The approach of the end of the summer term often draws one into reflection on the year that has been. Yet as easy as that may sound, a quick mental review of the last ten months quickly led me to realise that whittling it down to just a few highlights would be quite the challenge! I am aware, therefore, that by choosing just a couple I will be overlooking countless events, activities and achievements that are all worthy of celebration. It is impossible, though, to overlook the wonderful efforts of our Girls’ 1st XI hockey team, who made it all the way to the final of the T2 national cup before narrowly losing to Manchester High School for Girls, in a final played at the Olympic Park. A stunning achievement. Attending the final day of the annual Ten Tors event, back in May, was also a personal highlight. Completing the gruelling Ten Tors challenge is, for me, right up there with the most impressive things our pupils achieve. We had two teams successfully complete it this year, and watching the beaming smiles as our pupils crossed the finishing line (and the teary-eyed pride of the family and friends who had come to watch) was a truly unforgettable moment.

On a personal note I want to pass on my gratitude for the kindness I have been shown during my first year as Headmaster; from staff, parents, and pupils, certainly, but also from the OB community. It has been a real pleasure to have been able to meet so many of you over the course of the year, and to hear of your memories of school, and of the lasting friendships you have made. I believe that I have met former pupils from every decade from the 1940s up to the 2020s, and I can tell you that you all feel an equal degree of affection for King’s. I am also grateful for the very positive relationship I have with the Old Brutonian Association, and with its President Dom Haigh, and their support of me, and of the school has been greatly appreciated.

As we build towards the new academic year something I am looking forward to is the launch of our new strategic vision, designed to help us bring real focus and purpose to all that we do, and with the intention of ensuring that we continue to offer our pupils the best possible education, while retaining the soul and heart of the school of which we are all so proud. If you follow our social media you will see this strategy roll out at the start of next year, and I am excited about where it will take us. Floreat Brutonia!