The Headteacher's Blog - The Burfordian, Issue 5 2023-2024

This is the Headteacher's Blog which was first featured in issue 5 of The Burfordian, published on Thursday 23 November 2023.

Last Friday was Charter Day. It is the day we celebrate the founding of the school over 450 years ago. On Charter Day we remember those who made education in the town of Burford possible. It is also the day we recognise achievement in the upper school with prizegiving for students who were in years 10-13 last academic year. This year we welcomed Professor Sir Martin Landray to speak at the event to the students and offer words of wisdom for the future. Sir Martin had previously been a parent and governor at the school. 

We have Respect - Participate - Reach, Sir Martin outlined his trio of guiding words as Passion – Curiosity – Kindness. Having explained them in the students’ context, Sir Martin then explained how they informed his work over his life including his work with cardiovascular and kidney disease. He dwelt, however, on his work in helping lead the research into the treatment of patients with COVID-19. 

I cannot do justice to what he said and urge you to have a look for yourself at his work here.  

I can convey, though, the impact his words had on me and many of the audience gathered. The key moment came when, with complete modesty, Sir Martin explained that the work, undertook by the team he co-led, had saved an estimated one million lives. I stress his message was not about the glory (as I say Sir Martin spoke with sincerity and humility), Sir Martin wanted to pass on that it was through a passion for medicine, a curiosity to explore all angles and with the kindness to listen and collaborate, all team members worked to solve a problem. He also spoke about the importance of thanking everyone involved, including the patients in the research. To me, it was an inspirational and timely message and really quite moving. 

I want to thank all the staff, parents, carers, and students for their support throughout the day and into the evening. It was a privilege to be part of the proceedings. 

A version of my address can be found here.