End of Year Message 2023/24 from the Head

The end of the school year has arrived and although the weather is not yet playing its part, there is a definite feeling of accomplishment and celebration in the corridors of Croydon High.

As I drove to school this morning, I took the opportunity to think back and reflect on the year; so many highlights, a few challenges but overall a year that has been marked mainly by both the speed of its passing and by some wonderful individual and collective achievements.

It’s a cliché, but as the highlights really are too many to mention, I will just focus on the last week. Our Year 6 production was a triumph! The girls shone of course; so much talent and joy on stage and backstage the hard work and inspiration provided by their teachers was evident throughout, as was the real sense of camaraderie and togetherness in the year group. We wish every single girl in Year 6 the best, as they continue with their educational journeys and, on behalf of Miss Pendleton and her team, thank them for all they have brought to the life of the Junior School.

On Tuesday, there was a chance to enjoy some wonderful music in the Senior School, as Mr Suranyi and the team hosted their Summer Soiree. Another opportunity to recognise both the talent and the dedication of our pupils and their teachers as they marked the end of our year on a truly harmonious note. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening.

And of course, Sports Day on Wednesday. I have come to realise that Croydon High’s Sports Day truly exemplifies the very best of our school and indeed, it is an event that perfectly showcases our school values. Aspiration is there in abundance – each member of each House believes everything is possible on that day! The girls are certainly empowered, equipped with the skills to compete but also crucially, the confidence to do so. We were all so proud, with every success on the track or on the field, over an incredible 145 races, celebrated enthusiastically in the understanding that we all have a part to play in supporting one another. But ultimately, it was the kindness that I witnessed all around that made me most proud on that day. The girls champion one another wholeheartedly, with the cheers for those who did their best just as enthusiastic as the applause for the many, many sporting stars who wowed us with their athletic talents. Orchestrated superbly by Mrs Beck and the PE Department, we went away bathed in a glow of community spirit that even the drizzle couldn’t dampen. Mrs Beck has promised me 150 races next year – I fear I may need to dig out my running shoes!

Sports Day also gave me a very welcome opportunity to catch up with many parents who had come to cheer on our athletes. Thank you so much for all the kind words and appreciation for the school, and for our fabulous staff – it was wonderful to hear. I also particularly appreciated the interest and support for my recent trip to Baltimore, for the International Coalition of Girls Schools Conference, where I was privileged to be one of the keynote speakers. It really was inspiring to meet so many people there all driven to expand opportunities and education for young women around the world and to share a global perspective on the opportunities and challenges ahead. I hope – and believe- connections made will lead to some exciting initiatives that can only benefit the staff and pupils of Croydon High.

As we look forward to the summer break, I want to specifically highlight those pupils who sat GCSE and A Level examinations this year. You have made yourselves, your families and your school very proud in the way you have approached your studies, and we look forward to seeing you in August and celebrating your transition to the next exciting phase of your journey. But before then, enjoy your well-earned rest and make lots of happy memories!

In September 2024 we will begin the celebrations to mark the 150th Anniversary of Croydon High School. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to reflect upon who we are as a school, to think about where we have come from and also, about where we want to go. The school that was founded by Dorinda Neligan in 1874 had the following aims – to provide Education in the fullest sense, Instilling a strong moral compass, Aspiration and Equality of opportunity. I am very proud to say that I believe the school I am privileged to lead today, still holds these aims close to our heart, for every girl, every day.

I wish you all a happy and healthy summer holiday and on behalf of all of the staff here at Croydon High, thank you for all of your kindness and support over the last year.

We look forward to seeing you in September.

Ms Annabel Davies
Head of Croydon High