Master visits Aldenham School

The Master was delighted to be invited to be the Guest of Honour at Visitation Day at Aldenham School on Saturday 23 June. The tradition of Visitation Day goes back to the School's foundation in 1597, when the Brewers' Company, who in those days formed the entire Governing Body of the School, came for their annual visit and inspection. Nowadays Visitation is a much more enjoyable celebration of the achievements of the students over the last year, with a prize giving ceremony in addition to sports competitions, drama performances, live music and art displays.

This year, for the first time ever, prizes were awarded to students who had demonstrated excellence in the 'Aldenham Attributes'. The Principal of Aldenham School, Andy Williams, introduced the awards and the Attributes, which describe the School's vision for the personal development of its pupils and encompass the characteristics that provide the framework for a successful experience at the School and beyond. The winners were:

Aspiration - Eleanor Rees

Co-operation - Archie Hudson-Rawlings

Curiosity - Nicholas Davis

Independence - Shelina Devendrarajah

Respect - Patrick Davern

Courage - Will Rutt

In his address to the students, the Master, Paul Wells, said: "You have been fortunate to be at Aldenham. I know from talking to some of you earlier this year at Brewer’s Hall and at the Brewer’s lecture evening, that you have a confidence and a character about you which will be on your side for good. Develop your principles, find your cause, and enjoy it... There have been over 600 previous Master Brewers, and there will probably be 600 more, so I am just a very small piece on this chess board, but, on this one beautiful summer day, it is my chance to wish all of you Leavers the very best. Have a great life and enjoy every minute of it!" He left them with the following advice: be persuasive, be curious, take on responsibility and maintain your friendships.