On Wednesday, we were delighted to welcome back members of our Upper Sixth for their annual Leavers’ Service. The service is a rite of passage, marking the transition of the Upper Sixth from students to Old Suttonians.  Given the current circumstances, the event was changed from its normal format in the School Chapel to the Sports Centre, to allow us to maximise the numbers attending. The change in venue did not lessen the poignancy though, as students and their parents gathered together to celebrate their time at the School.

During the service, the Chaplain, Mr Davies, encouraged the students to build on all that they have learned and achieved at Sutton Valence, to continue their development as they flourish as young adults.  Highlighting the importance of humility, respect and kindness, he wished them the best of luck for their lives beyond the School. This sentiment was echoed by the Headmaster, who explained that whilst their full-time journeys at the School may be coming to an end, their life journeys through their connections as Old Suttonians were only just beginning. This seemed especially pertinent given the disruption the Upper Sixth has endured over the last 18 months.

As part of the Service, the Headmaster individually bestowed each leaver with their Old Suttonian tie and lapel pin. After a further address by the Head of Sixth Form, Mr Ellmers, the leavers were then provided with certificates of achievement, yearbooks and leavers’ hoodies by their respective Housemaster and Housemistress.

As a fellow leaver himself, the Headmaster had the final word in thanking those who attended for their support and patience over the last year and a half. The pandemic has provided a period that none of us will forget and, whilst we continue to be limited by the restrictions in place, we hope Wednesday night’s Service provided a suitable opportunity for those present to bid farewell to the School. We wish them well and look forward to welcoming them back as Old Suttonians.