By Mr Gardner, Senior Deputy Head

Tuesday’s Prize Giving was a truly special occasion, celebrating our Years 11 through Upper Sixth students at this pivotal point of transition. The day provided a perfect opportunity to pause and recognise the remarkable growth our students have shown throughout the year.

As I stood before our prize winners and their families, I was struck by how quickly the school year passes. We often race from one activity to another without creating enough space to recognise how far we’ve come. Every student present, prize winner or not, deserves congratulations for trying new things, overcoming challenges and continuing to grow.

This year’s focus on Reflection as our core value feels particularly relevant at this time of transition. I wanted our students to think beyond the typical associations with reflection, those moments when something hasn’t gone to plan, and instead see it as a powerful tool that can shape what comes next.

As Michelle Obama said: “You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage. Instead, it’s important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.” That’s what true reflection is about: not dwelling on what went wrong, but learning from every part of life, including what goes right. I encouraged our students to reflect on the maths question that finally made sense, the adrenaline rush from applause at the end of a performance, or the satisfaction of scoring a goal.

There’s actually fascinating science behind this. When we allow our minds to rest, whether through walking, listening to music, or simply doing nothing, our brains enter what neuroscientists call the Default Mode Network. This is where deep thinking, memory consolidation, and creative insight happen. It’s our brain’s way of piecing together experiences and preparing us for future decisions. In other words, when we stop and reflect, we’re not wasting time, we’re growing.

Reflection can unlock surprising connections. Perhaps a love of art helps reveal patterns in science, or empathy in friendships develops into leadership skills. I shared my own journey, once dreaming of life in a band but finding my path as a music teacher through reflecting on my strengths and passions. Even recently, taking on new leadership responsibilities has led me to reflect on handling different situations, helping me grow as an educator and leader.

Take Emma Raducanu, who stepped away after facing criticism following her US Open win, using that time to reflect and return with greater clarity. Or Taylor Swift, who says reflection helps her stay true to her values: “I never want to change so much that people can’t recognise me.”

So here’s my invitation to our students as they transition to their next chapters: take time this summer to reflect on a moment that brought you inner pride. Ask yourself not just what you’re grateful for, but what surprised you, and most importantly, what might this lead to? These reflections might reveal new study approaches, confidence to try new activities, or seeds for future paths. Could it lead to more independent learning at university? The confidence to step out of your comfort zone and try a new sport or hobby? Using your voice for positive change? Unless you try, you’ll never know what connections could be there.

It is easy, as we race from one thing to another,  not to create the space to recognise how far we’ve come, both as individuals and as a community. But our students have shown incredible resilience, creativity, and growth this year. To our staff and parents, thank you for always putting students first and creating such a supportive environment.

As Maya Angelou reminds us: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Our students have come so far and are now ready to soar.