As the Assistant Head (Sixth Form), Ms Gilmour, reflected, in a world where women still hold only around a third of senior leadership roles, and where female representation at CEO level in the FTSE 100 remains strikingly low at only 8-9%, the importance of nurturing confident, capable female leaders has never been clearer. At Croydon High, this is not simply an aspiration, but a daily reality.
Within our girls-only environment, leadership is developed through collaboration, empathy, resilience and a strong sense of purpose. These qualities are not taught in isolation; they are lived and modelled by our pupils. Nowhere is this more evident than in our Senior Prefect team.
A Year of Purposeful Leadership
It is with great pride that we recognise the contribution of our outgoing Year 13 Senior Prefects. Led by Head Girls Suzie and Lily-Belle, and supported by Deputy Head Girls Vania and Darcie, alongside an exceptional team of House Captains and prefects, they have played a central role in shaping the life of the school this year.
Much of their work has taken place behind the scenes, in meetings, in conversations, in the thoughtful championing of student voice, yet their impact has been deeply felt across the community.
From whole-school events to daily interactions, they have led with integrity, warmth and a genuine commitment to ensuring that every pupil feels seen and valued.
Highlights from the Year
In their own words, the outgoing team reflected on a year defined not only by achievement, but by connection and shared experience.
The House Captains spoke movingly about the power of teamwork:
“True leadership is rooted in teamwork, communication and mutual support.”
This spirit was evident throughout the year, from the energy and creativity of the Talent Show, described as “one of my favourite memories” – to the enthusiasm and camaraderie of Sports Day, where participation and encouragement mattered as much as results.
Their reflections also highlighted the importance of purpose. Through fundraising and charitable initiatives, the team brought the school community together around causes beyond the school gates:
“It’s not just about what we achieve within our houses, but the impact we’ve been able to have beyond them.”
Individual Growth and Lasting Impact
For many of the prefects, the journey has been one of significant personal growth.
Deputy Head Girl Vania spoke with honesty and pride about her leadership journey, particularly her work as EDI Prefect:
“I pride myself on continuing and building onto the school’s lasting culture of inclusion.”
Her leadership of initiatives such as Culture Day and the Black History Exhibition has left a lasting legacy, strengthening the school’s commitment to inclusion and representation.
Darcie reflected on her own transformation since joining the school in Year 7:
“Never in a million years did I think I would become Deputy Head Girl… I am so glad I tried.”
Her leadership of the Fashion Show, in support of charity, was a defining experience, one that required resilience, teamwork and determination, and demonstrated the value of stepping beyond one’s comfort zone.
As Head Girl, Lily-Belle spoke about the importance of balance and self-awareness in leadership:
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
She also reflected on the strength of the prefect team, highlighting the importance of supporting one another through both the challenges and the successes of the year.
Suzie, Head Girl, brought warmth and humour to her reflections, while capturing the deeper significance of the role:
“Being Head Girl has been one of the most challenging but rewarding things I’ve ever done.”
She spoke of the privilege of connecting with pupils across the school and the sense of purpose that comes with contributing to the wider community.
A Lasting Legacy
What stands out most about this year’s Senior Prefect team is not any single event or achievement, but the way in which they have led, with authenticity, generosity and a clear commitment to others.
They have strengthened the sense of community within the school, created opportunities for others to flourish, and embodied the values at the heart of Croydon High.
Looking Ahead
The assembly also marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter, as the incoming Year 12 prefect team takes up their roles.
Following a rigorous selection process, which highlighted the depth of talent and leadership within the Sixth Form, we look forward with great anticipation to the energy, ideas and commitment that this new team will bring.
As one group steps forward and another prepares to move on, there is a strong sense of continuity, of leadership passed on, and a legacy that will continue to grow.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our outgoing Senior Prefects for all they have given to the school. They leave with our very best wishes and with the knowledge that they will always be part of the Croydon High community.
View this post on Instagram
