What an uplifting final day for 25 of our Year 10 pupils on their Work Experience visit to the University of Cumbria. We were whisked on a whirlwind tour from lecture theatres to the state-of-the-art library, alongside an array of other teaching bases such as their brightly-coloured Early Years classroom and a fully-equipped mock-up of a ward at the RLI complete with blinking and breathing dummies! The real highlight was listening to such a diverse range of animated and passionate staff who treated us to fascinating anecdotes and insights into their own career paths and those of inspirational colleagues, ranging from neuropsychology to forestry, and from a prop-maker for Star Wars through to an expert in killer whale communication. There was particular food for thought about the wide range of opportunities in health alongside medicine, such as midwifery (where they were keen to stress that male midwives are in high demand and tend to have particularly successful career progression!) Our final speaker recounted how he had trained as a pilot in Pakistan, but had needed to adapt due to the impact of the pandemic. He went on to develop his career, from marketing for a large retailer through to his current role in International Management at the university where he now supports degree apprenticeships with links to the London Ambulance Service. He left us with his top tips for success in a career: stay open-minded, be prepared for change and always 'say yes'. (fb)

Leadership and Service is our school motto, as we bid a fond goodbye to the staff leaving us this term, they truly have led by example. Mrs Page has been Head of Year 7 for the past 16 years, ensuring every student who joins has the best possible transition from primary school. From setting high standards in organisation and appearance to building resilience and confidence, her impact has been huge. She has also led the InspirUs programme, inspiring hundreds of primary school children to aim higher and reach their potential. She has taught geography across the Key Stages, bringing passion and creativity to her classroom. She has assisted on countless trips for her department and for other subjects. She has been credited with inspiring pupils to become teachers themselves – job done! Mrs Page, all this experience is going to pay off on your new chapter as mam-gu to your growing family and all the exciting plans you have in store. Mrs Lightbody has been a Year 7 Form tutor and teacher of French for 21 years. She has accompanied many a Normandy trip and French exchange. I’m sure pupils will never forget her songs ‘L'arc-en-ciel’ and ‘J’aime les fruits’. She has been exceptional in leading her form and ensuring they have the best possible experience in Year 7. She consistently leads her form in raising huge amounts in Lenten charity fundraising efforts and her form are often winners in creating beautiful Christmas door displays. Above all, she will be remembered for her kindness, caring nature and warmth. Merci pour tout! Mr Hall has been at the forefront of leadership in the Modern Foreign Languages department for 9 years. He has taught across all three Key Stages and provided additional support to students in the run up to their main exams, helping to boost their grades and their esteem. In coaching rugby and cricket teams, he has helped to build bonds with students on a deeper level. He has organized and led the Year 8 Normandy trip and the French exchange and has also chaperoned international sporting tours. Mrs Hodkinson has worked in the Religion, Ethics and Philosophy department for over 12 years, teaching Year 7 to Upper Sixth as well as being Head of Department and a Sixth Form form tutor. She will be remembered as a great teacher of debating, encouraging students to listen as well as to articulate their thoughts in a non-judgmental way and championing inclusivity within our LGBTQ+ community, offering a safe, welcoming environment to everyone. We will miss her colourful outfits and accessories brightening up the classrooms, corridors and staff room. Mr Davies-Taylor is an Old Lancastrian through and through. He re-joined LRGS as a member of the English department five years ago. During his time as ‘teacher’, he’s led many sports teams, taken pupils to Normandy and on ski trips, been Mentoring Co-ordinator and Assistant Head of Year, and made his home in the boarding house. In all of these roles he's brought kindness, good humour and an easy-going nature. He will be missed in the staff room, especially at the crossword table, and for all his efforts in organising staff socials. Thank you to you all for everything you have done to support pupils, parents and your colleagues. You will all be greatly missed! (fb)