Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is the last Head of Stanmore for 2019.  It has been another great year at the College and, as the 157th Annual Prize Giving demonstrated, a successful year for the 200 boys who crossed the stage to receive prizes on Monday morning.  On top of that, we were privileged to listen to the most superb musical performances by the Trumpet Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra and the College Choir.  Callum Stewart and Jonathan Lee, who both leave the College this year, played the organ to perfection.  In total we had 136 boys performing.

We also farewell staff at this time of the year.  Simon Johnson leaves us after two years to take up the role of Head of Department (Social Sciences) at SCECGS Redlands, and Tom Ruddock leaves us after five years to take up the role of Boarding Housemaster at The King’s School.  Chris Paton, who directed ‘An Irish Blessing’ at Prize Giving, will leave us after 12 years to take up the position of Assistant Head of Music at The Scots College.  We wish them well as they embark on the next stage of their careers and thank them for their wonderful service.

As our boys and teaching staff holiday, our Property and Maintenance team and Grounds staff swing into overdrive.  There are many projects scheduled over the break that will be of great benefit to all boys in 2020 and beyond.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Newington community a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful start to the new year.  Enjoy the holiday period and I look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday 28 January 2020.