A major part of boarding life at the Dragon takes place on Friday evenings when our boarders enjoy Spectrum events; hosting invited speakers or holding pupil-led events such as a variety show or Battle of the Bands. This term, one positive to the lockdown is that we have been able to invite the speakers to share their expertise with the entire school as an online audience.

The first talk was by Charlie Walker, who specialises in long distance, human-powered expeditions to develop an intimate understanding of the world’s most remote communities. He spoke of his 8,000km triathlon spanning the length of the perceived border between Europe and Asia, from the midwinter snowfields of the Russian arctic to the Bosporus in Istanbul. His talk explored what divides or unites the peoples on either side of ‘the line’, and the diversity of landscape, environment, religion and culture along the border that has traditionally demarcated East and West.

The second talk was by Ian Findlay, SnowSport England Talent Pathways. He spoke passionately about supporting skiers and snowboarders on their journey to world class success.

The third was by Marilyn Payne MBE: Save the Children Then and Now. Money from the Dragon Sale has been supporting Save the Children since 1985. The charity exists to help every child reach their full potential. In over 100 countries, they make sure children stay safe, healthy and keep learning. She presented the history of the charity, her personal experience visiting some of the countries where the charity has made an impact and connects with the pupils through the understanding of philanthropy.

Continuing the theme of inspiration and philanthropy, Dragon families are invited to join a Quiz Night on Friday 5 February hosted by Dragon Staff and to raise funds for YoungMinds, At the Bus and Place2be during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Read more about our initiatives during the week here.