As another academic year drew to a close, the St John's community came together to celebrate a very special group of pupils as our Year 8 cohort prepared to embark on the next stage of their educational journey. This year, for the first time, the Leavers' Service was held in the heart of Cambridge at the beautiful Great St Mary's Church. Before the Service, pupils walked through the city together, crossing the grounds of St John's College and passing the iconic buildings and surroundings that have become such a familiar and cherished part of their lives. It was a fitting setting in which to reflect on their time at St John's, celebrating how far they have come while looking ahead with confidence to the exciting opportunities that await them.
The occasion was filled with pride, gratitude and reflection as pupils, staff and families gathered to mark the end of an important chapter. While there was excitement about the opportunities ahead, there was also a strong sense of appreciation for the memories, friendships and experiences that have shaped our pupils during their time at St John's.
A highlight of the celebrations was the traditional Leavers' Service, where pupils reflected on their journey and looked ahead to the future. During the service, one speaker referenced Cecil Day-Lewis' poem 'Walking Away', a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of watching young people take their next steps towards independence. Its sentiment resonated deeply with everyone present. While saying goodbye is never easy, it is also a reminder of the confidence, character and resilience our pupils have developed during their years at St John's.
Watching our Year 8 pupils grow from curious young children into confident, compassionate and capable young people has been a privilege. We are immensely proud of all they have achieved and excited for all that lies ahead.
One of the most moving moments came as the younger pupils formed a walkway on the Playing Fields. Lining the route with smiles, applause and messages of support, they created a guard of honour for the Year 8s as they made their way through the school for one final time. It was a powerful demonstration of the warmth and togetherness that define the St John's community.
The celebrations continued at the Year 8 Leavers' Ball, held in Byron House. For many pupils, this setting was particularly meaningful, as it was here that they first began their St John's journey nine years ago. Returning to Byron House to mark the end of their Prep School years provided a wonderful moment of reflection, bringing their St John's story full circle.
It feels strange to be leaving somewhere that has been such a big part of our lives, but we'll always be grateful for everything St John's has given us. The friendships, teachers and memories will stay with us forever.
Throughout the celebrations, there was a shared understanding that while pupils may now be moving on to new schools, they will always remain part of the St John's family. As we said farewell to our Year 8 leavers, the message was clear: this is not an ending, but the beginning of a new adventure. The values, friendships and experiences developed here will continue to guide them wherever they go.
Because at St John's, we believe that leaving Year 8 does not mean leaving the community behind.
We wish our Year 8 leavers every success and happiness for the future and look forward to hearing about all they go on to achieve. They will always have a home at St John's. As one of our pupils reflected:
Don't go where there is a path; go instead where there isn't one, and leave a trail.