Valedictory

Valedictory Day on Wednesday 6 May provided a fitting and memorable send-off for 2026's Upper Sixth, blending reflection, celebration and a strong sense of their community. The day began in the Chapel, where pupils and staff gathered for a thoughtful service, an opportunity to pause, take stock, and recognise much of what this cohort has contributed during their time at school. By House, each Housemaster or Housemistress read a list of the leavers, reminding us of the many extraordinary pupils who will be leaving us this year. As they left the Chapel, each leaver took a piece of a jigsaw depicting the school, a simple but powerful symbol of their individual place within the whole, and a poignant recognition of the final time the Upper Sixth would all be together in one place. The four senior monitors took the four corners of the puzzle, reflecting their leadership of the school over the last year.

Families joined us in the Sports Hall, where the focus shifted to a more pupil-led celebration. Here, the character of the year group came to the fore, interspersed with stunning musical performances. The Senior Monitors delivered speeches that were by turns humorous, reflective, uplifting, and sincere, capturing their shared experiences leading the School. A reading by Mr Clayton provided a summary of the year group's strengths and achievements, reminding us all of what an extraordinary "vintage" this group of pupils has been.

After this, the event moved outdoors - with the weather fortunately holding - and the Corps of Drums welcomed attendees into the Quad with precision and ceremony. On Top Terrace, the celebration reached one of its most memorable moments as Mr Benson led a countdown to the release of doves, a striking and symbolic gesture marking both an ending of their time at school and the start of their adult lives.

The remainder of the afternoon allowed pupils, parents and staff to gather informally over a champagne reception, followed by a buffet, sharing stories and enjoying the occasion together. The distribution of leavers’ hoodies and yearbooks was a much-anticipated highlight, offering tangible reminders of friendships, achievements and the many shared moments that have defined the pupils' time here.

As the day drew to a close, there was a clear sense that this had been a meaningful and joyful farewell, one that celebrated the many accomplishments, contributions, and the extraordinary spirit of a remarkable year group. We will miss them, and wish them all every success in the future!