Welcome

I have, I suspect, one of the best jobs in the world. Where else might I begin the day with a rousing anthem from an award-winning Chamber Choir? Or bump into pupils on their way to Debating Society, Robotics or Black Hole Society, or overhear a group discussing whether they will attend Cake Decorating Club or Jazz Knitting? Where else might I have lunch with boys and girls who have moments earlier finished dissecting a pair of lungs? Or plan with passionate young men and women how we might further support those affected locally by Motor Neurone Disease? Or congratulate a group returning from their early-morning cold-water sea swimming sessions?

It is a rare privilege to live and work alongside so many engaged, inquisitive and enthusiastic teenagers: to see them achieve soaring successes, but to see them learn, too, that mistakes and disappointment are also part of life; to encourage them as they pursue their passions and interests, but also to nudge them towards new activities and ideas, away from the safety of the shore to venture on wilder seas; to see each child grow in confidence as a unique, remarkable person, understanding, too, that they have much to contribute to the communities of which they are a part, using their gifts and talents not just to pursue their own hopes, but also to make a difference to the people and the environment around them.

I hope you will be able to visit us. I can promise you a very warm welcome

Steve Marshall-Taylor
Head Master