The Weekly Window - Friday 9th May 2025
Friday 9th May 2025
This week: tennis success, LillyRose on stage, SIFLO, upcoming dates.
9th May 2025
Welcome to the Weekly Window! Congratulations to LillyRose, who has been performing professionally at York Theatre. Martha has shown continued success with her riding outside of school. We have an upcoming Open Day and an overseas webinar for new families considering QM, and SIFLO had a jam-packed schedule last weekend.
Have a great weekend!
Update from the Head
I had a lovely moment yesterday afternoon when there was an enthusiastic knock on my study door. I was met by a group of Year II girls in tennis wear, excited to tell me that they had won Bronze in the Pocklington Schools U13 Tennis Tournament. The students were in pools in the morning and then qualified for the Shield or the Plate in the afternoon. QM qualified for the Shield which was the tougher competition and came in 3rd place. Congratulations to Una Adams, Lola Fawcett, Suzanne Favre, Jasmine Harrison, Sophia Harrison and Martha Whitfield - what a fantastic performance early in the tennis season. They are deservedly proud of their success and I was delighted they were keen to share this exciting news and show off their medals. One of the things I have always loved about the Summer Term in schools I have worked in - and indeed in my own memories as a boarding pupil - is seeing students making the most of the light evenings and taking themselves out to knock a few balls about the tennis courts. Tennis is certainly a sport for life and wonderful to see so many QM girls building their racquet skills.
We are fortunate to be able to draw on the expertise of a variety of experienced specialist coaches to support the sporting talents of our girls. This term, we have been pleased to welcome Mr Robert Ratcliffe as a new tennis coach. As we look ahead to September, we are delighted to be welcoming back Mr Jake Read as Director of Sports. Mr Read was previously a popular Head of Hockey at QM and will have a couple of visits over this term to support a smooth transition.
We are sad to be losing a number of valued members of the PE department at the end of this term who are moving on to pastures new and fresh career opportunities. We thank them for all their hard work and commitment in supporting the girls’ sporting interests - the hours of a PE teacher go well beyond the school day. Jake Read is well-placed to lead the Sports department forward and is full of ideas for continuing to build on QM’s sporting heritage and success. Another new appointment to the department brings a particular specialism in netball, combined with wider experience in Outdoor Pursuits. I am currently in discussions around further specialist coaching support in our core sports - watch this space!
Sports play a huge part in QM life - at a competitive level, as an academic course, and in supporting wellbeing. Sports participation also develops and instils so many life skills - teamwork, leadership, resilience, commitment - and certainly builds self-belief. Sports activity helps build community - whether as participants or supporters - and plays a significant role in building QM community spirit between girls as well as across schools facing each other in friendly competition. I look forward to what will undoubtedly be the highly competitive spirit of QM Sports Day later this term. I appreciate the hard work of Friends of Queen Margaret parents who are busy planning to make this a special community event - please remember to mark Thursday 3rd July in your calendars.
May I also take this opportunity to welcome Amy Bentley, who has joined us this week as Executive PA to SLT. Amy can be contacted at abentley@queenmargarets.com or via head@queenmargarets.com.
From Queen Margaret’s to the Stage: LillyRose Inspires Our Girls at York Theatre Royal
On Thursday evening, a group of students and staff from Queen Margaret’s enjoyed a night to remember at the York Opera House, watching a bold production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This modern adaptation brought the classic play to life in a truly original way, blending Elizabethan language with unexpected elements!
Mrs Mary Griffin, Director of Drama, shared her delight:
“It was a really impressive performance. There was so much energy, creativity and fun. It’s rare to see a Shakespeare production done in a truly original way - we’ve seen every play done every way possible. But Mrs Priestley, Mrs Lavell and I were all bowled over by this one. We’ve never seen anything like it. We loved every second. Particularly the throwback rave music!”
One of the highlights of the evening was seeing UVI student LillyRose take to the stage in a starring role. Her performance left a lasting impression.
“LillyRose was outstanding (we’d expect nothing less), and we couldn’t be prouder of her incredible achievement. Her opening line (a massive swear) will stay with me for a long time - as will her wig.”
