Our work on embedding our ‘pride’ values continues to sit right at the heart of daily life at the Pre-Prep & Prep this term. Over the last couple of weeks my assemblies have focused in particular on kindness and generosity. We have explored generosity not simply as the act of giving something tangible, but as a mindset: noticing when something needs doing, choosing to act when it would be easier not to, and using our talents and voices for the good of others. Drawing on examples from history and more recent times, the boys (and girls in the Pre-Prep) have been encouraged to see that generosity is rarely loud or showy; more often, it is quiet, principled and sustained.
Last week my assembly was devoted entirely to Nelson Mandela, whose life provides such a powerful example of kindness rooted in moral strength rather than weakness. The boys in the Prep were struck by the idea that kindness does not mean ignoring injustice, but choosing to respond to it with humanity, dignity and an unwavering belief in the worth of others.
These themes came together beautifully this week during the Year 5 visit in to central London to see the musical Wicked. This was a trip carefully and intentionally planned by Mrs Howard, and I am very grateful to her for organising it. Through her work with the boys in their Life Skills lessons, Mrs Howard has been exploring the dangers of prejudice, stereotyping and simplistic narratives and these ideas sit, of course, right at the heart of the story Wicked tells.
As the boys saw for themselves, the musical challenges us to question first impressions, to think critically about how stories are shaped, and to recognise how easily fear and misunderstanding can slide into prejudice or exclusion. Above all, it reinforces the importance of kindness, moral courage and standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular. If our boys and girls leave the Pre-Prep or Prep able to think generously, act kindly and challenge prejudice wherever they encounter it, then we will know we have done something truly worthwhile.
