My year as Head Girl has been exciting, busy, and jam-packed. It has been a real privilege to represent St Francis and be able to get to know the students as well as meeting and spending time with parents, SLT, Heads of other ILG schools and the Governors.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Head Girl; I have learned the importance of confidence, friendliness and leadership. The role has taught me to how to develop as a person, exploring new ideas, managing feedback and learning when you have to stand up for what you believe is right.
As Head Girl, my focus has been on the welfare and success of the students. My aim was to encourage students to recognise all their achievements, whether big or small, academic or not. Recognising the successes of others, as well as yourself, is such an important skill to have and I hope that I have been able to encourage a celebration of achievements.
When I introduced myself a year ago, I said that I had a passion for dance as a hobby that I have pursued for many years outside of school. I can proudly say that I still love dance and the school has recognised the importance of it, introducing it into the curriculum from next academic year, as well as many other new subjects across GCSE and A Level, including Film Film Studies, Law, Sociology and Business Studies. I am over the moon that Dance has been recognised as a subject that many of our students adore and this passion can be nurtured within the school environment, giving them the ability to achieve a qualification in it.
There have been many exciting highlights during my time as Head Girl, and there are always lots of events to look forward to in the College. So, before I leave you, here are a few events that have happened in the recent weeks.
- There have been a variety of different concerts which have showcased the excellent musical talent in the School.
- Our Senior School production of Shrek was a huge success, and many of our students worked hard preparing for an incredible production.
- School Council have met discussing a variety of topics ranging from sustainability, DREAMS implementation, how to enhance learning provisions and how the School can engage in more charity work.
- Finally, this half term has seen the launch of the new Curriculum 24 and feedback sessions as St. Francis’ looks to adapt to ensure students are future-ready for a changing world.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the Deputies, Saya, Jaskeerat and Jyothi, for all their hard work, support and making this experience one to be remembered. This year would not have been the same without you. Additionally, all of our year group have taken pride in their leadership positions, working hard to make the year the best it can be. Our House Captains have worked hard to deliver exciting House meetings and events; our secretary Tara has worked diligently to organise meetings to ensure that the pupil voice is heard and valued. The whole of Year 13 have given up time and effort to really support the School Council system and make the student experience the best it can be.
I would also like to thank the Senior Leadership Team for their continued support throughout the year, listening and receiving my ideas, feelings and concerns.
It is my greatest pleasure to handover to the next Head Girl of St. Francis’ College, Janel. I am sure she will do amazingly and I wish her all the best. Head Girl is not a role for one type of person – that’s the beauty of it. You get to make it your own, leave your mark and show your passion for the School.
It has been a real honour to represent St. Francis’ College, and I thank you all for the opportunity.
Ella