Page 24 - The Malvernian - Autumn 2020

THE MALVERNIAN
Message from the Headmaster
After what can only be described as a very challenging year in so many aspects, draws to a close, I wanted to include a photo taken as the College community gathered at our outdoor Service of Remembrance around the statue of St George, to recall the many from the College and beyond, who paid the ultimate sacrifice in war. It was a different format to the normal commemoration in order to meet social distancing requirements. There were no services in Chapel. On a misty morning, as the last post faded and the clock struck eleven, those gathered stood in stillness and silence to reflect. This was followed by the laying of wreaths by the Senior Chapel Prefects (on behalf of the College and the CCF), Mr Major (for the Old Malvernians) and the Head Pupils of the Downs (on behalf of The Downs and the Council). There was a short service in which the hymns were led by the brass ensemble spread out around the corridors of Main Building with the doors and windows open. This picture reflects something of the resilience of pupils and staff at Malvern and whilst socially distanced, we stand together.
I am delighted to sign off this edition of The Malvernian by adding my sincere thanks to the pupils who have adapted to the many challenges and changes in their day to day lives. Being a teenager is not always as straightforward as one would like it to be, and none of us had envisaged that the new “normal” would have stripped so much of what we usually take for granted; we all recognise that social interaction at occasions and events is as important for our pupils to encounter as the learning and co-curricular opportunities. However, thankfully, we have been able to enjoy a very busy Autumn Term and this is due to the creativity, tenacity and logistical planning from
the Senior Management Team, Teaching and House staff, Estates and Domestic colleagues, to ensure that the various events we have enjoyed were safely undertaken.
My sincere thanks to the College’s Medical Centre for their exemplary care ensuring that pupils and staff have remained safe throughout the term. Parents and Guardians will be updated with any changes to the return to school plan for the Lent Term as we attempt to make this as smooth as possible.
I very much hope that during next year, I will be able to see you “in person” at Malvern College for sporting fixtures, music concerts and drama productions as well as other school occasions ... we are all planning for this at some point in 2021!
I would like to wish you and your families a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.
Keith Metcalfe
Headmaster
Malvern College, College Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3DF, UK t: 01684 581 500 | e: enquiries@malverncollege.org.uk