The Headteachers Blog - The Burfordian , Issue 1, 2025-2026

This is the Headteacher's Blog, which was first featured in Issue 1 of The Burfordian, published on Friday 19 September 2025

A Brilliant Start to the Year

What a wonderful return to school after a well-earned summer break! The buzz around Burford this week has been palpable, with classrooms full of energy, curiosity, and ambition. We are deeply grateful to our families for their support in creating such a positive start to the year, and especially for embracing our new smart device policy. Its impact cannot be overstated – students are talking with each other face to face, reconnecting, and building relationships in ways that will enrich their learning and social experience throughout the year.

This sense of community was perfectly mirrored during our Open Evening just yesterday. The event was rammed to the rafters, with our current community coming together to welcome so many potential future members. The excitement, curiosity, and engagement on show reflected the growing reputation of Burford School, and the style and standard of education we offer.

Behind the scenes, our Finance and Facilities teams have worked tirelessly throughout the holiday period to ensure the school was ready for the new academic year. Their dedication is deeply appreciated. You will have noticed scaffolding at the front of the main building – while not the most beautiful sight, it is a vital part of maintaining the school to the highest standards, and we thank you for your patience as the work was completed.

“A man’s reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?” – Robert Browning

At the open evening last night I referred to Browning’s words and hope they provide inspiration for the coming year. They remind us that true growth lies in striving for something beyond our immediate reach. For many students, the hardest challenge is not the stretch itself, but finding the confidence to begin. What can seem like a mountain is made manageable by taking the first step, or reaching out a hand to the rail.

Our teachers are there to guide each student, helping them place their hand on that rail, take the first step, and then the next. Step by step, lesson by lesson, confidence grows, challenges are overcome, and by the end of their time with us, our students leave equipped to find the steps, ladders, and pathways they want to climb in the wider world.

Celebrating Exceptional Achievement

We are immensely proud of the achievements of our students this summer. The GCSE results were of an exceptionally high standard, placing Burford School in the top 25% nationally for value added. This is a testament not only to the talent and resilience of our students but also to the dedication and expertise of our teachers.

We are also thrilled to celebrate the destinations of our Sixth Form leavers, many heading to highly competitive courses, universities and job.

Ethan (1 A*, 3 A) – Computer Science at Durham University

Tom (4 A) – Computer Science at Exeter University

Issy (2 A*, 1 A) – History at Oxford University

Karis (1 A*, 2 A) – Politics & International Relations at Bristol University

Esme (3 A, 1 B) – Politics at Warwick University

Stella (1 A*, 1 A, 1 B) – Costume for Theatre & Screen at UCL

Alastair (3 A, 1 B) – Biochemistry at Manchester University

Edouard (1 A*, 1 A, 2 B) – Biomedical Systems Engineering at Warwick

Emily (1 A*, 1 A, 2 B) – Geography at Durham (following a gap year)

Other highlights include Erica at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Jev at Guildhall Conservatoire (Music, Jazz), Ella at Goldsmiths (PPE), Carmen in Manchester (Fashion Communication), Kal-El at Kent (Masters in Forensic Science), and Alice at Bangor (Wildlife Ecology and Conservation).

These outcomes demonstrate the remarkable potential within our community and the impact of stepping beyond one’s grasp with the right support and guidance.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward into the term, we are mindful that the financial climate presents challenges for families and schools alike. We remain deeply grateful for all forms of support – whether for capital projects, enrichment activities, or other initiatives – which enable us to sustain the standards of excellence that define Burford School.

With the energy of the start of term, the achievements of our students, and the continued partnership of our families and community, we look forward to a year full of curiosity, ambition, and opportunity.