The Priory House Valedictory Concert for Mrs Simper...

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Priory loved hosting a concert in celebration of Mrs Simper's 11 years of being a Housemistress. The performances were amazing with such talents, making it such a special and memorable afternoon dedicated to Mrs Simper. We wish you all the best with your next role in school as Deputy Head, Pastoral and Priory will miss you very much. 

Jess U6^th Form - Head of Priory House

After weeks of sunshine and warmth, the forecast predicted rain last Sunday, but anyone who is familiar with the style of Priory House knows that the idea of a Priory House event portends a sunny occasion, marked by enthusiasm, talent, and a cracking party. And so it was, the Priory House Valedictory Concert, the Priory girls’ gift to Mrs Simper who, after eleven years in the role, steps down as Housemistress at the end of this term.

Jess, the Head of House, together with House Prefects and the Priory girls put together an outstanding musical concert. Mrs Simper, who was in on the idea, had only asked for round tables, music and a welcoming atmosphere. Jess worked some serious organizational magic and the combination worked. Jess’s invitation went out to past Heads of House, former members of staff and pupils and, along with Priory House parents and tutors, we were all were treated to an afternoon of eclectic musical entertainment. In the Recital Hall, Priory’s talented musicians performed the numbers which had set them apart this year. Performing Hallelujah, the Priory Ensemble opened the afternoon’s entertainment. This was outstanding because of our talented Mima, who was aided by the perfect synchronicity of the other ensemble members. Performances ranged from solos from Minty and Sophia to an original dance from the 3^rd Form through the highlights from the School Play, Six and the musical concerts. Katie, an Old Brutonian and now Drama teacher at Hazlegrove treated us to a stirring rendition of Home by Edward Sharpe. And of course, all the girls sang the House song, Lover Boy by Queen, which secured Priory the Inter-House Music Competition win. 

Mrs Simper herself took to the floor and supported Emma on the clarinet and declaring, much to everyone’s surprise, that she was going to sing a hymn, then intoned a jolly ditty, reinventing the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ but in the words of ‘My twelve years as Housemistress’, accompanied by Flo on the piano. It was a delight, and everyone sang along!

These performances, executed wholeheartedly by all, and with the professionalism which distinguishes so many of the Priory girls, were interspersed with speeches from Jess, and former Heads of House: Ellie, Harriet, Santina, Charlotte and Lily; it is always a pleasure to welcome Old Brutonians back. Although completely unique, each speech shared the common theme of how life in Priory, and especially “Simps‘s" support and guidance and, indeed, forbearance, had helped to forge the characters and shape the lives of the girls. Mr Wilmshurst spoke as parent of a former Priory pupil, Miss King spoke for the Tutors and Mrs Simper herself made a moving address, with a special mention in gratitude for the tireless support of her husband, Oliver.

And the whole joyous event was accompanied by the outstanding cakes and scones, Pimm’s and prosecco, beautifully prepared and presented by the Hospitality Department; Mrs McMunn, Mrs Owens and their team never fail to impress. Mrs Simper is leaving Priory, sadly, but thankfully will remain a key figure in life at King’s Bruton as she moves with the blessing of us all to her next role as Deputy Head, Pastoral. It remains only to welcome in September our new Priory Housemistress. Mrs Kingston, we look forward to having you at the helm!

Nicola Checketts - Head of EAL and Tutor, Priory House