Reflections on the year

Like any year, this school year has been one of variety.  We have faced some challenges and experienced a lot of fun, but the measure of any organisation is how it pulls together to celebrate and support and the togetherness of our School community has revealed itself to be strong and in good heart.  As such, I feel an enormous sense of gratitude, to our pupils for turning up every day with their best foot forward, for their commitment to learn and improve even when the going is tough.  To you, our parents, for your unwavering support and trusting us with your most precious children; to all of the wider community from governors and civic supporters of the School, to the local artists and musicians who add to the vibrancy of our School life; and, of course, the amazing team of hardworking, devoted, heartfelt and heart-led group of people who work in the School for the betterment of every child who walks through the door.  

Investment in pupils is investment in the future – nothing could be more important and the challenges faced by independent schools via threatened taxation have no place in the education sphere, as far as I am concerned.  I have been outspoken on this, but I will leave it here for now as today is not about politics, but rather about pupils – real pupils who with solid foundations will have amazing lives ahead of them.

This too, is a school with a solid foundation which will be here for a long time after we are all dust and subsequent governments have been and gone.

The testament to the value of an LCS education is seen in many ways.  Perhaps most obviously our Upper Sixth students who really are the most decent, charming, good natured and driven group – the future is safe in their hands.  There is some alchemic rite of passage that takes the uncertainties of the younger years and, through a myriad of School opportunities, moulds them into the young people of whom we are inordinately proud.  Please do not be mistaken School, all of this is for you, because we know and we can see year after year what incredible outcomes are achieved by our pupils and what amazing opportunities, routes and successes exist for them outside of The Close.  So, to our Upper Sixth in particular, I wish you God Speed on your next chapter – you have set the bar high and we look forward to hearing how you get on – do keep in touch.

This then brings me to reflect on what it is that leads to these splendid outcomes.  Truthfully it is a myriad of interconnecting experiences, academic, ethical and personal challenge, that, when delivered through the lens of our core values, allows genuine human flourishing. 

So what are these experiences?

Alongside our academic and wider curriculum, we are constantly reflecting on the whole child from a wellbeing point of view.  This has led to many initiatives being championed in school and our commitment to student wellbeing goes beyond academic excellence. We recognize that true success lies in fostering resilient, happy, and healthy individuals. Our dedicated pastoral team ensures that every student feels supported, heard, and valued. We take an active stance to prioritize mental and emotional health.

This matters, because a child who feels secure, understood, and emotionally balanced is better equipped to learn, grow, and contribute positively to society. That is why sometimes we have to deal sternly with those who do not commit to our values; maintaining high standards is essential to us. That is also why it is so important we work with you as parents and carers to nurture your child’s wellbeing.

Put simply, our students are not just test scores; they are artists, athletes, musicians, and community volunteers. We celebrate their achievements both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it’s a captivating science project, a moving musical performance, or a football victory for refugee week (thank you Year 9 boys for that), each accomplishment contributes to holistic development.

And all of this is important – why?  Because a well-rounded education prepares our pupils for life beyond these walls. With qualifications in their pocket and the ability to hold their own in a room of total strangers transmitting qualities of courtesy, warmth and dignity, they will go far in life.

And finally, let’s address why independent schools matter. We have the liberating  freedom to innovate, to tailor our curriculum and experience.  We can foster creativity, ensure pupils are developed by extending and challenging themselves not just in the classroom, but in public speaking, wider performance and understanding the finer skills and qualities that sit within our faith foundations and lead to fulfilling lives.

We recognise that a school, like a person, has its own unique spirit and character – we are liberated by our independence to stand up for what is good because we know it to be so.  We do not compromise on our expectations of our pupils, but rather will support them to achieve those things they find most challenging.  Put simply, the ability to live our ethos, to abide by our values and character, allows us to continue to ensure that our pupils become, and remain, glorious individuals who understand that kindness and compassion are superpowers that can sit alongside drive and ambition and not lessen it. 

I would like to say a huge thank you to those staff who are leaving us at the end of this year – they have been amazing and will always be part of the LCS family – you know who you are – thank you so much.  We also acknowledge an enormous debt of gratitude to Sarah Rees and Barry Moss and their team from The Friends, whose tireless fundraising not only allows us to enhance our educational provision, but also creates a palpable sense of belonging and provides us with buckets of fun throughout the year.  If you’d love to get involved in the many events they undertake, please email them.

I would also like to mention the School governors - they are so much of the bedrock on which the school stands.  A more selfless, wise and supportive group of people it would be hard to find, and we are so lucky to have them.  A particular thanks this year to Eric Lunt who as Acting Chair has been ever present and relentlessly cheerful – I am particularly grateful for that!

Inservi Deo et laetare!