We welcomed Governors, Guests, Families, Friends, Staff and Pupils of Chorister School to Chapel for an afternoon of gratitude and celebration.
Mrs Harrod’s speech began with a reflection on academic and creative life. Throughout the year, students have excelled in events such as the Dean’s Public Speaking Competition, stolen the show with passionate performances in Jack and the Beanstalk and The Jungle Book, and achieved silver and bronze in the National First Maths Challenge. From art exhibitions to our epic Science Fair, students have proven that their creativity and curiosity know no bounds.
This year has also seen us flourish in sports. From a sea of sporting successes, Mrs Harrod noted that our U11 cricketers were crowned County Cup Winners, our U11 doubles were runners-up in the NEJS Tennis, and a commendable selection of places were earned at the NEJS Athletics Meet. We also competed in the HMC Gymnastics and our first Foundation Cross-Country event.
Amongst all that we do, music remains at our core. We were astounded by the talent and dedication that we witnessed this year. From success in the Ryton Music Festival and Michael James Finals to the Choristers’ unforgettable Royal Maundy Thursday Service performance in the presence of King Charles and Queen Camilla, all students should be proud of their musical performances this year.
Mrs Harrod then shared our appreciation for each and every person who contributed to this school year. To all our teaching staff, support staff, house staff, tutors, estates staff and everyone in between – thank you for all your hard work and dedication. To our wonderful students, thank you for embodying our MARK Values and aiming to be your best selves. To our School Council and Wellbeing Ambassadors, who have championed pupil voice – thank you for adding joy to the school year with events such as Kindness Week. To all the families we welcome each day, thank you for your ongoing trust and support. And to The Friends of DCSF, we are incredibly grateful for the time and effort you give the Foundation in addition to your own busy lives.
As with all new beginnings, it was time to say goodbye to some wonderful people and places. Mrs Harrod wished the best to Mrs Black, Nicola Okoye, Carolin Chandy, George Nicholson, Shabba McDermott, Mrs April Davies, Mr Gary Brown, Mrs Addison, Mr Chandler and Mrs Faulkner-Walford, who have been integral parts of our community. Best wishes were also sent to Mrs Shaw as she starts her maternity leave.
A bittersweet farewell was given to our Year 6 students, who have been a delight to teach and learn from. Their demonstration of Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness has been an inspiration. Mrs Harrod shared our pride in the students and our assuredness that they will excel in their next steps.
Mrs Harrod then addressed all students, noting how amazing they are and how much we appreciate their uniqueness and individuality, which shines through in all that they do. We look forward to our future adventures with them.
Mrs Harrod’s final farewell was dedicated to Bow, expressing the immense gratitude our community has for the role it has played in the lives of so many. She encouraged all to carry the legacy of Bow forward – be valiant and strong. As a reminder of Bow, Mrs Walker kindly donated a packet of sunflower seeds to each student.
Alongside musical performances by students and many awards handed out, we were also joined by Zoe Rutter (OD, 2010) for an inspiring and heartfelt address to Chorister School. Thank you to Zoe for your time and the lovely speech you shared with us.
Finally, all descended the Chapel steps to Big School, where they enjoyed refreshments and caught up with their friends and families to reflect on a lovely afternoon.
We thank Mrs Harrod for her wonderful speech, all the staff who organised the day, and all who were able to join us. We hope you enjoy a restful summer break.