A Note from the Head Dear Old Witleian, I hope that this finds you and your loved ones safe and well. I am pleased to reach out to you wherever you are and invite you to share in this past year’s journey as you read our latest edition of Kestrel in its new layout. What a year it has been! The pupils and staff have achieved much. Captured in the brilliant photos, you will see glimpses of our journey through the first two terms; highlights ranging from the services at St Bride’s and Admissions Day to the exuberant informality of House competitions. Beyond the planned events, the School community has achieved so much more – our response to being flung apart was to adopt new approaches to teaching and learning. The continuity of care and creativity have been amazing – and there have been many, many achievements that were not captured in a photo or official record. Schools are all about stories, the narrative that unfolds in and around us as we weave in and out of each others’ lives. As with all stories there are beginnings, middles and ends and so as we welcome David Corran, our new Deputy Head, we learn with sadness of Bertie Mawer’s death. We mark this end with gratitude for all that he has done and with certainty that the end of his life here is not the end of his story. The outpouring of messages and fond memories pay tribute to this outstanding schoolmaster whose faith, service and dedication inspired so many and will continue to do so. These last few months have been unprecedented but the School’s response of resilience and flexibility loop back directly to previous generations of Witleians who have responded to different and equally challenging situations in such a way that we have been enabled to be here now, appreciating the beautiful campus, deep friendships and spirit of enquiry and learning together. At this time of great change and global challenge,I believe that school must continue to be a place of calm certainty so that we can continue to build on the historical legacy for our pupils who came before us, who are with us now and for those yet to come. At Guildhall, we applauded the wonderful speech and readings by the Head Boy and Head Girl – a moment where we could celebrate and connect current pupils, Old Wits, the City of London, staff and Governors. I hope that this magazine will help create the same sense of wonder and closeness to all that is good in the School today. To summarise our experience in these last few months, it seems appropriate to signpost to the wonderful achievement of our pupils as they assembled concerts entitled 'Together at Home'. See it here: kesw.shortcm.li/ShowMustGoOn On behalf of the School, I send you warmest greetings.
Mrs Joanna Wright BA 3
