A special Collect dedicated to Matthew L S Judd on Monday 30th June marked the start of the final week for our current Head, our remarkable leader since September 2018.
During this time at Leighton Park, Matthew has spearheaded the opening of the Michael Malnick Centre, the replacement of the Astro, extensive refurbishments for Fryer and Grove, and undertaken the navigation of 2020 and 2021’s Covid years. With his iconic bowties and trademark bicycle, Matthew’s familiar figure, inspiring respect and fondness, will be much missed on the Park.
Head Boy, Oscar, and Head Girl, Cali, (both Lower Sixth) gave a moving tribute before presenting Matthew with a gift on behalf of the students. Matthew was delighted by his custom-made vinyl record featuring music of students from his time at the School, including ‘This Sacred Place’ the music commissioned by Matthew for the opening of Grove Sixth Form Centre.
Oscar’s speech included recognition of the impact Matthew’s leadership has had on the community saying, “Our excellent ISI reports have proven how his influence has created a space where learning is at its highest standard without neglecting other aspects of school life. They have also highlighted how closely the school has stuck to it’s foundations of the Quaker values and we cannot forget that the School managed to win Senior School of the Year 2023-24.”
Thank you videos from previous head boys and girls and current year groups across the school were screened to the gathering in Main Hall, sharing their gratitude for his leadership.
Responding to the speeches, Matthew quoted Winnie the Pooh saying “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” and thanking the assembly by remarking “Thank you for making this community what it is; warm, thoughtful, vibrant and deeply human.”
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