Amidst continuing turbulence on the global stage and the giddy circus of UK politics (having seen three different Secretaries of State for Education in a matter of hours, I am sure I’m not the only Head wishing that the current incumbent, Mr Cleverly, lives up to his name …) the College has been a true haven this term. Purposeful learning has continued apace and those slogging through exams were remarkable in their resilience, focus and calm. I wish them all the very best of luck when it comes to results day. The weeks were packed full of special events to enjoy too. From the festive pomp and ceremony of the Chapel Completion, to a gala Founder’s Day, and our conclusion with the glamorous farewells of the Leavers’ Ball, the glories of a Lancing Summer Term have been celebrated in fine style over these last weeks. The place has felt truly back ‘on song’ for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic – and long may it continue that way.
No matter where life takes our Leavers and no matter how far the College moves into their collective past, there will always be a welcome for them here at Lancing. It was with the broader Lancing family in mind that I concluded my final Assembly of the year with a quotation from George Eliot: ‘I desire no future that will break the ties of the past.’ Through generations of OLs, links of friendship and mutual support extend very tangibly beyond each student’s time here. That there is a true community of pupils past and present is a jewel in the College crown and we are all proud that the threads of connection are so rich, so deep, and so strong.
With my best wishes from Lancing for a happy and restful summer break,
Dominic Oliver
