I believe that support is the epitome of success in any community. Knowing that you are not alone and that people are rooting for you is powerful. The Bradfield community genuinely cares and that pervades all aspects of our lives. It helps to build our confidence and courage, deepens our respect for others and embeds integrity in our actions.
Despite us all having our own unique school experiences, these core values are evidenced through the endless opportunities that are available to us and they are sewn through the memories that we have made. I have personally experienced the power and the care of the Bradfield community. The summer before I came to Bradfield I was given my first hearing aid. As a small 13 year old joining a huge new place with so many new people this terrified me. Was it going to be obvious? What would people think? But more importantly, what would they say? I was met with support and kindness and anyone who asked about it did so out of curiosity and care and my worries quickly faded. I no longer hate this weakness but see it as part of who I am and I am content with that.
THE INCLUSIVITY AND OPEN-MINDEDNESS OF THE COMMUNITY HAVE HELPED ME TO GAIN A PERSPECTIVE ON MY CHALLENGES AND I KNOW THIS APPLIES TO OTHERS AS WELL
Afterall, what holds a community together? The people. As I have progressed through Bradfield the power of the people has become increasingly apparent to me, strongly supported by the value placed on Pupil Voice.
WE TAKE PRIDE IN INSURING THAT WE HEAR THE VOICE OF ALL THOSE IN OUR COMMUNITY AND MY MAIN GOAL THIS YEAR WAS TO ACT AS CONDUIT FOR ALL BRADFIELD PUPILS
Being Head of School for the last year has been a real privilege and I could not have done this job alone and to that end I would like to thank the JCR team. Thank you for the hugely entertaining yet still productive meetings and your collaboration to make Bradfield even better. To the Deputy Heads of School, Enoch and Zahra, it has been a pleasure. Your good humour and enthusiasm are always so refreshing and I’ve enjoyed spending time with you this year.
And finally to James, I was so happy that it was you by my side when the Headmaster asked us if we would take on the roles of Heads of School. Your kindness, humility and integrity are a few of the many reasons why you are perfect for this role. Thank you for all of this and for your shared desire to make a difference.
Looking around Greeker at the faces of the people that have accompanied me on this journey, it is unbelievable how much as an Upper Sixth we have grown and changed. I know from my time here that our belief in ‘One Bradfield Many Bradfieldians’ could not be more true.
I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW MANY TIME I’VE BEEN INSPIRED BY THE DIVERSE TALENT OF THE COMMUNITY THAT I’VE LIVED IN
Whether that is in having an angelic voice, an incredible work ethic or just a glowing character that brings out the best in others, I feel so lucky to able to call these gifted people my friends and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them.
To quote Michelle Obama, I believe that each of us carries a bit of an inner brightness, something entirely unique and individual. A flame that’s worth protecting. When we can recognise our own light, we become empowered to use it. When we learn to foster what’s unique in the people around us, we become better able to build compassionate communities and make meaningful change.
I believe I can speak on behalf of the whole Upper Sixth when I say that we will cherish the memories that we have made here. We look forward to whatever awaits us outside the ‘Bradfield Bubble’.
THANKS TO BRADFIELD WE FEEL READY TO CREATE THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE AND TAKE ON THE WORLD, OR AT LEAST HAVE THE CONFIDENCE TO TRY
