St Margaret’s began the new school year with a whole school assembly, where Head, Miss Tomlinson, welcomed all new and returning pupils and staff. A special moment of celebration was reserved for pupils in VS and VIS, whose excellent examination results were recognised with a well-deserved round of applause.
The spotlight then turned to the Head Girl Team, who delivered an encouraging address to fellow pupils. They shared words of encouragement designed to motivate pupils for the year ahead. Their advice emphasised the importance of self-belief and resilience, reminding their peers that “doubt will hinder your dreams more than failure” and encouraging them to recognise that they are “braver and more capable than they think.” Other key messages included the importance of striving to improve rather than prove oneself, reaching high in pursuit of personal goals, and remembering to be both kind and light-hearted along the way.
The team’s thoughtful reflections highlighted not only their role as leaders within the school but also the wider importance of girls in leadership positions. By modelling positivity, empathy, and ambition, the Head Girl Team set an example for younger pupils and demonstrated the value of female leadership in shaping supportive and aspirational communities.
The assembly closed on a high note with a rousing rendition of the school song, Tenez Ferme. Written to mark the school’s 150th anniversary, the song continues to hold deep significance for the school community and is never more powerful than when sung at the first assembly of a new academic year.