Strictly between you and me

I have to confess to being more of a sportsman than a dancer, but I do admire anyone who stands up, or indeed does quite a lot more than stand up, to be counted and former pupil of Hatherop, Jamie Laing, has certainly got himself noticed on Strictly Come Dancing 2020, making it to the Final next week. Despite injury and losing his place in 2019, Made in Chelsea actor and McVities biscuit heir has shown us that he did not crumble and is back.  Having been educated at Hatherop Castle in his formative years he embodies our current HATHEROP values and what a Hatherop education is all about…

Happiness – He is clearly loving every second of his learning and being part of the whole show seems to leave the most enormous grin on his face!

Adventure – New challenge excites Jamie and urges him on and he is not afraid to step outside his comfort zone and have a go!

Teamwork – He thoroughly enjoys being part of a team, very effective with his dance partner, Karen Hauer, but supporting and sharing with the other dancers too

Honesty – Jamie does not seem to shirk what he needs to do to improve, learning from his mistakes in his four dance offs

Encouragement – Jamie is full of encouragement as he urges himself, his partner and all those around them to work hard and give of their very best

Respect – As a dancer he seems to have real respect for those that know better than him and he admires a top performance. He has standards and expectations and respects them too.

Opportunity – Jamie is relishing this opportunity and wants to train even harder to ensure his maximises the opportunity he has.

Perseverance – You can’t take it away from him! He does not give up when it is hard or challenging!

Come and tell us all about it Jamie if you get a moment. How important were those Hatherop roots to who you are today! Building strong foundations for learning and developing character is so important, particularly in the early stages of education. Jamie has demonstrated this so brilliantly during his Strictly experience. The whole of the Hatherop community is cheering you on Jamie & Karen, Good luck!

Nigel Reed

Headmaster, Hatherop Castle School December 14 2020