As we welcome everyone into 2026, it already feels as though the year is well underway. Remarkably, we are only six weeks into the new term, yet so much has happened across the school – both in and beyond the classroom. It is a pleasure to reflect on some of the fantastic successes taking place within our vibrant Co‑Curricular life at TPS.

Despite the seemingly relentless wet weather, the children have shown tremendous determination and resilience, embracing every opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy our beautiful campus. Whether it has been school trips, workshops with visiting speakers, sports events, or Performing Arts showcases, it has certainly been a busy and rewarding start to the year.

One of the most notable early achievements is the selection of five of our athletes to represent Somerset in the Regional Championships – an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to their hard work and dedication. In the Performing Arts, it has been wonderful to see so many pupils stepping forward to take part in the weekly Performing Arts Cafés. A huge thank you must go to Mr Baker, whose enthusiasm and leadership continue to encourage pupils to take their first steps onto the stage of public performance. These moments often become treasured memories and build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

A true standout this half term came from our Pistol Shooting Team, who successfully retained their National U13 title. This exceptional achievement reflects both the talent of our pupils and the commitment of the staff who support them – our thanks go to all involved.

Sporting excitement continued as we hosted the regional IAPS Hockey Championships on Monday 2nd February. With teams travelling from as far away as Cornwall and Oxfordshire, the event was a tremendous success and highlighted the potential of our new AstroTurf pitches as a first‑class venue for major sporting occasions.

Learning has thrived beyond the classroom walls too. Our Year 3 pupils enjoyed a fantastic educational trip to the Somerset Museum of Life, immersing themselves in the world of the Romans. I was delighted to drop in and see how they were getting on, and even more delighted to escape without being dressed in full Roman attire! Meanwhile, Years 7 and 8 spent a thought‑provoking day with the ‘Philosophy Man,’ engaging in critical thinking activities that supported their development as curious, reflective learners.

Another joyful addition to the term was our Netball Fun Day. What began as a small idea from Miss Beck quickly became a highlight, with children enjoying a variety of netball‑based activities during breaktime. The day ended with a fiercely contested match between the male and female members of staff. I must confess, it was rather one‑sided and the ladies claimed a very convincing victory. Better luck next time, gentlemen; perhaps a little work on the footwork is in order!

We also celebrated outstanding involvement in the Taunton Festival of the Arts, a beloved event in our calendar. It was inspiring to see so many pupils taking part and showcasing their talents in Speech and Drama. Early reports suggest that TPS has once again achieved exceptional results, and we look forward to sharing these in full soon.

As always, we know that none of this success happens by chance. It comes from the effort, commitment, and ambition of our pupils, the dedication of our staff, and the unwavering support of parents, who give so many hours to rehearsals, practice sessions, transport, and encouragement at home. We remain immensely grateful.

Now, as we settle fully into February and spot the first daffodils emerging around the grounds, we look forward to drier days, lighter evenings, and the promise of spring. Summer is already on the horizon and there is plenty more to look forward to in the months ahead.