On Friday 1st July, we celebrated our Upper Sixth pupils and their last day at Downside School. Not only is this a special day for parents, staff and the pupils themselves; but having missed the opportunity to do so in person all together over the last few years, the day was even more so.
The day of festivities began with a whole School Mass in Downside Abbey. The Schola Cantorum sang beautifully and filled the Abbey with joy. We enjoyed the readings given by Dom James Hood and members of the Upper Sixth. It is on these occasions that we are cognisant of how important it is to come together as a community and have such beautiful surroundings with which to enjoy it.
The Sports Hall was beautifully transformed to celebrate the Speech Day and Prize Giving ceremony. The Service began with delightfully performed solos by Dominic Kwan and Beth Mitton, followed by an uplifting version of the School Song. Andrew Hobbs, the Head, broke with tradition and introduced each member of the Upper Sixth Form to the stage saying a few words on each pupil celebrating their time at Downside; and they were all presented with a Leaver’s Hoodie. It was wonderful to hear of how each member of the year group had contributed to the overall life of the School. We celebrated each and every child as well as thanked parents for their support and commitment to the School.
The last stop on the day of celebrations saw over 190 guests come together at the Assembly Rooms in Bath for the Leavers’ Ball. A drinks reception, fantastic three-course meal and a live band provided the atmosphere for a joyous evening.
It was great to bring the Upper Sixth Form and their families together in their final celebration as a Downside Pupil. We look forward to welcoming them to the Old Gregorian Community and seeing their lives flourish!