Our Sixth Year 13s have been celebrating beginning their exam leave with a Leavers’ Assembly. Meeting in the hall, the students marked the end of their time at Heart of England with this final get-together with messages of good luck, awards and lots of memories!
The assembly began with a brief message from the Principal who referenced Edith Sampson and her “Choose One of Five” speech made in 1965. Focusing on the fifth choice, Ms Hughes-Williams highlighted the message in that speech to strive to “see this moment as a pause for breath before continuing the lifelong job of education and to be your unique best self, resolutely rejecting all stereotypes.” She ended by stating: “I’m not going to say ‘goodbye’ but rather to wish you ‘farewell’ – see you next week for the exams!”
Head of Sixth Form Mrs Theay also spoke to the group who said: “You have been a lovely year group who have really contributed to the life of the school. It’s not just me who thinks this – many of the staff have said the same thing about you!”
Miss Theay said that she had been thinking about what she will miss about the departing students. “There are so many memories: the dramas, the big ideas, the pranks and the chats and friendship,” she said, giving a few names and examples which caused some smiles, “and of course, I’ll miss the singing outside my office!”
Awards were given out as well with some special certificates for three of our science students who had achieved bronze and highly commended in the Royal Society of Biology British Biology Olympiad. Matthew, Charlie and Annabel were presented with the certificates by Miss Theay.
Annabel and Joe, Head Girl and Head Boy presented some more humourous awards which included Best Dressed Boy, Best Dressed Girl, Most Sporty Student and Most Likely to be Prime Minister.
After a short address from Vice Principal Mr Bennett who said: “You have been a delightful year. I wish you the very best of luck!” Miss Theay gave a few closing remarks to send the students on their way.
With a trip down memory lane including a few old photographs of our young students and quotes from parents, Miss They played When I Grow Up from Matilda the Musical which has many poignant lyrics. Miss Theay concluded, “This school is just the beginning. It’s now time to be yourself, know yourself and write your own story, to have a think about where you’re going.
“On behalf of all staff I wish you the very best luck for the future!”