The Queen occupies a very special place in the history of our community, for she formally opened Leicester Grammar School in 2008. She provided unerring stability for our nation throughout her reign, reflecting many of the enduring values for which this country is known and of which we are proud. As was so evident in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, she was held in great affection and regarded throughout the world with deep-seated respect. I shall write to you again soon to explain how we intend to remember her at LGS.

In the meantime, knowing that the Queen’s death could prove upsetting or evoke painful memories, we have asked pupils to show consideration and sensitivity to others and we have reminded them of the support available.

We hold the Queen’s family in our thoughts and prayers at this time and think of King Charles III as he faces the prospect of assuming the throne after his mother’s long and hugely respected reign.

The Queen cared deeply about her responsibilities, about her subjects and about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I chose that theme of ‘care’ for my assembly on Monday and indeed when I spoke to the Trust staff community the previous week: ‘Caring....with a passion’. I encouraged pupils to care deeply about what they do and how they do it – as they will then achieve excellence; to care for our world and for others, remembering that a different approach will often be needed and appreciated according to the individual; and, finally, to care about and for themselves, as we can’t care effectively for others if we don’t look after our own well-being and the balance in our lives. Mr Millward, our chaplain, basing his message in our beginning-of-term service on the parable of the prodigal son, admitted to two significant mistakes he had made during the holiday and spoke about owning up immediately and being forgiven.

Like any school (and indeed society), we have rules,  and we have just revised our Pupil Behaviour policy (https://www.lgs-senior.org.uk/attachments/download.asp?file=640&type=pdf) which “provides a framework for a safe and caring environment, based on our school values, dignity and the principle of kindness, for all members of our school community.” All of this can be summed up with that one word: ‘care’. If we care for each other, especially at a time of national mourning, and if we give our children clear guidance, offering them a positive way back when they make mistakes, they will become better people and generous, loving and compassionate subjects of our kingdom.

Best wishes,

John Watson
Headmaster