The last week has seen a truly memorable send-off for our Upper VI students, filled with music, laughter, joy – and just a few tears.
The Leavers’ Concert and Celebration was a standout event, organised with flair and feeling by our talented Music Captains, Louisa and Oya. The evening featured an eclectic mix of performances, from powerful duets and Jazz Standards to a showstopping Hamilton number. One of the most moving moments was the reunion of the Junior School Choir, returning after seven years to reprise an old favourite – a nostalgic treat for performers and audience alike. The night ended on a high (and loud) note with perhaps the most spirited rendition of Shine Jesus Shine the school has ever heard.
As part of the celebration, prizes were awarded to members of this incredibly talented year group in recognition of their academic achievements, creativity, leadership and contribution to school life. Each student was also given a parting gift — a copy of Warrior Queens & Quiet Revolutionaries by Kate Mosse, a book we hope will inspire them as they step into their next chapter.
Then came, Leavers’ Day. Students were presented with their yearbooks and hoodies, and gathered for one final assembly. Mr le Fleming delivered a perfectly pitched farewell, summing up a decade’s worth of assemblies with the memorable line: “The point is always joy and feminism” – which was met with a big laugh and a big cheer. The morning ended with karaoke (naturally), with a group performance of Harry Styles’ “You and me got a whole lot of history” that left hardly a dry eye in the house.
Finally, The Leavers’ Ball, brought the celebrations (and emotions) to a close. Held in the elegant setting of Trunkwell House, on a gloriously hot summer evening, with the sun setting in spectacular fashion, the evening felt almost like a metaphor for this incredible year group’s time at school: full of colour, beauty and warmth. Students danced, laughed and reminisced, making the most of their final formal occasion together – it was a night to remember (if only for the teachers’ dancing!).
Throughout it all, there was an overwhelming sense of community, pride, and love. We are so proud of this wonderful year group – for all they have achieved, and for the thoughtful, funny, brilliant people they have become. We will miss them dearly, but know they take with them a whole lot of history – and a whole lot of heart.
