Mary Reid

I'm catching up a bit this week, because I still haven't mentioned the Royal Kingston District Scouts.  Their AGM was remarkably well attended despite of the rival attraction of the World Cup. The word 'fun' kept cropping up - Scouting develops self esteem, confidence and community spirit in their members through laughter and enjoyable activities. 

The meeting reflected on another year of service by many leaders who dedicate themselves to over 1500 children and young people of the borough.  They are now planning the major international events next year to celebrate the centenary of Scouting.

The Coombe Girls Summer Show actually coincided with England v Trinidad & Tobago so a TV was discretely installed in a corner of the hall. But remarkably few people were distracted from the stunning display of student work in Art, Photography, Media and Design & Technology.

After handing out some prizes I was introduced to a number of the students who told me enthusiastically about their work and their ambitions. I do believe that you can tell a great deal about a school from the quality of the artwork -  students whose exploratory ideas are valued, and who are free to express themselves, produce work that is challenging and exciting. At Coombe students displayed remarkable confidence in pushing the boundaries of the media they chose to use.