Well done to Farfield’s proposition team—Will B, Connor M, and James C—and Woodlands’ opposition team—Isaac B, Ulysses O’D, and Johnnie O—for an outstanding performance in the Year 10 and 11 Debating Final. The competition took place in the Reith Lecture Theatre, where pupils debated the motion, This House supports the UK government’s plan to introduce inheritance tax at 20% on inherited agricultural properties worth more than £1m from April 2026.

Both teams handled a divisive motion with aplomb and delivered a passionate, but very well-informed, debate before a packed house. In a rare outcome, the judges declared the debate a draw, meaning both teams will share the O’Connell Trophy. Fittingly, they continued to debate the motion even after the contest was over.  

This year’s competition also saw Edinburgh and Oakeley reach the semi-finals, rounding off an exceptional term of debating.

At the end of last week, members of the School’s Environmental Leadership Team, Emilia P, Sophia P, Ruby P, and Tilly L, delivered a Chapel talk, encouraging fellow pupils to take part in Earth Hour on 22 March.

The team urged their peers to switch off unnecessary lights and electrical devices for one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30pm, to reduce energy consumption and reflect on our impact on the planet.

During the talk, the girls gave a brief history of how Earth Hour came to exist and quizzed the School on their knowledge of the impact we have on our planet. They asked questions around the global energy use, rates of deforestation, the time it takes discarded items, such as plastic bottles, to decompose, and much more.

Two of our aspiring Year 12 Army Officers, Toby and Dougie, had the invaluable opportunity to meet and speak with Jeremy Heal, a Sandhurst graduate, as they prepare to apply to the prestigious military academy.

Jeremy shared first-hand experiences from his time at Sandhurst, offering top tips and insider advice to help guide them through the application process. His knowledge and expertise provided an inspiring and informative session, reinforcing the value of networking and mentorship in career development.

This meeting was a fantastic example of how employment events and connections can support and motivate the next generation of leaders.

Our recent Gap Year Information Session provided an opportunity for our current Year 12 pupils and their parents to explore the diverse and enriching experiences available during a gap year.

The event featured insightful presentations from a range of gap year providers. Luke from Crawford & Corry informed the audience with details about the working opportunities they offer in Hanoi, Vietnam. Emma from Art History Abroad shared her passion for the superb cultural and educational experiences available in Italy. Francesca from The Excelsior Trust provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of sailing aboard the historic vessel Excelsior. Additionally, Mrs Osborne introduced Geelong College, Gappie programme, which offers a 12-month placement in Australia.

We hope this session has inspired our pupils to consider the wealth of opportunities that await them as they prepare for their next chapter.

In February, Tegan E, Cerys D, Margie G, Shreya Y, and Ella J, set off for Langley School to attend a careers afternoon organised by the school’s Feminist Society, entitled Empowering Women.  

This was a pupil-led event organised by current and former Sixth Form pupils. Their goal was to ‘level the playing-field’ to give young girls from across Norfolk the opportunity to develop their skills within their desired careers – a chance we wish we had in our younger years. 

The aim of this day was to connect girls with each other, and with a host of inspiring industry professionals who could become role models or a source of inspiration. It was hoped that exposure to these stories might empower young women to realise their full potential, and to see women, who were once in their position, thriving professionally.

Our pupils were treated to talks from women in careers ranging from midwifery, construction, travel, acting, snow sports instruction, fashion, finance, HR, business analysis, insurance, diversity, equity and inclusion, mental health, gymnastics coaching, law and sales. 

