The final days of term brought a wonderful mix of laughter, service, celebration, and reflection for Pimlico House. On Thursday morning, the girls’ charitable community work took them to Crimdon Dene beach for a litter pick, which was carried out with energy and humour before everyone headed back to school for the afternoon. One group made care packages from donations provided by the girls themselves, which were then taken to a homeless centre in Framwellgate, whilst others helped within our own community, whether that be archiving, chapel upkeep or estates work.
Thursday evening was our ‘garden party’ themed House BBQ. While presenting awards, I found myself reflecting on the many moments this year that have made me deeply proud: individual triumphs, collective achievements, and—most importantly—the resilience, kindness, curiosity, and willingness to learn that the girls have shown time and again. Correspondingly at this point we were very much anticipating Friday morning Sports Day and the Pimlico belief of giving one’s best on the field or the track!
Our sincere thanks go to the fantastic Year 12s and other girls, including boarders, who were involved in helping to organise and set up the BBQ. A great many colourful handmade decorations transformed our gardens and entertainment included a live band, bouncy castle, DJ, Just Dance and a photo booth to make some lasting memories. Pimlico joined up with the other girls’ houses for this part of the evening which was a fun packed, busy and thoroughly enjoyable event to end the year.
We also shared a heartfelt farewell to our Resident Tutor Miss Pollard, who leaves Pimlico after two exceptional years. Her dedication to the House and boarders has been invaluable, and we wish her every success for the future. My gratitude extends equally to the entire Pimlico staff team, whose hard work ensures the House runs with warmth and structure. Thank you to our outgoing monitor team, and congratulations to those stepping into new roles next year.
We have also said goodbyes to Rosalind M, Sofia T, Ella W, Caterina A, Alice D, Izabella Z and Charlotte B in Years 8–11. We wish each of them the very best as they begin new chapters, carrying with them happy memories of their time here.
A special mention must go to Georgia M, whose creativity, enthusiasm and spirit have shaped Pimlico House throughout her time as Head of House. Her leadership and warmth will be remembered fondly.
And of course, our deepest congratulations and warmest farewells go to all the Upper Sixth girls as they prepare to step forward into new opportunities. My hope is that the confidence they have built during their years in Pimlico will continue to guide them, helping them become exactly who they are meant to be.
As they go, I encourage them to be courageous, to stay true to themselves, and to hold fast to the values that define Pimlico House.
Destitutus ventis, remos adhibe — When the winds fail, take to the oars.