FROM THE PRINCIPAL #215
18th October 24
We have had a wonderful start of the academic year in Boarding. As always our returning students have been fundamental in welcoming and assisting our new students in settling in to life at DLD. This year has seen the introduction of our Boarding Mentor Programme, and it has been great to see our Mentors thrive in their new leadership roles whilst providing peer support. We thank all of our returning students and our Mentors for their hard work and determination in making our new students feel part of our community.
DLD were up for the ‘London Independent School of the Year’ at the Independent School of the Year Awards. The great and the good from independent schools across the country gathered in London and whilst we missed out on scooping the top prize, to be named as a finalist is a great achievement. It is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff, our diverse student body and recognises the unique and high-quality education on offer at DLD!
The run up to the half term break has been a busy one! There has been a focus on the ever popular football with a trip to watch England vs Greece at Wembley followed by our House Football Competition on Monday (congratulations to Jubilee House!).
On Monday as part of the school’s Black History Month Celebrations we welcomed Dr Zandi Ndlovu, a marathon runner and advocate for diversity in sport, who shared her reflections on her life providing inspiration for us all.
For the half term some of our students will be joining Houseparent and Duke of Edinburgh Manager, Jan Haines, on a 10 day trip to Morocco where they will participate in a four day community initiative in a remote village and a four day mountain trek as well as spending time in Marrakech. Next years October half term trip will be to Botswana with more information to follow on this amazing opportunity after the holidays.
After the break we are looking forward to hosting our annual International Celebration Day on Wednesday 6th November. With over 70 nationalities in our staff and student body it is the perfect way to showcase and celebrate the diverse cultures in our community.
Whether our students are staying with us, travelling home or trekking through the mountains of Morrocco we wish all a wonderful break.
Best wishes
Emma Finnerty, Head of Boarding
