Class of 2020
Leaver’s Assembly Speech
It is with great pleasure that we stand here, before you all today. We are honoured to represent such a supportive group of individuals, all of whom possess an originality and talent that is irrepressible and unforgettable.
Although this end to our high school experience has been sudden and unexpected, I have no doubt that we will all progress successfully to the next chapter of our development. This confidence I hold for our future has gradually been created by the dedication of our year group. Through five challenging years of academic and social learning, we have consistently displayed resilience – overcoming obstacles that were once unthinkable. It is the strength that each and every one of us has developed, that reassures me that we will once again overcome this current obstacle in our lives.
We have noticed that many pupils are beginning to refer to ourselves as ‘The Corona Year’, so I decided to research this suggestive label. According to google, the word ‘corona’ can refer to an element of the sun and other stars or the centre of a daffodil. Despite the variation in wording, it is evident that we are an exceptional year group – illuminating and warming; blossoming and thriving. No matter which metaphor I use, they all depict equivalent emphasis. This unfortunate virus will no longer define our year but instead, empower us as the resolute and spirited young women that we have proven to be.
Although not all of us can be here today, it is vital now that we unite as one and celebrate in the success that we undoubtedly deserve!
Susanna, Head Girl
Thank you teachers!
On behalf of this year group, we would also like to take this opportunity to thank the fantastic teachers that have supported us through this difficult period.
We greatly appreciate the care and extensive effort of Miss Garlick, Mr Ramsdale and our fabulous form tutors. They have always been understanding and devoted to assisting us all as senior students.
Also, we would not be celebrating in our success today with the outstanding teachers that have worked tirelessly to provide us with an exceptional learning experience.
Furthermore, we would like to thank Mrs Pomeroy for her continuous dedication to our school and compassion at this unique moment in history.
We are truly grateful for all that we have received over our journey here and are proud to be the 2020 leavers of Penwortham Girls’ High School.
Misbah, Deputy Head Girl
Thank you!
Thank you for the clowning around
Thank you for the endless up and downs
Thank you to Mrs. G
Without her, where would we be?
Thank you for GCSEpod
It deserves a generous nod
Thanks for Sports Days
And our amazing plays
Thank goodness we’ve done it
But not without our charms and wit
Thank you all for plenty
The class of 2020
By Mia, Year 11
My girls …
It is with a heavy heart that we must accept that we will not get to complete our time together as we anticipated. Although, initially we will feel relief that the stress of exams have been taken away from us, we may also feel a sense of injustice. You have worked incredibly hard and it seems as if that finish line is no longer a destination. But please do not despair. When the dust settles, the right thing will be done by you and your progress and achievements during your time with us will be recognised.
But before we depart, there are a few things I’d like to say to you …
All of you, at some time or another, over the last five years (2 or 3 with me) have faced times of trial and at times felt like giving up – whether on a personal level or academically. And even though you might not have shared your woes with me, I feel I know you well enough to spot when you enter the classroom with the weight of the world on your shoulders or in some cases “half broken hearted” – always remember “young men’s love lies not truly in their hearts, but in their eyes.” At times some of you have felt like the work load was insurmountable; some of you have endured real personal challenges; and some of you have dealt with things that young people are not supposed to have to deal with. But in in every case, I have seen how each and every-one of you have courageously dealt with your challenges; you have faced your fears head on and come back fighting, stronger than ever before. And now you are ready to embark on your future where “selfhood begins with a walking away” and you must promise to always “sparkle and waltz and laugh” through life and whatever it may bring you.
Promise me you will never lose your sassiness and courage or your determination to stand up against injustice. You must continue to fly the flag for young women and pursue your dreams. Do not let this situation define who you become. In a world of uncertainty, there is one thing I am certain about and that is that you are our future: future medics, future service women, future scientists, future mothers, future life partners and future leaders.
And finally, I am a better person for being around you … not because you test me, but because you have this perfect unapologetic fiery strength and unfiltered, raw vulnerability. You are beautiful examples of aliveness. We should all strive for a little more of that.
Thank you for being you.
Mrs Snowdon
English Department
