Our Principal, Rebecca Glover, gave an inspiring speech encouraging each one of us to live a life with “no regrets” and grasp every opportunity available.  To commemorate the School’s 135^th anniversary, Mrs Glover presented a video of pupils, teachers and alumni aged 5 through to 101 giving advice to someone 10 years younger. It was moving to watch all ages of our school community give guidance to those younger than them.  

In between the presentation of prizes, we were entertained by our talented musicians from the String Chamber Ensemble and Choralia, and our delightful dancers from the Flux Dance Company.

We were delighted to welcome back former pupil, Caroline Sugg, as our Guest Speaker.  Caroline is the Director of Partnerships and Strategy at BBC Media Action. She delivered a passionate and engaging speech about her memories of being a pupil at the School, the friendships she made, and the lessons taught about having confidence in oneself and always doing one’s best. 

Furthermore, she explained how our School motto “May love always lead us” had a huge impact on her life as it taught her to care for and support others, and how rewarding it can be to serve others. Indeed, her current role at BBC Media Action enables her to reach out though media and all types of creative communication to help people in the poorest countries of the world.

Finally, Caroline reminded us all that she and her friends may be doing amazing things up and down the country, but they are also mothers, daughters, sisters, parents and friends.  They have learnt that loving themselves is as important as serving others.  “Be kind to yourselves and give yourself time to find things you love to do as they will, ultimately, give you joy.”

The evening was rounded off by our outgoing Head Girl, Morayo, who entertained the entire auditorium with her account of her time at school. Her parting words were “Work hard and have fun”.

Polly Rumbold

Head of Development