News from the School
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The Sound of Music (from Colchester Gazette)
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More than 130 talented pupils worked for many months to prepare their version of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, The Sound of
Music. Over three straight performances, the students brought the show to life at their school in Norman
Way. Accompanied by the live sound of the school’s orchestra, the evening featured songs such as Do-Re-Mi, My Favourite Things, and Climb Every Mountain.
Michaela Cudmore Rice, head of drama, said: “In
addition to the acting and music, the production was a wonderful celebration of the creativity, discipline, and collaborative spirit of our students from Sixth Form to Year 7, both on stage and behind the scenes.” Hired costumes from Thespis Theatrical Costumiers helped give the show a professional finish.
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CCHSG a Top School, in East Anglia
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The Sunday Times publishes an annual guide and ranking of the best school, across the country. In its 33rd edition, it has been recognised as the definitive ranking of the UK’s top primary and secondary, state and independent schools.
Colchester County High School for Girls, in Norman Way, has been crowned State Secondary School of the Year in East Anglia 2026, while Colchester Royal Grammar School, in Lexden Road, has been named State Secondary School of the Year in East Anglia, for academic excellence. The School celebrated the good news, as executive principal Gillian Marshall praised the school's hard work.
She said: “We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering commitment of our parents, students, and staff. Their collective dedication has been instrumental in our success. At CCHSG, we take immense pride in nurturing leadership skills and offering a super curriculum that prepares our young people to be adaptable and resourceful. We emphasise creative and critical thinking skills and the development of a strong work ethic. Our school culture is built on high aspiration, inclusivity, and ambition. We believe in providing high quality teaching that not only inspires curiosity but also fosters a lifelong love of learning. Our staff work collaboratively to maintain outstanding academic standards and uphold a belief in continuous improvement. We prioritise pastoral care, ensuring that our students thrive in a safe and supportive environment where their wellbeing and personal development are valued alongside their academic achievements. Moreover, our enrichment activities and co-curricular programs play a significant role in developing confident individuals
who are well-prepared for life beyond school. We are delighted to be named the State Secondary School of the Year for East Anglia and remain committed to our mission of excellence in education.”
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