St Mary's Calne
On Monday 20 January, the academic award holders gathered for their annual supper, celebrating academic excellence within the school community. In addition to the traditional (and highly competitive!) Scholars’ Quiz, we were joined by Toby Thompson, a performance poet from Bath. Toby delighted the audience with a set of his poetry, interwoven with delightful piano playing in Top Hall. Complemented by excellent company, stimulating conversation, and a delicious meal (including Mr Smyth’s favourite chocolate brownie and ice cream), the evening was a resounding success.
Toby has been described by British rapper Akala as '...easily one of the most gifted young wordsmiths I have ever had the pleasure to encounter' and by Sir Ken Robinson as having '...a wonderful gift for language, a deep sensibility, and a penetrating sense of perspective'. His performance was spellbinding and inspirational in equal measure.
By an extraordinary coincidence, Toby’s mother, Clare Yates, and her sister, Candida, are alumnae of St Mary’s.
Toby will be performing an adaptation of The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry at the Egg Theatre in Bath from the 13 to 16 February 2025.
Mr Michael Smyth, Deputy Head Academic