No-one could have felt unmoved by the enchanting scenes at Packwood last weekend: on a glorious evening, Shrewsbury were playing Packwood on the 1st XI square, an assortment of children were mountain biking and playing golf, an audience were basking in the last moment’s of sunshine – enjoying pimms during the interval, and a group of furry animals were preparing for the second half of our Middle School Production of ‘Wind in the Willows’. And what a spectacular production it was: every child in Years 5 and 6 on stage bursting with colour, enthusiasm and the sheer joy of performing; our pupil-led technical team overseeing a complex set-up which they had designed, rigged and operated; and, for the first time for a Packwood production, a live band, helping to bring some exquisitely written musical numbers to life.
‘Wind in the Willows’ contains many powerful messages, all of which are both relevant and something of an antidote to the pressures, complexity and plugged in nature of life in 2025. The story centres on humility, the value of home and the importance of nature. This is brought to life through the bond of the animals, who demonstrate true friendship.
Yes, we were proud of the children and our production team, but more than this we were moved by their representation – on stage – of what a Packwoodian is: a tribute to the spirit of loyalty, kindness, and the adventures that shape us.
And, returning to the scene on that summer’s evening, we mustn’t forget the wonderful simplicity of what brings us true happiness:
“There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats”
Our congratulations to the whole cast and production team of our enchanting and magical production of ‘Wind in the Willows’.
William Goldsmith, Head of Packwood
