and resolve.
Have a joyful weekend.
Stuart McWilliams
Principal
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Kidbrooke Park Music Festival 1st & 2nd November 2025
