Open Letter to Beckfoot Trust Year 11 Class of 2022

Dear Class of 2022

Today we celebrate the achievement of all of our Beckfoot Trust Year 11 students (Class of 2022) and mark what is the end of an era for some as you go onto other Post-16 providers. We know that being a teenager is never easy and the past 2 years have been particularly hard for you. We are therefore particularly proud of everything you have done to adjust to the new normal. We know that for all of us, the world we all left behind pre-pandemic is different and this year has often felt quite tough. As such, you should feel particularly proud of where you are today and you should now look forward to your exciting next steps.

I know it can seem that schools are obsessed with grades and I am sure you have been told this many times before, it is because we want the very best for you and we know that the more education you have, the better your life choices and chances are. That said, we know that in every grade there is a personal story and not everyone starts off with the same opportunities in life. Whatever it says in your envelope today and I do so hope your grades are what you want, do remember, you always have options. Purpose and hard work will always pay off. Always remember though, the only way to be truly independent, is to acquire powerful knowledge, otherwise you will always be reliant on those that have it. So whatever your chosen path is from next week, promise yourself that you will always be a lifelong learner in some shape or form. You deserve to give yourself that chance.

I know you will want me to thank your teachers and all the support staff who do so much for you every day. It is so very true that you never forget a great teacher. Although I never encourage nostalgia or backward gazing, one day I know you will look back with fondness on your experiences at school. I hope as much as anything that lots of you choose to train as teachers, although I am a little biased, it is my view the finest profession!

Thank you to each and every one of you for giving me hope for the future. I started my career as a teacher long before any of you were born, however, it was because of my belief in young people’s capacity to change the world for the better that I did. I love the job that I do now, however, I do miss learning from young people and listening to their refreshing perspective on the world. Fortunately, your Headteachers keep me in touch and often take the opportunity to educate me about what is going on in their schools.

All the very best to all of you. Class of 2022, you are the future of this country and we know that because of you, things can only get better.

Shirley Watson

CEO 

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