Farewell To Lucy

FAREWELL TO JAMES

James

James on camp “Out of the heart springs life. The school’s motto resonates all the more now as I reflect on my time at King Alfred. I joined the Lower School in 2013 as an enthusiastic and excited individual taking on my first Deputy Head role. I am leaving as a confident and accomplished leader, ready to broaden my influence as a Headteacher in my new school. But even more significantly, I have a greater understanding of who I am. I have King Alfred to thank for this and when I say, ‘King Alfred’ I mean the people, the people, the people. He Tangata, He Tangata, He Tangata (Māori proverb).

My first introduction to the school was when a friend of mine asked me to drop off her CV for a teaching role (as it was a short detour from my daily commute). I remember walking through the gates to be welcomed by the lush and expansive field which takes centre stage. Looking around, I felt a strong sense that I had arrived somewhere special. That feeling stayed with me for the next few years until I stumbled upon the job post of a Deputy Head in the Lower School. I absolutely, without a doubt, had to apply. I was delighted to be invited for an interview and ecstatic to be offered the role.

There have been countless highlights over the past nine years. From the inspirational KAS Conferences and moving TEDx events, to the spectacular fireworks and fun filled KAStonbury festivals. But at the top of the list are the amazing children I have had the pleasure of working with. King Alfred provides the adults with opportunities to truly tap into what makes a positive difference in children’s lives. The reason why you entered the world of education can be fulfilled in this truly childcentred environment. Yet, it will be the positive impact the children have had on me that will stay with me. They have delighted me, surprised me, challenged me and have brought me joy. I will be eternally grateful for this.

James as BFG

Pantomime

A few other worthy highlights to mention include:

Dress up days. One year, I remember lying in a makeshift bed on the school field with Lindy and Adele dressed as the grandparents from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Christmas Pantomime. Unbeknownst to me, I was set up to be the protagonist in Karen’s craftily scripted pantomime for the children. This involved me having to perform an impromptu dance with cheerleader pom-poms, bobbing for apples and being sprayed with sticky streamers, amongst other embarrassing things, much to the amusement of the children. All the staff were in on it, including Robert, and took part in the show. This did not only happen once but twice, two years in a row. Obviously, setting me up was a display of affection.

Friendships. I have been blessed with working with some of the most wonderful people over the years. They have taught me, inspired me, and supported me. Thank you King Alfred for introducing me to colleagues and friends who I will treasure for life.

King Alfred has evolved since I started in 2013. Firstly, under the guidance of the empathetic Dawn Moore and the supportive David Weale, and now with the dedicated Karen Thomas and the wise Robert Lobatto. Thanks to their leadership, we can articulate the school to outsiders clearly, with confidence and pride. However, I think King Alfred is more than just words. It is feeling. A sense of belonging. A home. If my new school can fill half the gap King Alfred will leave, I will be happy. Farewell King Alfred! I miss you already.”

James Griffiths

‘‘Goodbyes make you think. They make you realise what you’ve had, what you’ve lost, and what you’ve taken for granted.” – Ritu Ghatourey

James and Lucy who both leave KAS this year!

James with Robert in the Christmas Pantomime

James with previous Head of Lower School, David Weale