At the end of a long and very busy year it seems right to reflect upon what is it that makes Wallingford School so special.

What is special is that as a school we have an identity. We are the only school in the town, high-achieving, definitively comprehensive, catering for everyone. The ethos of Able and Qualified runs through everything we do. This is not something soft or wishy-washy – it has a hard, non-negotiable edge and is about the very best results and outcomes for everyone. These results come from great teaching and learning and a commitment to the professional development of our staff; they are also about first class support from our associate staff who play a key role whatever they do in the school in supporting our young people to reach their potential.

What is special beyond the classroom is the experience of school life at this school – the very essence of becoming Able. I could not even begin to list the number of activities, trips and visits which we have offered over this year but it is perhaps worth highlighting the continued development of the House system as significant – with competitions in everything from football and netball through quizzes such as Pointless and the Weakest Link to Bake-Offs and Pancake Races, the introduction of the already legendary House Remote Control Car Racing Competition and so much more. Part of moving back to a single lunchtime as a school was creating the space for the House system to thrive and it certainly has done so. The key is that there is something in the House system for everyone and across the year this has undoubtedly been the case.

What is also special about Wallingford School is our staff. Teachers and associate staff who go “the extra mile” every day; who want to be the very best that they can be so that our students can flourish; who give up their own time in the evenings and at weekends to provide an extra-curricular offer which is second to none.

What is special about Wallingford School is our students. We have great young people who work hard and are determined to do well; they have high aspirations and are ambitious for their futures. They also want to be part of something, to participate, to give it a go, to have and be part of great experiences and to thrive on them. Not a day goes by when I am not impressed by their enthusiasm, their energy and their conduct. They are a pleasure to work with and to be around.

It’s been a great year and now it is time for a well-deserved break; we will return in September refreshed and ready for another year as part of a very special school.