Thoughts from the Study
Speech Day 2024
This week, we bid farewell to our wonderful Year 6 cohort, a group of children I will miss dearly. To draw a close to my Thoughts from the Study for this academic year, it feels fitting to print my speech in its entirety below. We were also joined by International English Rugby legend Chris Sheasby who delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of friendship and making the most of opportunity. I hope to see many of you over the summer holidays at some point, but in the meantime, I wish you all a restful, fun and family-filled summer. Thank you for all of your support this year.
As we gather in our school hall, a space where you have all played sport, competed, laughed, possibly cried, performed on stage, endured my sometimes overly long assemblies, fallen over, and stood back up again – I am filled with immense pride and, of course, a touch of bittersweet nostalgia. It is with great joy and a hint of sorrow that I address you on this momentous occasion, the day we bid farewell to all of you, our cherished Year 6 class who have given so much to the school.
To each and every one of you, I offer my heartfelt congratulations. Throughout your time in this school, you have exemplified the very essence of what it means to be a Broomfield pupil, showing integrity, curiosity, and resilience. You have embraced the school values that we hold dear and embodied the spirit of excellence in all your endeavours.
There is a phrase going around at the moment, it says that “All roads lead to Broomfield”. This phrase, truly encapsulates the essence of our school community. It has been incredibly rewarding to see you all develop and grow over this past year. We are a happy school where children have the space to be children and to enjoy all that prep school life has to offer. The sheer amount that has been achieved, celebrated, and demonstrated by you all is a testament to the vibrant, nurturing environment we foster here at Broomfield.
This year, our focus has been on inspiring all the children and the entire school community to flourish through the range of experiences offered. We are committed to fostering an environment where every child can thrive, not just academically, but also in terms of their wellbeing and personal development. From creative arts to sports, community projects to outdoor adventures, you have been given the space to grow, explore, and find your unique strengths and passions.
I have been endlessly blown away by your talent. We have had the privilege of witnessing your growth, both academically and personally. You have all overcome obstacles with determination, and we have watched you celebrate triumphs with boundless enthusiasm, importantly supporting one another as a tightly knit class, a class full of friends.
This year, we have also seen you further develop as leaders, with our Young Leaders Award being launched in Year 6 for the first time. The world needs kind and dedicated leadership now more than ever, and I believe it is crucial to equip you with the self-esteem and leadership capability to allow you to change the world for the better.
As you stand here on the cusp of a new chapter in your lives, more than ready to spread your wings and soar to new heights at senior school, remember that you carry with you the Broomfield values and lessons imparted on you. Embrace the challenges that lie ahead, it will be hard at times, with the knowledge that you are equipped with the skills and character to overcome any obstacle. Know that the world eagerly awaits your contributions, the lives you touch, and the positive change you will inspire.
As you move on, remember the importance of kindness. Kindness is at the heart of our school, and I know that each one of you is exceptionally kind, empathetic, and compassionate. Be torchbearers for kindness, advocate for the marginalised, and be catalysts for positive change. Embrace diversity, respect differences, and use your voices to amplify the voices of those who are unheard.
As you leave, hold onto the memories forged within these walls. Cherish the friendships you have formed, for they are the threads that weave the tapestry of your school days. Treasure the knowledge you have acquired, for it will be the foundation upon which you build your future endeavours. Remember the bottom patch epic football and netball matches, and always remember that you are part of a larger family here at Broomfield—a family that will continue to support and cheer you on as you navigate the path ahead.
To the parents and families who have entrusted us with the education and well-being of your children, I extend my sincerest appreciation. Your support, encouragement, and partnership have been invaluable.
As the headmaster, I am privileged to have played a small part in your journey, and I am filled with hope and excitement for the incredible things you will achieve. Year 6, you have left an indelible mark on this school, and as you embark on your new adventures, I challenge you to leave an equally profound impact on the world.
May your dreams be boundless, your spirits unwavering, and your hearts full of compassion. Time is precious. What you do matters. Use your time wisely.
Wishing you all a restful and wonderful summer ahead.
Mr Anstey
Headmaster
On Tuesday last week, children from Years 2 - 6 gathered at St. Anne’s Church to kick off the festive season with our annual Christmas Carol Service. Each year group contributed beautifully, and we felt immense pride listening to their lovely singing and instrument playing. An extra ‘well done’ to Year 6 who read the nine lessons brilliantly, telling us the story of the birth of Jesus. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful occasion.
On Tuesday last week, children from Years 2 - 6 gathered at St. Anne’s Church to kick off the festive season with our annual Christmas Carol Service. Each year group contributed beautifully, and we felt immense pride listening to their lovely singing and instrument playing. An extra ‘well done’ to Year 6 who read the nine lessons brilliantly, telling us the story of the birth of Jesus. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful occasion. ...
