Known affectionately as our ‘Crystal Ivies,’ these four young women have spent their entire educational journey within the walls of Croydon High School, having joined us in Nursery and Reception at the ages of just three and four. Their celebratory lunch marked the culmination of a fifteen-year story—one that has seen them grow from wide-eyed toddlers into the ambitious, confident students they are today.
The girls were joined by their families, current Sixth Form staff, and a very special group of guests: the Junior School teachers and former Nursery and Reception staff who taught them over a decade ago. This included former teachers Mr and Mrs Garrard and Mrs Pickett who were especially delighted to attend this reunion. One highlight was undoubtedly the girls sharing adorable photos of their first days at school. Seeing those tiny uniforms alongside the young women now preparing for their A-level exams and university placements was a powerful reminder of how central Croydon High has been in their and their families’ lives.
Following a delicious buffet lunch, the celebration moved to where it all began: the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). In a touching full circle moment, our current Nursery and Reception girls performed a series of springtime songs for their Year 13 counterparts and enjoyed the opportunity of chatting and sharing experiences. The afternoon concluded with an exploration of the girls’ old classrooms. While much has changed over the years, the sense of home remained, and there were plenty of “do you remember?” moments as the girls reminisced about their favourite corners of the Junior School.
As these four prepare to sit their A Levels and head off to university this autumn, they aren’t just leaving school; they are transitioning into a new role within our community. We are incredibly proud to welcome them, along with the rest of Year 13, into the Ivy Link alumnae network, where we will continue to support them on the next chapter of their journey. They may be moving on, but their roots will always be here at Croydon High.
Mrs Laura Bastyan
Alumnae Relations Manager
