HEADMASTER’S WELCOME Welcome to the Aylesburian magazine for 2018-2019. Once again, this publication stands as the definitive historical reference for the School and so we hope that you enjoy it. All our thanks go to Mr Dallas for once again editing this year’s publication. I was hoping never to have to repeat the words of 2015 and 2018 when expressing our deepest sense of loss for one of our Aylesburians. However, we demonstrate our true character at such challenging times, and to Year 10 at the time, Phillips House, and most importantly, the Emburey family, we thank you for your strength and humility. To Ben, we say goodbye, but not forgotten. He will always be remembered, once an Aylesburian, always an Aylesburian. The academic year also provided opportunity for reflection, growth and success across the School. From the whole School photograph to thanking three members of staff for their selfless commitment of 25
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years each to the School and to education. Priceless opportunities to stand back and reflect upon what it means to be an Aylesburian. To be a part of this historic institution, with over 400 years of tradition, but also to witness the success and future of each student as they leave us for the next stage of their life. It is why we teach, but more importantly, why we teach here. In order to validate the culture and impact of the School, we invited reviews of our core work from other senior school leaders and headteachers, as well as expert consultants throughout the year. The Challenge Partners Network, of which we are a member and now host the Aylesbury Vale Hub, came to the school in November. With five senior leaders from other schools and a lead reviewer, the team spent three days immersing themselves into the life of the school. Their verdict was one of great pride for all involved and summed up by the following quote from the report:
The Aylesburian 2018/2019
“The school motto of ‘Respect and Aspire’ permeates all aspects of school life. All who work at the school have the highest aspirations for themselves and for the other members of the school community. Their pride in the school, support for each other and enjoyment of their work, create an environment in which all are encouraged to flourish and develop.” We also invited a full review of our safeguarding procedures, in order to verify the work that we do in this area and identify where we can improve. After a rigorous process, we were hailed as adding value to the whole school experience in all areas. A fine testament to the work, time, commitment and care of the whole school but most notably the safeguarding team and pastoral team. One quote exemplifies this level of care. When asked if the school kept its promises, one student replied “it went beyond that, they more than keep their promises” and the report highlighted a culture where “Students feel happy and cared for”.
