The Lower School was filled with bunting, posters and decorations designed by the pupils over the last few weeks in the lead up to the Jubilee celebration on Thursday 26 May.
Headmistress Sue Wallace Woodroffe said: ‘It is a source of great pride that The Queen’s School was granted the privilege of bearing the name after Queen Victoria issued a royal decree in 1882, a name believed, then as now to be held by no other school in the UK. We therefore felt it was only right that we mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with a whole school celebration at the Lower School, along with a number of opportunities for students to learn about the history of the monarchy.’
‘Today has enabled us to connect our youngest pupils to our oldest, establishing links between age groups that may well lead to further future connections. A fabulous day was had by all and I am sure we will all be continuing to recognise the amazing work of our Queen through next week.
The Queen’s School party began with everyone singing the national anthem before pupils and staff enjoyed cake and refreshments on the school field. Sixth Form Heads of House and Year 12 students then led a series of House games for pupils to enjoy some competitive fun.
Head of Lower School Iona Carmody said: ‘The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has prompted us to consider the legacy of our Queens past and present. Strong women will always inspire us, women who are not cowed by the opinions and stereotypical challenges of their time. Our Queen is no exception! She was never a ‘princess’! She rolls up her sleeves and gets stuck in! She embraces change. She bends when the occasion requires it, but never breaks. Challenges have not fazed her, and her loyalty and duty to this country remains steadfast … she gets on with the job, and never complains. The Queen is the ultimate role model, and she is much loved for it.’
Flurries of red, white and blue have been evident everywhere as the children and staff prepared for this special event and there has certainly been a feeling of history, community and industry around school!
It just so happens that May is ‘Local Community and History’ month and so it is fortuitous that whilst we delve into the history of Her Majesty, we also consider The Queen’s School history since 1878. 144 years is a long time! 70 years is a long time! But legacy is timeless! Queens will always inspire Queen’s!
Along with making decorations for the school garden party, pupils across the Lower School have created a special card to send to the Queen, and enjoyed a Corgi treasure hunt, face painting, jewellery making and crown creation on the party day itself. In history, senior school students have been looking at British and World Events since the Queen’s coronation in 1953.
As we celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Miss Carmody reflects on our royal connections in her latest blog which can be read here.
