We finished the 2019 Summer Term listening to the inspiring words of Sir Anthony Seldon at our Annual Prize Giving. He spoke passionately about living life with empathy and understanding, in aspiring to true happiness, rather than fleeting pleasure. He explained how education must develop critical skills and emotional intelligence rather than focusing solely on traditional measures of intelligence. It was a welcome reminder of the core values that are at the heart of a BGS education.
The last year once again borne witness to incredible achievements as our students built critical attributes and embraced an extraordinary range of opportunities. On the stage, our performers were challenged by roles in diverse productions such as Laura Wade’s contemporary interpretation of Alice in Wonderland, The Wind in the Willows and the creative dance performance of Impressions. Our musicians have performed at multiple festivals; and on the sports field we have once again excelled across the field ranking second for UK Independent girls’ schools.
Every age group has embarked on student led community and service work, collaborating with local and global organisations to help create positive change in the world around them. During the year, they ran campaigns to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing, ocean pollution and isolation in the elderly; fundraising to support global and local charities including Educate Girls, India, CAHMS (The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) in Bedford and The British Heart Foundation.
Our focus on independent thinking, self- regulation and intellectual curiosity once again resulted in outstanding examinations results with 70% 9-7 (A*-A) grades at GCSE and 45 A*-A at A Level/IB Diploma combined. Over 90% of our Upper Sixth leavers gained places at their first or second choice university to study a hugely diverse range of subjects, whilst other students have entered the working world or pursued apprenticeship programmes in the motor sports industry and fashion; demonstrating a depth of intellect and self-confidence as they follow passions and explore areas of true interest.
As we reflect on the year, we hope that we have remained true to our values and provided our girls with the mind-set and skills to live their lives in pursuit of meaningful happiness.