The trip held special significance for Mrs Griffin as it marked her final Drama outing with the school. “I’m so pleased I got to see this production as my final Drama trip — I’ve finished on a real high,” she added.
In the audience was LVI student Lucy, who shared her thoughts on the evening:
“Firstly, we would like to mention how proud we are to be there to support our friend and classmate, LillyRose. She did so amazingly well and her wig is something to be remembered.”
Having recently performed their own school production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Lucy and her classmates appreciated the fresh interpretation.
“It was really interesting to see a new modern approach. Using the Shakespearean language created an interesting contrast to the modern-day pop music that wouldn’t have been thought to be used together. It was an uplifting retelling of the Shakespearean tale that we recommend to be seen by anyone who loves a bit of fun, dancing and magic.”
In the photo, LillyRose is joined by actor Ian Giles, who played Nick Bottom in the production. A former English teacher at Queen Margaret’s, Ian is a familiar face to many in our community and his legacy is celebrated annually through the QM Giles Cup - awarded for excellence in Drama.
Equestrian Success for Martha
We’re delighted to share some recent equestrian achievements from Martha Cussins, who has had a busy and successful few weeks competing across the country.
Over the Easter break, Martha took part in the prestigious Pony of the Year Show at Arena UK, where she delivered an outstanding performance, winning two classes with her pony, Gucci. This is a fantastic accomplishment at such a competitive event.
More recently, Martha qualified for the JC/JD class at the Royal Highland Show after placing third in a qualifier with her pony, Bing. This is an excellent result and we wish Martha all the best as she prepares for the next stage of the competition.
Well done, Martha; we look forward to following your continued success!
A Practically Perfect SIFLO
Last weekend marked the final long Leave Out of the year. For the girls who stayed at QM for SIFLO, it was packed with activities, food, and fun, all with a touch of Mary Poppins magic.
The weekend began on Friday evening, with 16 girls heading out to the cinema to watch Thunderbolts and Minecraft: The Movie, followed by a Chinese takeaway back at school. Meanwhile, the five girls who stayed on site enjoyed an outing to York.
Saturday saw the whole group travel to Manchester, where there was time for shopping and an exciting escape room challenge. Three teams raced the clock, with one managing to earn a spot on the Escape Hunt leaderboard, escaping in an impressive 48 minutes and 5 seconds. The day finished with a trip to the Palace Theatre to see Mary Poppins - a spectacular show with catchy songs, energetic dancing and a wonderfully creative set.
After a well-earned lie-in on Sunday, the girls were greeted with brunch and then 14 enthusiastic bakers headed to Tesco for ingredients to take part in a Mary Poppins-themed Bake Off. Entries included “Practically Imperfect” cookies and a winning batch of Mary Poppins hat cupcakes. Later that day, everyone gathered at the Social Club for a pizza supper and some relaxed free time.
Monday brought another leisurely brunch, with the addition of sushi, a firm favourite. Eleven girls then headed off to Oxygen Freejumping for a trampoline session, while others stayed back to focus on upcoming exams. The group came together again in the evening for supper at the York Designer Outlet before returning to the boarding houses.
A busy, memorable weekend!
Sports Review
Six of our U13 girls competed in the Pocklington School Tennis Tournament last week, playing a series of well-fought matches and finishing 3rd in the Shield Competition. The team showed real determination and teamwork throughout the day – a brilliant achievement.
Open Day at Queen Margaret's School & Upcoming Webinar
Discover Queen Margaret's School – Where Self-Belief is Made
At Queen Margaret's, we build self-belief in our students. Our independent school in York has a nurturing culture that supports and empowers every learner. We invite you to visit us and experience firsthand how we achieve this.
Upcoming Open Day
Saturday 17th May 2025 – Open Day (All Years)
We welcome families to join us on this day to explore our school, meet our team, and discover our nurturing environment. If another date is more convenient, you can book a private visit at your leisure by filling out the booking form below or by giving us a call.
