OUR FORMER HEADS OF SCHOOL

What motivated you to take on the role of Head of School this year?

Dylan: I knew that taking on the role of Head of School would be a challenge. However, having been a part of Eastbourne College for four years at the time, I felt that putting myself forward for the position would allow me, in some ways, to give back to our community

Tess: After joining the school in Sixth Form, the idea of being Head of School seemed unreachable but it was something that I wanted to aim for so I just continued to be myself and got involved in all I could. The role seemed very appealing to me and I was motivated by the idea that I would be able to spread positivity in the role. I have always loved interacting with new people so I was motivated by the idea of connection that would come with being Head of School I knew it would be a huge role but reflecting on it now I feel that it was this concept of being challenged by the role that made me want it even more as I knew the role would allow me to learn so much and grow as a person.

What were the prefect team's biggest moments and memories this year?

Tess: We have made many amazing memories as a prefect team as well as worked through struggles together I feel as though every prefect has had a moment which has been big even if it seemed like a small action in the grand scheme of things.

By Tom D. Müller-Broich

I believe the reason why it is so hard to put a finger on one thing exactly is because one key aspect about being a prefect is that you are constantly doing seemingly small actions which, in the long run, will create the school to be the best place it can be for pupils So not every moment will stand out but the end result after all these small actions is what will be priceless

Dylan: It has been a pleasure to work as part of the prefect team this year, and we have had some fantastic moments throughout. From the chaos of organizing prefect chapels and videos to enjoying celebratory dinners with SMT, we have all made memo n fondly

What Head Dylan organ by balancing meetings and events with school work and sports Thankfully, having had such a hardworking team to delegate to, I was able to balance my commitments effectively and we were able to implement and achieve what we set out to do

Tess: I believe there are many skills that Dylan and I both used at different times which were crucial to being a Head of School For me personally, one of the most important skills was being empathetic towards those in the prefect team but more importantly towards pupils. This means I tried to sense other people's emotions as well as try to feel a sense of what others must be feeling. This skill was important when people are experiencing both highs and lows. Another important skill was being approachable to everyone around. I believe a friendly face from a Head of School often makes other pupils feel more at ease and comfortable in the school environment. I wanted people to know that they were able to talk to me whenever as this allowed strong bonds to be built.

Is there any advice you would like to give all current pupils on their way?

Tess: I would like to remind everyone that being at such an amazing school is not an option for all children across the world For this reason I want people to understand just how lucky they really are Take every opportunity that you can and seize every moment because sooner or later you will realise that in life these incredible experiences are not handed to you as they are now On top of being grateful, I would like to remind pupils to be themself because each and every pupil is incredible, brave, humorous, powerful, and confident in their own way and the school thrives due to this variety.

Dylan: To current pupils I would advise that if you feel stressed or overworked, do not isolate yourself Although cutting yourself off from others may initially seem appealing, it will cause more problems than it solves Talk to others. Only through opening up will you be able to solve problems and enjoy everything that Eastbourne has to offer

We thank Tess and Dylan as well as all school prefects 2022/23 for their service and wish best of luck for after their A levels.