TODAY we said a fond farewell to the Upper Sixth class of 2019 as they prepare to sit their A Level examinations and then venture on to pastures new. Many of them joined us almost seven years ago and yet it seems hard to believe that it is already time to say farewell. To mark their departure, fancy dress was the order of the day today (much to the amusement of their fellow travellers on local buses and trains) and the departing students and staff enjoyed a wonderful buffet kindly sponsored by the PFA, as well as an extremely taxing inflatable assault course! This followed an excellent leavers’ barbeque on Thursday night, organised by a committee of Year 13 students and attended by staff at the invitation of the students. Both days have afforded opportunities for sharing funny memories, good wishes and thanks between students and staff alike.

The Sixth Form is the engine room of the school. It sets the tone and determines the standards. What has been striking in these closing days is the determination they show and the importance they place on friendship. Arriving as boys, they leave as gentlemen; and having made their mark on the school, it is now time for them to make their mark on the world. Good luck and never forget, non sibi sed omnibus!