19 May 2017

Bolton School's U13 water polo players have successfully defended their title, and in doing so have claimed the 'triple triple': the School has won the ESSA National Championships in all three age groups for an unprecedented third year running! The U15 and 18 teams won their age group competitions in March, and the U13s overcame the favourites in the final to maintain the School's winning streak.

The Year 13 students enjoyed their final days as Bolton School pupils this week before departing on Study Leave before their A Level exams.

In the Boys' Division, the whole of Year 13 enjoyed a valedictory assembly which offered them advice and guidance for the future. They also learned more about becoming Old Boys and heard from former School Captain David Seddon about the mentoring opportunities available through the generosity of alumni.

Year 11 pupil Emily Graham has been awarded first place in the Portico Library's Sadie Massey Award for Young Writers! Her piece 'Bolton' will now be published, alongside work from children's authors and the other winning entries, in a collection titled Time Travellers and the Crystal Dome.

The Friends of Bolton School Choir performed The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace at Bolton Parish Church. They were supported by the two Junior School choirs, which performed musical pieces on a similar theme of peace. The concert was a moving and thought-provoking evening for all who attended.

Children in Year 1 at Beech House, Bolton School's Infant School, had a fun day at the HIVE at Moss Bank Park. They enjoyed investigating plants and learning lots of interesting information in a hands-on environment.

Old Boy John Craven gave his time to speak to Sixth Form boys from his London office via a live internet link. He talked to them about his career in investment banking and was able to give a great insight into educational options and the world of banking and finance.

This year's series of Lunchtime Concerts was brought to a close with a fantastic performance from Junior RNCM musicians. Members of the public and Bolton School pupils alike enjoyed listening to the music at this final concert of the year. The series has once again been a great success.

Tenacity of Bolton, the ketch built by Boys' Division staff and pupils, is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its completion! The 15m ketch was finished in May 2007, having been built over nine years as a Millennium Project at the suggestion of former Head of Technology Mr Mike Whitmarsh. The boat is now operated by the Tall Ships Youth Trust, with Bolton School pupils regularly making use of it for expeditions.

A fun series of tennis workshops for pupils in Years 1 and 2 at Beech House allowed the children to increase their skills and have a go at the sport. The sessions were run by a Bolton Arena Tennis Centre coach.

Children and parents at the Nursery recently enjoyed a Saturday-morning drop-in session which included an exciting 'dough disco'!

Finally, the Old Boltonians AFC 1st XI have claimed the Lancashire FA Bluefin Sports Insurance Amateur Cup for the second time in four seasons! Four Old Boys were instrumental in achieving the win for the team, and it is a great achievement for the Old Bolts club.

This week's Inspiring Mind is The Lady Smith of Leigh DL TCert. B.Sc (Hons) (Lond), High Sheriff of Greater Manchester 2016-17. She attended Bolton School from the age of 8, leaving in 1963. She recalls fond memories and inspirational members of staff in her profile.