A Reflective Dozen: My First Year as Headmistress

As my first academic year as Headmistress draws to a close, I've been reflecting on what makes Farnborough Hill so unique. I sensed Farnborough Hill was special, but this year has confirmed it in countless ways. Stepping into a legacy that began long before me and will continue long after, I've come to understand the very heart of this school. As a year of learning, laughter, and growth has come to a close, here are 12 lessons that have truly stuck with me and made my first year here so remarkable. 

Community Matters  

From my very first day, I've felt the warmth and inclusive spirit that defines Farnborough Hill. Everyone feels valued, seen and heard and this brilliant family of people brings together a dazzling array of skills, talents and unique personalities! From our gifted artists to our passionate athletes, it’s this diversity that truly makes us a Catholic school for all. 

Charity Matters 

The heart in our logo is a reflection of who we are. I’ve seen this in our many public charitable efforts, such as Comic Relief, but I've also been inspired by the small, often quieter acts of kindness and generosity that occur every single day. When I see these examples of giving, I know that it’s not simply an exercise for our girls; it's the very foundation of their character, shaping them to lead with both their heads and their hearts. 

Every Voice Matters 

Our girls have a voice, and they use it well. The Junior Leadership Team (JLT) and the School Council are inspirational, and their work demonstrates that we can build a better world from right here, with each person's unique perspective. By giving our girls the space to lead and contribute, we're empowering them to become confident, articulate leaders. 

Living our Values 

We don’t just talk about our values; we live by them. We know when we’re doing things well and when we've let ourselves down. There is a strong culture of honesty and accountability to each other and it is a continuous process that ensures our actions are aligned with our intentions. This is how we create a community of integrity. 

A Passion for Learning 

This is a place where we love to learn and we get excited about learning in the way that works best for us. That goes for staff and pupils alike! I love it when someone bowls into my office with a new idea, a new project or a new insight. It’s a wonderful reminder that we are all in this learning journey together! 

Generous Support 

Support is there when you need it. People here are super approachable and give their time generously. From the provision of subject clinics to sewing endless pinafores for Year 3 History Mornings or making the place look beautiful for Leavers’ Day, the willingness to help is everywhere you look. 

Going One Step Beyond  

The ethos of “One Step Beyond”, our weekly award, lives and breathes across the School in every department, every day. I see it in classrooms and on the playing fields, and I’ve observed it in quiet moments in the corridors too. This drive to go beyond simply meeting expectations is a part of our DNA. 

An Array of Extended Learning  

The extended learning projects and activities on offer here are simply amazing. The breadth of interests our pupils explore is extraordinary. With a focus on critical thinking coming on stream soon, our pupils will be even better equipped to tackle the challenges of the future. 

Life Beyond the Classroom  

Learning isn't limited to within classroom walls. Some of my favourite moments this year have been visiting our Co-Curricular clubs and seeing imaginations sparked by the experiences on offer. It’s during these moments of learning by doing that I see the most profound and lasting learning take place: the true nature of a wonderful education, where curiosity is able to lead.  

Our Passion for Sport  

Farnborough Hill is a fantastically sporty school. Every week is filled with fixtures and the provision for physical education is outstanding. As well as doing a brilliant job on the pitch, and on the court, our girls are also award-winning fundraisers, demonstrating that our competitive spirit is matched by a generous heart. Our commitment to teamwork and resilience extends well beyond the playing fields, shaping our pupils into well-rounded individuals. 

The Power of Our Alumnae  

Our alumnae’s stories remind me of why we do what we do and how we are preparing confident, driven and compassionate young women. This year I’ve had the privilege to meet hundreds of alumnae. It is always so uplifting to hear about their accomplishments and how they’re making their mark on the world. Our alumnae are increasingly getting involved with school life and their experiences, their talents and their advocacy are making a tangible and lasting impact on our school and our current pupils. We have exciting plans to engage them even further, and I am thrilled about the possibilities.  

Knowing How to Have Fun  

Finally, I’ve learned that Farnborough Hill is a lot of fun! This is a school where we really know how to celebrate and put on a party. From Inter-House Sports Afternoon to the Christmas Bazaar, these moments of joy and celebration are just as important as the hard work we put in every day.  

Looking back at these things, it’s clear that this first year has been a wonderful, rewarding experience. I feel very proud to be part of a community that is so vibrant, caring and dynamic and look forward to whatever this next year may bring.