I don’t think that we could have collectively put more into the Summer term at Brailes if we had tried with our school community rising to new challenges, developing new skills and collaborating with courage, compassion and curiosity to be our best and achieve remarkable things.
Year 5/6 Production: Hercules and Phoebe
From the opening scene to the final bow, the pupils brought the story to life with confidence and charm. Their month of hard work in rehearsals clearly paid off, as they delivered strong performances filled with humour, emotion, and energy. The cast’s ability to memorise lines, master timing, and stay in character throughout was truly impressive.
The production blended myth and comedy, with pupils portraying gods, heroes, and mythical creatures — all with a delightful flair. The title roles of Hercules and Phoebe were performed with maturity and stage presence, anchoring the story with real heart. Supporting characters, Lola especially, added bursts of laughter and excitement, while the ensemble cast gave their all in every scene, ensuring no moment on stage was without life.
The costumes (thank you parents!) and set design (thank you Mrs Andrew & Ms Bush!) were equally stunning, with a huge mountain and lots of thoughtful details that helped transport the audience to ancient Greece. Parents, carers, and staff were particularly impressed by the musical numbers, where the children’s singing, solos and choreography created some of the show’s most memorable
moments.
Congratulations to all involved, and a big thank you to the teachers and support staff who guided and encouraged the children every step of the way. Hercules and Phoebe was not just a performance; it was a joyful celebration of the pupils’ hard work, talent, and imagination.
Leavers
The end of year Leavers’ Service at the end of the summer term beautifully captured the spirit of thanksgiving and hope. Through speeches, songs and poems the children shared what their years at primary school have meant to them — highlighting the friendships formed, lessons learned, and values that will guide them as they move on to secondary school.
A particular highlight was the performance of two very special songs. The first, When I’m Gone, was delivered with heartfelt emotion; the children having refused requests for smiles as it is a ‘sad song. ‘ Later in the service, the children sang a Benediction, filling the church with a sense of peace and blessing. Their voices rose in unity, offering a touching farewell that brought a few tears to the eyes
of those in the congregation.
Each child took part with reverence and confidence, reflecting the deep sense of belonging they have developed over their time at the school. The service also provided a moment to reflect on our core values that have been woven through their learning — courage, compassion and curiosity.
We are immensely proud of all our Year 6 pupils. They leave us not only with knowledge and skills, but with the character and courage to take on all that lies ahead. As a school community, we send them forth with every blessing for the next stage of their journey.
To celebrate Miss England, Mr Harcourt, and Miss Greaves’ time at Brailes, we shared a lovely assembly together on the final morning of the school year. We wish these members of staff all the very best for their future endeavours as Mr Harcourt returns to theological studies at Oxford University, Miss England takes up her first teaching position at Shipston Primary having completed her PGCE qualification at Brailes over the last two years and Miss Greaves starts her PGCE training to become a teacher- thank you for everything!
Thank you!
Finally, I would like to thank every member of the school community (Parents/Carers, Governors, FOBS, Village groups, staff, children) for a fabulous year at Brailes and for making our school such a wonderful place for all to flourish and shine. Together we have been able to achieve remarkable things this year, navigated challenges together, encouraged, cared and supported one another and
have been able to achieve more than we think is possible. We are so fortunate to have a super group of parent/carers, for which we are very grateful – a great big thank you if you have volunteered and offered your services and support throughout this year.
