Celebrating the Coronation!

The four Houses of Leighton Park gathered on the Park at breaktime on Friday 5th May to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty, King Charles III. Each House contributed to the planting of a tree which from this point will mark a special location for the House and is the first physical location dedicated to each of the new Houses.

Environmental concerns have been championed by our new King for many years and it is fitting that, with our Quaker testimony to uphold sustainability, we are planting trees to mark the coronation. The four House trees are located around the park with Tubman opposite School House, Bentsi-Enchill on Grove Field near the new Sixth Form Centre, Fox on the edge of the cricket field and Cadbury by the amphitheatre at the back of the MMC. Over 1,200 whips have been planted around the Park this academic year and we look forward to our park flourishing as a green and pleasant parkland.

Each of the House Clerks introduced the occasion for their Houses with a speech. Head of Cadbury House, Zoe MacPherson: “This is a day of great significance, not just for Leighton Park and Cadbury House but for the UK and the Commonwealth. It marks the beginning of a new era. As we celebrate this historic moment, we take this opportunity to plant this tree of significance as a symbol for Cadbury House. The tree will stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of our King and the values that he embodies. It will also serve as a reminder of our commitment and our responsibility to care for the environment.” Imogen Cook, Head of Bentsi-Enchill House: “This moment is a symbol of new beginnings, growth, and moving on. Just like this tree that we are planting, we all have the potential to grow and thrive. Here at Leighton Park and beyond. As we begin that time of year where we are saying goodbye to many students, let us remember the legacy that they leave with us a Leighton Park. As they begin their new chapters.”

After his speech Head of Fox House, Simon Booth, added: “It’s really lovely to have a physical place on the park that represents our House and that it will be here for future generations to come.”

Rosie (Year 7) who was the first person to put the earth around the base of the Fox House tree reflected on her responsibility, “It was good, it felt very special to know that it’s now Fox’s place.” Keith Eldridge, Bursar, agreed with Rosie, saying “I think it’s an absolutely momentous time in the history of our country and it’s an absolute delight to be able to mark it today here at Leighton Park with Fox House. We’re really looking forward to the tree planting.” “It’s definitely an interesting way to start my Friday morning! It’s going to be good fun!” laughed Albie, Head of Fox House. Charlotte (Year 11) enthused, “I am very excited about the coronation and I love how we’ve done a tree, it’s so cool!” Planting trees is a great thing for the environment and it’s a great way to show our appreciation for the new King.”  noted Abba

The four trees are Prunus cerasifera also known as a cherry plum tree, native to Southeast Europe and Western Asia, but naturalised in the British Isles.

In addition to the tree planting ceremony each of the House enjoyed Coronation cupcakes courtesy of Oakview and were given a commemorative pin badge. Lunch was a special occasion too with a cake in the shape of a crown and a traditional meal of fish and chips!