Join our Free Webinar
Wednesday 14th May 2025
12:00 (BST) / 19:00 (HKT)
A Winning Formula: Why Girls' Schools Deliver Real Results for International Students
For families exploring UK boarding schools, we’re hosting an insightful webinar next week. Hosted by Ms Dudley, Head of QM, this webinar will explore the advantages of an all-girls learning environment, particularly for international students. Learn how this setting empowers girls to achieve academic success, develop confidence, and build lasting friendships.
Register now to secure your place
We look forward to welcoming you to our school and engaging with you online!
Attendance Update
Here are the latest attendance figures. This includes both authorised and unauthorised absences. As a reminder, the government’s expectation is that pupils attend school at least 90% of the time. Even at 90% attendance, this still equates to 17 missed school days per year, which can have a significant impact on learning. If you have any concerns, please do get in touch.
Pre-Loved Uniform Donations
The Friends of QM, with help from the Housekeeping team, continue to collect and recycle nearly new school uniforms and sports kits, giving families access to high-quality spare or replacement clothing throughout the year.
If you have any spare, clean uniforms in good condition that you’d like to donate, we’d really appreciate your support. These items will be sold in the Pre-Loved Uniform Shop, offering an affordable and sustainable option for our QM families.
To donate, simply get in touch with us at uniform@queenmargarets.com, or leave your items with the Admissions team.
Thank you for your support!
The Week Ahead
Saturday 10 May 2025
Week M
All Day – Practice Gold Duke of Edinburgh Expedition (LVI students)
12:00 – UVI Study Leave Commences
19:00 – Sixth Form: Takeaway Night
19:00 – Warwick: Cake Decorating
19:00 – Winnie’s: Australian Evening
Sunday 11 May 2025
Week Q
Until 18:00 – Practice Gold Duke of Edinburgh Expedition (LVI students)
11:30–13:00 – Brunch (Main Dining Room)
13:00 – All Years: Shopping and Activity Centre
17:15–18:15 – Supper (Time TBC, Main Dining Room)
19:00 – New Head Girl Team: Reflection
Monday 12 May 2025
All Day – A Level Examinations (Sports Hall)
All Day – GCSE Examinations (Sports Hall)
08:30 – Assembly (The Chapman Theatre)
16:00 – Athletics: York Schools Championship Round 1 (Joseph Rowntree School)
16:00 – Athletics Fixtures:
Girls-U13A vs York Schools Championship Round 1
Girls-U12A vs York Schools Championship Round 1
Tuesday 13 May 2025
All Day – A Level Examinations (Sports Hall)
All Day – GCSE Examinations (Sports Hall)
16:00–18:00 – Governors' Education Committee (Head’s Study)
Wednesday 14 May 2025
All Day – A Level Examinations (Sports Hall)
All Day – GCSE Examinations (Sports Hall)
08:30 – Tutor Time
15:00 – Tennis Fixtures:
Girls-U15A vs Ryedale School
Girls-U15B vs Ryedale School
Girls-U14A vs Ryedale School
17:00 – School Council (Wenlock Library)
Thursday 15 May 2025
All Day – A Level Examinations (Sports Hall)
All Day – GCSE Examinations (Sports Hall)
09:00 – Athletics Fixtures:
Girls-U15A vs Track and Field Cup
Girls-U14A vs Track and Field Cup
Girls-U13A vs Track and Field Cup
Girls-U12A vs Track and Field Cup
10:00 – Athletics: Track and Field Cup (York University, Heslington)
Friday 16 May 2025
All Day – A Level Examinations (Sports Hall)
All Day – GCSE Examinations (Sports Hall)
08:30 – Morning Prayer (St Margaret’s Chapel)
09:00–12:10 – A Level Spanish Speaking Examinations (Cloisters Classrooms)
13:00 – Scholar's Talk (Virtual)
13:00 – Junior Netball Tour (Selected students from Years I–III)
17:00 – House Meetings:
Duncan – Mountgarret
Garry – Thompson
Pitlochry – Café
QM Hall – St Margaret’s Chapel
School – Wenlock Library
St Aidan’s – Chapman Theatre
17:45 – Supper:
17:45 – Duncan, Pitlochry & School
18:00 – Garry, QM Hall & St Aidan’s