Farewell to the Class of 2026

It’s been a bit hot this week – but we have coped and carried on, and I thank everyone for their efforts in trying circumstances.

Before the main blog, a reminder that SPARK day is coming and students will need to buy tokens to join in the activities. Please buy them online via the MCAS shop/Store, all the details are here: Spark-day-2026-letter.pdf

This week we said a fond farewell to the Class of 2026. A lot has happened since the year group filed into Bradshaw Hall in September 2021, and this week they spent their last day at school in the very same place. Their uniform this Tuesday left a lot to be desired, but the celebratory atmosphere was fantastic and it was a privilege to be a part of their send off. For the uninitiated amongst you out there, what happens then is a foam fight on the school fields – one of those old school traditions that no-one can quite remember the origin of. I’ll be honest, when I first saw it way back in 2010, my immediate thought was that I’ll ban that if I’m ever in charge. But, I am glad that I didn’t. It’s a chance for the students to be kids again, laugh with their mates and the staff, and most importantly it makes them all leave site pronto to go and get a shower. Win Win.

Of course this week is also the school Prom – taking place tonight as I write this – and it will be lovely to spend this evening together with the class of 2026 and so many members of staff. The students I am sure will look fantastic and have a thoroughly good time, a fitting way to mark the end of their time in secondary school. The class of 2026 will leave a positive legacy behind them, with a reputation for being hard working, determined and characterful. They set about the summer exams with real zeal and determination and deserve to be successful. We will see the students one more time for results day, and I wish them all the very best.

School life never stops though, and after the staff INSET day tomorrow (reminder – no students in school Friday 26th) the rest of the school will be ‘moving up’ to their new break and lunchtime areas ready for September – as sure a sign as any we’re getting near to the end of term. Lots of work to do before then though!

Have a great weekend when it comes,

Joe Barker

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