Dear Parents and Guardians

Another extremely busy term comes to an end today and I am sure pupils, staff and parents will breathe a sigh of relief as the break begins. The highlights of the term are almost too many to mention, but I should commend the pupils and staff who were involved in this term’s production of Pygmalion which took place in March. The standard of performance was exceptionally high, and we can see why so many of this year’s leavers have ambitions in theatre. However, the work behind the scenes on set design and costumes was equally impressive and those unsung heroes deserve recognition too.

Elsewhere there were the usual sporting events, and it has been a very promising season all round. As I write, the younger cricketers are enjoying a tour of Sri Lanka, and I know they will make the most of such an excellent opportunity at such an early age; good luck too to our rowers as they prepare at their training camp in Rotterdam. Preparations are growing too for the sports tour of South Africa in the Summer, another fantastic experience for those involved.

Finally, on the events front, I should once again mention this term’s performance of Handel’s Messiah in Durham Cathedral this February. It was probably the largest musical event that has been staged by the school in living memory, and the feat of gathering so many current and former pupils, school and Cathedral staff and other friends of the Foundation in one place was truly exceptional. My thanks to all those who worked so hard to make it happen and, of course, the proceeds raised will go to the worthy cause of supporting chorister bursaries in the future.

As many of you know, this term is my last as Principal of DCSF and so this is my thirty-second and final end of term letter. It has been a real privilege and honour to have served firstly as Head of Durham School and then as Principal of the Foundation. It has been a fantastic experience for me to work at the school and the last decade has provided its fair share of challenges and opportunities along the way. One of my former bosses described Headship as “the most fun job in education” and whilst I wasn’t convinced at the time, I can see that she was right; being part of such a community as exists at the school has been exciting, rewarding, sometimes stressful but always fun. So, it is with mixed emotions I write this letter and, whilst the time is right for a new challenge, I will be immensely sad to leave. I must thank all of the people who have supported me along the way: pupil, parents, staff, Old Dunelmians and friends, and of course my family. I’m delighted that I will remain part of the wider Durham School family and will forever be a proud Dunelmian.

Best Wishes

Kieran McLaughlin

Principal