Wisbech Grammar School held its much-anticipated Senior School Speech Day, bringing together staff, pupils, parents, and esteemed guests for a day of celebration and reflection. The event highlighted the school’s commitment to excellence, community, and opportunity, as articulated by Headmaster Barney Rimmer and guest speaker Mr. Richard Petherick.
In his address, Headmaster Mr Rimmer, reflecting on his second year in the role, spoke passionately about the school’s evolving culture and the values that underpin it. “Our school’s culture is not just a concept but a living, breathing entity that manifests itself in everything we do – academically, with the arts, in sports, pastoral care, support, and administration,” he said. He emphasized the importance of humility, integrity, and inclusivity, noting that these attitudes shape the experiences and successes of the Wisbech Grammar School community.
Mr. Rimmer also highlighted the numerous achievements of the past year, including academic successes, artistic performances, and sporting triumphs. He praised the school’s vibrant community spirit, exemplified by events like the Pride Fayre and various charity drives. “Our pupils and staff have shown real honesty and an ability to adhere to strong moral and ethical values, embracing diversity and supporting each other through challenges,” he added.
Guest speaker Mr. Richard Petherick, Deputy Principal of an international school in Singapore and a former New Zealand national hockey player, shared his inspiring journey and the lessons he has learned along the way. Richard emphasized the importance of honesty, listening, and making decisions with the future in mind. “Honesty is the foundation of trust and respect,” he said. “Embrace honesty in all aspects of your life, and you will pave the way for personal and academic growth”.
Richard’s address also touched on the significance of resilience and adaptability. He recounted his experiences in international sports, including the challenges and triumphs of competing at the highest levels, and how these experiences have shaped his perspective. “When one door closes, another opens,” he remarked. “The experiences that hockey gave me were amazing, but life is and had to be bigger than the 10 years I had at that level”.
Richard speech also offered five key pieces of advice to students: embrace honesty as the foundation of all relationships, be an active listener, make decisions with the future in mind, view failures as opportunities for growth, and maintain resilience in the face of adversity.
The event concluded with a heartfelt send-off for the Upper 6th form leavers. Mr. Rimmer offered sage advice, urging them to focus on personal growth and the development of essential life skills.
“School is not just about exam results, certificates, badges, or ties. It’s about the skills and behaviours needed for the next part of your journey,” he advised. “Be your own best friend. Be positive and talk to yourself in a positive way”.
“Make the most of opportunities. They will present themselves throughout your journey – they will make you feel nervous, afraid but that is ok! Push yourself out of your comfort zone and dare to dream big.”
“Continue to surround yourselves with people who want the best for you, who will encourage you, support you, believe in you. Remember that is everyone here this evening. You are now and will forever be Old Grammarians and you will always continue to have WGS as a support – whatever and whenever you need guidance, you know where we are”.
“Carpe diem. Seize the day. Make your lives extraordinary”. – John Keating (Dead Poet’s Society)
As Wisbech Grammar School looks ahead to its 650th anniversary in 2029, the values of humility, integrity, and inclusivity will continue to guide its path. The Senior School Speech Day 2024 was a testament to the school’s enduring commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic community, poised to embrace the future with confidence and curiosity.