This week has been a very special and emotional one at Derby High School as we celebrated our wonderful Year 13 students — the Class of 2026 — before they head off on study leave and begin their final examinations.

There has been such a lovely atmosphere around school all week. From the laughter and creativity of fancy dress to shared memories, final lessons and celebrations with staff and friends, Year 13 have embraced their final days at Derby High with warmth, humour and genuine appreciation for one another.

On Thursday evening, it was wonderful to welcome parents, staff and students to our Leavers’ Celebration, a chance to pause together and reflect on the remarkable journey this year group has taken.

During the evening, I shared a line from Disney’s Happily Ever After that has stayed with me throughout the week:

“Each of us has a dream… a heart’s desire. It calls to us. And when we’re brave enough to listen, and bold enough to pursue, that dream leads us on a journey to discover who we’re meant to be.”

To read all of this week’s Senior High Notes, please click here.