We have had an interesting week with a major power fault, which meant we had 2 ½ days with no ZESA. It has been a learning experience and prompted measures to combat this happening in the future. Our biggest issue has been the pumping of water. We have managed with boys swimming for two days and not showering - all is now back on track and there are no health issues. The boys have most certainly tried really hard to find excuses to close school early.

The public exams are now over and the internal exams are also complete. The Staff are working on our new ‘Pencil Box' software, which is making life a whole lot easier. I hope that parents find the format more accessible and user friendly. A full explanation will go out to parents from our Director of Studies, Mr. T. Matatu.

This week I received a letter from a Form One parent, to pass on to his Form One prefect at the Leavers' Dance, which is on Friday evening. I would like to share that letter with you all, as it really does show the very good working relations that the Form One prefects have with their boys.

"18 November 2011

Dear…..

It's hard to believe that it's a year ago that we received your e-mail introducing yourself as ….. Form 1 prefect. I'm sure you can't believe the time has gone so quickly and that your boys will be going into Form 2 shortly.

We wanted to thank you for all your help and guidance in getting…… through his Form 1 year and it seems he has had a very good year. We know how much of a factor the prefect is in helping the boys settle into their new routines and teaching them what it takes to be a successful Falcon Boy. We believe you've done a great job. I am sure ….. will have many fond memories of his year and has spoken very highly of you. We want to wish you all of the very best for your future. It's an exciting time for you and we are sure that whatever career you decide to follow, you will be very successful.

We trust that you and your family have a blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year. All the best for 2012!

Our grateful thanks
…………………….."

I am delighted that the parents acknowledged the young man's efforts.

Last Saturday we had a fun gala which the boys seemed to thoroughly enjoy. The Lower Sixth boys were the place judges and time keepers.

This weekend is full of activities from an Interhouse Fishing Competition, and a Soccer Competition run by Interact.

Our Woodsmoke boys leave tor Argentina with Mr. Will Randle on Saturday, and we wish them well in what is a major undertaking, and an opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you to all involved in making this happen.

On Sunday evening we also have the Carol Service, followed by the Christmas Dinner, in which staff and boys all become involved, and is always a fun occasion.

PARENTS' MEETINGS:
Please note that the Chairman and I will be in Harare at the Tin Roof, Tritan Gym Complex, Enterprise Road, Chisipite, Harare, on Monday at 5.30 for a fees' meeting - please make every effort to attend.

The end-of-term meeting starts at 7.30 a.m on Thursday 1st December 2011 at Falcon. I know it is early, but boys will be "champing at the bit" to get home. Again, please make every effort to attend this meeting.

SPORTS' RESULTS:
Inter-House Relay Gala 23 November 2011:
1st                 George Grey
2nd                 Tredgold
3rd                 Founders
4th                 Chubb
5th                 Oates
6th                 Hervey

Junior Inter-house Tennis Results:
1st                 Founders
2nd                 Hervey
3rd                 George Grey
4th                 Chubb
5th                 Oates
6th                 Tredgold

NDEBELE PROFICIENCE EXAM DISTINCTIONS;
Panashe Mwale
Wayne Munemo
Tinotenda Mpofu
Pindukai Ruswa
Edwin Nxumalo
Ngonidzashe Muzamhindo
Lande Gumede
Batsirai Zhuwarara
Alex Ngorora
Ackim Sibanda
Kumbirai Karuwo
Newton Mashanyare
Kudzai Mashangu
Dominic Mazvimavi
Anthony Choto

"If you're not failing every now and again
It's a sign you're not doing anything very innovative"

Woody Allen

R.W. QUERL