Autumn leaves

November 2024

As the first week back after half-term draws to a close, I look out of my office window and see the wonderful autumnal changes taking hold: the trees starting to shed their golden leaves, exposing their network of branches beneath; the plants preparing for winter dormancy ready to bounce into life in the spring; and our gardeners lovingly tending our beautiful grounds.

Autumn signals a time of change, a time of preparation for spring and summer; similarly, in school, it’s a time when, for many of our students, preparation too plays a vital part of school life, preparing them to bloom in the months ahead. We enter the season of mock examinations, where revision and consolidation help to build towards the goal of ultimate success next summer. We prepare for the Christmas festivities: the plays, the carol service, the seasonal shows and performances. Each uniting our community in a common purpose.

It is also a time for annual celebrations: our school bonfire night is a few days away; Remembrance Day is on Monday: celebrating and remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. During both events, community is at the heart of our school life.

So, as the leaves fall, let’s celebrate all the things that have been and look forward to new things to come.