Blackthorn Academy - 1 - In progress

10 - Opening Feast

The massive oak doors opened, revealing the Grand Hall, filled with students wearing the black academy robes. There were 5 long tables, with the house colours painted on long banners that hung high from the ceilings. Another long table that was lengthwise was placed in front of the tables, with adults sitting behind. Faculty, Oliver thought, and straightened up, wanting to make a good impression.

Slowly, a tall, slender man stood up from the middle of the table. Any previous hushed chatter came to a stop. He had the lightest blue eyes Oliver had ever seen, as well as thick, dark eyebrows. His hair was slicked pack in a side part, and he stood with authority.

"Good afternoon and welcome to all staff students. For the First Years, my name is Alistar Blackthorn. In the Blackthorn Academy, it is a tradition for a Blackthorn member to continue the legacy.

Today marks not just the beginning of a new academic year but the dawn of an exciting journey for each and every one of you. It is my honour to stand before you and share in the excitement of what promises to be an extraordinary chapter in the lives of our students.

Blackthorn Academy was founded with a vision: to create an environment where curiosity is nurtured, potential is unleashed, and excellence is pursued with both passion and integrity. As you step through these doors today, you join a legacy that values not just academic achievement but the development of character, creativity, and a sense of community.

To our new students, I want to emphasise that this is a place where you will be challenged, where your ideas will be tested, and where your abilities will be honed. But it is also a place where you will find support, encouragement, and inspiration at every turn. Embrace the challenges ahead with enthusiasm, and remember that growth often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.

The journey you are about to embark on will be filled with moments of triumph and, at times, moments of difficulty. These experiences are not merely obstacles but opportunities—opportunities to learn more about yourselves, to discover your strengths, and to develop resilience. Take advantage of every moment, and remember that learning happens both inside and outside the classroom.

Our dedicated faculty members are here to guide you, to share their knowledge, and to support you every step of the way. They are more than just educators; they are mentors and allies in your quest for knowledge and personal growth. Lean on them, engage with them, and let them help you navigate the exciting and sometimes challenging path ahead.

As we look to the future, let us remember that Blackthorn Academy is more than just a school. It is a community—a vibrant, dynamic, and supportive community where each person has a role to play in the collective success and growth of the whole. Together, we will strive for greatness, celebrate our achievements, and face our challenges with unwavering determination.

Within the Academy, there are 5 Houses. Let us not think of them as Teams, let us think of them as an area for our main strength. Emberflame, bravery and courage. Vipercrest, ambition and cunningness. Silverglade, wisdom and knowledgable. Iceforge, determination and resilience. Thornblossom, trust and loyalty.

In closing, let us embark on this journey with optimism and excitement. The road ahead is full of possibilities, and each of you holds the power to shape your own path. Let Blackthorn Academy be the place where your dreams take flight, where your ideas become reality, and where your potential is realised."

He sat back down, as each and every member inside the Grand Hall started clapping. The clapping continued, sounding like thunder, until another member from the staff stood up. She had thin cat eyed glasses and silvery hair tied up in a bun.

"Before we start the Opening Feast, I would just like to remind you of our core rules. We treat every member and student with respect. If any fights happen, please alert your house Warden. They will then consider if necessary to take of house points, or send out a detention slip. 

Unless illness, students are required to be at each lesson. If something occurs, one is to mention to either the faculty for their house, or the professor themselves. If there is a series lateness, house points may be deducted or a detention. 

First half of semester 1 and second half of semester 2 are required for the Summer Uniform. The other half terms are for the Winter Uniform. Main and sport Uniforms are required to be worn correctly.

Sport trials will take place in 2 weeks time. Timetables as well as any other notices will be pinned up by Student House Heads. 

Curfew is 9:00 sharp. Student House Heads will do rounds of the school, Wardens assisting if necessary. Detention and deduction of points will be handed out to the student if found wandering after the curfew.

Nightshade Grove is out of bounds to all years. Academy grounds are out of bounds as soon as the sun has set.

Willowbrook is available for third years and over. Dates will be announced throughout the term.

If there are any questions, do not hestitate to ask myself or any other faculty. Student House Heads and Wardens are also there to answer any questions or queries.

And now, we shall begin the Opening Feast!"

More clapping once the lady finished her speech.

"Oi, who is she?" Rory leaned behind Liam, tapping Oliver on the shoulder.

"That's Professor Morrison, she's the Headmistress." He replied, factually, continuing clapping.

"Crikey, he knows everything." She muttered to Liam as he smirked, sitting back into her seat just as another door opened and lines of people dressed in white spilled out with dishes in their hands.