A huge thank you to parents who supported the PTA in organising the Broomfield Christmas Market this year. There were beautiful gifts, delicious market food and a lovely community rendition of ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’. Thank you to Halletts Estate Agents for sponsoring the event.
A huge thank you to parents who supported the PTA in organising the Broomfield Christmas Market this year. There were beautiful gifts, delicious market food and a lovely community rendition of ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’. Thank you to Halletts Estate Agents for sponsoring the event. ...
This morning, the Junior School children impressed us with fabulous Nativity and Christmas performances. Kindergarten brought a unique twist with their charming roles as ladybirds, caterpillars, and even bees. 🐝 Each performance was a triumph!
This morning, the Junior School children impressed us with fabulous Nativity and Christmas performances. Kindergarten brought a unique twist with their charming roles as ladybirds, caterpillars, and even bees. 🐝 Each performance was a triumph! ...
We are excited to share that we won 1st prize for 3D group work (Key Stage 2) with our stunning mosaic at the ISA National Art Competition! Every child in school contributed to this art project. A huge congratulations also to Evelyn, whose tiger painting was highly commended. @isaartsuk
We are excited to share that we won 1st prize for 3D group work (Key Stage 2) with our stunning mosaic at the ISA National Art Competition! Every child in school contributed to this art project. A huge congratulations also to Evelyn, whose tiger painting was highly commended. @isaartsuk ...
Children are spending plenty of time exploring and enjoying the new garden. A favourite activity has been transforming fallen leaves into beautiful, creative decorations 🍂🍁.
Children are spending plenty of time exploring and enjoying the new garden. A favourite activity has been transforming fallen leaves into beautiful, creative decorations 🍂🍁. ...
Roasting marshmallows over the fire – what a fantastic way for Year 2 to end a busy week at school!
Roasting marshmallows over the fire – what a fantastic way for Year 2 to end a busy week at school! ...
Thanks to all Broomfield families for your generous donations to our local food bank. We also continued our tradition of our harvest boxes, which were delivered by our Year 6 children, staff and parent volunteers to the elderly in our local area. It was a heartwarming event, reminding us of the value of kindness and generosity during this season of harvest.
Thanks to all Broomfield families for your generous donations to our local food bank. We also continued our tradition of our harvest boxes, which were delivered by our Year 6 children, staff and parent volunteers to the elderly in our local area. It was a heartwarming event, reminding us of the value of kindness and generosity during this season of harvest. ...
Well done to Year 3 for creating these wonderful harvest cards which were given to the elderly in our community. The children worked on their water colour technique and collage skills. Fantastic work!
Well done to Year 3 for creating these wonderful harvest cards which were given to the elderly in our community. The children worked on their water colour technique and collage skills. Fantastic work! ...
To celebrate European Day of Languages we immersed ourselves in the rich culture of Flamenco. Thank you to Danielle from @DanceDaysLondon for delivering a great workshop.
To celebrate European Day of Languages we immersed ourselves in the rich culture of Flamenco. Thank you to Danielle from @DanceDaysLondon for delivering a great workshop. ...
From exciting activities to wonderful moments with friends, we are having such a fun week at Broomfield!
From exciting activities to wonderful moments with friends, we are having such a fun week at Broomfield! ...
We proudly joined our fellow Dukes schools in raising the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals flag, standing united in the global #TogetherForTheSDGs movement. We are committed to embedding sustainability into every aspect of school life, shaping a greener future for our children and community. Special thanks to Dukes Sustainability Manager, Sally Cornelius for visiting us last week to discuss our sustainability strategy and goals for the upcoming academic year.
We proudly joined our fellow Dukes schools in raising the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals flag, standing united in the global #TogetherForTheSDGs movement. We are committed to embedding sustainability into every aspect of school life, shaping a greener future for our children and community. Special thanks to Dukes Sustainability Manager, Sally Cornelius for visiting us last week to discuss our sustainability strategy and goals for the upcoming academic year. ...
Last week Thursday, Year 4 enjoyed a fun trip to Wimbledon Watersports. The sun was shining and everyone had a great day on the water, learning to sail and playing games in the kayaks. Despite the cold water, a number of children even jumped into the lake at the end of the day!
Last week Thursday, Year 4 enjoyed a fun trip to Wimbledon Watersports. The sun was shining and everyone had a great day on the water, learning to sail and playing games in the kayaks. Despite the cold water, a number of children even jumped into the lake at the end of the day! ...