Here’s what our girls learnt: 

“After pitches from many different mentors, we went to three sessions where we could learn about the mentors’ career journeys and ask them questions. The interactive nature of the day meant we all took away valuable tips, such as the importance of LinkedIn as a tool for connecting with others, and the knowledge and development of valuable workplace skills. A key message which we all appreciated was that we don’t have to know right now what we want to do for the rest of our lives!” – Cerys D

“It was very interesting learning about all the different careers that the women have pursued. My top favourites were the physiotherapist and the owner of the construction business who started her own business in an industry typically staffed by men. It was lots of fun to learn about what kind of jobs we can do when we are older. The event has really broadened my horizons.”  – Tegan E

“I was introduced to many people who shared the same views as me and wanted to achieve the same goals. The mentors there were incredibly knowledgeable and increased my levels of determination to pursue the career I want to, regardless of the work environment and in particular, not to be deterred from pursuing a typically ‘male’ profession.”  – Ella J

“The experience was unique and unlike conferences I’ve experienced because it was exclusively women talking about their career paths and any challenges faced owing to their gender. The individual meetings gave us the opportunity to connect and ask questions on a more personal level. I formed new impressions of industries such as construction, which I hadn’t previously considered.” – Margie G

“I had the opportunity to hear from so many amazing women who shared their career journeys, challenges, and successes. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, from leadership in corporate spaces to entrepreneurship. It was also a great chance to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities.” – Shreya Y

All in all, the event was extremely worthwhile and eye-opening. Above all, the girls came away with a sense of freedom gleaned from the message that you do not need to be limited in your career path by the choices you make at 16 and 18, there are many side paths to explore on the journey. 

With so many talented pupils taking A level Music, we were thrilled to split our annual recital evening across two nights, allowing each performer the time and space to showcase their hard work.

Exceptional vocal performances from Olga, Sophia, Reva, Milan, Tilly, Rory, and Emily captivated the audience, while Sophie’s expressive clarinet playing and Inez’s masterful classical guitar added further depth to the programme.

Each pupil delivered a 15-minute recital at Grade 8 standard, demonstrating their technical ability and musical maturity to secure the best possible marks. From Brazilian folk music to romantic instrumental works, German Lieder to A Night in Tunisia, the breadth of repertoire was outstanding.

Well done to all involved!

On Tuesday afternoon, Milly P, Sophia P, and Romilly H hosted a successful pre-loved charity swap shop.

The event, which the girls created, organised, and ran, forms one of the projects for their Level 3 Environmental Leadership qualification through Gresham’s GAPS. The initiative aims to promote positive environmental change.

The girls sought to raise awareness of the social and environmental issues linked to the fashion industry, especially fast fashion, and to encourage both pupils and staff to reconsider their consumer habits.

All funds raised will be donated to the school charity. This event marks the beginning of a series of themed swap shop projects the pupils will be organising, with the theme for this event being formal/evening wear.

It has been a great season for Gresham’s cross country. The team has swelled in members, and it has been great to witness a strong community, encouraging success on the course. We have been able to field strong teams in each category and there have been battles at the front and in the mid-field during competitions. The team has been able to bring home six of the ten trophies they competed for.

The Juniors were once again represented by Alfie C and Zac D who, though have made excellent progress this season, have faced very tough competition in each of their fixtures.

Lottie H put in a very strong performance, finishing in the top two in all races, and gaining the season individual award. Supported by a strong team, the senior girls also won the team shield.

The inter-boys was dominated by Theo H, who won all bar the last race of the season, securing the individual award. He was supported by some strong inter-runners and Gresham’s was able to bring home the team shield for the inter-category.

Finally, the senior boys was a Gresham’s ‘one, two battle’, between Tim A and Seb W. They worked well at the front, and took an equal number of wins between them. However, the individual shield was awarded to Tim A, as his lowest finish was a second and Seb W was a third. They also secured the senior boys team trophy.

On Tuesday, as part of National Careers Week, all Year 12 pupils had the invaluable opportunity to attend the Gresham’s Business Breakfast, an event designed to enhance their networking skills and introduce them to a diverse range of local businesses. The morning was filled with energy and enthusiasm as pupils engaged in conversations, gaining first-hand knowledge about career pathways, job roles, work experience opportunities, and the importance of professional networking.

This event served as a crucial stepping stone in preparing our pupils for the world of work, encouraging them to build connections and develop their confidence to seek out opportunities. 

Thanks goes to all the businesses who generously gave their time to support and inspire the next generation of employees and entrepreneurs. It was a truly enriching and inspiring morning.