As the academic year draws to a close, Chorister School has been filled with pride, reflection, and a true sense of community. This year’s celebrations have marked more than just the end of term, they’ve honoured a significant chapter in our school’s story.
From our youngest learners in EYFS to our Year 6 leavers, the entire school community came together to celebrate an extraordinary year, rich in learning, laughter, talent, and teamwork.
For our youngest pupils, the EYFS to Year 2 End of Year Celebration was a joyful reminder of just how much they’ve achieved. Whether mastering phonics, writing poems, launching rockets, playing instruments or living out our MARK values (Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness), these early learners have blossomed into confident, curious individuals.
Our Speech Day for older pupils celebrated academic success, sporting excellence, musical triumphs and the strength of our values-led culture. Highlights included national Maths accolades, captivating drama, creative arts exhibitions, and a spirit of ambition and collaboration that defines school life.
Pupils represented the school with pride in a wide range of sports, and our House system thrived, with over 11,800 House points awarded – showing how deeply the values of character and community run through everyday school life.
Special praise was given to our inaugural Year 6 MARK Award recipients, whose independent projects ranged from charity work to wellbeing initiatives. Their creativity and compassion are a testament to the kind of young people Chorister School nurtures.
Music remains at the heart of Chorister School. From our dedicated Choristers and instrumentalists to the vibrant voices of our choirs, this year has been filled with performances that have lifted spirits and showcased remarkable talent.
A true highlight came as The Choristers performed at the Royal Maundy Thursday service in the presence of King Charles and Queen Camilla – a moment of great pride for our entire community. From the Ryton Music Festival to the Michael James Finals, our musicians have impressed with their commitment, skill, and joy in performance.
A Fond Farewell to Bow
This year, we also marked the emotional farewell to the Bow site—a place that has been part of the school’s fabric for more than 140 years. More than just a building, Bow has been a place of belonging and joyful discovery. In a moving tribute, the Head reminded us that the spirit of Bow lives on in our pupils, their stories, and the memories they carry forward.
As part of this celebration, pupils across the school received sunflower seeds, a fitting symbol of optimism and resilience. Like the sunflower, they were encouraged to stand tall, keep growing, and always turn towards the light, even on the cloudiest days.
Thank You and Farewell
As we bring this exceptional year to a close, we also take time to thank and say farewell to several much-loved members of our school community. Their contributions, whether over one year or over four decades, have shaped the lives of our children and enriched our school in countless ways.
We wish the very best to:
- Nicola Okoye, Karen Kell and Carolin Chandy, who have supported our pupils in Learning Support and now move on to new chapters.
- George Nicholson and Shabba McDermott, who have played key roles in pastoral care and enrichment and will be greatly missed as they continue their studies.
- April Davies, former Head of EYFS, and Gary Brown, who retired this Easter after an extraordinary 42 years of service.
- Kate Addison, whose love of Latin and Classical Civilisation has inspired many during her 12 years in the Foundation.
- Andy Chandler, our Deputy Head for 11 years, whose warmth and steady leadership helped guide the school through key transitions.
- Rachel Faulkner-Walford, who leaves after 17 years of heartfelt service to the boarders, Choristers and countless pupils. Her kindness and energy have left a lasting legacy.
We also send warm wishes to Mrs Shaw, as she begins her maternity leave and prepares to welcome Baby Shaw.
To each of them, we say thank you, for your dedication, your compassion, and the difference you have made. You leave behind a legacy of care, connection, and commitment that will not be forgotten.
Looking Ahead With Confidence
As we send off staff, pupils and families who are moving on, and prepare to welcome new ones, we are proud of the legacy we carry, and excited for what’s to come.
Chorister School continues to be a place where children are known, nurtured, and challenged to be the very best version of themselves. With strong foundations and an unshakeable sense of purpose, our school looks ahead to the future with confidence, heart, and hope.
To all our pupils, keep growing, keep shining, and keep facing the sun.