SMC staged yet another very successful whole school production last week. A dramatisation of the famous Roald Dahl story – ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ proved to be a lively, entertaining show, enjoyed by the cast and audience alike. Spoilt, selfish youngsters were taught life lessons by the hilarious, yet sinister Oompaloompas, whilst the worthy Charlie Bucket shone through to win the prize of becoming the owner of Willie Wonka’s wonderful chocolate factory.

Many thanks go to cast and crew who worked hard over the past months to put on a production of the usual professional standard expected by our audiences. Thanks also to our amazing costume designers, Mrs Ingram and Mrs O’Donovan, who surely went over and above the call of duty to produce such interesting and colourful outfits. Thank you to our artistic make-up ladies – Mrs Vanderveldt, Mrs Gallagher and Ms McGarigle. Oompaloompas would surely like to thank Mrs Long for her time given to rehearsing their entertaining dance routine.

Finally, special thanks to the best Sunday Morning Clear Up Crew ever! Too many of you to mention here, but Dr K and Mrs Hyde are very, very grateful! This year we had parents and even a student who was not even involved in the production – dedication indeed!

28^th January 2010

Dear Parents

It is now some two weeks since the earthquake, force 7, hit the country of Haiti with such devastation. We have all seen the graphic results of this disaster with so many killed, injured, homeless or orphaned,

The Brothers have 11 establishments in Haiti, where we have been for nearly 150 years, but the 5 in the vicinity of Port-au-Prince, the capital have been virtually destroyed. The international aid coming from governments is impressive but the voluntary donations of the British people is extremely generous, amounting to more than £40 million to date.

The Brothers’ schools around the world are uniting to raise funds to help when the international aid has been allocated. There will certainly be the need to refurnish and restock schools from private donations once the international aid has supported a new infrastructure and tackled the large projects to restore water, communications, buildings etc.

We are encouraging parents to contribute to our appeal, especially if you have not yet responded through other channels. The pupils and older students have been imaginative in suggesting ways they would like to pursue to raise funds. This too is a very commendable initiative. We will be able to guarantee that donations will reach the needy in Haiti without any top slicing for administration.

Cheques should be made payable to “The Brothers of Christian Instruction ”. with your envelope marked “Haiti Appeal”.

We will keep you informed on the response to this appeal and thank you in advance for your generosity.

Yours sincerely

Bro Francis

The bad weather at the start of term has caused serious disruption to preparation for the College production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This has resulted to a decision to put the production dates back. The new dates for the performances are:

• Thursday March 4th
• Friday March 5th
• Saturday March 6th

Tickets will soon be on sale and I am sure you will give the play your usual enthusiastic support.

Dr Kowaleski