Headteacher's blog Issue 13

A Remarkable Year at Burford

In this newsletter, you will see, yet again, the fantastic exploits of our students. I am incredibly proud of all that our young people have achieved. If you look back through the Burfordians this year, you will see some quite incredible events, successes, and celebrations. There are literally hundreds of things to report on. We take the opportunity to shine a light on these achievements at Charter Day in November, where we put together a ten-minute video for students to share in the exploits of their peers.

In this Burfordian, however, I want to take the time to highlight the work of the unsung heroes. In particular, we need to recognise two individuals for their service to the school. Not only have Mrs Julie Morse and Mrs Sally Wallace each been members of staff here for over 30 years, but they also walked these corridors as students from... well... a few years ago. Between them, they have clocked up over 70 years in these hallowed halls.

Those who know them best professionally have offered words of appreciation elsewhere in this edition. I would simply like to acknowledge their dedication. It is this sort of service that makes our community great. Burford really is a special place, and it is people like Sally and Julie who remind us why. They show it in who they are, what they do, and how they interact with everyone around them.

I do not want to diminish the work of our teachers in any way. However, we also need to recognise that, without the team so often working behind the scenes, we simply would not be able to do what we do. The people who check the post, organise the calendars, input the data, paint the doors, chase up students, cover the reception desk, sweep the stairs, process admissions, sit with upset students, patch up cuts and bruises, stay late to switch off the lights, mend the computers, wash the tea towels, prepare the machines, mix the paint, collect mobile phones, guide students with their reading, support writing, help with examinations, and lead the cheers for the underdog...

So, thank you to everyone, but particularly to those like Sally and Julie, who allow the rest of us to stand centre stage and do what we do. Schools are never built on the efforts of one group alone. They are communities, and communities only flourish because people quietly and consistently give their time, energy, and care to others. We are very fortunate that Burford has so many people who do exactly that.

After another remarkable year, I hope everyone finds time this summer to rest well, laugh often, spend time with those they care about, and return in September ready for another chapter.