On 18 June, we welcomed Year 13s back to school for an evening of celebration and friendship at a Leavers’ Ceremony. Also attending were the entire Senior School teaching staff and Leadership Team, plus parents and other family members, all keen to wish Year 13 all the very best for their undoubtedly bright futures.

Leading the proceedings was Miss Bushell, Head of Sixth Form, who introduced Chair of Governors Sue Blythe, who added her words of encouragement and congratulations to the girls. Headmaster Mr Shoults then shared anecdotes about the leaving class as well as offering words of advice and wisdom such as these from the first female US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright: “You have to learn to interrupt. The bottom line is active listening. If you are going to interrupt, you look for opportunities.”

After all girls received their Leaver’s Certificates and prizes were awarded to worth recipients, the evening drew to a close with an inspiring speech given by Guest of Honour, Ann Francke, the CEO of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Ann, whose daughter is a GDST girl, shared stories of her many successes and failures and spoke to the shocking statistics on gender inequality still occurring in business today. Ann talked about how important it is to translate the GDST ‘Girls First’ mind set into the world of business, saying ‘You’ll never get it if you don’t try’ and that girls must ‘Be bold and speak up’ and never lose the will to be fearless. She also spoke the strong GDST alumnae network and encouraged the girls to ‘embrace the opportunities and learn along the way’.

Head Girl Frankie Wilson rounded up the evening’s speakers by thanking her fellow classmates, NHEHS teachers and support staff, and of course, Year 13 parents and family members for their support.

The evening ended in the Dining Room, with drinks and delicious canapés provided by the catering team, as girls personally thanked their teachers and collected signatures in their Year Books. We will miss you, Year 13 and hope to share in your success on A Level Results Day.