This week brings a slightly calmer rhythm to school life, even as several important strands of the summer term continue to unfold. Our sporting calendar remains in full swing, with cricket and athletics fixtures taking place throughout the week. Meanwhile, GCSE and A‑level examinations move into their fourth week, and I want to commend our students for the maturity, resilience and quiet determination they continue to show.
The highlight of
the week is undoubtedly the annual MGS Art Exhibition, which opens on
Wednesday in the Big Hall. Artwork from Years 11, 12 and 13 will be on display,
showcasing the creativity, technical skill and imagination of our students.
This exhibition is always a personal favourite of mine. Over the years, I’ve
occasionally found myself so captivated by a piece that I’ve asked whether it
might be available to purchase. As a result, two pieces of student artwork now
hang proudly in my office, and three more have found a home on my walls at
home. Like many people, I can’t always articulate why a particular piece
speaks to me — but when it does, I know instantly.
Beyond MGS, I
will be attending the annual Grammar School Heads’ Association Conference
in London later this week. The conference provides an invaluable opportunity to
hear from leading voices in education and to connect with fellow grammar school
heads from across the country. On more than one occasion, I have returned from
this event with ideas that have shaped my own practice or influenced positive
changes within the school. I look forward to seeing what insights this year’s
conference will bring.